Habits of High Performers Podcast with 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...
The Morning Routine That Actually Works (No BS)
In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Caroline to unpack something simple but powerful… your morning routine.
We dive into why your morning sets the tone for your entire day, how habits become hardwired over time, and why most people overcomplicate routines and then struggle to stick to them.
We explore what actually works, from building a routine that fits your lifestyle, to the importance of movement, journaling, and creating discipline over relying on motivation.
If you wa...
The Money Habits That Separate Broke People from Wealthy Ones | Mike Michalowicz
In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Mike Michalowicz, one of the world’s leading thinkers on behavioural finance and the bestselling author of Profit First.
We dive into the ideas behind his latest book, The Money Habit, and why financial success is far less about knowledge and far more about habits and systems.
Mike explains why most people struggle with money, how our brains are wired to spend the moment income arrives, and the simple six account structure that can bring cl...
The Habits Olympians Use to Stay Mentally and Physically Elite with Annie Kunz
In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, you’ll learn what it really takes to perform at the highest level when the pressure is relentless, the stakes are high, and there is no room to hide. Olympian Annie Kunz shares the mindset, habits, and systems that helped her go from talented athlete to Olympic heptathlete, and why mastering your inner world is often the true difference-maker.Â
We break down the power of mindfulness, journaling, identity, gratitude, and daily repetition. Annie opens up about learning to surrender, how she trained her brain to...
How to Release the Beliefs Holding You Back with Tim Shurr
In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, you’ll learn how to release the hidden “parking brakes” holding you back by upgrading the beliefs driving your habits, emotions, and performance. Tim Shurr, MA shares his “mind architect” approach and why one simple shift can create fast, lasting change.
We break down how the subconscious influences most decisions, how to uncover blind spots, and two questions you can use to replace limiting beliefs with empowering ones. We also explore why focusing on what you do not want backfires, how your brain works like a GPS...
How To Improve Your Sleep and Energy Without Changing Your Habits | Seth Casden
In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, you’ll learn how to improve your sleep, recovery, and daily energy without adding more to your routine by tapping into passive infrared textile technology that works in the background. Seth explains how this infrared technology enhances circulation, oxygenation, and thermal regulation just through the clothes and bedding you already use.
We break down the science in plain language — including what infrared does at a cellular level and why increasing circulation matters for performance. Seth also shares how this technology is already embedded in prod...
Tom Le Noble on High Performance When Life Gets Hard
In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Tom, the number one best selling author of My Life in Business Suits, Hospital Gowns and High Heels, to unpack what it really looks like to live fully when life gets uncertain.
Tom shares the private chapters behind his public success, including building a senior corporate career while quietly living with metastatic cancer. We talk about resilience as a muscle, “terrible gifts”, and why belief and personal agency can change everything when the odds are against you.
Breaking Binge Eating Habits with Nicole Gaviria
In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Nic from Binge Free Bestie to unpack why binge eating is so common in high performers, and why it so often stays hidden behind success.Â
Nic shares her own recovery story, the binge restrict cycle, and how shame and perfectionism keep people stuck. We also explore why binge eating has no “look”, why quick fix tools do not work long term without mindset and nervous system work, and how to build real food freedom.
If you’v...
The Morning System Behind Millions of High Performers | Hal Elrod
In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Hal Elrod, the creator of The Miracle Morning, to unpack the habits, mindset, and personal responsibility that shape extraordinary lives.
Hal shares the life defining moments that forged his philosophy, from being declared dead after a high speed car crash, to rebuilding his body, career, and identity from the ground up. We explore stoicism in action, radical acceptance, and why daily personal development is not optional if you want sustained success.
...
The Habits That ACTUALLY Lead to Sustainable Weight Loss
In this first episode of Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Caroline to explain why the podcast has evolved from Lead On Purpose and what this new chapter is really about. We talk habits over hustle, consistency over intensity, and why real performance is built quietly over time.
What we cover:
Robbie Paul on The Truth About Venture Capital No One Explains Clearly
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Robbie Paul from Icehouse Ventures to demystify venture capital and what it really takes to back world class founders. We unpack risk and reward, bootstrapping versus raising capital, the traits behind standout leadership, and why trust and honesty are non negotiable in a long game industry.
What we cover:
The Money System Most Kiwis Don’t Question and Why They Should with Sam Stubbs
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Sam Stubbs, founder of Simplicity, to unpack why simplicity is the ultimate performance advantage. In life. In leadership. And especially with money. We talk about dignity, choices, long game thinking, and how KiwiSaver could help build a fairer future for everyday Kiwis.
What we cover:
Thomas McClary: I Walked Four Blocks to School While Police Stood By
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Thomas McClary, founding member and lead guitarist of The Commodores, to unpack how purpose, love, and intention can carry you through adversity, shape world class success, and keep you grounded when life gets loud.
What we cover:
Why You Don’t Need Millions to Retire with Mary Holm
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Mary Holm, author of Rich Enough, to unpack how everyday Kiwis can build wealth simply, avoid common money traps, and focus on what actually leads to a rich life.
What we cover:
Stop Doing Everything Yourself and Start Scaling Properly with Elise Basillie
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Elise Balsillie from Thryv to unpack what small and medium businesses can do to keep up with the pace of AI, automation, and digital change, without losing their culture, their margins, or their sanity.
What we cover:
Why High Performers Win Big and Still Feel Empty with Dr. Jack Groppel
Join me at the 2026 Goal-setting Workshop here - jjlaughlin.com/2026goal
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Dr Jack Groppel, co founder of the Human Performance Institute, to explore the hidden cost of achievement, and what it really takes to win in your career without losing yourself and the people you love.
What we cover:
The Money Framework the Wealthy Use with Chris Naugle
Join me at the 2026 Goal-setting Workshop here - jjlaughlin.com/2026goals
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Chris Naugle to unpack why money feels awkward for so many people, and how to shift from scarcity and stress into clarity and control.
What we cover:
Is Social Media Harming Your Kids? What Every Parent Needs to Know with Cecilia Robinson
Join me at the 2026 Goal-setting Workshop here - jjlaughlin.com/2026goals
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Cecilia Robinson, serial entrepreneur and Co chair of B416 (Before 16), to unpack what’s driving the youth mental health crisis and what parents can do about it.Â
- Why is anxiety rising so fast in young people?Â
- What happens when we over protect kids in the real world and under protect them online?
- How do you...
The Framework for Making 2026 Your Best Year Yet
Join me at the 2026 Goal-setting Workshop here - jjlaughlin.com/2026goals
I’m breaking down my exact goal-setting system and the annual planning method I use with my private clients to help them stop starting over and actually follow through.
This episode is about clarity, alignment and action. Not hype. Not motivation. And not beating yourself up when things don’t go to plan.
I walk you through the thinking behind my annual reset process and explain how to reflect on t...
How to run a business with your spouse - our year in review
Join me at the 2026 Goal-setting Workshop here - jjlaughlin.com/2026goals
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with my partner in life and business, Caroline, for a conversation we usually have off camera.
We look back on 2025 and reflect on what really went well, what didn’t, and the lessons we’ve learned from running a business together while building a life together.
We talk openly about growth, pressure, boundaries, clarity, and...
The Real Cause of Back Pain and What Actually Works
Join me at the 2026 Goal-setting Workshop here - jjlaughlin.com/2026goals
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with former Olympic Team Physiotherapist and author of The Back Fix, Antony Bush, to explore some big questions.
Why do one in five of us suffer chronic pain?
 Why is back pain now the world’s greatest disability?
 How does movement and strength shape our pain, happiness and even mortality?
Antony breaks down what it means to be an analog crea...
Could You Pass Special Forces Selection? with Simon Jeffries
Join me at the 2026 Goal-setting Workshop here - jjlaughlin.com/2026goals
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with former UK Special Forces operator and performance coach Simon Jefferies to unpack how to perform under pressure without burning out.
From surviving brutal SBS selection to building simple systems for state control, mindset and habits, Simon shares how anyone can train their mind like an elite operator.
What we cover:
Why fewer than ten percent pass UK Special...Your Greatest Wins Are Built on Failure with Jim Harshaw
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
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 o...
ADHD, Time Blindness and Procrastination with ADHD Coach Sharon Collon
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
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.Â
With over 20 years of study, formal ADDCA training, and the lived experience of raising three boys with ADHD, Sharon blends science, systems, an...
Growth Starts When You Stop Being the Smartest in the Room
Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com
In this solo episode, I am sharing lessons from my recent time in Hong Kong, Singapore and Fiji, and what I am learning from leaders, innovators and real world conversations on the ground.
From delivering keynotes to sitting with the head of Meta for Asia Pacific over lunch, this episode is about mindset, growth and staying curious.
In this episode...
How to rank #1 on ChatGPT with Kasim Aslam
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I chat with Kasim about AEO and how it's changing the way we get found online. We also dive into hiring, as he shares his seven step system for finding top performers anywhere in the world. We wrap up with a powerful reminder to stop overthinking and just ship it.
What we cover:
How AI Can Help Your business Grow Faster (No Tech Skills Needed) with Hikari Senju
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
Replace guesswork with data and make your ads pay for themselves.
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Hikari of Omneky, an AI-powered platform that turns creative and performance data into higher return on ad spend across every major channel. Based in the Bay Area and building in AI since 2018, Hikari shares a clear, human take on what to do now, what t...
How to build high-performing teams with Award-winning Coach Keith Ferrazzi
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
Replace the meeting after the meeting with real talk in the room.
In this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Keith Ferrazzi — New York Times bestselling author of Never Eat Alone and Never Lead Alone, world-renowned executive team coach, and one of the foremost experts on collaboration and leadership transformation. Keith has coached some of the world’s top organ...
The #1 Thing You Need to Stop Measuring to Start Achieving Results with Steven Gaffney
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
What if your team’s biggest problem isn’t what’s said — it’s what’s left unsaid?
In this episode of Lead on Purpose, I sit down with Steven Gaffney, author of Unconditional Power and creator of the CHAT framework for consistently high achieving teams. We unpack why honesty, emotional safety, and proactive communication are the foundations of real performance — not just effort.
Dr Paul Taylor: Why “Healthy” Foods Are Making You Fat
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
What if your health span is shrinking because life got too comfortable?
In this episode of Lead on Purpose, I sit down with Dr Paul Taylor to unpack Death by Comfort. We get practical about ultra-processed foods, protein-first meals, and movement habits that rewire your metabolism, brain, and daily energy. Simple, science-backed tools you can use today.
We cover:
Barry LaBov on The Differentiation Secret That Built Harley-Davidson
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here → www.thehabitbook.com
In this episode, I sit down with Barry LaBov, award-winning author of The Power of Differentiation and brand strategist who has worked with Harley-Davidson, Audi, and other global icons.
What you will take from this episode:
Crocodiles, Conflict and Extreme Medicine with Mark Hannaford
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
In this episode, I sit down with Mark Hannaford, founder of World Extreme Medicine, to explore a life spent leading medical teams in the world’s harshest environments.
Mark shares frontline lessons from Ukraine, expeditions gone sideways, and what it really takes to deliver high level care when resources are low and risk is high.
What you will take from thi...
Why I Refuse to Settle (and How You Can Too)
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 i...
The Method to use to build trust fast with Noel Massie
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
What if the real test of leadership is not title but integrity?
In this episode of Lead on Purpose, I sit down with Noel Massie, former UPS executive who led hundreds of thousands of people, to unpack practical leadership you can use on the floor today. We dig into servant leadership, the four by five method, and how integrity, ethics, and intentionality turn managers into coaches w...
The Real Reason Your Brand Isn’t Growing with Mark Lester
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
What if your brand’s real growth lever isn’t features but happiness?
In this episode of Lead on Purpose, I sit down with Mark, co-founder of Squint Consulting, to unpack why we are living through an unhappiness crisis and how the smartest brands grow by deliberately creating happier customers and happier teams. We explore the simple model behind happy brands and how it reshapes products, prici...
How to create a cult-like team with Jon Gordon
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
What if your team’s real advantage isn’t talent but connection?
In this episode of Lead on Purpose, I sit down with Jon Gordon, bestselling author of The Energy Bus and The Seven Commitments of a Great Team. We dive into what makes teams thrive, on the field, in the office, and at home. Jon explains why connection drives commitment, how culture is created by daily...
Dr Darshan Shah: The 3 Blood Tests That Can Save Your Life
Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
What if you could take control of your health the same way a CEO takes control of a business?
In this episode of Lead on Purpose, Dr Darshan Shah joins me to unpack the science of longevity, prevention, and performance. A surgeon turned health optimisation expert, Darshan reveals the biomarkers, daily habits, and mindset shifts that can help you live longer and healthier.
7 Habits to Completely Transform Your Life in 12 Months
Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com
In this solo episode, I’m celebrating a milestone that’s been years in the making.
My new book, Habits of High Performers, is finally on shelves across New Zealand and Australia. It’s bold, bright orange, and packed with timeless truths that can change how you approach work, health, relationships, and life.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
<...
Why Most People Burn Out (and How to Avoid It) with Shelly Tygielski
Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
What would you do if your life began with a kidnapping? For Shelly Tygielski, that early experience planted a seed that shaped her perspective on courage, community, and the power of showing up.
In this episode of Lead on Purpose, Shelly shares her extraordinary journey, from the terrifying day she was taken at age two to becoming an unlikely meditator, bestselling author, and founder of global m...
One NZ CEO Jason Paris on Elon Musk, AI Innovation & the Power of Creativity in Business
Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
What if the secret to high performance isn’t balance—but choice?
In this episode, I sit down with Jason Paris, CEO of One New Zealand, to unpack leadership, creativity, and building partnerships at a world-class level.
Jason’s led one of NZ’s largest organisations through rapid change—while refusing to miss a single moment that matters with his family...
How to Live Longer and Stronger: Bill Gifford on Outlive, Peter Attia, and Healthspan Habits
Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comÂ
What if your healthspan, not your lifespan, was your greatest asset?
In this episode, I sit down with Bill Gifford, co-author of the bestselling book Outlive (with Dr Peter Attia) and a leading expert on the science of longevity.
We explore how to live longer, feel stronger, and stay mentally sharp through simple, evidence-based habits.
