James Laughlin | #1 Best-selling Author of Habits of High Performers | 7-time World Champion | High-performance Leadership Strategist
James Laughlin stands at the forefront of High Performance Leadership and Personal Mastery, earning global recognition as a pioneering strategist in the field. He is the #1 best-selling author of Habits of High Performers, a seven-time world champion musician, and a trusted advisor to leaders and teams at the highest level.
As a sought-after international keynote speaker, James captivates and inspires diverse audiences worldwide with his compelling insights and transformative messages. From PGA tour professionals and elite athletes to billion-dollar CEOs and multinational corporations, he equips individuals and organisations with the clarity, conviction, and tools to achieve extraordinary results.
What sets James apart is his lived experience of winning against the odds. From leading an underdog Kiwi team to a history-making world championship, to serving as the mental skills coach for Canterbury Rugby, he brings a pragmatic, proven approach that resonates across industries and cultures. His proprietary frameworks are meticulously designed to cut through complexity and empower people to embrace personal mastery, adaptability, and high-performance habits.
Beyond the stage, James hosts the #1-ranked Lead on Purpose podcast, where he draws insights from global icons, including Fortune 500 CEOs and world leaders. His message is clear: high performance is not reserved for a select few. With the right mindset and tools, every person can elevate their game and contribute to remarkable results.
How I went from 9-5 boredom to purpose-centred and passion-focused.
I didn't have a smooth ride into a life of purpose and freedom.
I started off in a small town in the north of Ireland, with loving parents and a humble upbringing.
Teenage-hood presented some challenges and I lost my way in school. Fortunately, I found passion in drumming - becoming a two time world champion by the age of fourteen.
I quickly realised...
"I'm not keen to follow the herd."
Global roaming, earthquakes, marriage, miscarriage & massive professional growth
I spent my early twenties roaming the world, creating income by setting up an international education & retail company.
My mid-twenties saw me get married in Australia, live through several massive earthquakes in New Zealand and settle into a mediocre 9-5 existence within the education sector.
And in the next few short years before I turned thirty I:
- Won seven world titles and multiple national titles
- Published two books
- Traversed a miscarriage
- Established a real estate portfolio
It was my 30's that brought about monumental change...
Finn came into my world, gifting me the opportunity to be a Dad. And boy oh boy has it been the most amazing experience ever.
I stepped away from the 9-5.
I retired from international competing so I could be a present dad...
I consciously uncoupled with Finn's mum.
And last but not least, I founded Laughlin Leadership.
I discovered that living a life of purpose was NOT at odds with helping other people do the same
As a seven-time world champion performer and sought-after leadership coach, I was able to create a powerful framework to help CEOs, professional sports teams and global leaders make world-class their new standard.
My mission is to equip leaders with the tools to transform their organisations, one leader at a time. I do this through the Lead On Purpose Podcast where I interview former heads of state, fortune 100 CEO's, high performers and thought leader's including:
- Sir John Key, former Prime Minister of New Zealand
- Kieran Read, former All-Blacks Rugby captain and world champion
- Anthony Trucks, former NFL star and American Ninja Warrior
- Nabeela Ixtabalan, COO of Walmart Canada
- Rachel Hunter, former supermodel and actress
- Vahan Yepremyan, LA-based Film Producer and INC 5000 entrepreneur
I learned how to get rid of the "Time Thief"...
... to ensure that I will never have to explain to my son Finn why I missed another sports game or musical performance.
How?
By intentionally leading my life ON PURPOSE.
One step at a time.
Over the years I've developed a reputation for helping people to find their purpose and grow as leaders "one step at a time"
I dive deep into the finer details of leading life and business with world-class as the measuring stick. I help others to create sustainable, world-class habits and beliefs.
I'm able to do this because I teach what I know.
I coach what I've personally done to build a life of purpose, going from bored and uncertain to passionate and decisive. To lead great companies, to lead a health-centred life, to lead a life of freedom... it all comes down to a simple framework. I've also helped many others become world champions, build epic businesses and take their leadership to new heights.
If you like what you're reading, and want to get started right away - then get in touch with me today.
Are you ready to take the REAL needle-moving action steps to lead passionately and create a legacy you're proud of?
I know you're ready to do the work.
That's why you're here.
You wouldn't have read this far if you weren't one of the top 5% of humans, truly committed to an INCREDIBLE life.
You've come this far, and I know you just want to make sure you're doing the RIGHT work at the RIGHT time. And feel certain that every bit of effort you invest will pay off ten-fold.
Ready to make your big move and make world-class leadership your new standard?
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Start by checking our our leadership offerings.
The Seven Laws of Leadership Programme
Transform your team or organisation with the ultimate leadership programme brought to you by the Executive Edge™.
HPL: The High Performance Leadership Programme™
James' in-depth signature LIVE event that will guide you one step at a time to a take your leadership to a world-class level. Transform your organisation.
1:1 Coaching with James
Apply to be coached personally by James. If you are accepted, a wait list may apply.