Rebecca Rutschmann on AI in Coaching—From Learning to Practice

In this episode of The Health and Wellness Coach Journal Podcast, Dr. Jessica Singh speaks with Rebecca Rutschmann, a leading voice at the intersection of Human Intelligence and AI, dedicated to bridging the "GenAI Divide" in professional development. As the co-founder of Viva la Coaching Academy, she has moved beyond simple tool-training to champion AI fluency teaching coaches and leaders how to think with machines, not just through them. A recognized speaker and researcher, Rebecca partners with global organizations to design conversational AI experiences that prioritize ethical grounding, transparency, and the irreplaceable power of human presence. Rebecca shares how her path began with a lifelong fascination with technology. From being the only girl in tech class as a child, to working in website development, CRM systems, and corporate communications, she found herself repeatedly drawn to spaces where technology and communication met. Her journey into coaching began when she noticed that many young technical leaders in the workplace were struggling not with systems, but with people. Coaching gave her a language and a framework for supporting the human side of leadership, and over time it became clear that this was where her passions could converge. In this episode, Rebecca also explores the growing knowledge gap around AI in the coaching profession. Rebecca reflects on how many coaches are still overwhelmed by technology, unsure where to start, and deeply concerned about ethics, confidentiality, and responsible use. Through her work at Viva la Coaching Academy, she is helping fill that gap by creating learning spaces where coaches can explore AI safely, playfully, and in community. Rebecca speaks about one of the most important tensions in the field right now: how to embrace AI without sacrificing the heart of coaching. She explains that technology should not replace human connection, but it can enhance reflection, accountability, access, and professional growth. In many cases, AI is most useful between sessions through nudges, prompts, summaries, follow-up support, and reflective exercises that help clients sustain momentum. The conversation also explores the future of coach education. Rebecca makes the case that AI should not be treated as an optional extra or an advanced topic for later. Instead, it should be integrated into coach training from the beginning in ways that are practical, experiential, and grounded in ethical awareness. Dr. Singh and Rebecca also discuss what responsible AI use actually looks like. This episode serves as an encouraging reminder that AI in the future of coaching is not something happening to us. Rather, it is something we are actively shaping. For detailed show notes, resources, and information to connect with Rebecca, visit: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/blog/rebecca-rutschmann-on-ai-in-coaching-from-learning-to-practice To be notified of new episodes, subscribe here:  https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/stay-connected Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction  1:21 - Rebecca Rutschmann’s Journey into Coaching and AI: Curiosity to Leadership  5:01 - AI Training for Coaches: Rebecca Rutschmann on Closing the Knowledge Gap 8:24 - Rebecca Rutschmann on Using AI in Coaching Without Losing Human Connection 12:19 - Evolving Coach Education for AI: Rebecca Rutschmann on Practical AI Integration 17:00  - Vetting AI Responsibly: Rebecca Rutschmann’s Guidance for Coaches 20:16 - Rebecca Rutschmann on the Ethical Use of AI in Coaching 30:33 - Takeaways