Habits of High Performers Podcast with James Laughlin

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 leaders know their “why.” But what if the real power lies in discovering your “because”?In this episode, I sit down with Mick Hunt, global leadership advisor and founder of Premier Strategy Box, to unpack the deeper drive behind great leadership—and how your “because” can shape every decision you make.We go deep into:Why your because is stronger than your why—and how to find itHow a promise to his mother at age 10 shaped Mick’s entire lifeThe leadership lesson Mick teaches all his clients firstThe 3 traits every elite leader must masterWhy your circle might be holding you back—and how to fix itA powerful question he asks world leaders (and would ask the next U.S. president)This is leadership without the fluff—raw, real, and radically purpose-driven.💡 Whether you’re leading a business, a team, or your family… this episode will challenge you to get clearer on who you are and what drives you.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Mick here - https://mickhuntofficial.comListen to Mick’s podcast here - https://mickhuntofficial.com/mick-unplugged-podcast/Follow Mick on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/Follow Mick on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/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

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/newsletterWhat do you do when you're cut off from the world… for over a year?David Knoff was meant to lead a 12-month Antarctic expedition.Then COVID hit.And what should’ve been one year turned into 537 days of complete isolation in one of the world’s most extreme environments.In this episode, David and I dive deep into:How he kept his team alive, united, and mission-focused under extreme uncertaintyWhat war zones and Antarctica taught him about burnout, control, and calmThe reality of leadership when every plan goes out the windowWhat happened when a team member snapped—and how David brought him backWhy vulnerability, storytelling, and weekly meetings saved the station's cultureHis darkest moment—and what helped him survive itThis is a masterclass in real-world leadership—far from the safety of boardrooms and business books.💡 Whether you’re a CEO, coach, athlete, or team leader, the lessons inside this conversation will change the way you lead.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about David here - https://davidknoff.comFollow David on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/537daysofwinter/Grab a copy of David’s book here - https://davidknoff.com/537-days-of-winterWebsite: 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

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/newsletterIn this eye-opening episode, I sit down with trauma physician and educator Dr. Christy Gibson—author of The Modern Trauma Toolkit—to explore how trauma really works, why it's often missed, and what you can do to start healing.We unpack why trauma is not what happens to you, but how your body and nervous system respond—and how that response can be changed.Christy shares practical tools that anyone can use to calm their nervous system, reclaim emotional flexibility, and move toward post-traumatic growth. Whether you're dealing with burnout, chronic stress, or hidden wounds from the past—this conversation offers hope.Key Topics Covered:What trauma really is (and how it hides in plain sight)The link between stress, illness, and the nervous systemHow to calm your body using somatic toolsSigns you're stuck in fight, flight, or freezeSimple daily practices to start healingWhat makes this conversation different: Christy doesn’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions. She invites you into a compassionate toolkit that honours your individuality, respects your story, and equips you with flexible paths to healing.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Dr. Christy here - https://www.christinegibson.net/trauma-resilience-specialistGrab a copy of her book here - https://www.amazon.com.au/Modern-Trauma-Toolkit-Post-Traumatic-Personalized/dp/0306831066Follow her on TikTok here - https://www.tiktok.com/@tiktoktraumadoc?lang=enFollow her on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/moderntraumatoolkit/-----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 baseSend 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

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/newsletterTrigger Warning This episode contains open and honest discussions about depression, suicidal ideation, childhood abuse, and trauma. Please listen with care. If you or someone you know is struggling, seek professional help or contact a local mental health support line.About the Episode Joe Smarro is a US Marine Corps veteran, former police officer, and globally respected advocate for mental health and suicide prevention.In this deeply vulnerable and courageous conversation, Joe shares his life story—from enduring childhood trauma and years of suicidal thoughts to serving in Iraq and working in law enforcement. His mission is clear: to eradicate suicide and help people believe they are worthy of tomorrow.This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, connection saves lives, and that our darkest moments can become our greatest source of purpose.What we cover in this episode:Joe’s mission to end suicide, starting with first respondersThe impact of childhood trauma and military serviceWhy vulnerability and emotional intelligence are essentialHow to support someone in a dark placeTurning pain into purpose through forgiveness and connectionIf this conversation moved you, please share it with someone who may need it. A single moment of connection can change everything.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Joe Smarro here - https://joesmarro.comGrab a copy of Joe’s book here - https://www.unarmedbook.com/checkout-pageConnect with Joe on instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/joesmarro/Watch Joe’s documentary here - https://ernieandjoethefilm.comWatch Joe’s TedX talk here -  https://youtu.be/zjqKzNJef28?si=oid_0ggYBKDBAQZB -----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, 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

Dr. Haley Perlus, a world-renowned sport psychologist and performance consultant, shares her expertise in emotional mastery. She emphasizes that recovery, rather than perfection, is key to high performance. Dr. Perlus discusses practical tools like progressive muscle relaxation and visualization to enhance mental resilience. She categorizes emotions and explains how to harness anger as fuel for performance. Listeners learn how to create quick 'reset rituals' to regain focus and the importance of accountability in overcoming negative thoughts.

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/newsletterIn this powerful conversation, I speak with psychiatrist and trauma specialist Dr. Frank Anderson about the truth behind trauma—and how to heal it. We explore why trauma is often misunderstood, how it affects behaviour, and how healing can start with awareness and connection. Frank shares his own deeply personal story, how he broke lifelong patterns, and why love and self-leadership are key to reclaiming your life.Key Topics Covered:What trauma really is (and why most of us have it)The behaviours that signal unresolved traumaHow early experiences shape adult relationshipsA simple framework for starting the healing processWhat Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is and how it worksBig News:Frank’s book To Be Loved is being made into a major motion picture, bringing trauma healing to a wider audience.If this conversation moved you, share it with someone you love—healing often starts with a single conversation.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Dr. Frank Anderson here - https://www.frankandersonmd.comGrab your copy of his new book here - https://www.frankandersonmd.com/books/to-be-lovedFollow Dr. Frank on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/frank_andersonmd/-----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

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/newsletterIf you want to live longer—and better—this episode is for you.Dr. Matt Chalmers joins me to unpack what real wellness looks like and why the standard advice is letting people down. He breaks down hormones, fasting, blood testing, psychedelics, and what you actually need to do to optimise your body and brain for the long haul.We cover the tactical and the transformational—science-backed, no fluff.In this episode, you’ll learn: • The 4 pillars of true wellness—and why most people only address one • What blood markers actually matter (hint: it’s not just cholesterol) • Why calorie counting is outdated and what to track instead • How to fast without losing muscle—and why collagen is a game-changer • Why your hormones might be fine on paper… but still be wrecking your health • The overlooked benefits of cannabis and psychedelics in healing trauma and anxiety • How to future-proof your physical health with strength, stability and balance • The essential supplements for plant-based diets (especially amino acids + B vitamins)This episode is a wake-up call. Want to avoid the slow decline most people face in their 40s, 50s and beyond? This is where you start.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Dr. Chalmers here - https://chalmerswellness.com/pages/dr-matt-chalmersGrab your copy of Dr. Chalmers book here - https://www.amazon.com.au/Pillars-Wellness-Holistic-Vitality-Longevity/dp/1736060503Connect with Dr. Chalmers on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/drchalmers1/?hl=en-----Disclaimer:The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or health advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, medications, or supplement use. The views expressed by Dr. Matt Chalmers are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or podcast platform.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

In this engaging conversation, Dianna Kokoszka, author of 'Becoming More' and former CEO at Keller Williams MAPS Coaching, shares her transformative insights on leadership. She emphasizes the essential role of coaching and the distinction between impact and influence. Dianna discusses her journey in a male-dominated field, the difference between attitude and mindset, and her life-changing model: from being to doing to becoming. Her empowering message invites listeners to take control of their own leadership narrative and unlock their full potential.

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/newsletterWhat happens when a pro-level athlete doesn’t make the cut—and has to start over? Damon Lembi went from almost being drafted into Major League Baseball to starting as a receptionist at his father’s small business. Now, he’s CEO of Learnit, a leadership training company that’s impacted over 3 million professionals worldwide.In this episode, Damon breaks down the exact framework he’s used to overcome imposter syndrome, how to transition from sport to business, and why humility is the secret weapon for every great leader. If you’ve ever questioned your ability to step up, this is the pep talk you didn’t know you needed.WE DISCUSS:How Damon’s career pivot started with rejection and self-doubtHis 4-step framework for conquering imposter syndromeWhy your “past life” skills are more transferable than you thinkCoaching your team through failure without stealing their growthThe five traits of a Learn-It-All LeaderWhat Damon would ask the next U.S. President about humilityHow sports, parenting, and business all come back to leadership mindsetWHO THIS IS FOR: Aspiring leaders. Athletes in transition. Parents. Founders. Coaches. Anyone who wants to lead with humility while still playing to win.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Damon here - https://www.thelearnitallleader.com/aboutGrab your copy of Damon’s book here - https://www.thelearnitallleader.com/booksListen to Damon’s podcast here - https://www.thelearnitallleader.com/podcastThe episode mentioned with Doug Conant here - https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/the-learn-it-all-podcast/id1714645917?i=1000674885812Connect with Damon on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi/-----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-TimSend 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

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/newsletterWe’re not wired to be this disconnected.In today’s episode, I sit down with Julia Hotz—award-winning journalist and author of The Connection Cure—to explore why modern medicine is missing a huge piece of the puzzle… and how we can fix it without a single pill.We dive into social prescribing—a science-backed practice where doctors prescribe movement, nature, art, service, and human connection instead of medication. Julia’s research proves what we’ve known deep down all along: we don’t heal in isolation. We heal through meaning, purpose, and community.We discuss:Why anxiety, ADHD and depression may be responses—not disordersThe 5 powerful (and often overlooked) ingredients for lasting healthHow social prescribing is helping people heal without medicationWhy deep connection—not more productivity—is the real cure for burnoutWhat the longest human study reveals about the key to a long lifeThis conversation blew my mind and cracked open a new way of thinking about health and purpose. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, anxious, or like something’s missing—you’re not broken. You’re just missing connection.If you know someone who’s struggling with stress or disconnection, send them this episode. It might just change everything.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Julia here - https://www.hotzthoughts.comGrab a copy of Julia’s book here - https://www.hotzthoughts.com/the-connection-cureConnect with Julia on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/hotzthoughts/Connect with Julia on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-hotz-06510161/-----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