Lead on Purpose with James Laughlin

• How Naomi Ballantyne Became NZ’s First Billion-Dollar Female Founder

  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/newsletterIn this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with Naomi Ballantyne—one of New Zealand’s most successful entrepreneurs and the first Kiwi woman to sell a company for over a billion dollars.From humble beginnings in a tiny three-bedroom house with five kids and two parents, to building and leading some of the most innovative life insurance companies in the country, Naomi’s story is raw, riveting, and radically inspiring.She shares how emotional resilience, relentless curiosity, and a fierce commitment to doing the right thing helped her defy the odds—not once, but again and again.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why growing up in scarcity sparked Naomi’s entrepreneurial fire.The mindset that turns adversity into advantage—and pain into power.How to lead with humility while building a billion-dollar business.What most boards get wrong—and how to fix it.The surprising truth about strategy (it’s not what you think).Why parenting, not school, is still the most powerful teacher.Why You Should Listen: Naomi doesn’t fit the mould—and that’s exactly why she’s been able to break it. She’s built multiple companies from the ground up, challenged a male-dominated industry, and led with heart, grit, and an unshakable sense of purpose.Whether you’re a founder, a leader, a parent—or someone who’s ever wondered if they’re “good enough”—this conversation will remind you that you don’t have to fit in to make a mark. You just have to show up, stay curious, and never forget who you are.If you want to lead with purpose—and on your own terms—this episode is unmissable.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzConnect with Naomi on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/naomi-ballantyne-578b0a248/?originalSubdomain=nzGet 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 OSend me a personal text messageSupport the show

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• Raelene Castle: Trailblazing Sports CEO on Leadership Under Pressure & the Israel Folau Controversy

  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/newsletterIn this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with one of the most influential sport leaders in Australasia—Raelene Castle. A trailblazer who has shattered gender norms and led major sporting organisations on both sides of the Tasman, Raelene opens up about the power of sport, the lessons from failure, and what it truly means to lead with purpose.From growing up in a sports-mad Kiwi household to becoming the first female CEO of an NRL team, Raelene shares her raw journey—including moments of triumph, controversy, and the behind-the-scenes realities of leadership.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How sport became Raelene’s foundation for resilience, leadership, and inclusion.Why failure is a necessary part of growth—and how to bounce back stronger.What it really takes to lead in high-performance, male-dominated environments.The inside story of the Israel Folau controversy and how values shape leadership.How to support young people in sport without crushing their joy or confidence.Why You Should Listen:Raelene doesn’t just talk about high performance—she lives it. Her career spans the leadership of Netball New Zealand, the Canterbury Bulldogs, Rugby Australia, and now Sport New Zealand. But beyond the titles, this is a story about courage, integrity, and showing up—even when it’s hard.If you’re a parent, a coach, a leader, or someone striving to lead with more purpose and less ego—this conversation is a must-listen.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzCheck out Sport New Zealand here - https://sportnz.org.nzConnect with Raelene on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/raelene-castle-onzm-3a82441b/?originalSubdomain=nzGet 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 PurposeSend me a personal text messageSupport the show

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  1:12:14
• These 5 Stoic Principles Could Change Your Life FOREVER!

  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/newsletterMost people feel overwhelmed—not because life is too hard, but because they’re focusing on the wrong things. If I could teach you just five principles to build a calmer, more focused, more purposeful life… these would be it. Rooted in ancient wisdom. Made for modern chaos.Whether you're navigating pressure at work, in sport, or in life—this episode is your guide to staying grounded and showing up as your best self.What You’ll Learn: ✅ Control the Controllable’s. Stop wasting energy on what you can’t change. Focus on what’s in your hands. ✅ Turn Obstacles into Opportunities. Life will challenge you—use it as fuel, not friction. ✅ Master Your Emotions. Emotional strength isn’t about suppression. It’s about choosing your response. ✅ Live with Purpose + Virtue. Do what’s right, not what’s easy. That’s leadership. ✅ Be Present. The past is done. The future doesn’t exist. Train your mind to live now.If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who’s striving to live with more purpose. And if you're interested in sponsoring the podcast or our newsletter, email [email protected] or DM me on social.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/newsletterOn 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=1I release a solocast every Wednesday, and an interview with a world class guest every Thursday.Send me a personal text messageSupport the show

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  10:10
• Inside the SAS - Jamie Pennell on Fighting the Taliban & Willie Apiata Winning Victoria Cross

  In this gripping episode, I sit down with Jamie Pennell, a highly decorated New Zealand SAS soldier awarded the New Zealand Gallantry Star for his extraordinary actions on the battlefield. This is an intimate and raw conversation about resilience, leadership, and the realities of serving in one of the world’s most elite military units.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The Journey to the SAS: Jamie’s early aspirations, what drew him to special forces, and the brutal selection process that pushed him to his limits.Fear and Failure: How an initial failure in SAS selection became the fuel for success.The Psychological Battle: The mental toughness required to operate in extreme conditions and why mindset is more critical than physical strength.Afghanistan & High-Stakes Missions: The reality of life on the battlefield, working behind enemy lines, and leading critical operations.The Intercontinental Hotel Siege: Jamie’s first-hand account of one of the most intense counter-terrorism operations ever conducted by the New Zealand SAS.Life After Combat: The challenges of reintegration, navigating civilian life, and finding purpose beyond the battlefield.Lessons on Leadership & Resilience: How Jamie’s experiences in the SAS apply to leadership, teamwork, and mental fortitude in everyday life.Why You Should Listen:This episode is more than a military story—it’s a lesson in perseverance, discipline, and personal growth. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone striving to push past your limits, Jamie’s insights will inspire you to take ownership of your challenges and lead with courage.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzGrab your copy of “Serviceman J” here - https://www.harpercollins.co.nz/9781775542384/serviceman-j/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 messageSupport the show

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  1:56:01
• 5 Money Tips I Wish I Heard In My 20s (1:1 with James Laughlin)

  Most people struggle with money—not because they don’t earn enough, but because they don’t know how to use it. If I could go back, here’s what I’d do differently (and what I’d double down on). Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your financial game, this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn:✅ Invest in Yourself First. The best ROI isn’t in stocks or real estate—it’s in your skills, mindset, and knowledge. ✅ Adopt an Abundance Mindset. There’s always room for greatness. Focus on opportunities, not limitations. ✅ Diversify Your Income. One income stream = high risk. Build multiple to create security. ✅ Put Your Money to Work. Saving alone won’t make you wealthy—investing will. Automate and forget it. ✅ Live Below Your Means. A high income means nothing if you’re drowning in debt. Smart spending = real wealth.If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And if you're interested in sponsoring the podcast or our newsletter, email [email protected] or send me a DM on social!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/newsletterOn 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=1I release a solocast every Wednesday, and an interview with a world class guest every Thursday.Send me a personal text messageSupport the show

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  18:31

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