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.
We are proud to be sponsored by the incredible team at NZ Mortgages. You can visit them at nzmortgages.co.nz
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Top 10 Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Avoid These 4 Mistakes or Stay Stuck All Year
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
04/02/25 • 9 min
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
You didn’t fail your Q1 goals—your strategy did.
This episode is your reset button. Every year, millions set bold January goals...
And by March, they’re buried under busy-ness and excuses. Sound familiar?
I’ve been there—and so have the world’s top performers I work with.
In this episode, I break down exactly why we fall short... And how to reset for a powerful, focused Q2.
What You’ll Learn:
✅ Why vague goals always fail—and what to do instead
✅ How to build in accountability (without relying on willpower)
✅ What high performers do differently when setbacks hit
✅ The 90-day sprint framework that will change your year
✅ The one 10-minute reflection that leads to long-term success
If you’re ready to stop drifting and start leading with clarity—this one’s for you.
FREE Q2 Reset Masterclass
Join me Sunday, April 6th @ 7PM NZT for a high-impact 60-minute session.
You’ll walk away with a crystal-clear roadmap for Q2—and momentum to carry it through.
👉 Register here: https://www.jjlaughlin.com/2025goals
If this episode sparked something in you, share it with someone who’s ready to lead their life on purpose.
And if you'd like to sponsor the show or our newsletter, email [email protected] 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/newsletter
On 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
How Naomi Ballantyne Became NZ’s First Billion-Dollar Female Founder
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
03/30/25 • 63 min
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
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Naomi Ballantyne—one of New Zealand’s most successful entrepreneurs and the first Kiwi woman to sell a company for over a billion dollars.
From humble beginnings in a tiny three-bedroom house with five kids and two parents, to building and leading some of the most innovative life insurance companies in the country, Naomi’s story is raw, riveting, and radically inspiring.
She shares how emotional resilience, relentless curiosity, and a fierce commitment to doing the right thing helped her defy the odds—not once, but again and again.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Why growing up in scarcity sparked Naomi’s entrepreneurial fire.
- The mindset that turns adversity into advantage—and pain into power.
- How to lead with humility while building a billion-dollar business.
- What most boards get wrong—and how to fix it.
- The surprising truth about strategy (it’s not what you think).
- Why parenting, not school, is still the most powerful teacher.
Why You Should Listen:
Naomi doesn’t fit the mould—and that’s exactly why she’s been able to break it. She’s built multiple companies from the ground up, challenged a male-dominated industry, and led with heart, grit, and an unshakable sense of purpose.
Whether you’re a founder, a leader, a parent—or someone who’s ever wondered if they’re “good enough”—this conversation will remind you that you don’t have to fit in to make a mark. You just have to show up, stay curious, and never forget who you are.
If you want to lead with purpose—and on your own terms—this episode is unmissable.
This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nz
- Connect with Naomi on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/naomi-ballantyne-578b0a248/?originalSubdomain=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/newsletter
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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 O
The Ugly Truth About A Leader I Regret Having On The Show
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
12/17/24 • 14 min
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/newsletter
On 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
I release a solocast every Wednesday, and an interview with a world class guest every Thursday.
The Harsh Truths Antarctica Taught Me About Leadership - 1:1 with James Laughlin
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
02/18/25 • 17 min
I’m recording this from Sir Edmund Hillary’s hut at Scott Base in Antarctica. This experience has been eye-opening, and I want to share what it’s taught me about life, leadership, and our planet.
In this episode, I cover:
- The Power of Perspective – What Antarctica reveals about human resilience and vulnerability.
- Leading in Isolation – How I helped Antarctica NZ’s winter team build a strong team culture.
- Protecting Our Planet – What the melting Ross Ice Shelf means for all of us.
- Pushing Past Fear – Why stepping out of your comfort zone leads to growth.
- The Importance of Connection – How humor and self-awareness drive high-performing teams.
This experience has reminded me to pause, reflect, and take action—not just in leadership, but in how we live every day.
Take a moment today to think about your purpose. What impact—big or small—do you want to have?
If this episode resonates, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And as always, lead your life on purpose.
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/newsletter
On 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
I release a solocast every Wednesday, and an interview with a world class guest every Thursday.
3 Surprising Habits That Will CHANGE YOUR LIFE
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
04/09/25 • 10 min
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
You 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 window
If 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 [email protected] 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/rewire
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/newsletter
On 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
This PRODUCTIVITY SYSTEM Will Completely CHANGE YOUR LIFE! | Greg McKeown
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
01/01/25 • 88 min
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.nz
- Order 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
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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 Exe
Mastering the Art of Idea Generation: Insights from Stanford's D School
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
03/06/24 • 50 min
Mastering the Art of Idea Generation: Insights from Stanford's D School
Jeremy Utley is the Director of Executive Education at Stanford's d.school, author of "IDEAFLOW: The Only Business Metric That Matters," and an incredible innovator. In today's fast-paced business landscape, where creativity and innovation are paramount, Jeremy offers unique insights and strategies to supercharge the innovation process.
Jeremy opened my eyes to new ways of thinking and new ways of creating. This episode was powerful. We spoke about idea generation, AI and how we can leverage it in both business and everyday life.
Please share this episode with your loved ones.
You can purchase your copy of IDEAFLOW here - https://www.jeremyutley.design/ideaflow
Checkout Jeremy’s website here - https://www.jeremyutley.design
Listen to the episode mentioned on Jeremy’s Podcast with Ed Catmull here - https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/s3e01-wizard-of-awe-peek-behind-the-pixar-curtain/id1586707064?i=1000628222318
Read the HBR study on AI here - https://hbr.org
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Most people are downloading this FREE guide to level up their Personal Mastery - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/offers/2wBnEQEH/checkout
If you would like to help James continue to bring on world-class guests, please consider making a small recurring donation to cover the back end, admin and editing costs. For many years, James has dedicated countless hours to the show and would LOVE to continue bringing you global thought leaders.
Thank you for your support. It is greatly appreciated.
With much gratitude.
Full Transcript, Quote Cards, and a Show Summary are available here:
https://www.jjlaughlin.com/blog
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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.
5 Reasons Every Leader Should Get THERAPY with Jason VanRuler
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
12/06/23 • 33 min
5 Reasons Every Leader Should Get THERAPY with Jason VanRuler
Jason VanRuler is a Licensed Therapist and the Author of the book “Get Past Your Past.”
Jason and I had a conversation about how most entrepreneurs and leaders should be in therapy. We spoke about how healing from past traumas can be a springboard for your future, and how living in your past will keep you stuck in it.
This was an enlightening conversation. I thoroughly enjoyed talking to Jason and I know that you will benefit from this conversation.
Please share this with your loved ones.
Purchase Jason’s new book here - https://www.amazon.com/Get-Past-Your-Facing-Connection/dp/0310367417
Connect with Jason here - https://www.jasonvr.com
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Click here to Become a VIP supporter of Lead On Purpose: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1583287/support
If you would like to help James continue to bring on world-class guests, please consider making a small recurring donation to cover the back end, admin and editing costs. For many years, James has dedicated countless hours to the show and would LOVE to continue bringing you global thought leaders.
Thank you for your support. It is greatly appreciated.
With much gratitude.
Full Transcript, Quote Cards, and a Show Summary are available here:
https://www.jjlaughlin.com/blog
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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.
20 Years with Rugby's Best: Darren Shand's Leadership Odyssey
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
11/01/23 • 38 min
20 Years with Rugby's Best: Darren Shand's Leadership Odyssey
Darren Shand is a legend in the Rugby world. He has been the All Blacks Manager since 2004, which included the incredible 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cup.
Darren and I sat down to record a Trilogy on his insights and expertise when it comes to leadership and leading a remarkable team.
This is the second episode in the trilogy, so if you haven’t listened to the first one, please do. Darren and I spoke about how leading self and evolving as a leader is crucial to your personal and professional success, as well as the success of an organisation. Darren opened up and was incredibly vulnerable in this episode.
Darren has had a remarkable career, and I know this episode is filled with a lot of golden nuggets.
Please share this with someone you know.
Connect with Darren here - https://www.celebrityspeakers.co.nz/speakers/darren-shand#:~:text=Darren%20Shand%20has%20been%20the,subsequent%20Rugby%20Championship%20six%20times.
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Click here to Become a VIP supporter of Lead On Purpose: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1583287/support
If you would like to help James continue to bring on world-class guests, please consider making a small recurring donation to cover the back end, admin and editing costs. For many years, James has dedicated countless hours to the show and would LOVE to continue bringing you global thought leaders.
Thank you for your support. It is greatly appreciated.
With much gratitude.
Full Transcript, Quote Cards, and a Show Summary are available here:
https://www.jjlaughlin.com/blog
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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.
The 1 Thing Most People Learn Too Late In Life
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin
11/12/24 • 18 min
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 prioritize your true passions and start saying "no" to what doesn’t serve you, inspired by the wisdom of those who’ve regretted time wasted on others’ expectations.
Avoiding the Trap of Distractions
In a world full of notifications and endless content, learn how focusing on what truly matters brings exponential returns for your health, mindset, and connections.
Creating Meaningful Moments
I highlight the importance of nurturing relationships and capturing those “magic moments” that bring fulfillment, rather than letting life pass by in the hustle.
Pursuing Passions Today
Why wait for retirement to follow your dreams? I’ll guide you on how to make time for what you love, no matter how small the steps may be.
Throughout this episode, I encourage you to become intentional with your time. Let’s build a life that’s aligned with what truly matters, for today and the years to come.
If you found value here, please share this episode with someone who might need this reminder.
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/newsletter
Grab a copy of The Top Five Regrets of The Dying by Bonnie Ware here - https://bronnieware.com/books/
On 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
I release a solocast every Wednesday, and an interview with a world class guest every Thursday.
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FAQ
How many episodes does Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin have?
Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin currently has 391 episodes available.
What topics does Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin cover?
The podcast is about Purpose, Wealth, High Performance, Management, Leadership, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneurship, Mindset, Personal Development, Growth, Podcasts, Business and Habits.
What is the most popular episode on Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin?
The episode title 'Balancing Work and Family - Is It Possible?' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin?
The average episode length on Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin is 33 minutes.
How often are episodes of Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin released?
Episodes of Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin are typically released every 3 days, 23 hours.
When was the first episode of Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin?
The first episode of Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin was released on Jan 7, 2021.
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