Habits of High Performers Podcast with James Laughlin Thomas McClary: I Walked Four Blocks to School While Police Stood By
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Thomas McClary, founding member and lead guitarist of The Commodores, to unpack how purpose, love, and intention can carry you through adversity, shape world class success, and keep you grounded when life gets loud.
What we cover:
- His childhood integrating a white school in Florida, and why he chose love over bitterness
- How music became a bridge for unity, and the start of his intentional approach to impact
- The origin story of The Commodores, meeting Lionel Richie, and the “Black Beatles” vision
- Perseverance in the early grind, leading to opening for The Jackson 5 and global momentum
- Staying grounded in fame, leading with humility, and measuring life by moments and who you touch
If you want a reminder that your purpose is bigger than your pain, and that intention can turn even the hardest chapters into fuel, this conversation will stay with you.
- Follow Thomas on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/thomas_mcclary/?hl=en
- If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.com
Website: https://www.jjlaughlin.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6GETJbxpgulYcYc6QAKLHA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamesLaughlinOfficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jameslaughlinofficial/ Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/life-on-purpose-with-james-laughlin/id1547874035 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3WBElxcvhCHtJWBac3nOlF?si=hotcGzHVRACeAx4GvybVOQ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameslaughlincoaching/
James Laughlin is a High Performance Leadership Coach, Former 7-Time World Champion, Host of the Lead On Purpose Podcast and an Executive Coach to high performers and leaders. James is based in Christchurch, New Zealand.
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Join me at the 2026 Goal-setting Workshop here - jjlaughlin.com/2026goals
- If you're interested in booking me for a keynote or workshop, contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.com