Why I’m Integrating AI Into Human-Centered Coaching

Integrating AI into coaching isn’t about replacing what makes coaching powerful. It’s about asking: how can technology support human presence, reflection, and growth?

Eight months ago, something unexpected happened. A potential client reached out and said they found me through ChatGPT, which had listed me among the top 10 leadership coaches in Canada. More recently, ChatGPT described me as a Top Executive Coach from Calgary, stating:

“Eric Dulong is a highly respected executive coach based in Calgary, Alberta, known for his depth of experience and strong credentials.”

It was surprising, humbling, and… eye-opening. I hadn’t paid for this exposure. I hadn’t tried to “game” the algorithm. But somehow, the digital footprint I had built — from my website to my LinkedIn presence — was enough to earn recognition from an AI engine used by millions.

That moment made something click for me.

If AI tools are becoming one of the ways people discover, vet, and even recommend coaches, then how we show up — online and offline — matters more than ever. And if people are turning to AI for leadership advice or guidance, we have a responsibility as coaches to understand what that means.

Why This Matters Now

The coaching profession is built on trust, presence, and human connection. But it’s also built on reflection, structure, and accountability — things that technology can help facilitate when used wisely. That’s where my own journey began.

I started to imagine what coaching could look like if we combined the best of both worlds: real human connection, and a digital tool that helps leaders reflect more often, track their growth, and stay intentional between sessions.

The E.V.O.L.V.E. Leadership Pathway

That’s why I’m launching the E.V.O.L.V.E. Leadership Pathway — a self-guided coaching journey supported by VACAi, a reflection companion that brings structure and momentum to leadership growth. It’s designed for those who want to develop themselves as leaders on their own time, while still having the option to work with a coach.

This model is my first step toward integrating AI into coaching in a way that doesn’t lose its soul. It’s not about automating the coaching experience — it’s about expanding what’s possible.

As coaches, we have a responsibility to explore what’s possible — and to stay grounded in what matters. The ICF has already begun this conversation about AI and coaching.

For me, that means embracing both the relational and the reflective sides of coaching.
Using AI to support structure and momentum.
And continuing to hold space for human presence, emotional intelligence, and transformational growth.

I’m still exploring what that balance looks like.
And I’d love to hear how others are thinking about it.

How do you see AI integrating into coaching in a way that still feels human, real, and impactful?
Let’s keep the conversation going.

It highlighted my MCC credential, my neuroscience-based coaching style, my bilingual approach, and the types of results my clients have shared over time. In short, it reflected who I’ve been — not through what I’ve claimed, but through the patterns I’ve quietly built.

That moment stayed with me.

It reminded me that how we show up — consistently, authentically, and intentionally — matters. Even to systems we don’t fully understand or control. Even to AI.

A Quiet Reminder of Visibility

I’ve never focused on loud promotion. I’ve focused on showing up with presence. Listening deeply. Building trust. Coaching real people through real leadership challenges.

But this unexpected moment with AI reminded me that the way we carry ourselves online and offline can leave a meaningful trace — and that visibility sometimes comes not from pushing harder, but from living and working with intention over time.

That reflection led to something bigger.

Why I’m Integrating AI Into Coaching

Someone once said,
“AI won’t take your job — but someone who knows how to use AI might.”

That line stuck with me.

It isn’t about fear. It’s about staying thoughtful and adaptable in a changing world. Just as leaders are being asked to navigate rapid shifts in technology, I believe coaches need to explore how new tools can support — not replace — the human work we do.

For the past year, I’ve been experimenting quietly with how AI can be used in coaching. Not to reduce the human relationship, but to strengthen the reflective process in between sessions. To create space for momentum. To meet leaders where they are, when they need support.

It’s not about automation. It’s about augmentation.

Introducing the E.V.O.L.V.E. Leadership Pathway

That exploration led me to create something new:
The E.V.O.L.V.E. Leadership Pathway.

This is not an AI tool pretending to coach. It’s a coaching journey that integrates AI where it makes sense — to help leaders reflect, track progress, stay intentional, and engage meaningfully with their own growth.

The pathway includes:

A self-coaching companion powered by AI
A monthly structure for guided reflection and journaling
Optional group and one-on-one coaching support for deeper integration
A clear rhythm that allows leaders to evolve at their own pace

It’s for people who want to grow with clarity and intention — without needing to do it all alone.

Learn more here: [Insert direct link to E.V.O.L.V.E. program page]

The Future Is Both Human and Technological

believe leadership will continue to be deeply human.
But the tools we use to support that journey will evolve.

As coaches, we have a responsibility to explore what’s possible — and to stay grounded in what matters.

I’m still exploring what that balance looks like.
And I’d love to hear how others are thinking about it.

How do you see AI integrating into coaching in a way that still feels human, real, and impactful?
Let’s keep the conversation going.

If you’re looking for more personalized support, you can also explore my Executive Coaching services.