The Real Reason Your Brand Isn’t Growing with Mark Lester

Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if your brand’s real growth lever isn’t features but happiness?In this episode of Lead on Purpose, I sit down with Mark, co-founder of Squint Consulting, to unpack why we are living through an unhappiness crisis and how the smartest brands grow by deliberately creating happier customers and happier teams. We explore the simple model behind happy brands and how it reshapes products, pricing, and culture.We cover:• The unhappiness trend Gallup is tracking and why it now drives consumer choice • A practical model of memories, behaviours, and beliefs that sparks growth • How Olipop moved from sparkling tonic to soda and unlocked a huge valuation • Why execution beats slogans, with lessons from Happy Meals, Nike, and Chipotle • Turning choice into joy, from Netflix browsing to service design people love • Building a high trust, low meeting culture that lifts performance and morale • The danger of trend hopping and how to return to brand fundamentals that last • Personal creativity habits that widen focus, including walks, mind wandering, and saunaYou will walk away with practical ways to design happier experiences, raise perceived value, and build a culture where great thinking thrives and growth follows.Learn more about Squint Consulting here - https://squintconsulting.com/about/Connect with Mark on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lestermarky/?originalSubdomain=nlIf you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at [email protected]: 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] the show

Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if your team’s real advantage isn’t talent but connection?In this episode of Lead on Purpose, I sit down with Jon Gordon, bestselling author of The Energy Bus and The Seven Commitments of a Great Team. We dive into what makes teams thrive, on the field, in the office, and at home. Jon explains why connection drives commitment, how culture is created by daily actions, and why true positivity fuels resilience and performance.We cover: • Why authentic connection always outperforms raw talent • How leaders shape culture through lived values, not words on a wall • The keys to building and repairing trust quickly • What healthy accountability looks like in high-performing teams • Why devotion and love drive discipline, consistency, and long-term successYou’ll walk away with practical strategies to strengthen culture, build trust, and inspire your team to give their best when it matters most.Learn more about Jon Gordon here - https://jongordon.comPurchase Jon’s books here - https://jongordon.com/books/If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at [email protected]: 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] the show

Order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if you could take control of your health the same way a CEO takes control of a business?In this episode of Lead on Purpose, Dr Darshan Shah joins me to unpack the science of longevity, prevention, and performance. A surgeon turned health optimisation expert, Darshan reveals the biomarkers, daily habits, and mindset shifts that can help you live longer and healthier.We cover: • Why “feeling good” can be misleading and how silent biological damage builds up for decades • The three key blood tests you should know today to prevent disease tomorrow • How muscle acts as the “organ of longevity” and the best ways to build and protect it • Simple, accessible strategies to improve gut health and reduce chronic inflammation • The role of hormones in energy, performance, and ageing, and how to optimise them naturally • Why routines, meditation, and small daily choices matter more than quick fixesDarshan also shares his personal supplement stack, the value of preventative scans, and his vision for transforming healthcare into true health care.You will walk away with practical steps to become the CEO of your own health so you can stay strong, sharp, and thriving for decades to come.Learn more about Darshan here - https://www.drshah.comDr Darshan Shah’s Biomarker Guide-  https://www.drshah.com/biomarkersLearn more about Next Health here - https://www.next-health.comConnect with Darshan on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at [email protected]: 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] the show

Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comIn this solo episode, I’m celebrating a milestone that’s been years in the making.My new book, Habits of High Performers, is finally on shelves across New Zealand and Australia. It’s bold, bright orange, and packed with timeless truths that can change how you approach work, health, relationships, and life.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why habits, not luck or hustle, are what separate high performers from everyone elseThe 7 habits inside the book that you can start applying right awayA $2,000 resource that comes free when you grab your copyEndorsements from global leaders like Sir John Key, Robin Sharma, Dr Alia Bojilova, and Sir Wayne SmithA few of my favourite principles, from disciplining your inner domain to focusing on your strengthsIf you’ve already got your copy, thank you. If not, this is the week to grab it at your local bookstore or online at thehabitbook.com.And once you’ve started reading, let me know how it’s shaping your life. Share it, tag me, and spread the word, because these habits are meant to be lived, not just read.Come join me at The High Performance Leadership Event here - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/high-performance-event-2025 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/newsletterSend me a personal text messageSupport the show

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What would you do if your life began with a kidnapping? For Shelly Tygielski, that early experience planted a seed that shaped her perspective on courage, community, and the power of showing up.In this episode of Lead on Purpose, Shelly shares her extraordinary journey, from the terrifying day she was taken at age two to becoming an unlikely meditator, bestselling author, and founder of global movements that put kindness and self-care at the centre of leadership.We cover: • How a Good Samaritan’s split-second decision changed Shelly’s life forever • Why she calls herself an “unlikely meditator” and how meditation sharpened her focus in an age of distraction • Practical steps to start a meditation practice (even if you have tried and struggled before) • The difference between goals and intentions and why living with intention is more powerful • Why self-care is a radical act of activism and the foundation for lasting impact • The role of community and real human connection in a tech-driven worldShelly’s book, Sit Down to Rise Up, is a blueprint for anyone who wants to lead with courage, compassion, and clarity. You will find the link in the show notes, so make sure you grab your copy.This conversation is about more than leadership. It is about who you want to be in the worldLearn more about Shelly here - https://www.shellytygielski.comGrab your copy of her book here - https://www.shellytygielski.com/sit-down-to-rise-up/Follow Shelly on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/mindfulskatergirl/If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at [email protected]: 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] the show

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if the secret to high performance isn’t balance—but choice?In this episode, I sit down with Jason Paris, CEO of One New Zealand, to unpack leadership, creativity, and building partnerships at a world-class level.Jason’s led one of NZ’s largest organisations through rapid change—while refusing to miss a single moment that matters with his family. From turning Vodafone into One NZ to forging game-changing deals with Starlink and Salesforce, his approach blends bold moves with deep human values.Here’s what we cover:Why work-life balance is a myth—and what to focus on insteadThe role creativity plays in high-performing teamsThe pitch that landed a world-first partnership with Elon Musk’s StarlinkHow to adopt AI with speed, experimentation, and purposeHandling public criticism while staying grounded and humanIf you’re ready to rethink leadership, scale impact, and stay true to your values, this conversation is packed with lessons from the top—and the heart.You can follow Jason on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-paris-3404565/?originalSubdomain=nzYou can grab your copy of See How They Fall by Rachel Paris here - https://www.paperplus.co.nz/shop/books/fiction/crime-thrillers/see-how-they-fallIf you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at [email protected]: 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] the show

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if your healthspan, not your lifespan, was your greatest asset?In this episode, I sit down with Bill Gifford, co-author of the bestselling book Outlive (with Dr Peter Attia) and a leading expert on the science of longevity.We explore how to live longer, feel stronger, and stay mentally sharp through simple, evidence-based habits.Here’s what we cover:The two daily habits that make the biggest difference to how long and well you liveWhy walking, not just working out, is a key driver of healthspanHow cold plunges and saunas affect your mood, metabolism, and mindsetThe link between muscle mass and reduced risk of Alzheimer's and dementiaHow to assess your health now, before it becomes a problem laterThis episode is for anyone who wants to stay sharp, strong, and purpose-driven at every age.Grab your copy of Outlive here -https://www.paperplus.co.nz/shop/books/non-fiction/health-wellbeing/general/outlive-the-science-art-of-longevityGrab your copy of Spring Chicken here - https://www.fishpond.co.nz/Books/Spring-Chicken-Bill-Gifford/9781455527441?srsltid=AfmBOooh0it-SrOBEvUey7CIHYxReYX_9U_GlDZiKvHXGN8nVF7-uJZRConnect with Bill on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-gifford-125868b/Connect with Bill on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/billgifford/?hl=enIf you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at [email protected]: 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] the show

Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comIn this solo episode, I’m sharing something a little different.As of now, these 1:1 solocasts won’t be weekly anymore. Instead, I’ll be dropping more intentional updates once or twice a month — focused on what’s actually shaping me behind the scenes.This is one of those episodes.In this episode, you’ll discover:What a cab driver, a psychologist, and a billion-dollar founder taught me this monthThe mindset shift that’s helped me handle pressure, friction, and people betterWhy saying “no” is the key to becoming a high performerHow I’m staying focused during the chaos of a book launchA simple rule from the Crusaders’ head coach that can transform your productivityWhat’s really happening behind the scenes of the High Performance Leadership EventIf you’re navigating growth, busyness, or big transitions — this episode is for you.Let me know what resonates. And if it does? Share it with someone who needs it.And if you haven’t already, pre-order your copy of Habits of High Performers at thehabitbook.com to get exclusive bonuses before launch.Grab a copy of The Resilience Toolkit by Dr Alia Bojilova here - https://www.paperplus.co.nz/shop/books/non-fiction/health-wellbeing/personal-development/the-resilience-toolkit-1076253Come join me at The High Performance Leadership Event here - https://www.jjlaughlin.com/high-performance-event-2025 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/newsletterSend me a personal text message - If you're interested in booking me for a keynote or workshop, contact Caroline at [email protected] the show

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if we’ve been taught to set goals the wrong way all along?In this episode, I sit down with Caroline Adams Miller, a pioneering expert in positive psychology and bestselling author of Big Goals.Caroline’s work has transformed how the world approaches goal setting—from vague wishes to science-backed strategies that actually work.She’s coached leaders, elite athletes, and mission-driven humans on how to set meaningful, gutsy goals that change lives—and in this conversation, she shares her full framework.Here’s what we cover:Why SMART goals are outdated and what to use insteadHow to get into a state of joy and gratitude before setting big goalsThe full breakdown of Caroline’s BRIDGE method for goal achievementHow to build grit (and why alcohol may be getting in your way)What most people get wrong when making high-stakes decisionsWhy women need to lift each other more than ever—and how men can helpIf you're ready to ditch playing small and start building a life of purpose, this episode will give you the tools—and mindset—to get there.You can connect with Caroline here - https://www.carolinemiller.comYou can Purchase your copy of Big Goals here - https://biggoalsbook.comYou can take the VIA Strength test here - https://www.viacharacter.orgIf you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at [email protected]: 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] the show

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if joy, not pressure, is the real marker of success?In this episode, I sit down with Renzie Hanham, a martial arts master and mental skills coach who has shaped Olympic athletes, business leaders, and everyday high performers.He’s one of the minds behind the globally respected Red to Blue framework, and someone I deeply admire for his wisdom, humility, and presence.We explore decades of experience across sport, leadership, and life, and how to stay grounded through it all.Here’s what we cover:The daily rituals that keep Renzie mentally sharp and physically strong at nearly 80How the Red to Blue model helps people stay focused when pressure hitsLessons on grief, change, and staying connected as we grow olderWhy clarity, kindness, and acceptance are the keys to better relationshipsIf you're craving calm, clarity, and more meaning in how you lead and live, this episode is for you.Connect with Renzie on LinkedIn here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/renzie-hanham-3763944/?originalSubdomain=nzLearn more about the Red to Blue Framework here : https://gazing.com/red2blue/Learn about Renzie here : https://www.seidoshibu.co.nz/team/eiko-hanshi-renzie-hanhamIf you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at [email protected]: 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] the show