Habits of High Performers Podcast with James Laughlin

Hosted by James Laughlin

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Episodes

481

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

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.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 14, 202638 min

The Secret to Building Mental Strength with Amy Morin

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with bestselling author, psychotherapist, and mental strength expert Amy Morin to explore what it really means to build resilience, overcome anxiety, and develop lasting mental strength.Amy shares practical strategies for handling stress, managing worry, building confidence under pressure, and taking ownership of your thoughts, emotions, and actions. We discuss the habits that weaken mental strength, why gratitude and hope are powerful tools for resilience, and how small daily practices can have a profound impact on your wellbeing and performance.We also dive into anxiety, self-talk, emotional regulation, parenting mentally strong children, performing under pressure, and the lessons Amy has learned through some of the most difficult challenges of her own life.Whether you're leading a team, raising a family, navigating uncertainty, or simply looking to become more resilient, this conversation is packed with practical tools and powerful insights to help you thrive through life's challenges.Learn more about Amy - https://amymorinlcsw.comConnect with Amy on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymorinlcsw/Grab a copy of Amy’s books here - https://amymorinlcsw.com/books/Follow Amy on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/amymorinauthor/If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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

June 7, 202653 min

Kieran Read on Leadership, Pressure and High Performance

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Kieran Read to explore leadership, pressure, performance, and the habits that helped him become one of the greatest All Blacks captains of all time.Kieran shares lessons from legendary coaches Steve Hansen and Scott Robertson, the routines and reflection practices that fuelled his success, and how great leaders inspire belief, build trust, and bring out the best in others.We also discuss mindset under pressure, self-talk, mental resilience, learning from mistakes, and the leadership principles Kieran now teaches through his work with leaders and organisations around the world.Whether you lead a team, a business, or a family, this conversation is packed with practical insights on performance, growth, and leading with purpose.Learn more about Kieran - https://www.kieranread.co.nzConnect with Kieran on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieran-read-00821384/Check out Kieran’s course here - https://www.redseed.com/kieranread-leadershipCheck out the episode with Renzie Hanham here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSanm6_FZbY&list=PLwEV0R3KOLDBvJ3Wy6hdPZ_6yddT3lAIl&index=43 If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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

May 31, 202640 min

Why Hustle Culture Is Failing Us | Mohammed Faris

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Mohammed Faris to explore a different approach to productivity, one rooted in purpose, faith, and long term thinking rather than hustle culture.Mohammed shares the story behind the Productive Muslim movement, the meaning of Barakah, and how habits, gratitude, prayer, generosity, and community can help us live and perform at a higher level without burning out.We also discuss early morning routines, spirituality, meditation, purpose, emotional wellbeing, and why so many people are searching for deeper meaning in today’s fast paced world. This conversation is a powerful reminder that success without peace, health, and connection is not real success at all.Learn more about Mohammed here - https://productivemuslim.com/author/mohammed-faris/Connect with Mohammed on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedfaris/Grab a copy of Mohammed’s books here - https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/14209531.Mohammed_FarisIf you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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

May 24, 202645 min

The Daily Habits of Mentally Strong Leaders | Graeme Cowan

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Graeme Cowan to explore what it truly means to lead with care, resilience, and emotional intelligence in high pressure environments. Graeme shares his personal journey through severe depression and burnout, and how that experience shaped his mission to help leaders build healthier, more sustainable ways of working and living.We dive into the core ideas behind his latest book, Great Leaders Care, including self care, crew care, and red zone care. Graeme shares practical tools for improving wellbeing, building psychologically safe teams, managing stress, and recognising when someone may be struggling.We also discuss the science of mood and performance, meditation, gratitude, purpose, relationships, work life integration, and the daily habits that help leaders stay in the green zone and perform at their best without sacrificing their health or the people around them.Learn more about Graeme here - https://graemecowan.com.auConnect with Graeme on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/graemecowan1/Grab your copy of Graeme’s book here - https://graemecowan.com.auListen to The Caring CEO podcast here - https://wecare365.com.au/podcast/If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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

May 17, 202627 min

Why Your Nervous System Controls Your Performance with Dmitri Leonov

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Dmitri, founder of the One Device, to explore the connection between frequency, stress, nervous system regulation, and human performance. We dive into how sound and light therapy may help bring the body back into balance, improve recovery, support focus, and create a greater sense of calm and wellbeing. Dmitri shares the philosophy and science behind the wearable device, along with insights on meditation, HRV, stress management, flow states, and the impact modern life is having on our nervous systems. We also discuss resonance, consciousness, daily habits, and what it means to live in alignment with your higher self, plus the books and practices that have shaped Dmitri’s perspective on life and performance.Connect with Dmitri on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/dmitri_leon/Connect with Dmitri on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmitrileonov/Check out The One Device here - https://theonedevice.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqSElpk_KTa7uBf9k3JV4xq48Ydw1-gSbUs6CCv0V_ipdn9LaiLIf you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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

May 10, 202651 min

Dr Elie on Ozempic, Weight Loss, and Living Longer

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Dr Ellie, longevity expert and wellness strategist, to explore what truly moves the needle when it comes to living longer, healthier, and stronger. We cut through the noise of biohacking trends, supplements, and wellness hype to focus on the fundamentals that matter most: movement, nutrition, recovery, sleep, and muscle. Dr Ellie shares why biology dictates reality, how small daily decisions shape long term health, and why muscle is the true longevity organ. We also dive into practical habits for better sleep, managing stress, building strength, and creating a lifestyle that supports energy, clarity, and resilience. We also discuss the rise of GLP-1 weight loss drugs, when they may be helpful, and why no shortcut can replace the power of prioritising your health from the ground up. This is a practical and powerful conversation on building a longer, stronger, and healthier life.Connect with Dr Elie on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/elie.limitless/Connect with Dr Elie on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-eli-abirached/Listen to Dr. Elie’s podcast here - https://open.spotify.com/show/1uyKTaFoWJDTUGaKioEyZp?si=a6dc7985b33f4e14 Grab a copy of Dr. Elie’s book here - https://www.amazon.com/LIMITLESS-HUMAN-Biohacking-Wellness-Middle/dp/9358476486If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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

May 3, 202638 min

The Real Reason You Delay Important Things with Dr. Christine Li

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Christine Li, procrastination coach and psychologist, to explore why procrastination is far more than just putting things off. We unpack the real cost of delay, how it disconnects us from the present moment, and why it often pulls us away from the path that matters most. We dive into the emotional roots of procrastination, the role fear and anxiety play in keeping us stuck, and how to recognise when we are quietly moving in the opposite direction of what we truly want. Christine also shares her powerful idea of the “main path” and how fun, expansion, and presence can help us know whether we are heading in the right direction.Christine breaks down her simple but practical SMACK framework for overcoming procrastination through simplicity, mindfulness, anxiety reduction, communication, and kindness to self. We also explore flow, habits, morning routines, clutter, self trust, and how to build a life that feels calmer, clearer, and more aligned.Learn more about Dr. Christine here - https://www.procrastinationcoach.comConnect with Dr. Christine on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/procrastinationcoach/Listen to the Make Time for Success podcast here - https://www.maketimeforsuccesspodcast.comClutter free resource - maketimeforsuccesspodcast.com/clutter If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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

April 5, 202652 min

Dr Monique Andrews : You’re Not Your Anxiety & Here’s Why

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Monique Andrews, an expert in embodied neuroscience, to explore how the body and brain work together to shape our thoughts, emotions, and performance.We dive into why you are not a slave to your stress, anxiety, or physiology, and how simple practices like breathwork and somatic tracking can rapidly shift your state and rewire your nervous system.Dr. Mo breaks down the five core rules of the body, why pain is often an alarm rather than a problem, and how curiosity, not control, is the key to transforming your lived experience.If you want practical tools to regulate your nervous system, perform under pressure, and take back control of how you feel and show up each day, this episode will give you a great starting point.Learn more about Dr. Mo here - https://www.drmoniqueandrews.comConnect with Dr. Mo on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/drmoniqueandrews/?hl=enIf you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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

March 29, 202635 min

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 want a simple, realistic approach to mornings that you will actually follow, this conversation will give you a practical starting point.Grab a copy of The Miracle Morning here - https://miraclemorning.com/books/Grab a copy of The 5am Club here - https://www.mightyape.co.nz/mn/buy/mighty-ape-the-5-am-club-27978290/?gad_campaignid=22002998298&gad_source=1Watch my recent interview with Hal here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sIQ0hrAjAk&list=PLwEV0R3KOLDBvJ3Wy6hdPZ_6yddT3lAIl&index=7 If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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

March 22, 202630 min

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 clarity, control, and confidence to your finances.If you want a practical system to manage money without relying on willpower, this conversation will give you a powerful starting point.Get the book The Money Habit by Mike Michalowicz - https://mikemichalowicz.com/the-money-habit/Explore Mike’s bestselling book Profit First - https://mikemichalowicz.com/profit-first/Learn more about Mike here - https://mikemichalowicz.com/everything-mike/ Listen to Mike’s podcast Becoming Self Made - https://mikemichalowicz.com/the-podcast-for-entrepreneurs-becoming-self-mad/Connect with Mike on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemichalowicz/If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at caroline@jjlaughlin.comWebsite: 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