Can AI Really Replace Coaching? What Leaders Need to Know in the Age of AI
Release Date: 12/09/2025
Developing Leaders Podcast
Judy and Karen explore how AI is transforming leadership and coaching, and where human connection still makes the greatest impact. They share real-world examples of how AI can lighten the workload for clinic owners and leaders, while reminding us that discernment, ethics, and empathy cannot be automated. The conversation highlights the growing need for a hybrid approach that balances technology with the relational depth that true coaching and leadership require. đź’ˇ Key Topics What AI does well versus what only humans can do How to build a healthy hybrid model for coaching and leadership...
info_outlineDeveloping Leaders Podcast
Judy and Karen unpack why micromanagement creeps into owner-led clinics and small businesses—and how to replace it with coaching, clarity, and accountability. They share a real coaching story, name the everyday symptoms of micromanaging, and lay out practical, bite-size steps (“granny-toe steps”) to build leaders who own outcomes so owners can finally step out of the weeds. 💡 Key Topics Why owners default to “I’ll just do it—it’s faster” (and how that bottlenecks growth) Signs & symptoms of micromanagement: doing it all, control, shoulder-checking work Barriers to...
info_outlineDeveloping Leaders Podcast
Episode Summary In this inaugural episode of the Developing Leaders Podcast, Judy Cirullo and Karen Elliott share why leadership is the missing leverage for most owners who feel stuck in the weeds. Drawing on decades of experience as clinicians, business owners, and now fractional coaches, they unpack why owners themselves are often the bottleneck—and how self-awareness is the essential first step toward freedom of time, money, relationships, and purpose. Together, they discuss the difference between management and leadership, the power of clear expectations, and why so many owners struggle...
info_outlineJudy and Karen explore how AI is transforming leadership and coaching, and where human connection still makes the greatest impact. They share real-world examples of how AI can lighten the workload for clinic owners and leaders, while reminding us that discernment, ethics, and empathy cannot be automated. The conversation highlights the growing need for a hybrid approach that balances technology with the relational depth that true coaching and leadership require.
đź’ˇ Key Topics
- What AI does well versus what only humans can do
- How to build a healthy hybrid model for coaching and leadership
- Ethics, privacy, and confidentiality when using AI tools
- Using discernment and critical thinking with AI-generated advice
- The importance of community and human connection in growth
- New skills leaders and coaches need in an AI-driven world
- Practical uses of AI in healthcare and operations
- How to reinvest saved time into culture and people development
- Using the ICF checklist to evaluate AI coaching tools
If this episode sparked some reflection about how AI fits into your business or coaching, take the next step toward building a healthier, more balanced approach.
Start by exploring the checklist for evaluating AI-driven coaching tools created by the International Coaching Federation. It’s a great way to begin assessing which tools align with your ethics, values, and goals.
đź’ˇhttps://coachingfederation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/icf-research-artificial-intelligence-coaching-standards-practical-guide.pdf
And if you’re ready to explore how to integrate AI into your leadership or clinic without losing the human touch, book a discovery call with us. We’ll talk about what’s possible when you stop being the bottleneck and create a hybrid model that supports both growth and connection.
📲 https://go.growstrongteams.com/dlcp-offer
Because the real transformation doesn’t come from data or automation — it comes from action, awareness, and the willingness to grow beyond your comfort zone.