In this episode, I sit down with Greg McKeown, bestselling author of Essentialism and Effortless, to uncover the secrets to simplifying life, prioritising what matters most, and achieving extraordinary results without burning out.

Greg shares his journey from chasing success to redefining it—shifting from the undisciplined pursuit of more to the disciplined pursuit of less but better. He reveals the personal wake-up call that sparked his transformation and offers practical strategies for anyone feeling overwhelmed by modern life’s demands.

We cover:

• What essentialism really means and how it’s the antidote to burnout.
• Greg’s personal story of prioritising work over family and the life-changing lesson it taught him.
• How to identify the ‘vital few’ tasks and eliminate the ‘trivial many.’
• The 3-step process to regain focus: Explore, Eliminate, and Execute.
• Why most people get stuck in reactive living—and how to break free.
• The power of Greg’s ‘Power Half Hour’ and how to structure your day for clarity and impact.
• Greg’s new Essentialism Planner and how it can help you start 2025 with focus and intention.

If you’re ready to reclaim your time, energy, and focus, this episode with Greg McKeown will leave you inspired and equipped to simplify your life and amplify your results.

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

• Order your essentialism planner here - https://gregmckeown.com/books/the-essentialism-planner/
• Order your copy of Essentialism and Effortless here - https://gregmckeown.com/books/essentialism/#
• Connect with Greg here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmckeown/
• Check out Greg’s podcast here - https://gregmckeown.com/podcast/

• 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 Exe

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In this episode, I sit down with Shaun Quincey, adventurer, entrepreneur, and the second person in history to row solo across the Tasman Sea. From taking on one of the world’s most treacherous ocean crossings to building a thriving business empire, Shaun’s story is one of resilience, grit, and relentless determination.

Shaun reflects on his journey, the lessons learned from his record-breaking adventure, and how his father’s legacy as the first person to row the Tasman Sea inspired his own pursuit of greatness. We also delve into his transition from adventurer to entrepreneur and the mindset shifts that made it all possible.

We cover:

Shaun’s decision to row 2,200km across the Tasman and the life-or-death challenges he faced on the journey.

The influence of his father’s world-first record and the pressure to forge his own path.

The moment he almost gave up mid-ocean and how he turned fear into gratitude and clarity.

How Shaun built a buy-now-pay-later business from scratch and sold it in a multi-million-dollar deal.

The importance of resilience, routine, and finding purpose in hard work — whether on the water or in business.

Practical advice on teaching resilience to the next generation and thriving under pressure.


If you’re inspired by stories of grit, adventure, and the pursuit of purpose, this conversation with Shaun Quincey will leave you motivated to tackle your own challenges head-on.

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

Check out Simfuni here - https://simfuni.com/our-story

Book Shaun to speak at your next event here - https://www.celebrityspeakers.co.nz/speakers/shaun-quincey

Connect with Shaun here -https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-quincey-53548132/?originalSubdomain=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

In this episode, I sit down with Gary, a former New Zealand detective turned international investigator, to explore his extraordinary journey from policing in Christchurch to fighting human trafficking across the globe.

Gary opens up about the incredible highs and devastating lows of his mission to rescue women and children from modern slavery—and the personal cost of living as "James Bond for justice."


We cover:

Gary’s early days in the New Zealand Police and his struggle to fit into a toxic police culture.

The heart-wrenching reality of confronting modern slavery, including rescuing children as young as five.

How his undercover work in 12 countries pushed him to his psychological and emotional limits.

The profound impact of his faith, and how it evolved through his experiences.

Lessons on shame, forgiveness, and the journey to self-compassion after hitting rock bottom.


If you’re curious about the intersection of justice, redemption, and the human spirit, this raw and deeply moving conversation with Gary is not to be missed.

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

Book Gary for speaking here - https://www.celebrityspeakers.co.nz/speakers/gary-shaw

Follow Gary on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-shaw-0706671b7/?originalSubdomain=nz

Learn more about Gary here - https://www.garyshaw.co.nz

Contact Gary here - https://www.garyshaw.co.nz

You can find out what your Slavery Footprint is here - https://slaveryfootprint.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


-----


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

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on leadership and sharing three powerful lessons I learned from a surprising encounter with a high-profile guest who revealed their true character behind the scenes.

This experience challenged my perceptions of leadership and reinforced the importance of congruence, kindness, and responsibility in positions of power.


Here’s what I cover:

Congruence is Key – Why the best leaders are consistent both on and off camera, and how authenticity builds trust.

Power Dynamics Matter – How leaders can elevate or diminish others through their behaviour and why awareness of this is critical.

Kindness is Leadership – The lasting impact of treating others with respect, regardless of the situation or power dynamic.


Throughout this episode, I’ll explore what this encounter taught me about leadership and the responsibility we all carry, whether in families, workplaces, or communities. I’ll challenge you to reflect on your own congruence and the power dynamics in your life, urging you to lead with empathy and intention.

If you found value in this episode, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might benefit from these lessons. Let’s create a world where leadership is driven by integrity, not ego.

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 Samuel Whitelock, the most capped All Black in history and a true rugby legend, to explore his journey from the farm fields of New Zealand to the pinnacle of international rugby.

Samuel reflects on the challenges and triumphs of his career, his upbringing in a competitive family of four boys, and the values that shaped him both on and off the field. Along the way, we dive into his unique bond with Razor Robertson and the unforgettable lessons that defined their partnership.


We cover:

Samuel’s rural upbringing and how wrestling with his brothers prepared him for life as an All Black.

The hilarious story of locking a babysitter out of the house and learning lessons on accountability.

His relationship with Razor Robertson, including the famous "Rooster vs. Sheepdog" leadership analogy.

What it means to "darken the jersey" and leave a legacy in one of the world’s most iconic teams.

The highs and lows of balancing family, fatherhood, and a career at the top of international sport.


If you’re interested in leadership, teamwork, and the lessons learned from a life in high-performance sport, this candid and inspiring conversation with Samuel Whitelock is a must-listen.

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

Get your copy of Samuel Whitelock’s book here - https://www.harpercollins.co.nz/9781775542506/view-from-the-second-row/

Follow Samuel on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/samuelwhitelock/?hl=en

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

In this episode, I’m sharing three powerful lessons I learned from a conversation with an inspiring New Zealand entrepreneur, Naomi Ballantyne, who became the first female in the country to sell her business for over a billion dollars. 

Her journey from humble beginnings to extraordinary success is a masterclass in mindset, resilience, and courage.


Here’s what I cover:

Everything is Figure-Outable – How a mindset of resourcefulness can help you overcome any obstacle.

Care Less About What Others Think – Why focusing on your purpose over public opinion is essential for success.

Put Your Hand Up – The power of stepping into opportunities, even when imposter syndrome strikes.


Throughout this episode, I’ll challenge you to embrace these lessons in your own life. Whether you’re striving for financial freedom, personal growth, or simply a more purpose-driven life, these insights will inspire you to think bigger, act bolder, and live with intention.

If you found value in this episode, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might benefit from these lessons.

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 Finn Butcher, Olympic gold medalist and canoe slalom cross champion, to delve into his incredible journey from Central Otago to making history in Paris.

Finn shares how his passion for kayaking, mental resilience, and the support of his community shaped his path to success—and how he stays grounded through the highs and lows of elite sport.


We cover:

Finn’s mindset strategies: overcoming imposter syndrome and staying focused under pressure.

The pivotal role of mentors, including the late Sarge, in fostering his love for the sport.


How Finn balanced setbacks, including missing the Tokyo Olympics, with resilience and growth.


The mental skills he developed with Kylie Wilson, including mindfulness and visualization.


Finn’s thoughts on unconditional support from parents and coaches for young athletes.


If you’re curious about what it takes to win Olympic gold, stay humble, and love the process, this conversation with Finn Butcher is for you.

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

Connect with Finn on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/finnbutcher/?hl=en

Learn more about Finn here - https://www.canoeslalomnz.org.nz/Performance-Pathways/Olympians/finn-butcher-2024

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

In this episode, I’m sharing three powerful lessons I learned from a conversation with William Pike, a man who turned a near-death experience into a life of purpose and possibility. His story of survival and transformation is a masterclass in resilience, mindset, and living fully.

Here’s what I cover:

Focus on Possibilities 

Get Outdoors 

Live Today Like There's No Tomorrow 


Throughout this episode, I’ll challenge you to apply these lessons to your own life. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uninspired, these insights will help you lead with purpose, focus on what matters most, and inspire those around you.

If you found value in this episode, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might 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

The Truth About Food Addiction & How to Finally Break Free 

In this episode, I sit down with Healthy Emmie, a passionate nutritionist and wellness expert, to explore her journey from marathon training to becoming a global advocate for plant-based health. 

Emmie shares how her transformative approach to nutrition changed her life—and the lives of her parents—by focusing on simple, whole foods.

We cover:

Emmie’s approach: eating well by adding, not restricting.

Practical tips for making small, impactful changes over time.

Insights on protein myths and food marketing’s hidden tactics.

Why processed food addiction isn’t your fault—and how to take control.

Mindset, journaling, and mindfulness for a balanced, lasting wellness journey.


If you’re ready to shift your approach to health and simplify wellness with actionable steps, this conversation with Healthy Emmie is for you.

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

Learn more about Emmie here - https://www.healthyemmieapp.org

Watch Emmie on Youtube here - https://www.youtube.com/@HealthyEmmie 

Learn more about the SLIM app here - https://www.healthyemmieapp.org/#PERSONALIZEDPROGRAM

Learn more about Dave Asprey here - https://daveasprey.com

Purchase Emmie’s supplements here - https://healthyemmie.org/pages/b12-supplement

View Darin Ollie’s Netflix series here - https://superlife.com/down-to-earth/

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

In this episode, I’m sharing the three key traits that make the world’s most influential people truly impactful. I’ve had the privilege of sitting down with leaders from every field—presidents, CEOs, sports icons, and more—and I’ve found that the most powerful ones don’t rely on manipulation or flashy campaigns. 

Instead, they focus on these core qualities that create deep, authentic connections.

Here’s what I cover:

Consistency


Curiosity


Kindness


Throughout this episode, I’ll encourage you to embrace these traits to grow your own influence and build richer relationships. By practising consistency, curiosity, and kindness, you’ll notice a meaningful shift in how others respond to you and in the quality of your connections.

If you found value in this episode, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might 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