Torch, a contextual coaching platform, has acquired Praxis Labs, an AI learning platform specializing in skills development. This acquisition aims to close the gap between leadership development spending and successful business transformation, a critical market failure.
While traditional coaching often lacks direct business connection, Torch’s platform reimagines it for impact, linking individual growth to strategic priorities and providing insights into organizational change readiness and execution gaps. With Praxis Labs integrated, this feedback loop becomes even more robust: business context informs coaching, leaders practice new skills between sessions, and data reveals progress or hindrances. This provides a real-time view of organizational health, enabling Torch to guide targeted interventions.
The combined platform will redefine leadership at scale in the AI era by blending human connection, intentional practice, and data-driven insights. By tightly aligning leadership growth with strategic goals, Torch is transforming leadership development into a key driver of business outcomes.
KEY QUOTES:
“As businesses face accelerating change—from AI integration to market disruption—the organizations that will succeed aren’t just those with the best strategies, but those with the leadership capacity to adapt and execute. We know that coaching, when done right, isn’t a perk–it’s a strategic lever. It’s a force that connects human behavior to business results, creating alignment between what leaders are feeling and what a company is trying to achieve. What sets Torch apart is our belief that human connection isn’t optional. It’s essential. We combine the relational depth of human coaching with the intelligence and scale of AI to help leaders evolve faster and more effectively.”
Heather Conklin, CEO of Torch
“Human-centered leadership isn’t innate; these skills must be developed through intentional practice, feedback, and coaching—just like any other business-critical capability. Combining the capabilities of Torch and Praxis Labs delivers a powerful value loop that pairs contextual coaching AI practice simulations, coaching, and assessments so leaders can change their mindsets, build new behaviors, and perform in pivotal moments for their teams and their organizations.”
Elise Smith, co-founder of Praxis Labs and now Head of AI Growth at Torch
“With always-on AI coaching and skills practice, Praxis has rich data about individual leaders’ unique skillsets and development needs—whether it’s stalled decision-making or unclear ownership. Alongside Torch’s organizational insights, we can pinpoint where support will have the most impact and tailor development to both individual needs and business priorities. It’s a smarter, more dynamic way to drive meaningful change at scale.”
Heather Shen, co-founder of Praxis Labs and now Head of AI Product at Torch
