Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin

James Laughlin
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May 4, 2025 • 47min

Preston Smiles: The Abundance Secret EVERY Leader Needs!

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 episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Preston Smiles—abundance coach, best-selling author, and global speaker—who’s redefining what it means to be rich in spirit, not just in status.From surviving gang violence as a teen to coaching high-level CEOs, Preston’s story is a masterclass in personal transformation. We talk nervous system healing, the myth of the “outside-in” game, and how to unlock joy—even in the middle of a boardroom.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why abundance isn’t about money—it’s a nervous system state.How childhood patterns shape adult behaviour (and how to rewire them).The power of somatic healing for leaders and high performers.What joy alarms are—and how they can transform your baseline mood.The difference between playing the outside-in game vs. the inside-out game.Why suppressing your “wild self” is costing you clarity, connection, and power.Why You Should Listen: If you’ve ever felt stuck, burnt out, or like something’s missing despite external success—this conversation will hit you like a lightning bolt.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Preston here - https://prestonsmiles.comGrab a copy of Preston’s book here - https://book.prestonsmiles.comConnect with Preston on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/prestonsmiles/Have a look at Preston’s programmes here -https://prestonsmiles.com/programs/-----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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Apr 30, 2025 • 11min

Stop stressing about the world — Focus on THIS

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/newsletterYou can’t control the world. But you can control how you lead yourself through it.In this solo episode, I share the exact strategies I use with my private clients—from CEOs to elite athletes—to stay grounded, focused, and in control… even when the world feels chaotic.This isn’t theory. It’s the playbook for high performers who lead with clarity when others are spiralling.What You’ll Learn: ✅ How elite leaders stay calm when the world is in chaos ✅ The mindset reframe that turns every problem into possibility ✅ Why your circle of control is the key to peace and power ✅ A 3-minute morning habit that rewires your brain for resilience ✅ The journaling practice that builds purpose, clarity, and consistencyIf you're feeling overwhelmed by the world right now—this is your reset button.🎧 Listen now and take your power back.This episode was sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can find them at nzmortgages.co.nz.Send me a personal text messageSupport the show
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Apr 27, 2025 • 1h 30min

From Microsoft to Xero: Steve Vamos on Leading Through Tech’s Toughest Moments

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 episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Steve Vamos—former CEO of Microsoft Australia, Apple Australia, and Xero—to unpack what it really takes to lead through disruption, pressure, and change.We explore:How to lead through crisis with calm and clarityWhy alignment—not strategy—is the key to executionThe power of emotional self-awareness in leadershipHow feedback can shape growth (if you let it)What it really means to "be" versus "do" as a leaderThis episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzGet your copy of Through Shifts and Shocks here - https://www.paperplus.co.nz/shop/books/non-fiction/business-finance-law/business-management/through-shifts-and-shocksGet your copy of AI Game on here -https://thebookadviser.com.au/product/ai-game-on/Connect with Steve here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevevamos/?originalSubdomain=auHire Steve to Speak here - https://www.celebrityspeakers.co.nz/speakers/steve-vamos-----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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Apr 23, 2025 • 11min

You Can’t Manifest Greatness – You’ve Gotta Do the Work (1:1 with James Laughlin)

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/newsletterWant to go from good to great? Here’s the 7-step system.This isn’t about hacks or hustle. It’s about building a repeatable, proven framework for high performance.In this solo episode, I’m walking you through the 7 habits I’ve seen in every elite performer I’ve ever coached, interviewed, or studied—from prime ministers to gold medallists.These aren’t inspirational quotes. They’re implementation tools. And they work.What You’ll Learn: ✅ The first (and most overlooked) step to reaching any meaningful goal ✅ How to rewire your belief system so success becomes inevitable ✅ The key question that unlocks lifelong motivation ✅ What high performers actually do daily (that most people skip) ✅ The final habit that separates top 1% performers from the restIf you’re tired of starting strong and falling off… this will show you exactly why that happens—and how to stop it.This episode was sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can find them at nzmortgages.co.nz.Send me a personal text messageSupport the show
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Apr 22, 2025 • 42min

We quit alcohol and it changed our lives BONUS

In this bonus episode, Caroline and I reflect on five years alcohol-free.We’re not here to preach—just to share what changed for us: mentally, physically, emotionally, and financially.In this conversation, we reflect on:Why we chose to stop drinking during the chaos of lockdownWhat alcohol was really doing to our minds, bodies, and relationshipThe fear of losing our identity and social life without itHow our sleep, energy, weight, and finances all transformedThe challenges that come with giving it up—and the gifts that come afterWhether you’re sober curious or just rethinking your habits, this one’s for you.You can subscribe to the Growth Weekly Newsletter here - You can learn more about One Year No Beer here - https://www.oneyearnobeer.comYou can reach out for support in New Zealand here - https://alcoholdrughelp.org.nzDM us on:Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/jameslaughlinofficial/James’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameslaughlincoaching/Caroline’s LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-edwards-b11476125/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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Apr 20, 2025 • 1h 5min

Sam Browne: Secrets of NZ’s biggest LinkedIn influencer (110,000+ followers)

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 episode of Lead On Purpose, I chat with Sam Browne—musician turned LinkedIn strategist—who went from zero to 100,000 followers in just two years by showing up with value, honesty, and a killer hook.No bots. No shortcuts. Just high-trust content that works.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Sam used storytelling to rebuild his career after COVID.The hook formula that triples post engagement.Why your banner and headline matter more than you think.How to turn posts into paying clients (without sounding salesy).The truth about video, carousels, and what’s working in 2024.Why giving away your best ideas leads to more business, not less.Why You Should Listen: If you’re trying to grow a personal brand that attracts real opportunities, this episode is a goldmine.🎧 Listen now—and grab Sam’s free guides via his LinkedIn profile (linked below).This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzConnect with Sam on LinkedIn here -https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-browne/?originalSubdomain=nzHave a look at Sam’s courses here - https://sambrowne.gumroad.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/newsletter-----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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Apr 16, 2025 • 8min

Busy But Not Productive? The Calendar System to 10x Your Time

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/newsletterFeeling busy but not productive? You're not alone. Most people don’t need more motivation—they need systems that work.This episode is a tactical breakdown of the real productivity hacks high performers actually use.No theory. No fluff. Just simple tools that give you your time—and your focus—back.What You’ll Learn: ✅ The calendar setup that 10x’s your time (and stops the back-and-forth) ✅ The shared Notes system that keeps my team, life, and brain in sync ✅ Why “one priority” beats a to-do list every time ✅ The simple question I ask every morning to stay on purpose ✅ Why complexity kills momentum—and how to build frictionless habitsIf you’ve ever said “I need more hours in the day”—this is your new playbook.And hey—if you’re a brand that aligns with purpose-driven leadership and high performance, we’re opening up sponsorship opportunities for the first time in a long time. Email caroline@jjlaughlin.com or message me directly.Until then—protect your time, prioritise what matters, and lead with purpose.This episode was sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can find them at nzmortgages.co.nz.Send me a personal text messageSupport the show
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Apr 13, 2025 • 1h 3min

Paddy Gower on Overcoming Bullying & Alcoholism, Finding Connection in the Digital World

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 episode, I sit down with one of New Zealand’s most recognisable truth-tellers—journalist, documentarian, and author Patrick Gower (aka PG).PG is known for hard-hitting headlines, viral soundbites, and a gift for connecting with Kiwis at every level. But behind the viral moments and political showdowns is a man who’s wrestled with identity, addiction, and self-worth—and come out the other side with clarity, conviction, and purpose.This conversation is part memoir, part manifesto, and part reminder that change is hard—but possible. Especially if you believe in the f***ing possible.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:•  The mental trick PG uses to stay focused and optimistic—even in chaos•  What really drove his drinking—and the breakthrough that changed everything•  Why connection (not perfection) is your real leadership advantage• The outrageous schoolyard scandal that’s somehow still making headlines…Why You Should Listen:PG doesn’t sugarcoat anything. He talks openly about the awkward years, the impact of bullying, the heartbreak of redundancy, and the hidden pain behind being the “funny guy” in the room.But he also talks about growth, about leadership, about mission. And how it’s never too late to start again with purpose.If you’re navigating change, battling self-doubt, or quietly dreaming of more—this one’s for you.You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll definitely never look at a school lunch the same way again.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzGrab your copy of This is the F***ing News here - http://bit.ly/3YpRC0I Connect with PG on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/patrickgowernz/?hl=enConnect with PG on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paddygowernz/?originalSubdomain=nzBook PG for speaking here - https://www.celebrityspeakers.co.nz/speakers/patrick-gower-----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 ChamSend 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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Apr 9, 2025 • 11min

3 Surprising Habits That Will CHANGE YOUR LIFE

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/newsletterYou don’t need more goals. You need better habits.This episode is your reminder that small daily shifts create massive change. The world’s top performers don’t rely on luck—they rely on systems. And today, I’m sharing three of the simplest (yet most powerful) habits that changed my life—and my clients’ lives too.No fluff. Just real talk and real action.What You’ll Learn: ✅ Why 3 litres of water might fix more than you think ✅ How to walk your way to better decisions, health, and energy ✅ The high-performance journaling method that clarifies your purpose ✅ How friction kills good habits—and how to remove it ✅ The science behind the 66-day habit install windowIf you’ve ever said, “I know what to do… I just don’t do it,”—this one’s for you.If this episode sparked something in you, share it with a friend who’s ready to lead their life on purpose.Want to sponsor the podcast or newsletter? Email caroline@jjlaughlin.com or DM me on social.If you want to really supercharge your habits and make real lasting change in 2025, you NEED too join The High Performance Rewire. We kick off on Monday April 14th. - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/rewireThis episode was sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can find them at nzmortgages.co.nz.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/newsletterOn my channel I aim to bring you world-class guests and create epic videos to help you level up your leadership and personal mastery.If you could take the time to subscribe, that would help my channel grow and it would mean you wouldn’t miss an episode. Subscribe here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6GETJbxpgulYcYc6QAKLHA?sub_confirmation=1#highperformance #DailyHabits #leadonpurpose Send me a personal text messageSupport the show
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Apr 6, 2025 • 53min

The Diary of a CEO's 1% Mentality & Marketing Secrets - Grace Andrews, Marketing Director TELLS ALL!

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 episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Grace Andrews—global brand strategist, digital creator, and right hand to one of the most influential entrepreneurs on the planet, Steven Bartlett.At just 27, Grace has helped shape The Diary of a CEO into a global media force. But what’s even more impressive? Her ability to distill complex brand and content strategy into tactical, human language—and deliver it with heart.This conversation is part masterclass, part behind-the-scenes access, and part reminder that being “too obsessed” might just be your superpower.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why your personal brand is your digital reputation—and how to shape it with intention.The three metrics Grace obsesses over (and why “likes” aren’t one of them).How to create content people actually care about (hint: it's not about you).The secret to building a team that thrives on pressure, pace, and purpose.Why naivety—not experience—was the secret ingredient to building a global podcast empire.How to turn a podcast (or any piece of content) into a media flywheel.Why You Should Listen:Grace is rewriting the rules of brand building—by actually playing the long game. She’s not following trends, she’s creating them. She’s not trying to be everywhere—she’s focused on being essential.Whether you're a founder, a marketer, a content creator, or someone trying to get your message to land—this episode will give you the clarity, tools, and mindset to show up online with purpose, strategy, and soul.And if you’ve ever thought “I don’t have time to post”—Grace has a few thoughts for you.This episode isn’t just about social media. It’s about attention. And if you want to earn it, this conversation is unmissable.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzConnect with Grace on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-andrews1/?originalSubdomain=ukConnect with Grace on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/the.socialclimber/?hl=en-----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 LaugSend 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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