Habits of High Performers Podcast with James Laughlin – Details, episodes & analysis

Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com 

In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with former All American wrestler and high performance coach Jim Harshaw Jr to unpack what it really takes to go from good to great without burning out.

From a blue collar upbringing to the NCAA podium and training as an Olympic hopeful, Jim shares how he rebuilt his entire life through structure, coaching and an environment of excellence.

What we cover:

• Jim’s journey from feeling out of his depth at a top university to becoming an All American, double graduate and Olympic hopeful
• The four part framework for high performance: radical vision, aligned goals, an environment of excellence and a long term follow through plan
• The “miracle day,” billion dollar and funeral exercises that unlock what you really want from life and work
• Why failure is a necessary ingredient for success and how to run a simple review so you actually learn from it instead of shrinking your goals
• The power of the “productive pause,” coaching and community, plus the daily habits and bookends Jim uses to keep performing at a high level

If we can reframe failure, choose our environment and protect time to think, high performance stops being a grind and starts becoming the natural result of how we live.

• Learn more about Jim here - https://jimharshawjr.com
• Listen to Jim’s podcast here - https://jimharshawjr.com/podcast/
• Apply for a free coaching call with Jim - https://jimharshawjr.net/call
• Action Plans + Success Through Failure Exercise - https://jimharshawjr.net/action-plan-landing-page1729264671370
• If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.com

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.com

Support the show

Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com 

In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with ADHD coach Sharon from The Functional Family to unpack what ADHD really is, why the old labels do more harm than good, and how leaders can create environments where neurodivergent people actually thrive. 

With over 20 years of study, formal ADDCA training, and the lived experience of raising three boys with ADHD, Sharon blends science, systems, and humour to turn daily chaos into connection and function.

We dive into executive function, interest based brains, and very practical tools you can use at home and at work.

What we cover:

• Why ADHD is not an attention deficit and why “disorder” misses the point
• The three ADHD presentations and how they show up in everyday life
• Executive function, time awareness and why so many ADHD adults feel like they are always behind
• Sharon’s open, closed and neutral brain model and how it helps with regulation at home and at work
• How leaders can support ADHD team members with strengths based tasks, sprints, body doubling and smart accommodations
• Practical tools including AI and Goblin Tools to break tasks down, reduce shame and build sustainable systems

 If we can better understand how different brains work, we unlock potential, deepen compassion and create environments where everyone can win.

• Learn more about Sharon here - https://www.thefunctionalfamily.com
• Listen to Sharon’s podcast here - https://www.thefunctionalfamily.com/podcast
• Take the Clifton strengths test here - https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/252137/home.aspx
• Find an accredited ADHD coach here - https://adhdcoachesaustralasia.online
• Follow Sharon on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/thefunctionalfamily/
• If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.com

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.com

Support the show

Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com

In this solo episode, I’m opening up about what’s been happening behind the book, the stages, and the lessons I’ve been learning along the way.

From standing on stages across New Zealand, to conversations with world leaders, to the launch of my book hitting number one, it’s been a big month and I want to share what it really feels like on the inside.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why refusing to settle is the antidote to mediocrity
• The belief systems that quietly shape your success (or hold you back)
• How I get radically clear on what I want and why it matters

You’ll also hear a few personal stories from my book launches to tough questions from the Deputy Prime Minister, and how those moments have reinforced the habits I live by.

If you’ve been feeling stuck in “average,” this episode will give you the spark to aim higher, rewire your mindset, and commit to not settling in the areas of life that matter most.

• Come join me at The High Performance Leadership Event here - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/high-performance-event-2025 
• 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.

Send me a personal text message

Support the show

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 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.nz

You can learn more about NZ Rugby here - https://www.nzrugby.co.nz

You can learn more about Mark here - https://www.nzrugby.co.nz/about-nzr/who-we-are

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.com

Support 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 Growth

Seeing Possibilities, Not Problems

Gratitude as a Daily Practice

Throughout 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/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.

Send me a personal text message

Support 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.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

-----

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

Support the show

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 episode, we discuss:


The concept of human irrationality and why we often make seemingly illogical choices.


How cognitive biases shape our decisions in areas like risk-taking, motivation, and financial behavior.


Why extrinsic motivators like salary aren’t as impactful as feeling valued and connected.


The surprising effects of workplace culture, bureaucracy, and psychological safety on employee engagement and productivity.


Dan’s personal journey of acceptance and resilience, including his unique experience with a “half-beard” and what it taught him about self-acceptance.


This episode is packed with thought-provoking examples and practical insights on navigating life’s complexities by understanding our own cognitive limitations.

If you're curious about leading your life with purpose by working with your mind rather than against it, this is the episode for you.

This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nz

You can learn more about Dan here - https://danariely.com/all-about-dan/

Connect with Dan here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danariely/

Purchase Dan’s books here - https://danariely.com/books/

You can view Harbor Capitals HAPI index here - https://www.harborcapital.com/etf/hapi/

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.com

Support the show

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.

Send me a personal text message

Support the show

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 even an 8-year-old could grasp.

In this episode, we discuss:

The fundamentals of AI and why it's crucial to understand its limitations.

How AI is shaping education and health, and what the future holds for these sectors.

The dangers and promises of AI from a societal and governmental perspective.

The concept of "humane AI" and why Tim believes the future of AI should be focused on enhancing human creativity and connection.

Actionable advice for individuals looking to swim to the wave of AI, including practical tools and insights to get started today.

This episode is packed with real-world examples, insights into how AI can make a positive impact on our lives, and a grounded look at what the future might hold. 

If you're curious about how to lead your life on purpose in the age of AI, this is the episode for you.

This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nz

Book Tim to speak at your conference here : https://www.celebrityspeakers.co.nz/speakers/tim-warren

Connect with Tim on LinkedIn here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tswarren/?originalSubdomain=nz


-----


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.com

Support the show

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 enjoying aspects of your work without losing balance, even if it’s not “following your passion.”


Signs of Burnout and Prevention

I discuss the signs of burnout, with insights from experts like Gordon Parker, and share why checking in with yourself is crucial.


Working Smart over Hard

Learn how to shift from “hard work” to “smart work” by identifying your most valued priorities and focusing on impactful, effective actions.


Throughout this episode, I share insights from my journey and offer practical questions to help you clarify why you work so hard. Whether you’re in a career, leading a team, or balancing multiple roles, these insights will help you work with purpose and stay energized.

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

Here is the episode I did with the incredible Gordon Parker - https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/lead-on-purpose-with-james-laughlin/id1547874035?i=1000669967939

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.

Send me a personal text message

Support the show