Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin - podcast cover

Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin

James Laughlinwww.jjlaughlin.com

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.


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Episodes

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...

Jan 15, 20251 hr 20 min

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 Energized When the Bad Outweighs the Good Misaligned Values Stagnation Over Growth Fear is Holding You Back Throughout the episode, I share...

Jan 14, 202513 min

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...

Jan 08, 202555 min

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 dedicatin...

Jan 07, 202514 min

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...

Jan 01, 20251 hr 30 min

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 pursu...

Dec 25, 20241 hr 17 minEp. 358

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 po...

Dec 18, 20241 hr 37 minEp. 357

The Ugly Truth About A Leader I Regret Having On The Show

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....

Dec 17, 202415 minEp. 356

Samuel Whitelock’s Leadership MASTERCLASS: Secrets of All Blacks Culture & 100+ Test Match Legend

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 p...

Dec 12, 20241 hr 38 minEp. 355

The Billionaire Mindset: The 3 Secrets They Don’t Want You to Know

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 T...

Dec 10, 202411 minEp. 354

Olympic Gold and the Mental Game with NZ’s Finn Butcher

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 me...

Dec 04, 20241 hr 16 minEp. 353

3 Life-Changing Lessons from a Near-Death Experience You Can't Ignore

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, overwhelme...

Dec 03, 20248 minEp. 352

The Truth About Food Addiction & How to Finally Break Free

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, i...

Nov 27, 202446 minEp. 351

Psychology Secrets of the Ultra-Successful

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: Consistency Curiosity Kindness Throughout this episode, I’ll encourage you to em...

Nov 26, 202412 minEp. 350

What You Don’t Know About The Man Behind NZ Rugby

What You Don’t Know About The Man Behind NZ Rugby In 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 ...

Nov 20, 202443 minEp. 349

3 Things Poor People Do That Rich People Don’t

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 Growth Seeing Possibilities, Not Problems Gratitude as a Daily Practice Throu...

Nov 19, 202411 minEp. 348

Prime Minister Appears on First Independent Podcast

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 wh...

Nov 14, 202419 minEp. 347

Why We’re Terrible at Decisions (And How to Fix It)

Why We’re Terrible at Decisions (And How to Fix It) In this episode, I sit down with Dan Ariely, a renowned behavioural economist, to explore the fascinating world of human irrationality and how understanding it can transform our decision-making, motivation, and overall quality of life. Dan shares powerful insights into the quirks of the human mind, how our outdated "mental tools" affect modern life, and what it really means to design environments that align with our natural tendencies. In this ...

Nov 13, 202457 minEp. 346

The 1 Thing Most People Learn Too Late In Life

In this episode, I dive deep into the often-overlooked value of time and why being intentional with it is critical. Imagine waking up one day with the realisation that you’ve spent years on things that don’t truly matter to you. Let’s make sure that day never comes. Here's what I cover: The Cost of Wasted Time I share personal stories about time spent on activities that added little to my life, encouraging you to reflect on where you invest your time. Living on Your Terms Discover how to priorit...

Nov 12, 202419 minEp. 345

AI Expert: The Truth About AI And The Potential For The Future

AI Expert: The Truth About AI And The Potential For The Future In this episode, I sit down with Tim Warren, an AI expert with over a decade of hands-on experience in the field, to dive deep into the world of Artificial Intelligence. We cut through the buzz and hype to understand AI at its core—what it really is and how it’s impacting our lives and industries. Tim breaks down the difference between logic-based and probabilistic computing and offers a practical, engaging explanation of AI that eve...

Nov 06, 20241 hr 20 minEp. 344

The Real Reason We Work So Hard

In this episode, I take a step back to explore why we work so hard and how to make sure it aligns with our true purpose. In a world where busyness often replaces clarity, we’ll question what it really means to work “smart” and how to avoid the pitfalls of burnout. Here's what I cover: Purpose-Driven Work I challenge you to think about what truly gives your work meaning and why having a sense of purpose is essential to keep you motivated. Balancing Hard Work and Joy Explore the importance of enjo...

Nov 05, 202412 minEp. 343

Running Across Africa: The Mission That Transformed Lives

Running Across Africa: The Mission That Transformed Lives Keith Boyd broke a 26-year-old Guinness World Record by running 11,000 kilometers from Cape Town to Cairo, all to raise awareness for poverty in Africa. He is also the founder of Rainbow Leaders, a Pro-Democracy Youth Voter Education NGO and an advocate for reducing inequality on the continent. In this episode, Keith shares the story behind his record-breaking run, from the physical and mental challenges to the deep motivation that pushed...

Oct 30, 202450 minEp. 342

4 Powerful Life-Changing Lessons From Think and Grow Rich

4 Powerful Life-Changing Lessons From Think and Grow Rich In today’s episode, I delve into four timeless principles from Think a nd Grow Rich that c an radically transform your path to success. Inspired by Napoleon Hill’s decades-long research, I unpack how these principles go beyond wealth, guiding you to live with purpose and clarity. Here's what I cover: The Foundation of Desire Discover why every achievement starts with a burning desire and how to uncover what truly drives you to succeed. Fa...

Oct 29, 202417 minEp. 341

The Key To Living Fearlessly And Achieving The Impossible

The Key To Living Fearlessly And Achieving The Impossible Jenn Drummond is the first ever woman to climb the second highest summits on each of the 7 continents. She is also a world record holder, author and mother of seven. In this episode, Jenn talks about how a near-death experience became the catalyst for her to live a purpose-driven life and pursue her Guinness World Record. We discuss the importance of resilience, embracing discomfort, and how to recognise when your life needs a shift. Jenn...

Oct 23, 20241 hrEp. 340

The Number One Social Skill To Make People Like You

In today’s solo cast, I dive into a simple yet powerful skill that can instantly make you more likable—asking questions and listening deeply. Did you know that people are three times more likely to like you when you show genuine curiosity? In this episode, I break down the science behind why this works and how you can master this skill to build deeper connections and influence others positively. Here's what I cover: The Power of Listening I’ll explain how actively listening, rather than focusing...

Oct 22, 202414 minEp. 339

This Simple Goal-Setting Method Changes Everything (Science-Backed)

This Simple Goal-Setting Method Changes Everything (Science-Backed) Caroline Adams Miller is a best-selling author and expert on goal setting, grit, and positive psychology. We discussed her new upcoming book ‘Big Goals - The Science of Setting Them, Achieving Them, and Creating Your Best Life.” In this episode, Caroline and I discuss the science of goal-setting and how it fuels high performance. She shares her journey of overcoming bulimia and the role of goals in her recovery. We explore the d...

Oct 16, 20241 hr 3 minEp. 338

3 Ways To Love Yourself As You Are

In today’s episode, I dive into the powerful practice of self-compassion and why it’s so crucial for living a fulfilling life. Have you ever found yourself being your own worst critic? If so, this episode is for you. I'll share three key steps that have helped me—and can help you—start showing yourself the love and support you truly deserve. Here's what I cover: Embrace Imperfection as Growth I’ll explain why perfectionism isn't a real standard and how embracing your imperfections can actually f...

Oct 15, 202416 minEp. 337

Turn Regret Into Power - Daniel Pink Explains How

Turn Regret Into Power - Daniel Pink Explains How Daniel Pink is a best-selling author and one of the world’s leading thinkers on business, work, and behavior. His books, including "Drive," "To Sell Is Human," and "When," have been translated into 42 languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. Pink's work focuses on the science of motivation, timing, and how people can achieve higher performance and satisfaction in their personal and professional lives. In this episode, Daniel and I to...

Oct 09, 202455 minEp. 336

The Most Powerful Drug For A Winning Mindset

In this episode, we dive into a powerful technique that's helping high performers reset their minds and enhance their focus—without the need for caffeine or supplements. This scientifically-backed practice, known as Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR), is gaining traction among top achievers for its profound impact on mental clarity and energy. We cover: - What is NSDR? - The Science Behind NSDR - 5 Ways NSDR Boosts Performance - How to Practice NSDR By integrating NSDR into your daily habits, you'll unl...

Oct 08, 202412 minEp. 335

How Mindfulness Can Literally Make You Live Longer

How Mindfulness Can Literally Make You Live Longer Ellen Langer, acclaimed psychologist and author of "Mindfulness," joins us to discuss the transformative power of mindfulness on health, happiness, and success. Known as the "mother of mindfulness," Ellen shares insights from decades of research, explaining how mindfulness is not a practice but a way of being. In this episode, Ellen debunks myths about mindfulness and meditation, revealing how paying attention to the world around us can improve ...

Oct 02, 20241 hr 5 minEp. 334
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