Habits of High Performers Podcast with James Laughlin

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.nz

• Learn more about Paul here - https://www.paulhutchinsonofficial.com/about-paul-hutchinson
• Watch the Sound of Freedom Film here -https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Sound-of-Freedom/0JCBACZA5C2VIKMQSG9084DFV5
• Connect with Paul here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhutch/
• Check out Paul’s Foundation here - https://childliberation.org

• 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

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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 [email protected]

Support the show

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/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

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.nz

• Check out Josh’s website here - https://cleverpreneur.com
• Follow Josh on YouTube here -https://www.youtube.com/@JoshRyan/videos
• Take Josh’s free instagram marketing course here - https://joshryan.kit.com/7b86377c12
• Follow Josh on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/joshryan

• 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

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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 [email protected]

Support the show

Struggling with money? This book changed everything for me.

For years, I believed financial success was out of reach. Then, I picked up a book that completely shifted my mindset and showed me a new path. In this episode, I break down the lessons that helped me go from minimum wage to financial freedom.

Here’s what I cover:

1. The Power of Leverage – How to stop trading time for money and create scalable income.
2. The Abundance Mindset – Why the way you think about money is holding you back.
3. Multiple Streams of Income – Why relying on one source of income is a major risk.
4. Taking Action – How small, consistent steps compound into big financial wins.
5. Finding a Mentor – Why learning from those who’ve done it before will fast-track your success.

This book changed my life, and it might just change yours too. If you’re ready to shift your money mindset and start building real financial freedom, dive in.

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.

 -  Grab a copy of The One Minute Millionaire here - https://www.amazon.com.au/One-Minute-Millionaire-Enlightened-Wealth/dp/0307451569

• 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

The time has come… Lead On Purpose has officially rebranded!

For years, we’ve brought you the world’s best leaders—billionaires, Olympians, prime ministers, and top authors. And we’ll continue doing that. But now, this podcast is for EVERYONE looking to level up in their purpose, passions, and personal growth.

Here’s what’s new:
 🔹 One episode per week featuring an incredible guest.
🔹 One episode per week where I bring you exclusive 1:1 coaching insights—the same lessons I share with elite athletes, CEOs, and high performers.
🔹 More impact, more value, more growth.

If you’re ready to take control of your life, hit subscribe and join us on this journey. 🎙️

Listen on your favorite podcast platform or search Lead On Purpose with James Laughlin wherever you get your podcasts.

➡ Get out there and lead your life on purpose.

Send me a personal text message

Support the show

In this episode of the Lead on Purpose podcast, I sit down with Nicole Sachs, LCSW, renowned psychotherapist and author of Mind Your Body. Nicole shares her groundbreaking approach to chronic pain and how the mind-body connection plays a pivotal role in healing.

What We Cover:

• Nicole’s personal journey from debilitating chronic pain to full recovery.
• The science behind why our nervous system creates and sustains pain.
• The power of belief in the healing process.
• How journaling and emotional release can rewire pain pathways.
• Practical steps to regulate your nervous system and reclaim your health.

Nicole breaks down the misconceptions around chronic pain and reveals how many physical symptoms—migraines, back pain, digestive issues, and even long COVID—can be influenced by unresolved emotions and nervous system dysregulation. She introduces Journal Speak, her powerful method for processing suppressed emotions, and explains why self-compassion is a crucial part of healing.

After listening, you'll walk away with a new perspective on pain, stress, and your ability to heal—plus actionable tools to start making changes today.

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

• Learn more about Nicole here - https://www.yourbreakawake.com/about
• Follow Nicole on Instagram here -  https://www.instagram.com/nicolesachslcsw
• Order your copy of Mind Your Body here - https://www.yourbreakawake.com/book

• 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

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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 [email protected]

Support the show

Ever feel like life is passing you by while everyone else is winning? You’re not alone. The truth is, you’re watching their highlight reels—not reality. In this episode, I’ll show you how to stop the comparison trap and truly start thriving.

Here’s what I cover:

1. Why We Compare – The deep-rooted reasons we measure ourselves against others.
2. The Social Media Illusion – How platforms are designed to trigger comparison and what to do about it.
3. Taking Back Control – How to shift your focus and only consume content that lifts you up.
4. The Power of Perspective – How a mortality mindset can help you focus on what truly matters.
5. Your Financial Freedom Number – Why knowing your number sets you free from comparison.

When you stop chasing someone else’s version of success, you start living on your own terms. This is your time—focus on you, take big swings, and lead your life on purpose.

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/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 of the Lead on Purpose podcast, I sit down with Adrian Brambila, entrepreneur and author of Start Thinking Rich. Adrian shares his journey from a hardworking immigrant family to financial freedom and how shifting his money mindset changed everything—even living in a van while building his business.

What We Cover:

• How upbringing shapes our financial mindset.
• Shifting from scarcity to a rich mindset.
• Overcoming limiting beliefs about money.
• Investing wisely and leveraging income.
• The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people.

Adrian reveals how he went from struggling financially to earning a seven-figure income while traveling the world in a van, and he offers actionable strategies to take control of your financial future.

After listening, you'll feel inspired and empowered to reframe your relationship with money and take meaningful steps toward financial freedom.

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

• Learn more about Adrian here -https://adrianbrambila.com
• Follow Adrian on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/brambilabong/?hl=en
• Grab your exclusive bonus that Adrian spoke about here - https://www.startthinkingrich.com/podcast?am_id=james280

• 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

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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 [email protected]

Support the show

In this episode, I’m sharing why New Year's resolutions don’t work and what to do instead for a successful 2025.

Only 9% of people stick to resolutions. I want to help you avoid failure by taking a smarter approach to goal setting.

Here’s what I cover:

1. The Three Critical Questions – Key reflections to gain clarity and direction.
2. Why Reflection Matters – How looking back helps you move forward.
3. Identifying What Works and What Doesn’t – Fine-tuning your approach.
4. Learning From Your Experiences – Insights to guide better decisions.
5. Creating a Goal-Setting Framework – A practical system for success.

I share real-life stories of people who have used this framework to transform their lives.

If you found this helpful, access my free Goal Setting Masterclass to dive deeper.

• Access the Masterclass here - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/2025replay 

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

Disclaimer: Caroline and I are not ongoing patients of Dr. Victoria Thompson. This episode was recorded with both of our consent.

In this episode of the Lead on Purpose podcast, I sit down with Dr. Victoria Thompson, a clinical psychologist based in Christchurch, for an open and insightful conversation about relationships, communication, and personal growth. Joining us for the first time is my partner, Caroline, who brings her unique perspective to the discussion.

What We Cover:

• The importance of communication in relationships and its impact on life and work.
• Common communication challenges and how to navigate them.
• Practical strategies for improving connection and understanding.
• Balancing work and personal life when working with your partner.

Dr. Victoria provides invaluable insights into understanding how our personal experiences influence our interactions and offers actionable advice for creating healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

Caroline and I openly share our experiences, challenges, and lessons learned as we navigate our relationship and business together. 

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their relationships, both at home and in the workplace.

Enjoy the episode and don’t forget to share it with someone who might benefit from it!

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

• Learn more about Dr. Victoria here - https://www.victoriathompsonpsychology.com/about-victoria
• Connect with Dr. Victoria on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/drvictoriathompson/
• Contact Dr. Victoria here - https://www.victoriathompsonpsychology.com/contact-me

• 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

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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 [email protected]

Support the show