

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

Jan 28, 2025 • 18min
Why New Year’s Resolutions Don’t Work: Blue Monday Explained & 3 Tools to Achieve Your Goals
In this episode, I’m sharing why New Year's resolutions don’t work and what to do instead for a successful 2025.Only 9% of people stick to resolutions. I want to help you avoid failure by taking a smarter approach to goal setting.Here’s what I cover:The Three Critical Questions – Key reflections to gain clarity and direction.Why Reflection Matters – How looking back helps you move forward.Identifying What Works and What Doesn’t – Fine-tuning your approach.Learning From Your Experiences – Insights to guide better decisions.Creating a Goal-Setting Framework – A practical system for success.I share real-life stories of people who have used this framework to transform their lives.If you found this helpful, access my free Goal Setting Masterclass to dive deeper.Access the Masterclass here - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/2025replay 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

Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 10min
Couple’s Therapy Session with Dr. Victoria Thompson & My Partner - Improving Communication & Self Compassion
Disclaimer: Caroline and I are not ongoing patients of Dr. Victoria Thompson. This episode was recorded with both of our consent.In this episode of the Lead on Purpose podcast, I sit down with Dr. Victoria Thompson, a clinical psychologist based in Christchurch, for an open and insightful conversation about relationships, communication, and personal growth. Joining us for the first time is my partner, Caroline, who brings her unique perspective to the discussion.What We Cover:The importance of communication in relationships and its impact on life and work.Common communication challenges and how to navigate them.Practical strategies for improving connection and understanding.Balancing work and personal life when working with your partner.Dr. Victoria provides invaluable insights into understanding how our personal experiences influence our interactions and offers actionable advice for creating healthier, more fulfilling relationships.Caroline and I openly share our experiences, challenges, and lessons learned as we navigate our relationship and business together. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their relationships, both at home and in the workplace.Enjoy the episode and don’t forget to share it with someone who might benefit from it!This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Dr. Victoria here - https://www.victoriathompsonpsychology.com/about-victoriaConnect with Dr. Victoria on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/drvictoriathompson/Contact Dr. Victoria here - https://www.victoriathompsonpsychology.com/contact-meGet 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

Jan 21, 2025 • 11min
What People Get WRONG About AI! Focus on This Instead… (1:1 with James Laughlin)
In this episode, I’m sharing why personal growth needs to be your number one priority this year.We often focus on external goals, but without continuous self-improvement, long-term success becomes challenging. Developing a structured approach to growth is essential to staying relevant and thriving in any industry.Here’s what I cover:The Power of a Personal Growth Plan (PGP) - Why having a clear strategy can set you apart.Staying Relevant in an AI-Driven World - How growth ensures your value in a changing market.Picking Your Passion - The importance of choosing one area to focus on and go deep.The 5-Book Strategy - A proven method to master any topic efficiently.Sharing Knowledge for Retention - How teaching what you learn cements understanding and creates impact.Throughout the episode, I share real-life stories of high performers who have transformed their lives and careers through a commitment to personal growth. Whether you're in real estate, leadership, or any other field, this simple framework will help you level up.If this episode resonates with you, I invite you to download my free High Performance Planner, available below. It’s the exact tool I use to plan and achieve my goals.Let’s commit to making personal growth our top priority and lead our lives on purpose!Grab your copy of The Personal Leadership Planner here - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/plannerThis episode was sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can find them at https://www.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

Jan 15, 2025 • 1h 20min
Reformed Criminal, Bariz Shah - Leadership Lessons From Mt. Eden Prison & Christchurch Terror Attack
In this episode, I sit down with Bariz Shah, author of Beyond Hope and a remarkable leader who turned his life around. From his challenging youth to becoming a pillar of his community, Bariz’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose.What We Cover:Bariz’s early life as an immigrant in New Zealand and the struggles he faced with racism and identity.How his involvement in crime and time in prison became a turning point for change.The pivotal moments that led Bariz to embrace his faith and redefine his life.His journey through the University of Canterbury, earning an engineering degree, and becoming a leader in his Islamic community.Lessons on leadership, gratitude, and faith that inspire a life of purpose.Bariz shares profound insights into overcoming adversity, the power of community, and the importance of standing for truth and personal growth.This conversation really moved me. Please share it with someone you know who might benefit from it.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzGrab your copy of “Beyond Hope” here - https://www.harpercollins.co.nz/9781775542339/beyond-hope/Connect with Bariz on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bariz-shah-a30814161/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 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

Jan 14, 2025 • 13min
5 Signs You Need to Leave A Relationship (or a Bad Habit) - 1:1 with James Laughlin
In this episode, I’m sharing the critical signs that it's time to let go of relationships, habits, or jobs that no longer serve you.We often hear that quitting is for losers, but knowing when to walk away can lead to growth, freedom, and fulfilment. Let’s dive into the five key signs that it’s time to make a change.Here’s what I cover:Feeling Drained, Not EnergizedWhen the Bad Outweighs the GoodMisaligned ValuesStagnation Over GrowthFear is Holding You BackThroughout the episode, I share personal stories, including my journey through career shifts, relationships, and habits like alcohol, to inspire you to evaluate what might be holding you back.If this episode resonates with you, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might benefit from these insights. Let’s lead our lives on purpose and build habits and relationships that align with our highest potential!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

Jan 8, 2025 • 55min
From Building Empires to Raising Kids: The Truth About Leadership and Life with Scott Miller
In this episode, I sit down with Scott Jeffrey Miller, a former Chief Marketing Officer at FranklinCovey and bestselling author, to explore his remarkable journey from building a global leadership empire to embracing radical honesty in his personal and professional life.Scott shares candid insights into his 25+ years at FranklinCovey, his experiences working closely with Stephen Covey’s legacy, and how he’s applied the principles of leadership and purpose to his roles as a parent, speaker, and author.We cover:Scott’s journey from Disney to FranklinCovey and how he helped grow the company into a global leader in personal development.The biggest lessons from Stephen Covey, including the difference between efficiency and effectiveness in relationships.How fear has driven his success and the double-edged nature of ambition.Radical honesty in parenting and leadership, and why embracing your flaws can create deeper connections.Scott’s parenting philosophy, the challenges he faces, and how he co-authored a book with his son to teach life lessons.If you’re curious about what it takes to lead with purpose, embrace vulnerability, and balance the messiness of life, this honest and engaging conversation with Scott Miller will inspire you to reflect on your own journey.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzPreorder your copy of “Parenting Mess to Launch Success” here - https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Mess-Launch-Success-Relationships/dp/B0DC1V66H3Purchase one of Scott’s other books here - https://www.scottjeffreymiller.com/books/Connect with Scott on instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/scottjeffreymiller/Connect with Scott on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottjeffreymiller/Listen to “On Leadership with Scott Miller” here - https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/franklincovey-on-leadership-with-scott-miller/id139116438Get 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?sSend 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

Jan 7, 2025 • 14min
5 things I did to stop wasting my evenings after work
In this episode, I’m sharing the secrets to reclaiming your evenings and making the most of your time after work.Many of us come home exhausted, crash on the couch, and wonder where the time went. But what if you could turn your evenings into a launchpad for success?Here’s what I cover:Schedule Success – Discover the power of my Sunday Success Steps (SSS) and how a 15-minute planning session can set you up for a productive and fulfilling week.Clean Your Space, Clear Your Mind – Why dedicating time for a deep clean can help declutter not just your home but also your thoughts.Feelings vs. Actions – How to stop letting emotions dictate your evenings and instead create habits that drive intentional outcomes.Small Changes, Big Impact – Learn how tiny habits, like limiting chocolate or staying hydrated, can transform your evenings and set you up for long-term success.The 3-2-1 Evening Routine – My proven formula for winding down: 3 hours before bed, no work; 2 hours before bed, no food or drink; 1 hour before bed, no screens.Throughout this episode, I share practical tips and personal experiences to help you take charge of your evenings. You’ll learn simple strategies to boost productivity, strengthen relationships, and optimise your health and mindset.If you’re ready to break free from the evening slump and lead your life with purpose, this episode is for you.And if you found value in this, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might benefit from these strategies. Let’s take back our evenings and build habits that create lasting change!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

Jan 1, 2025 • 1h 30min
This PRODUCTIVITY SYSTEM Will Completely CHANGE YOUR LIFE! | Greg McKeown
In this episode, I sit down with Greg McKeown, bestselling author of Essentialism and Effortless, to uncover the secrets to simplifying life, prioritising what matters most, and achieving extraordinary results without burning out.Greg shares his journey from chasing success to redefining it—shifting from the undisciplined pursuit of more to the disciplined pursuit of less but better. He reveals the personal wake-up call that sparked his transformation and offers practical strategies for anyone feeling overwhelmed by modern life’s demands.We cover:What essentialism really means and how it’s the antidote to burnout.Greg’s personal story of prioritising work over family and the life-changing lesson it taught him.How to identify the ‘vital few’ tasks and eliminate the ‘trivial many.’The 3-step process to regain focus: Explore, Eliminate, and Execute.Why most people get stuck in reactive living—and how to break free.The power of Greg’s ‘Power Half Hour’ and how to structure your day for clarity and impact.Greg’s new Essentialism Planner and how it can help you start 2025 with focus and intention.If you’re ready to reclaim your time, energy, and focus, this episode with Greg McKeown will leave you inspired and equipped to simplify your life and amplify your results.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzOrder your essentialism planner here - https://gregmckeown.com/books/the-essentialism-planner/Order your copy of Essentialism and Effortless here - https://gregmckeown.com/books/essentialism/#Connect with Greg here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmckeown/Check out Greg’s podcast here - https://gregmckeown.com/podcast/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 iSend 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

Dec 25, 2024 • 1h 17min
Rowing 2,200km Across the Tasman: Shaun Quincey’s Journey of Pain, Pressure, and Privilege
In this episode, I sit down with Shaun Quincey, adventurer, entrepreneur, and the second person in history to row solo across the Tasman Sea. From taking on one of the world’s most treacherous ocean crossings to building a thriving business empire, Shaun’s story is one of resilience, grit, and relentless determination.Shaun reflects on his journey, the lessons learned from his record-breaking adventure, and how his father’s legacy as the first person to row the Tasman Sea inspired his own pursuit of greatness. We also delve into his transition from adventurer to entrepreneur and the mindset shifts that made it all possible.We cover:Shaun’s decision to row 2,200km across the Tasman and the life-or-death challenges he faced on the journey.The influence of his father’s world-first record and the pressure to forge his own path.The moment he almost gave up mid-ocean and how he turned fear into gratitude and clarity.How Shaun built a buy-now-pay-later business from scratch and sold it in a multi-million-dollar deal.The importance of resilience, routine, and finding purpose in hard work — whether on the water or in business.Practical advice on teaching resilience to the next generation and thriving under pressure.If you’re inspired by stories of grit, adventure, and the pursuit of purpose, this conversation with Shaun Quincey will leave you motivated to tackle your own challenges head-on.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzCheck out Simfuni here - https://simfuni.com/our-storyBook Shaun to speak at your next event here - https://www.celebrityspeakers.co.nz/speakers/shaun-quinceyConnect with Shaun here -https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-quincey-53548132/?originalSubdomain=nzGet 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.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6GETJbxpgulYcYc6QAKLHAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamesLaughlinOfficialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jameslaughlinofficial/Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/life-on-purpose-with-james-laughlin/id1547874035Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3WBElxcvhCHtJWBac3nOlF?si=hotcGzHVRACeAx4GvybVOQLinkedIn: 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

Dec 18, 2024 • 1h 37min
Slavery, Faith, and the Search for Meaning with Former NZ Detective Gary Shaw
In this episode, I sit down with Gary, a former New Zealand detective turned international investigator, to explore his extraordinary journey from policing in Christchurch to fighting human trafficking across the globe.Gary opens up about the incredible highs and devastating lows of his mission to rescue women and children from modern slavery—and the personal cost of living as "James Bond for justice."We cover:Gary’s early days in the New Zealand Police and his struggle to fit into a toxic police culture.The heart-wrenching reality of confronting modern slavery, including rescuing children as young as five.How his undercover work in 12 countries pushed him to his psychological and emotional limits.The profound impact of his faith, and how it evolved through his experiences.Lessons on shame, forgiveness, and the journey to self-compassion after hitting rock bottom.If you’re curious about the intersection of justice, redemption, and the human spirit, this raw and deeply moving conversation with Gary is not to be missed.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzBook Gary for speaking here - https://www.celebrityspeakers.co.nz/speakers/gary-shawFollow Gary on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-shaw-0706671b7/?originalSubdomain=nzLearn more about Gary here - https://www.garyshaw.co.nzContact Gary here - https://www.garyshaw.co.nzYou can find out what your Slavery Footprint is here - https://slaveryfootprint.org/#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.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6GETJbxpgulYcYc6QAKLHAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamesLaughlinOfficialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jameslaughlinofficial/Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/life-on-purpose-with-james-laughlin/id1547874035Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3WBElxcvhCHtJWBac3nOlF?si=hotcGzHVRACeAx4GvybVOQLinkedIn: 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