Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on leadership and sharing three powerful lessons I learned from a surprising encounter with a high-profile guest who revealed their true character behind the scenes.This experience challenged my perceptions of leadership and reinforced the importance of congruence, kindness, and responsibility in positions of power.Here’s what I cover:Congruence is Key – Why the best leaders are consistent both on and off camera, and how authenticity builds trust.Power Dynamics Matter – How leaders can elevate or diminish others through their behaviour and why awareness of this is critical.Kindness is Leadership – The lasting impact of treating others with respect, regardless of the situation or power dynamic.Throughout this episode, I’ll explore what this encounter taught me about leadership and the responsibility we all carry, whether in families, workplaces, or communities. I’ll challenge you to reflect on your own congruence and the power dynamics in your life, urging you to lead with empathy and intention.If you found value in this episode, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might benefit from these lessons. Let’s create a world where leadership is driven by integrity, not ego.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

In this episode, I sit down with Samuel Whitelock, the most capped All Black in history and a true rugby legend, to explore his journey from the farm fields of New Zealand to the pinnacle of international rugby.Samuel reflects on the challenges and triumphs of his career, his upbringing in a competitive family of four boys, and the values that shaped him both on and off the field. Along the way, we dive into his unique bond with Razor Robertson and the unforgettable lessons that defined their partnership.We cover:Samuel’s rural upbringing and how wrestling with his brothers prepared him for life as an All Black.The hilarious story of locking a babysitter out of the house and learning lessons on accountability.His relationship with Razor Robertson, including the famous "Rooster vs. Sheepdog" leadership analogy.What it means to "darken the jersey" and leave a legacy in one of the world’s most iconic teams.The highs and lows of balancing family, fatherhood, and a career at the top of international sport.If you’re interested in leadership, teamwork, and the lessons learned from a life in high-performance sport, this candid and inspiring conversation with Samuel Whitelock is a must-listen.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzGet your copy of Samuel Whitelock’s book here - https://www.harpercollins.co.nz/9781775542506/view-from-the-second-row/Follow Samuel on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/samuelwhitelock/?hl=enGet 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

In this episode, I’m sharing three powerful lessons I learned from a conversation with an inspiring New Zealand entrepreneur, Naomi Ballantyne, who became the first female in the country to sell her business for over a billion dollars. Her journey from humble beginnings to extraordinary success is a masterclass in mindset, resilience, and courage.Here’s what I cover:Everything is Figure-Outable – How a mindset of resourcefulness can help you overcome any obstacle.Care Less About What Others Think – Why focusing on your purpose over public opinion is essential for success.Put Your Hand Up – The power of stepping into opportunities, even when imposter syndrome strikes.Throughout this episode, I’ll challenge you to embrace these lessons in your own life. Whether you’re striving for financial freedom, personal growth, or simply a more purpose-driven life, these insights will inspire you to think bigger, act bolder, and live with intention.If you found value in this episode, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might benefit from these lessons.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

In this episode, I sit down with Finn Butcher, Olympic gold medalist and canoe slalom cross champion, to delve into his incredible journey from Central Otago to making history in Paris.Finn shares how his passion for kayaking, mental resilience, and the support of his community shaped his path to success—and how he stays grounded through the highs and lows of elite sport.We cover:Finn’s mindset strategies: overcoming imposter syndrome and staying focused under pressure.The pivotal role of mentors, including the late Sarge, in fostering his love for the sport.How Finn balanced setbacks, including missing the Tokyo Olympics, with resilience and growth.The mental skills he developed with Kylie Wilson, including mindfulness and visualization.Finn’s thoughts on unconditional support from parents and coaches for young athletes.If you’re curious about what it takes to win Olympic gold, stay humble, and love the process, this conversation with Finn Butcher is for you.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzConnect with Finn on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/finnbutcher/?hl=enLearn more about Finn here - https://www.canoeslalomnz.org.nz/Performance-Pathways/Olympians/finn-butcher-2024Get 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

In this episode, I’m sharing three powerful lessons I learned from a conversation with William Pike, a man who turned a near-death experience into a life of purpose and possibility. His story of survival and transformation is a masterclass in resilience, mindset, and living fully.Here’s what I cover:Focus on Possibilities Get Outdoors Live Today Like There's No Tomorrow Throughout this episode, I’ll challenge you to apply these lessons to your own life. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uninspired, these insights will help you lead with purpose, focus on what matters most, and inspire those around you.If you found value in this episode, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might benefit from these insights.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

The Truth About Food Addiction & How to Finally Break Free In this episode, I sit down with Healthy Emmie, a passionate nutritionist and wellness expert, to explore her journey from marathon training to becoming a global advocate for plant-based health. Emmie shares how her transformative approach to nutrition changed her life—and the lives of her parents—by focusing on simple, whole foods.We cover:Emmie’s approach: eating well by adding, not restricting.Practical tips for making small, impactful changes over time.Insights on protein myths and food marketing’s hidden tactics.Why processed food addiction isn’t your fault—and how to take control.Mindset, journaling, and mindfulness for a balanced, lasting wellness journey.If you’re ready to shift your approach to health and simplify wellness with actionable steps, this conversation with Healthy Emmie is for you.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Emmie here - https://www.healthyemmieapp.orgWatch Emmie on Youtube here - https://www.youtube.com/@HealthyEmmie Learn more about the SLIM app here - https://www.healthyemmieapp.org/#PERSONALIZEDPROGRAMLearn more about Dave Asprey here - https://daveasprey.comPurchase Emmie’s supplements here - https://healthyemmie.org/pages/b12-supplementView Darin Ollie’s Netflix series here - https://superlife.com/down-to-earth/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

In this episode, I’m sharing the three key traits that make the world’s most influential people truly impactful. I’ve had the privilege of sitting down with leaders from every field—presidents, CEOs, sports icons, and more—and I’ve found that the most powerful ones don’t rely on manipulation or flashy campaigns. Instead, they focus on these core qualities that create deep, authentic connections.Here’s what I cover:ConsistencyCuriosityKindnessThroughout this episode, I’ll encourage you to embrace these traits to grow your own influence and build richer relationships. By practising consistency, curiosity, and kindness, you’ll notice a meaningful shift in how others respond to you and in the quality of your connections.If you found value in this episode, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might benefit from these insights.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

What You Don’t Know About The Man Behind NZ RugbyIn this episode, I sit down with Mark Robinson, the CEO of New Zealand Rugby, to uncover the untold story of his journey from rural Taranaki to leading one of the world’s most iconic sporting organisations.Mark shares his passion for rugby, his experiences navigating professional sport, and his vision for the future of New Zealand Rugby—on and off the field.We cover:Mark’s early life and how rugby became his passion.His time at Cambridge and what it taught him about leadership.Balancing the demands of being CEO with family life.The challenges of navigating NZ Rugby through the COVID-19 crisis.His vision for the All Blacks’ legacy and the future of rugby globally.If you want a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead New Zealand Rugby and gain insights into leadership, resilience, and purpose, this conversation with Mark Robinson is for you.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzYou can learn more about NZ Rugby here - https://www.nzrugby.co.nzYou can learn more about Mark here - https://www.nzrugby.co.nz/about-nzr/who-we-areGet 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

In this episode, we dive into three core habits that often keep people stuck, while the wealthy continue to thrive. Being “rich” isn’t just about money—it’s about cultivating relationships, finding fulfillment, and building a mindset that brings lasting success. Let’s explore what a rich mindset really means and see how small shifts in our daily habits can transform our lives.Here's what I cover:Curiosity: The Key to GrowthSeeing Possibilities, Not ProblemsGratitude as a Daily PracticeThroughout the episode, I encourage you to embrace a rich mindset by cultivating curiosity, seeking out possibilities, and practising gratitude. By doing so, you’re investing in a life that’s truly fulfilling.If you found value in this episode, please consider sharing it with someone who could benefit from these insights.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

In this episode, I sit down with Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand, to dive into his journey from the boardroom to the Beehive and how he aims to lead New Zealand with purpose and conviction. We explore his vision for the country’s future, his strategies for economic growth, and his ambitious plans to transform key areas, including education.Christopher shares his thoughts on what it takes to lead under fire, how his corporate background influences his political decisions, and why he believes that leadership is all about mission and purpose—whether in business or politics.And as a special addition, my son Finn joins us at the end for some quick-fire questions with the Prime Minister—revealing a lighter side of leadership!If you're interested in understanding how business principles can shape political change, or what drives New Zealand’s new Prime Minister, this is the episode for you.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.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.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 messageSupport the show