Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin

James Laughlin
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Jul 20, 2025 • 1h 7min

The Relentless Habits That Made Hamish Kerr an Olympic Champion

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if winning gold isn’t about talent—but about trust?In this episode, I sit down with Olympic high jump champion Hamish Kerr—New Zealand’s first-ever gold medalist in the event.We unpack what really sets elite performers apart: not just relentless work ethic, but the mindset, habits, and team behind them.Hamish shares the unfiltered truth about what it takes to win on the world stage—and how he almost walked away from it all.We dive into:The mental routine Hamish uses before every major competitionWhy trust—not talent—is the real key to goldHow world-class athletes handle post-competition emptinessThe power of building the right team (even in an individual sport)If you’re serious about levelling up—in business, sport, or life—this conversation will show you how to raise the bar. Literally.Follow Hamish on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/hamishkerrhj/?hl=enTo talk to Hamish about speaking or partnerships, email him at hello@hamishkerrnz.com If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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.Send me a personal text message - If you're interested in booking me for a keynote or workshop, contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comSupport the show
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Jul 16, 2025 • 11min

Why doing less could make you more money

Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comIn this 1:1 episode, I’m sharing a mindset shift that can change everything for your business, career, and life.It’s the difference between being busy and being valuable. Between generalist and expert.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why doing less—and going deeper—can multiply your incomeHow to identify your WMI: What’s Most Important vs. What’s Most ImminentThe simple $10,000 factory story that explains true value in one sentenceWhy staying in your lane is the smartest career move you can make right nowIf you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I should be doing more,” this one’s for you.And if you haven’t already, pre-order your copy of Habits of High Performers at thehabitbook.com to get exclusive bonuses before launch.If this resonates, be sure to pre-order Habits of High Performers at thehabitbook.com.If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comGet the Growth Weekly Newsletter sent straight to your inbox and join 1000’s of other high-performers on the road to self-mastery  - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/newsletterSend me a personal text messageSupport the show
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Jul 13, 2025 • 47min

Simon Sinek’s Former Chief on What Great Leaders Get Wrong (with Monique Helstrom)

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if the key to your next level isn’t you, but the person beside you?In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Monique Helstrom—former Chief of Simon Sinek and now one of the world’s most sought-after executive-assistant coaches.We explore what it really takes to build a high-performing partnership between a visionary leader and their EA—and why most leaders are getting it wrong.This episode is for anyone who’s building something big and knows they can’t do it alone.We dive into:Why the most successful leaders treat their EA like a partner—not an assistantThe biggest mistake most executives make when hiring (and how it costs them years)How to give your EA the voice, trust, and space they need to leadA behind-the-scenes look at launching Simon Sinek’s bestselling booksThe one thing that increases your productivity by up to 50%Whether you're a CEO or the right-hand to one, this conversation will shift how you think about leadership, communication, and the power of aligned partnerships.And yes—Monique really was the “how girl to the why guy.”Learn more about Monique here - https://www.moniquehelstrom.comBook Monique to speak at your next event here - https://www.moniquehelstrom.com/speakingWork with Monique - https://www.moniquehelstrom.com/coachingFollow Monique on IG - https://www.instagram.com/moniquejhelstromFollow Monique on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquehelstrom/Listen to Sisters in Law Podcast here - https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/sistersinlaw/id1551206847If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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 ChrisSend me a personal text message - If you're interested in booking me for a keynote or workshop, contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comSupport the show
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Jun 25, 2025 • 6min

A Sneak Peak inside my new book

Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comIn this 1:1 episode, I’m sharing a short excerpt from one of the chapters in my upcoming book Habits of High Performers—a section called Do The Work.It’s a small glimpse into the mindset that high performers rely on when motivation runs out and the real work begins.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why ultra-endurance athlete Dean Karnazes is the definition of discipline—and how he built itThe 4 mental habits Dean uses to conquer physical and emotional limitsWhat it really means to focus on the next step, not the finish lineWhy high performers always play the long game—and how you can tooThis is the first time I’ve shared any part of the book publicly—and I’m excited for you to hear it.Quick note: the podcast will be taking a short break as I head to South Africa with Caroline and Finn for some much-needed time offline. But I’ll be back soon—energised and ready to go.If this resonates, be sure to pre-order Habits of High Performers at thehabitbook.com.If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comSend me a personal text messageSupport the show
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Jun 22, 2025 • 52min

Why Success Isn’t Enough: Jehan Casinader on Mental Health, Burnout & Rewriting Your Life

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if the story you’ve been telling yourself… isn’t true?In this moving and eye-opening episode, I sit down with award-winning journalist and author Jehan Casinader, whose book This Is Not How It Ends shook me—in the best way.We explore how the stories we carry (often from childhood) shape how we live, love, lead… and burn out.We dive into:The one question Jehan asks to instantly shift his mindsetHow loneliness and overwork hide behind outward successWhy your identity is not your job—and how to let goA simple 4-part framework for storytelling that connects and influencesWhat’s broken in modern content creation—and how to stand out with substanceJehan opens up with honesty and heart. If you’ve ever felt like your life looks great on paper but feels off on the inside—this one’s for you.Learn more about Jehan here - https://jehancasinader.co.nz/about/Grab a copy of Jehan’s book here - https://jehancasinader.co.nz/book/Connect with Jehan on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jehancasinader/Book Jehan to speak at your next event here - https://jehancasinader.co.nzIf you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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.Send me a personal text message - If you're interested in booking me for a keynote or workshop, contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comSupport the show
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Jun 18, 2025 • 10min

4 Powerful Ways to Elevate People Around You

Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comIn this 1:1 episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of an event I hosted last week with some of New Zealand’s most inspiring voices—Razor Robertson, Mea Motu, Silvana Schenone, and Zion Armstrong.Each of them shared a moment where someone elevated them—and now, I’m passing those lessons on to you.In this episode, you’ll discover:The story of how world champ boxer Mea Motu turned trauma into power—and what it means to live with no fearWhy Silvana Schenone believes in gently pushing people into discomfortThe powerful reminder from All Blacks coach Razor Robertson about playing freelyHow former Adidas president Zion Armstrong broke cultural norms to do what was rightIf you want to lead with purpose and lift others while you climb—this one’s for you.Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comHave me deliver a keynote or workshop to your team - email Caroline at Caroline@jjlaughlin.comListen to the episode I did with Zion here - https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/lead-on-purpose-with-james-laughlin/id1547874035?i=1000630978507Send me a personal text messageSupport the show
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Jun 15, 2025 • 51min

3 Hidden Signs of ADHD You’re Probably Ignoring (with Skye Waterson)

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com Think ADHD is just for kids? Think again.In this powerful episode, I sit down with ADHD strategist Skye Waterson to unpack what adult ADHD really looks like—and why so many high performers are missed or misdiagnosed.We explore:Why ADHD often hides in high achieversThe link between burnout and executive dysfunctionWhat dopamine has to do with motivationHow to build habits and structure that actually stickPractical tools like the Focus Filter and sensory rewardsIf you’ve ever felt scattered, time-blind, or stuck in shiny-object mode—this one’s for you.Learn more about Skye here - https://www.unconventionalorganisation.com/about-skye-watersonFollow Skye on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/unconventionalorganisation/Sky’s Focus Filter tool - https://www.unconventionalorganisation.com/the-adhd-focus-filterSky’s podcast – The ADHD Skills Lab - https://www.unconventionalorganisation.com/theadhdskillslabWebsite: 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.Send me a personal text message - If you're interested in booking me for a keynote or workshop, contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comSupport the show
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Jun 11, 2025 • 6min

5 Best Books to Read in 2025 (That Will Change Your Life)

Discover five life-changing books to read in 2025! Learn why 'The Wealth Money Can’t Buy' is a crucial read and the mindset shift from 'Essentialism' that can revolutionize your time management. Gain insights into legacy and leadership from Sam Whitelock’s autobiography, and explore biohacking breakthroughs in Tony Robbins’ 'Life Force.' Plus, get a sneak peek of a new book focused on high performance habits, complete with exciting launch bonuses. Your growth journey starts here!
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Jun 8, 2025 • 56min

What Makes a High-Performance Team? Mike Robbins Breaks It Down

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com In a world divided by ego and isolation, Mike Robbins reminds us of what truly drives high performance: connection, courage, and humanity.Mike has spent over two decades inside Fortune 100 companies helping teams unlock extraordinary performance—not through pressure, but through purpose.In this conversation, we unpack his bestselling book We're All In This Together and explore what it really takes to build high-performing, values-driven teams in today’s hybrid, high-pressure world.But this isn’t just about better teamwork—it’s a call to lead with empathy, to embrace hard conversations, and to show up as your whole self.What we cover:Why belonging is the foundation of high performanceHow to build real trust in hybrid teamsThe truth about psychological safety (hint: it’s not comfort)How to give feedback that actually landsThe power of “sweaty-palm conversations”Appreciation vs recognition—why both matterWhy the best leaders lead with humility and humanityWhether you lead a team of 3 or a global company of 3,000—this episode will transform how you think about leadership, performance, and purpose.Learn more about Mike here - https://mike-robbins.comGrab a copy of Mike’s new book here - https://mike-robbins.com/books/Follow Mike on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/mikedrobbins/Connect with Mike on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrobbins/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.Send me a personal text message - If you're interested in booking me for a keynote or workshop, contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comSupport the show
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Jun 4, 2025 • 9min

From Good to Elite: The All Blacks’ Leadership Blueprint

Discover how elite sports leadership can transform your approach to teamwork and success. Learn why humor is crucial in building connections and enhancing performance. Explore the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and how it outshines technological investments. Gain insights into establishing clear standards and expectations for high-performing teams. This engaging discussion is packed with powerful lessons from some of the greatest minds in sports, empowering you to elevate personal and professional productivity.

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