Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin

Pre-order a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comSam Harvey went from being bullied in school to becoming one of the world’s top ultra marathon runners. In this conversation, we dive deep into how he built elite-level resilience, redefined pain, and created a career doing what most would call impossible.What we cover:The mental and physical demands of backyard ultrasHow Sam ran 101 hours with only micro-napsWhat separates high performers from the restWhy he walked away from a traditional careerHow trauma, doubt, and drive fuel his successThis is more than a conversation about running—it's a blueprint for turning struggle into strength. Don’t miss it.Learn more about Sam here - https://www.samharveyultra.comCheckout coaching with Sam here - https://www.samharveyultra.com/coachingFollow Sam on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/samharvey_cloudlander/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

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers today and learn the essential principles to thrive in life and work - www.thehabitbook.com Di Foster was told she had 12 months to live. That was 15 years ago.In this deeply moving conversation, Di shares how she rejected a terminal cancer diagnosis, removed herself from the medical system, and created her own path to radical remission—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.But this isn’t a conversation about illness. It’s about ownership. It’s about what happens when you take full responsibility for your mind, your health, and your life.What we cover:Why Di refused to "suffer" and instead chose joyThe 3 life-saving whispers she heard—and followedHow she reframed trauma, relationships, and self-perceptionWhy her conversation with death changed everythingHow presence, natural healing, and gratitude helped her defy the oddsDi’s approach to parenting, partnership, and building a values-driven businessDi is one of the most intentional, joyful, and fiercely real people I’ve ever had on the show. If you want a masterclass in emotional mastery, mindset, and living on purpose, this is it.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Di here - https://www.difoster.comFollow Di on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/difoster.live/Follow Di on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/di-foster/Listen to Di on Accidental Business Owners here - https://youtu.be/08ETxVufrSY?si=JKTr14CxWjjG8Lub 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

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com In a world where toxic workplaces are the norm, Kyle McDowell is leading a values-first revolution.Kyle spent decades inside Fortune 10 companies—leading tens of thousands of people—and what he learned will change how you lead forever.In this conversation, we explore his framework for transforming culture and leadership through The 10 WEs—a set of radical, clear, and actionable principles that drive high performance from the inside out.But this isn't just about better leadership at work—Kyle's approach impacts how you show up in life, relationships, and the world around you.What we cover:The biggest leadership lessons Kyle learned from toxic bossesWhy leading 20 people is no different from leading 20,000The true cost of toxic culture—and how it kills innovationThe 10 WEs: the foundation for values-based leadershipHow to own mistakes, pick each other up, and lead by exampleThe danger of rewarding busyness over outcomesWhy real culture change starts with the leaderThe power of authenticity and relatability to build trustHow these principles apply at home, not just at workWhether you're a CEO, coach, manager, or parent—this episode will challenge how you think about leadership and give you tools to lead with purpose and integrity.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Kyle here - https://kylemcdowellinc.comGrab your copy of Kyle’s book here - https://kylemcdowellinc.com/bestselling-book/Follow Kyle on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/kylemcdowellinc/Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylemcdowellinc/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 ZealanSend 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

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers today and learn the essential principles to thrive in life and work - www.thehabitbook.com Jamie Kreiner went back 1,500 years to understand your biggest problem today.In a world obsessed with hacking attention, Jamie didn’t look forward—she looked back.In this conversation, we explore her book The Wandering Mind and what early Christian monks knew about distraction, productivity, and deep focus that modern science is only just catching up with.But this isn’t a conversation about history. It’s about attention. It’s about how we can train our minds, structure our days, and create meaning in a world full of noise.What we cover:How monks framed distraction as a life-or-death issueWhy modern productivity might be killing your clarityThe ancient mental practice of “discernment”The link between mind wandering and spiritual masteryWhy community, structure, and solitude work togetherHow writing, meditation, and “think time” build better leadersWhat monks can teach us about balance, burnout, and being usefulWhy your thoughts aren’t you—and why that’s good newsJamie doesn’t just bring history to life—she uses it to help us live more fully, more intentionally, and with far greater focus.If you’ve ever felt scattered, unproductive, or unsure how to slow down, this is the episode for you.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Jamie here - https://history.ucla.edu/person/jamie-kreiner/Grab a copy of Jamie’s book here - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61089439-the-wandering-mindWebsite: 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

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers today and learn the essential principles to thrive in life and work - www.thehabitbook.com In today’s hyper-connected world, distraction has become the norm—and it’s costing us clarity, focus, and a sense of purpose. In this powerful episode, author and speaker Greg Bennick joins James to unpack the psychology of attention, the link between self-worth and focus, and how we can reclaim our moments to create a more meaningful life.Greg shares his personal journey with ADHD, why kindness is a radical act, and the seven practical strategies from his book Reclaim the Moment—all designed to help you cut through the noise and take back control.Whether you’re constantly pulled in a million directions or simply craving more presence in your day, this conversation is your roadmap back to what matters.💡 What You’ll Learn:Why kindness is your gateway to deeper connectionHow to focus on what truly matters—despite constant distractionThe mindset shift that turns failure into possibilityWhy success requires bold leaps into the unknownHow laughter and joy help lighten life’s heavinessWhy meaningful relationships protect us from isolationHow to create impact that grows through reverberation—not ripplesIf this episode sparked something in you, share it with a friend or team member who needs to hear it. And if you’re feeling generous, leave a quick review—it helps more people lead on purpose.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Greg here - https://www.gregbennick.comFollow Greg on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/gregbennick/Follow Greg on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregbennick/Grab a copy of Greg’s book here - https://www.gregbennick.com/gregbennickbookRead Axe Handles by Gary Snyder (poem) here - https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/57150/axe-handlesWebsite: 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 LeadSend 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

Get 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/newsletterMost leaders know their “why.” But what if the real power lies in discovering your “because”?In this episode, I sit down with Mick Hunt, global leadership advisor and founder of Premier Strategy Box, to unpack the deeper drive behind great leadership—and how your “because” can shape every decision you make.We go deep into:Why your because is stronger than your why—and how to find itHow a promise to his mother at age 10 shaped Mick’s entire lifeThe leadership lesson Mick teaches all his clients firstThe 3 traits every elite leader must masterWhy your circle might be holding you back—and how to fix itA powerful question he asks world leaders (and would ask the next U.S. president)This is leadership without the fluff—raw, real, and radically purpose-driven.💡 Whether you’re leading a business, a team, or your family… this episode will challenge you to get clearer on who you are and what drives you.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Mick here - https://mickhuntofficial.comListen to Mick’s podcast here - https://mickhuntofficial.com/mick-unplugged-podcast/Follow Mick on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/Follow Mick on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/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

Get 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/newsletterWhat do you do when you're cut off from the world… for over a year?David Knoff was meant to lead a 12-month Antarctic expedition.Then COVID hit.And what should’ve been one year turned into 537 days of complete isolation in one of the world’s most extreme environments.In this episode, David and I dive deep into:How he kept his team alive, united, and mission-focused under extreme uncertaintyWhat war zones and Antarctica taught him about burnout, control, and calmThe reality of leadership when every plan goes out the windowWhat happened when a team member snapped—and how David brought him backWhy vulnerability, storytelling, and weekly meetings saved the station's cultureHis darkest moment—and what helped him survive itThis is a masterclass in real-world leadership—far from the safety of boardrooms and business books.💡 Whether you’re a CEO, coach, athlete, or team leader, the lessons inside this conversation will change the way you lead.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about David here - https://davidknoff.comFollow David on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/537daysofwinter/Grab a copy of David’s book here - https://davidknoff.com/537-days-of-winterWebsite: 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

Get 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/newsletterIn this eye-opening episode, I sit down with trauma physician and educator Dr. Christy Gibson—author of The Modern Trauma Toolkit—to explore how trauma really works, why it's often missed, and what you can do to start healing.We unpack why trauma is not what happens to you, but how your body and nervous system respond—and how that response can be changed.Christy shares practical tools that anyone can use to calm their nervous system, reclaim emotional flexibility, and move toward post-traumatic growth. Whether you're dealing with burnout, chronic stress, or hidden wounds from the past—this conversation offers hope.Key Topics Covered:What trauma really is (and how it hides in plain sight)The link between stress, illness, and the nervous systemHow to calm your body using somatic toolsSigns you're stuck in fight, flight, or freezeSimple daily practices to start healingWhat makes this conversation different: Christy doesn’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions. She invites you into a compassionate toolkit that honours your individuality, respects your story, and equips you with flexible paths to healing.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Dr. Christy here - https://www.christinegibson.net/trauma-resilience-specialistGrab a copy of her book here - https://www.amazon.com.au/Modern-Trauma-Toolkit-Post-Traumatic-Personalized/dp/0306831066Follow her on TikTok here - https://www.tiktok.com/@tiktoktraumadoc?lang=enFollow her on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/moderntraumatoolkit/-----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 leadeSend 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

Get 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/newsletterTrigger Warning This episode contains open and honest discussions about depression, suicidal ideation, childhood abuse, and trauma. Please listen with care. If you or someone you know is struggling, seek professional help or contact a local mental health support line.About the Episode Joe Smarro is a US Marine Corps veteran, former police officer, and globally respected advocate for mental health and suicide prevention.In this deeply vulnerable and courageous conversation, Joe shares his life story—from enduring childhood trauma and years of suicidal thoughts to serving in Iraq and working in law enforcement. His mission is clear: to eradicate suicide and help people believe they are worthy of tomorrow.This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, connection saves lives, and that our darkest moments can become our greatest source of purpose.What we cover in this episode:Joe’s mission to end suicide, starting with first respondersThe impact of childhood trauma and military serviceWhy vulnerability and emotional intelligence are essentialHow to support someone in a dark placeTurning pain into purpose through forgiveness and connectionIf this conversation moved you, please share it with someone who may need it. A single moment of connection can change everything.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Joe Smarro here - https://joesmarro.comGrab a copy of Joe’s book here - https://www.unarmedbook.com/checkout-pageConnect with Joe on instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/joesmarro/Watch Joe’s documentary here - https://ernieandjoethefilm.comWatch Joe’s TedX talk here -  https://youtu.be/zjqKzNJef28?si=oid_0ggYBKDBAQZB -----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-TimeSend 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

Get 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/newsletterDr. Haley Perlus is a world-renowned sport psychologist, keynote speaker, and performance consultant who helps elite athletes and top executives unlock their mental edge.In this energising and insightful episode, Dr. Haley returns to the show to unpack the power of emotional mastery and mental recovery under pressure. With decades of experience working with Olympians, X-Games champions, and global business leaders, she reveals why high performers aren't perfect—they're the best at bouncing back.This conversation is packed with practical mental tools, real-life stories, and game-changing mindset shifts that will help you recover faster, perform better, and lead with purpose.What we cover in this episode:Why recovery—not perfection—wins the gameMental toughness vs. mental weakness (and how to spot both)The fastest way to move from anger to focusThe 4 types of emotions and how to use each oneTools like progressive muscle relaxation, reframing, and visualisationHow to develop your own reset ritual in 16 secondsThe difference between letting go and letting yourself off the hookTrigger warning: This episode briefly discusses emotional distress and performance anxiety.If this episode inspired you, please share it with someone who leads under pressure. A simple mindset shift could be all they need to break through.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Dr Haley here - https://drhaleyperlus.comGrab your copy of her latest book here - https://drhaleyperlus.com/#book Connect with Dr Haley on instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/drhaleyperlus/Check out “Love is letting go of fear” book here - https://www.amazon.com.au/Love-Letting-Fear-Gerald-Jampolsky/dp/0890872465-----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 PerformaSend 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