Torch CEO Heather Conklin - Why Human Leadership Matters More in the AI Era

Heather Conklin, CEO of Torch, joins Clint Betts for a conversation on leadership, coaching, AI, personal growth, and what it takes to lead effectively during times of rapid change.Torch helps organizations develop leaders through a combination of human coaching, AI-powered coaching, and leadership development programs designed to align leadership behavior with business outcomes. As AI transforms nearly every industry, Heather believes leadership is becoming more important—not less.In this episode, Heather explains why leadership isn't a title, why organizations are facing a leadership deficit, and why the most valuable skills in the AI era may be the deeply human ones.The conversation also explores self-awareness, coaching, organizational culture, leadership development, and the balance between performance and empathy.00:00:00 - Introduction and Overview of Torch00:01:02 - Integrating AI into Leadership Coaching00:02:31 - Defining Leadership00:04:28 - Common Traits of Effective Leaders00:06:17 - The Role of AI in Modern Leadership00:07:07 - The Necessity of Leadership in the AI Era00:10:04 - Challenges in Developing Great Leaders00:12:12 - Personal Leadership and Self-Management00:14:20 - A Day in the Life of Heather00:16:33 - Building and Growing a Coaching Business00:20:00 - Becoming a Coach at Torch00:21:51 - Reading Recommendations00:23:49 - The Importance of Giving and Taking Chances00:25:37 - Conclusion and GratitudeIf you're interested in leadership, AI, management, personal growth, company culture, or developing high-performing teams, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of leadership.Subscribe for more conversations with founders, CEOs, and leaders shaping the future of business and technology.