

Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
James Laughlin
Guiding you toward a life of purpose, progress, and personal growth. Each week, James interviews world-class thinkers, including prime ministers, Olympic gold medalists, billionaires, and visionaries, to uncover the habits, tools, and mindsets that drive meaningful success.Hosted by James Laughlin—a 7-time world champion drummer, sought-after keynote speaker, and high-performance leadership consultant—this podcast brings you conversations with extraordinary individuals who have shaped industries, inspired nations, and achieved greatness.Whether you're building confidence, breaking through barriers, or discovering your purpose, Lead on Purpose is your guide to turning challenges into opportunities and ambitions into achievements.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 25, 2025 • 11min
These 5 Stoic Principles Could Change Your Life FOREVER!
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 people feel overwhelmed—not because life is too hard, but because they’re focusing on the wrong things. If I could teach you just five principles to build a calmer, more focused, more purposeful life… these would be it. Rooted in ancient wisdom. Made for modern chaos.Whether you're navigating pressure at work, in sport, or in life—this episode is your guide to staying grounded and showing up as your best self.What You’ll Learn: ✅ Control the Controllable’s. Stop wasting energy on what you can’t change. Focus on what’s in your hands. ✅ Turn Obstacles into Opportunities. Life will challenge you—use it as fuel, not friction. ✅ Master Your Emotions. Emotional strength isn’t about suppression. It’s about choosing your response. ✅ Live with Purpose + Virtue. Do what’s right, not what’s easy. That’s leadership. ✅ Be Present. The past is done. The future doesn’t exist. Train your mind to live now.If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who’s striving to live with more purpose. And if you're interested in sponsoring the podcast or our newsletter, email caroline@jjlaughlin.com or DM me on social.This 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=1I release a solocast every Wednesday, and an interview with a world class guest every Thursday.Send me a personal text messageSupport the show

Mar 19, 2025 • 1h 57min
Inside the SAS - Jamie Pennell on Fighting the Taliban & Willie Apiata Winning Victoria Cross
In this gripping episode, I sit down with Jamie Pennell, a highly decorated New Zealand SAS soldier awarded the New Zealand Gallantry Star for his extraordinary actions on the battlefield. This is an intimate and raw conversation about resilience, leadership, and the realities of serving in one of the world’s most elite military units.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The Journey to the SAS: Jamie’s early aspirations, what drew him to special forces, and the brutal selection process that pushed him to his limits.Fear and Failure: How an initial failure in SAS selection became the fuel for success.The Psychological Battle: The mental toughness required to operate in extreme conditions and why mindset is more critical than physical strength.Afghanistan & High-Stakes Missions: The reality of life on the battlefield, working behind enemy lines, and leading critical operations.The Intercontinental Hotel Siege: Jamie’s first-hand account of one of the most intense counter-terrorism operations ever conducted by the New Zealand SAS.Life After Combat: The challenges of reintegration, navigating civilian life, and finding purpose beyond the battlefield.Lessons on Leadership & Resilience: How Jamie’s experiences in the SAS apply to leadership, teamwork, and mental fortitude in everyday life.Why You Should Listen:This episode is more than a military story—it’s a lesson in perseverance, discipline, and personal growth. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone striving to push past your limits, Jamie’s insights will inspire you to take ownership of your challenges and lead with courage.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzGrab your copy of “Serviceman J” here - https://www.harpercollins.co.nz/9781775542384/serviceman-j/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/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. JSend 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

Mar 18, 2025 • 19min
5 Money Tips I Wish I Heard In My 20s (1:1 with James Laughlin)
Most people struggle with money—not because they don’t earn enough, but because they don’t know how to use it. If I could go back, here’s what I’d do differently (and what I’d double down on). Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your financial game, this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn:✅ Invest in Yourself First. The best ROI isn’t in stocks or real estate—it’s in your skills, mindset, and knowledge. ✅ Adopt an Abundance Mindset. There’s always room for greatness. Focus on opportunities, not limitations. ✅ Diversify Your Income. One income stream = high risk. Build multiple to create security. ✅ Put Your Money to Work. Saving alone won’t make you wealthy—investing will. Automate and forget it. ✅ Live Below Your Means. A high income means nothing if you’re drowning in debt. Smart spending = real wealth.If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And if you're interested in sponsoring the podcast or our newsletter, email caroline@jjlaughlin.com or send me a DM on social!This 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=1I release a solocast every Wednesday, and an interview with a world class guest every Thursday.Send me a personal text messageSupport the show

Mar 12, 2025 • 41min
Dave Winsborough, Psychologist & Co-Founder of Deeper Signals: The Science Behind High Performance
What gives high performers and elite teams their competitive edge? Self-awareness. In this episode, I sit down with Dave Winsborough, co-founder of Deeper Signals, to explore the psychology behind high performance, the power of personality assessments, and how leaders can build stronger, more effective teams.Dave brings decades of experience in psychology, leadership assessment, and team dynamics, having worked with military, sports, and corporate organisations worldwide. We dive into the science behind Deeper Signals, a cutting-edge psychometric tool designed to be faster, more engaging, and more applicable to real-world leadership.Whether you're leading a team, looking to improve your self-awareness, or just curious about what makes great teams tick, this episode is packed with insights you can apply immediately.Key Takeaways:Why traditional personality assessments are outdated—and how Deeper Signals is changing the game.The Big Five personality traits and how they influence leadership and teamwork.The psychology of dysfunctional teams vs. high-performing teams.Why self-awareness is the key to leadership success and how to develop it.The role of psychological safety in high-performance environments.How organisations can use Deeper Signals to improve hiring, reduce turnover, and build better teams.The impact of AI on coaching, leadership, and personal development.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Deeper Signals here - https://www.deepersignals.com/Connect with Dave here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davewinsborough/?originalSubdomain=nzConnect with James to talk about Deeper Signals Testing here - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/site/contactGet 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 performeSend 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

Mar 11, 2025 • 16min
3 Entrepreneurship Lessons I Wish I Knew When I Started My Business (1:1 with James Laughlin)
Starting a business is hard—most fail fast. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If I were starting over, here’s what I’d do differently—and what I’d double down on. Whether you’re launching or in your first year, this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn:Why defining your niche is crucial.How to build real relationships, not just a network.The #1 business killer (obscurity) and how to beat it.The best way to create content that works for you.Lessons from my own journey—what worked, what didn’t.Key Takeaways:✅ Define Your Niche. Serve everyone, serve no one. Get laser-focused on who you help. ✅ Build Relationships, Not Just a Network. Trust beats transactions every time. ✅ Make Yourself Visible. If people don’t know you exist, they won’t buy from you. Show up. ✅ Start Slow, Stay Curious. Test, refine, and build for long-term success.If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it.This 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=1I release a 1:1 Session every Wednesday, and an interview with a world class guest every Thursday.#highperformancejournal #startup #entrepreneurship Send me a personal text messageSupport the show

Mar 5, 2025 • 49min
"Yawning Could Change Your Life!" – Author Cortney McDermott on Neuroscience Hacks for Performance
Courtney McDermott is a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and transformational coach who has helped countless high performers break free from self-imposed limitations. From corporate executive to globally sought-after coach, Courtney's journey is a testament to the power of mindset, self-trust, and letting go of control.In this episode, we explore the themes of her book, Give Yourself Permission, and how embracing a new way of thinking can unlock greater freedom, confidence, and success.Key Takeaways:The Illusion of Control: Why high performers often feel trapped by their own drive for success—and how to break free.Rewiring Your Mindset: The neuroscience behind confidence, trust, and surrendering to the unknown.The Power of Gratitude: How a simple shift in focus can rewire your brain and transform your daily experience.Unlocking Time Freedom: Courtney's perspective on time and how to step out of the "do more" trap.Practical Strategies: Yawning, movement, and laughter—unexpected yet science-backed tools to reset your nervous system and boost creativity.Courtney shares profound insights on the importance of presence, breaking out of limiting thought patterns, and how to embrace a more expansive way of living. Her work blends neuroscience, epigenetics, and quantum physics to help people move beyond performance-based identity into true self-expression.If you've ever felt stuck in your own ambitions or struggled with the pressure to control every outcome, this episode will help you shift your perspective and step into a more empowered way of living.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzPurchase your copy of “Give Yourself Permission” here -https://www.cortneymcdermott.com/book/Connect with Cortney here - https://www.cortneymcdermott.comLearn more about Cortney here - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com/cortney-mcdermott-2/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/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/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

Mar 4, 2025 • 12min
Follow These Simple Steps to Master Your Mindset - 1:1 with James Laughlin
The difference between good and great performers? Mindset. The way you set your mind determines your beliefs, behaviors, execution, and results. In this episode, I break down the subconscious belief systems (BS) that shape our reality—and how to rewire them for success.In this episode, I cover:What Mindset Really Is – How your beliefs shape your perception of the world.Growth vs. Fixed Mindset – Why embracing growth leads to better outcomes in life and leadership.The Power of Belief Systems (BS) – How the stories you tell yourself impact your success.Rewiring Your Mindset – A simple exercise to identify and reshape limiting beliefs.The Identity Shift – How to change your language to transform your results.Your mindset isn’t fixed—it’s a choice. Take a moment today to reset your thinking and step into a more empowered version of yourself.🚀 Join My Free High-Performance Masterclass on Mindset 🚀 📅 March 11th at 7:30 PM NZT 🔗 jjlaughlin.com/mindset If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it.This 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=1I release a solocast every Wednesday, and an interview with a world class guest every Thursday.Send me a personal text messageSupport the show

Feb 26, 2025 • 59min
Surviving a Volcanic Eruption: William Pike on Losing His Leg & Finding Purpose After Tragedy
William Pike is an explorer, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur whose life was forever changed by a catastrophic volcanic eruption on Mount Ruapehu. From losing his leg in a harrowing accident to developing Pro Armour and launching the William Pike Challenge, his journey exemplifies how adversity can fuel purpose-driven transformation.In this episode, William and I dive deep into his remarkable journey—exploring how a life-altering event not only reshaped his destiny but also inspired him to empower thousands of young people through outdoor adventure and community service.Key Takeaways:The Transformative Power of Adversity: How a volcanic eruption turned trauma into a catalyst for change.Innovating from Pain: The creation of Pro Armour to protect prosthetic limbs and enhance mobility.Empowering Youth: The William Pike Challenge as a dynamic program that builds confidence, resilience, and leadership through outdoor activities.Actionable Insights: Embrace your “why” and step outside your comfort zone to transform setbacks into opportunities.William shares powerful insights from his journey, proving that true success is measured by the impact we have on ourselves and others.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about William here - https://williampike.co.nzBook William as a speaker here - https://williampike.co.nz/william-pike-motivational-speaker/Checkout the William Pike Challenge here - https://www.williampikechallenge.co.nzPurchase your copy of “Every Day is a Good Day” here - https://williampike.co.nz/product/every-days-a-good-day/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/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 ZealandSend 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

10 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 13min
A Full Guide to High Performance Journalling (5 Minutes a Day to Change Your Life) - 1:1 with James Laughlin
Discover the transformative power of High-Performance Journaling to maximize personal growth. This method emphasizes intentional structure over casual writing, focusing on establishing a morning routine that includes gratitude and setting your Most Valued Priorities. Evening reflections help assess progress and promote continuous improvement. Learn how this practice not only sharpens your thinking but also enhances income potential. Plus, find out why the right journal and pen play a crucial role in your journey towards mastery.

Feb 19, 2025 • 1h 2min
The True Story Behind ‘The Sound of Freedom’ – Paul Hutchinson’s Undercover Rescue Missions
Paul Hutchinson is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and executive producer of Sound of Freedom, a global movement shedding light on the realities of child trafficking. From building a multi-billion-dollar investment fund to leading 70 undercover rescue missions, Paul’s life is a testament to purpose-driven leadership.In this episode, Paul and I dive deep into his incredible journey—how he went from making millions in real estate to risking his life to rescue trafficked children.Key Takeaways:The mindset shift that took Paul from entrepreneur to philanthropist.The most powerful lesson he learned about success and giving back.Why he walked away from a billion-dollar business to fight child trafficking.How Sound of Freedom became a global movement.Actionable steps you can take to protect children and make an impact.Paul shares powerful stories from his undercover missions, the lessons he’s learned from billionaires, and why true success is measured by impact, not income.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Paul here - https://www.paulhutchinsonofficial.com/about-paul-hutchinsonWatch the Sound of Freedom Film here -https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Sound-of-Freedom/0JCBACZA5C2VIKMQSG9084DFV5Connect with Paul here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhutch/Check out Paul’s Foundation here - https://childliberation.orgGet 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


