

Habits of High Performers Podcast with James Laughlin
James Laughlin
Habits of High Performers is a podcast for people who want to win at life without burning out or losing what matters most.Each week, James Laughlin sits down with world class performers including prime ministers, elite athletes, billionaires, founders, and cultural leaders to uncover the habits, thinking patterns, and daily disciplines that drive sustained success.These are not hype driven conversations. They are practical, grounded, and deeply human. The focus is on what actually works when it comes to performance, health, leadership, relationships, and meaning.Hosted by James Laughlin, author of the #1 best selling book Habits of High Performers, high performance leadership coach, keynote speaker, and seven time world champion drummer, the show distils lessons from the world’s best into simple, actionable tools you can apply immediately.If you want to perform at a high level, live with intention, and build a life you do not need to escape from, this podcast is for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 18, 2025 • 19min
5 Money Tips I Wish I Heard In My 20s (1:1 with James Laughlin)
Most people struggle with money—not because they don’t earn enough, but because they don’t know how to use it. If I could go back, here’s what I’d do differently (and what I’d double down on). Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your financial game, this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn:✅ Invest in Yourself First. The best ROI isn’t in stocks or real estate—it’s in your skills, mindset, and knowledge. ✅ Adopt an Abundance Mindset. There’s always room for greatness. Focus on opportunities, not limitations. ✅ Diversify Your Income. One income stream = high risk. Build multiple to create security. ✅ Put Your Money to Work. Saving alone won’t make you wealthy—investing will. Automate and forget it. ✅ Live Below Your Means. A high income means nothing if you’re drowning in debt. Smart spending = real wealth.If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And if you're interested in sponsoring the podcast or our newsletter, email caroline@jjlaughlin.com or send me a DM 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/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

Mar 12, 2025 • 41min
Dave Winsborough, Psychologist & Co-Founder of Deeper Signals: The Science Behind High Performance
What gives high performers and elite teams their competitive edge? Self-awareness. In this episode, I sit down with Dave Winsborough, co-founder of Deeper Signals, to explore the psychology behind high performance, the power of personality assessments, and how leaders can build stronger, more effective teams.Dave brings decades of experience in psychology, leadership assessment, and team dynamics, having worked with military, sports, and corporate organisations worldwide. We dive into the science behind Deeper Signals, a cutting-edge psychometric tool designed to be faster, more engaging, and more applicable to real-world leadership.Whether you're leading a team, looking to improve your self-awareness, or just curious about what makes great teams tick, this episode is packed with insights you can apply immediately.Key Takeaways:Why traditional personality assessments are outdated—and how Deeper Signals is changing the game.The Big Five personality traits and how they influence leadership and teamwork.The psychology of dysfunctional teams vs. high-performing teams.Why self-awareness is the key to leadership success and how to develop it.The role of psychological safety in high-performance environments.How organisations can use Deeper Signals to improve hiring, reduce turnover, and build better teams.The impact of AI on coaching, leadership, and personal development.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Deeper Signals here - https://www.deepersignals.com/Connect with Dave here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davewinsborough/?originalSubdomain=nzConnect with James to talk about Deeper Signals Testing here - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/site/contactGet 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. JSend 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

Mar 11, 2025 • 16min
3 Entrepreneurship Lessons I Wish I Knew When I Started My Business (1:1 with James Laughlin)
Starting a business is hard—most fail fast. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If I were starting over, here’s what I’d do differently—and what I’d double down on. Whether you’re launching or in your first year, this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn:Why defining your niche is crucial.How to build real relationships, not just a network.The #1 business killer (obscurity) and how to beat it.The best way to create content that works for you.Lessons from my own journey—what worked, what didn’t.Key Takeaways:✅ Define Your Niche. Serve everyone, serve no one. Get laser-focused on who you help. ✅ Build Relationships, Not Just a Network. Trust beats transactions every time. ✅ Make Yourself Visible. If people don’t know you exist, they won’t buy from you. Show up. ✅ Start Slow, Stay Curious. Test, refine, and build for long-term success.If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it.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 1:1 Session every Wednesday, and an interview with a world class guest every Thursday.#highperformancejournal #startup #entrepreneurship Send me a personal text messageSupport the show

Mar 5, 2025 • 49min
"Yawning Could Change Your Life!" – Author Cortney McDermott on Neuroscience Hacks for Performance
Courtney McDermott is a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and transformational coach who has helped countless high performers break free from self-imposed limitations. From corporate executive to globally sought-after coach, Courtney's journey is a testament to the power of mindset, self-trust, and letting go of control.In this episode, we explore the themes of her book, Give Yourself Permission, and how embracing a new way of thinking can unlock greater freedom, confidence, and success.Key Takeaways:The Illusion of Control: Why high performers often feel trapped by their own drive for success—and how to break free.Rewiring Your Mindset: The neuroscience behind confidence, trust, and surrendering to the unknown.The Power of Gratitude: How a simple shift in focus can rewire your brain and transform your daily experience.Unlocking Time Freedom: Courtney's perspective on time and how to step out of the "do more" trap.Practical Strategies: Yawning, movement, and laughter—unexpected yet science-backed tools to reset your nervous system and boost creativity.Courtney shares profound insights on the importance of presence, breaking out of limiting thought patterns, and how to embrace a more expansive way of living. Her work blends neuroscience, epigenetics, and quantum physics to help people move beyond performance-based identity into true self-expression.If you've ever felt stuck in your own ambitions or struggled with the pressure to control every outcome, this episode will help you shift your perspective and step into a more empowered way of living.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzPurchase your copy of “Give Yourself Permission” here -https://www.cortneymcdermott.com/book/Connect with Cortney here - https://www.cortneymcdermott.comLearn more about Cortney here - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com/cortney-mcdermott-2/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/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

8 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 12min
Follow These Simple Steps to Master Your Mindset - 1:1 with James Laughlin
Explore the powerful role of mindset in shaping beliefs, behaviors, and outcomes. Discover the differences between growth and fixed mindsets, and why choosing growth can lead to success. Learn how to identify and reframe limiting beliefs through practical exercises. James encourages intentional focus on possibilities rather than scarcity, reinforcing the idea that your thoughts can transform your results. Finally, he invites listeners to a free masterclass aimed at unlocking their high-performance potential.

Feb 26, 2025 • 59min
Surviving a Volcanic Eruption: William Pike on Losing His Leg & Finding Purpose After Tragedy
William Pike is an explorer, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur whose life was forever changed by a catastrophic volcanic eruption on Mount Ruapehu. From losing his leg in a harrowing accident to developing Pro Armour and launching the William Pike Challenge, his journey exemplifies how adversity can fuel purpose-driven transformation.In this episode, William and I dive deep into his remarkable journey—exploring how a life-altering event not only reshaped his destiny but also inspired him to empower thousands of young people through outdoor adventure and community service.Key Takeaways:The Transformative Power of Adversity: How a volcanic eruption turned trauma into a catalyst for change.Innovating from Pain: The creation of Pro Armour to protect prosthetic limbs and enhance mobility.Empowering Youth: The William Pike Challenge as a dynamic program that builds confidence, resilience, and leadership through outdoor activities.Actionable Insights: Embrace your “why” and step outside your comfort zone to transform setbacks into opportunities.William shares powerful insights from his journey, proving that true success is measured by the impact we have on ourselves and others.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about William here - https://williampike.co.nzBook William as a speaker here - https://williampike.co.nz/william-pike-motivational-speaker/Checkout the William Pike Challenge here - https://www.williampikechallenge.co.nzPurchase your copy of “Every Day is a Good Day” here - https://williampike.co.nz/product/every-days-a-good-day/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

10 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 13min
A Full Guide to High Performance Journalling (5 Minutes a Day to Change Your Life) - 1:1 with James Laughlin
Discover the transformative power of High-Performance Journaling to maximize personal growth. This method emphasizes intentional structure over casual writing, focusing on establishing a morning routine that includes gratitude and setting your Most Valued Priorities. Evening reflections help assess progress and promote continuous improvement. Learn how this practice not only sharpens your thinking but also enhances income potential. Plus, find out why the right journal and pen play a crucial role in your journey towards mastery.

Feb 19, 2025 • 1h 2min
The True Story Behind ‘The Sound of Freedom’ – Paul Hutchinson’s Undercover Rescue Missions
Paul Hutchinson is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and executive producer of Sound of Freedom, a global movement shedding light on the realities of child trafficking. From building a multi-billion-dollar investment fund to leading 70 undercover rescue missions, Paul’s life is a testament to purpose-driven leadership.In this episode, Paul and I dive deep into his incredible journey—how he went from making millions in real estate to risking his life to rescue trafficked children.Key Takeaways:The mindset shift that took Paul from entrepreneur to philanthropist.The most powerful lesson he learned about success and giving back.Why he walked away from a billion-dollar business to fight child trafficking.How Sound of Freedom became a global movement.Actionable steps you can take to protect children and make an impact.Paul shares powerful stories from his undercover missions, the lessons he’s learned from billionaires, and why true success is measured by impact, not income.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Paul here - https://www.paulhutchinsonofficial.com/about-paul-hutchinsonWatch the Sound of Freedom Film here -https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Sound-of-Freedom/0JCBACZA5C2VIKMQSG9084DFV5Connect with Paul here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhutch/Check out Paul’s Foundation here - https://childliberation.orgGet 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

Feb 18, 2025 • 18min
The Harsh Truths Antarctica Taught Me About Leadership - 1:1 with James Laughlin
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/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

Feb 12, 2025 • 56min
Josh Ryan, Social Media Strategist: How to Grow & Monetise an Instagram & YouTube Audience
Josh Ryan is a social media strategist who started in the field as a teenager. He successfully built a personal brand, scaling an Instagram account to over 900K followers. He has helped businesses and individuals leverage Instagram and YouTube for growth and monetization, generating millions in revenue through smart content strategies.In this episode, Josh and I chat about how to build a personal brand, create viral content, and monetize effectively on Instagram and YouTube.Key Takeaways:Why Instagram & YouTube are still powerful for growth.How Josh scaled to 900K+ Instagram followers.The importance of engagement and shareable content.Effective monetization strategies that work.YouTube’s long-term brand-building potential.Josh shares practical strategies for individuals and businesses to maximize their social media presence. Whether you're building a brand or scaling a business, this episode has the blueprint you need.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzCheck out Josh’s website here - https://cleverpreneur.comFollow Josh on YouTube here -https://www.youtube.com/@JoshRyan/videosTake Josh’s free instagram marketing course here - https://joshryan.kit.com/7b86377c12Follow Josh on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/joshryanGet 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


