Habits of High Performers Podcast with James Laughlin

Hosted by James Laughlin

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Episodes

500

Latest episode

Oct 2026

Language

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

October 25, 202638 min

How Much Money Do You Really Need to Retire? with Tom Wall

In this episode I sit down with Tom Wall, retirement planning expert and author of Permission to Spend , to explore how we can build long-term wealth, plan for retirement and create the financial freedom to truly enjoy the life we've worked so hard for. Tom shares why building wealth is only half the equation, and why so many people struggle to spend their money once they reach retirement. We discuss the importance of consistent investing, how to protect ourselves against financial uncertainty and why having the right strategies in place can give us the confidence to enjoy our wealth without worrying about running out. What we cover: Why consistency and compound interest are key to building long-term wealth How to calculate how much money you'll need to retire comfortably The importance of diversification and having cash available when opportunities arise How insurance and annuities can help protect your wealth and provide financial security Why giving yourself permission to spend is just as important as building wealth Whether you're just starting your investment journey, planning for retirement or already enjoying the wealth you've created, this conversation offers practical insights to help you make smarter financial decisions, protect your future and live a life without financial regret. Learn more about Tom here - https://www.tomwalltalks.com Connect with Tom on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomwall/ Grab a copy of Tom’s book here - https://www.permissiontospend.com 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 Habits of High Performers 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

October 18, 202650 min

How to Recover Better and Perform at Your Best with Katie Hardie

In this episode I sit down with Katie Hardie, health and performance expert, to explore why recovery, nutrition and nervous system regulation are essential to performing at our best. Katie shares why so many high performers struggle with low energy, poor sleep and burnout, even when they're doing everything they think they should be. We discuss how chronic stress impacts our bodies, why pushing harder isn't always the answer and how small changes to our daily habits can make a significant difference to our health and performance. What we cover: Why recovery is just as important as hard work when it comes to high performance How chronic stress affects our hormones, sleep and energy levels Simple daily habits to regulate our nervous system and improve recovery How nutrition and gut health influence our mood, focus and performance Why listening to our body's signals can help us make better choices for our health Whether you're struggling with energy, feeling constantly switched on or simply looking to improve your health and performance, this conversation offers practical insights to help you work with your body rather than against it. Learn more about Katie here - https://www.mypeak365.com Connect with Katie on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/mypeak365/ Grab a copy of Katie’s shopping list here - https://keap.page/wnd144/10-minute-shopping-list.html 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 Habits of High Performers 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

October 11, 202652 min

How to Train Your Brain to Make Success Feel Possible with Jodie Jackson

In this episode I sit down with Jodie Jackson, neuroconditioning expert and author, to explore how we can train our minds to think, feel and perform at a higher level. Jodie shares how our thoughts, beliefs and behaviours become automatic patterns, and how we can intentionally rewire those patterns to work for us rather than against us. What we cover: What neuroconditioning is and how it can improve performance How what we consume shapes the way we think, feel and behave Why repetition, emotional intensity and recovery are key to rewiring the brain How to challenge limiting beliefs and build more empowering ones The power of visualisation and asking, “What if it actually works?” How journaling can help us reflect on the past and intentionally create our future Why asking “What would need to be true?” can shift us from problems to possibilities Whether you want to build greater confidence, perform better under pressure or simply become more intentional about the way you think, this conversation offers practical tools to help you train your mind to work for you. Learn more about Jodie here - https://jodiejackson.com/ Connect with Jodie on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjodiejackson/ Grab a copy of Jodie’s book here - https://jodiejackson.com/jodie-book Follow Jodie on Youtube here - https://www.youtube.com/@ItsJodieJackson 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 Habits of High Performers 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

October 4, 202639 min

Your Body Is Holding Onto Stress with Master Mingtong Gu

In this episode I sit down with Ming Tong Gu, Qigong master and teacher, to explore how stress lives in the body and what we can do to reconnect with ourselves. Drawing on more than 30 years of working with energy and the body, Ming Tong shares why we often become disconnected from what we’re feeling, how stress can build over time, and simple practices for becoming more aware of what’s happening within us. What we cover: Why stress isn’t just in the mind — it shows up in the body How we become disconnected from what our body is telling us Why acceptance is the first step towards releasing stress How movement, meditation and awareness can help us reconnect Why developing a better relationship with your body can change how you experience life Whether you’re navigating stress, feeling disconnected or simply want to become more present, this conversation offers a different perspective on the relationship between your mind and body. Learn more about Master Mingtong Gu here - https://mingtonggu.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com Coming Home to Embodied Awakening - https://mingtonggu.com/embodied-awakening-book/?utm_source=chatgpt.com For a free chapter of Master Mingtong Gu’s book, Coming Home to Embodied Awakening visit, https://chicenter.pages.ontraport.net/t?orid=283515&opid=2 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 Habits of High Performers 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

September 27, 202647 min

Why Traditional Money Advice Doesn’t Work with Linda Grizely

Disclaimer: This episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consider your individual circumstances and seek advice from a qualified financial professional before making financial decisions. In this episode I sit down with Linda Grizely, financial expert and host of Real Money, Real Life , to explore how our beliefs, behaviours and personality shape the way we manage money. Linda shares why traditional financial advice doesn’t work for everyone and how understanding your own “money personality” can help you make better financial decisions. What we cover: The five different money personalities How your past shapes your relationship with money The “Me Money Method” and how it works Where to start with saving, debt and investing Why understanding yourself is key to financial success Whether you want to feel more confident with money, reduce financial stress or build wealth for the future, this conversation offers a practical approach to making your money work for you. Learn more about Linda here - https://www.lindagriz.com/about Check out the MeMoney Method here - https://www.lindagriz.com/memoney?utm_source=chatgpt.com Listen to Linda’s podcast here - https://www.lindagriz.com/podcasting Connect with Linda on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-grizely/ 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 Habits of High Performers 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

September 20, 202633 min

How to Get Better at Change with Curtis Bateman

In this episode I sit down with Curtis Bateman, change expert, author and FranklinCovey leader, to explore how we can navigate uncertainty and become more adaptable in times of change. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience, Curtis shares why change can feel so uncomfortable, the stages we move through when our lives are disrupted, and how we can learn to see opportunity on the other side. What we cover: Why our brains naturally resist change and uncertainty The four stages we move through when navigating change How to move through disruption without getting stuck Why adaptability is a skill that can be learned How leaders can help their people navigate change successfully Whether you're navigating change in your work, leadership or personal life, this conversation offers practical tools to help you move through uncertainty and turn change into an opportunity for growth. Learn more about Curtis here - https://www.franklincovey.com/speakers-bureau/curtis-bateman/ Connect with Curtis on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtisabateman/ Purchase a copy of Curtis’s book here - https://www.franklincovey.com/books/change-how-to-turn-uncertainty-into-opportunity/ 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 Habits of High Performers 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

September 13, 202650 min

Mental Toughness Is a Skill, Not a Gift with Dr Braden Brown

In this episode I sit down with Dr Braden Brown, Director of Mental Health at BYU and mental performance specialist, to explore the mental skills that help us perform at our best. Drawing on his experience as a former college football player and his work with high-performing athletes, Braden shares practical tools for managing pressure, overcoming self-doubt and building mental resilience. What we cover: How to manage pressure, nerves and self-doubt Why psychological flexibility is key to performance How mindfulness can strengthen your mental game What separates the world's greatest performers How to reset and refocus after making a mistake Whether you're an athlete, leader or simply want to perform better under pressure, this conversation offers practical tools for strengthening your mental game. Learn more about Braden here - https://b4lsac.byu.edu/directory/braden-brown-phd Follow Braden on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/drbradenbrown/ Connect with Braden on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/braden-brown-phd-005ba544/ 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 Habits of High Performers 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

September 6, 202639 min

Why Productivity Advice Doesn’t Work for ADHD with Ezra DeWolfe

In this episode I sit down with Ezra DeWolfe, founder of ADHD Tools, to explore ADHD in high performers and why traditional productivity advice doesn’t always work. Ezra shares how ADHD can affect focus, time awareness, consistency and burnout, and why understanding how your brain works can help you perform at your best. What we cover: Why high performers can go years without recognising ADHD The connection between ADHD and burnout Why traditional productivity advice can fail Time blindness, task paralysis and hyperfocus How to build consistency without relying on motivation The connection between ADHD, dopamine and addiction How ADHD can impact relationships Whether you have ADHD or simply want to understand it better, this conversation offers a practical perspective on working with your brain rather than against it. Learn more about ADHD Tools here - https://www.theadhdtools.com Seth Godin’s interview on the Faster Than Normal podcast - https://www.fasterthannormal.com/ftn-025-seth-godin-on-adhd-will-power-triggers-and-changing-your-life/ Connect with Ezra on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/theadhdtools/?hl=en 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 Habits of High Performers 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

August 30, 202638 min

Fredrik Härén : Why Your Best Ideas Come When You Stop Trying

In this episode I sit down with creativity explorer, author and global keynote speaker Fredrik Härén to explore what it really means to be creative and how we can create the conditions for better ideas. Drawing on 25 years of studying creativity and interviewing thousands of creative people around the world, Fredrik shares why creativity can be developed, the importance of curiosity, and why we need space to turn inspiration into action. What we cover: Why creativity can be learned and developed How curiosity helps us generate better ideas Why constantly consuming inspiration can hold us back How to create an environment that supports creativity Why stepping away can help overcome creative blocks How to seize opportunities without constantly hustling Whether you consider yourself creative or not, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on curiosity, ideas and creating space for your best thinking. Grab a copy of Fredrik’s book here - https://bookhero.co.nz/products/the-unvisible-by-fredrik-haren-9789814954556 Learn more about Fredrik here - https://www.fredrikharen.com Connect with Fredrik on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrikharen/ 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 Habits of High Performers 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

August 23, 202634 min

Why You Procrastinate (And How to Finally Stop) with Itamar Shatz

In this episode I sit down with Cambridge University researcher and lecturer Itamar Shatz to explore why we procrastinate, what’s really happening beneath the surface, and how we can stop relying on willpower to get things done. Together, we unpack why procrastination isn’t simply laziness, how fear, uncertainty and perfectionism can keep us stuck, and why distractions like social media are often a symptom rather than the real problem. Itamar also shares practical strategies from his book Solving Procrastination for making action easier and creating systems that work with our behaviour rather than against it. What we cover: Why we procrastinate, even when we know exactly what we should be doing How perfectionism, fear and uncertainty can make procrastination worse Why social media may not be the real reason you're avoiding important tasks How breaking big goals into tiny, manageable steps can make it easier to take action Why systems, reducing friction and the “reality rule” can be more effective than relying on willpower Whether you're putting off a career change, struggling to start an important project, avoiding your tax return or simply finding yourself scrolling instead of taking action, this conversation offers a practical, research-based approach to understanding procrastination, and finally doing something about it. Grab a copy of Itamar’s latest book here - https://solvingprocrastination.com/book/ Learn more about Itamar here - https://itamarshatz.me Connect with Itamar on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/itamarshatz/ 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 Habits of High Performers 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

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