AI Transparency: This article was supported by AI to assist with organization and clarity. The content is based on Anese’s original work and was reviewed and approved by Anese.

Most conversations about AI focus on what the technology can do.

But the part we can’t afford to ignore is the leader behind the tools — their confidence, clarity, presence, and ability to create real human connection in an increasingly digital landscape.

Because right now, many organizations are feeling it:

Trust is thinning. Teams are taxed. People are moving fast — and still feeling behind.

And one of the biggest risks we’re seeing isn’t AI itself… it’s what happens when leaders use AI without presence.

AI can’t replace leadership — but it can expose it

In our recent masterclass, Anese Cavanaugh shared a truth that landed immediately:

AI amplifies what’s already there.

If leadership is rushed, unclear, reactive, or disconnected, AI can scale that energy — faster messages, more output, more “productivity”… and less genuine connection.

But when leaders are intentional, grounded, and present, AI can become a powerful partner — supporting clarity and execution without compromising humanity.

The hidden productivity leak: when “polished” output creates more work

One of the most surprising insights from the session was the growing cost of AI-generated output that looks finished, but isn’t actually usable.

It creates downstream rework, confusion, and friction. 

AI didn’t save time — it moved the cognitive load to someone else.

When leaders hand off AI-generated drafts or decisions without care, teams can experience:

• more cleanup and rework
• misalignment about what was actually intended
• frustration and eroded trust (“Why was this sent to me like this?”)

What people need doesn’t change — even when the tools do

As AI becomes part of everyday work, the human needs underneath leadership become even more important.

People want to know:

• Do I matter here?
• Am I seen and valued?
• Can I trust the humans leading this?
• Are we connected, or just producing?

AI can support tasks, drafts, and speed.

But it cannot earn trust. It cannot create genuine connection. It cannot be accountable for tone, impact, or consequences.

That’s the human advantage — and it starts with presence.

Why this message is resonating going into 2026

This topic is quickly becoming one of our most requested keynote and team session themes for 2026, because leaders are navigating a real choice point:

We can keep accelerating — faster, faster, faster — and risk shallow, reactive, “workslop leadership.”

Or we can build leaders who can pause, reset, and lead with steadiness — using AI intentionally, without sacrificing trust, clarity, or culture.

Watch the replay (available through December 17)

This was a special, exclusive masterclass — and replay access is available for a limited time.

Purchase access + watch through December 17 → activechoices.com/masterclass

Inside the full replay, Anese goes deeper into:

• practical ways to strengthen presence (even when things feel chaotic)
• how to spot when AI is replacing leadership instead of supporting it
• a deeper framework for building sustainable, human-centered leadership in an AI-accelerated world

Want your team to hear this message together?

If you found yourself thinking, “My team needs this,” you’re not alone.

This session is available as a private masterclass / team experience — customized to your leaders, your culture, and what your people are navigating right now.

Contact us at hello@activechoices.com to explore options for your group.

For individual leaders: Command Your Presence (January cohort)

If you want to integrate this work personally — with structure, practice, and support — join us for the January Command Your Presence 4-week cohort experience.

Investment: $1111 

Enrollment closes: January 6th, 2026

Program starts: January 8th, 2026

Learn more and save your seat → activechoices.com/presence