5 Best Books to Read in 2025 (That Will Change Your Life)

Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comIn this 1:1 episode, I’m sharing a short excerpt from one of the chapters in my upcoming book Habits of High Performers—a section called Do The Work.It’s a small glimpse into the mindset that high performers rely on when motivation runs out and the real work begins.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why ultra-endurance athlete Dean Karnazes is the definition of discipline—and how he built itThe 4 mental habits Dean uses to conquer physical and emotional limitsWhat it really means to focus on the next step, not the finish lineWhy high performers always play the long game—and how you can tooThis is the first time I’ve shared any part of the book publicly—and I’m excited for you to hear it.Quick note: the podcast will be taking a short break as I head to South Africa with Caroline and Finn for some much-needed time offline. But I’ll be back soon—energised and ready to go.If this resonates, be sure to pre-order Habits of High Performers at thehabitbook.com.If you’re interested in having me deliver a keynote or workshop for your team contact Caroline at [email protected] me a personal text message- Pre-order my new book TODAY -  www.thehabitbook.comSupport the show

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com What if the story you’ve been telling yourself… isn’t true?In this moving and eye-opening episode, I sit down with award-winning journalist and author Jehan Casinader, whose book This Is Not How It Ends shook me—in the best way.We explore how the stories we carry (often from childhood) shape how we live, love, lead… and burn out.We dive into:The one question Jehan asks to instantly shift his mindsetHow loneliness and overwork hide behind outward successWhy your identity is not your job—and how to let goA simple 4-part framework for storytelling that connects and influencesWhat’s broken in modern content creation—and how to stand out with substanceJehan opens up with honesty and heart. If you’ve ever felt like your life looks great on paper but feels off on the inside—this one’s for you.Learn more about Jehan here - https://jehancasinader.co.nz/about/Grab a copy of Jehan’s book here - https://jehancasinader.co.nz/book/Connect with Jehan on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jehancasinader/Book Jehan to speak at your next event here - https://jehancasinader.co.nzIf 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- Pre-order my new book TODAY -  www.thehabitbook.com - 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 1:1 episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of an event I hosted last week with some of New Zealand’s most inspiring voices—Razor Robertson, Mea Motu, Silvana Schenone, and Zion Armstrong.Each of them shared a moment where someone elevated them—and now, I’m passing those lessons on to you.In this episode, you’ll discover:The story of how world champ boxer Mea Motu turned trauma into power—and what it means to live with no fearWhy Silvana Schenone believes in gently pushing people into discomfortThe powerful reminder from All Blacks coach Razor Robertson about playing freelyHow former Adidas president Zion Armstrong broke cultural norms to do what was rightIf you want to lead with purpose and lift others while you climb—this one’s for you.Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comHave me deliver a keynote or workshop to your team - email Caroline at [email protected] to the episode I did with Zion here - https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/lead-on-purpose-with-james-laughlin/id1547874035?i=1000630978507Send me a personal text message- Pre-order my new book TODAY -  www.thehabitbook.comSupport the show

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com Think ADHD is just for kids? Think again.In this powerful episode, I sit down with ADHD strategist Skye Waterson to unpack what adult ADHD really looks like—and why so many high performers are missed or misdiagnosed.We explore:Why ADHD often hides in high achieversThe link between burnout and executive dysfunctionWhat dopamine has to do with motivationHow to build habits and structure that actually stickPractical tools like the Focus Filter and sensory rewardsIf you’ve ever felt scattered, time-blind, or stuck in shiny-object mode—this one’s for you.Learn more about Skye here - https://www.unconventionalorganisation.com/about-skye-watersonFollow Skye on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/unconventionalorganisation/Sky’s Focus Filter tool - https://www.unconventionalorganisation.com/the-adhd-focus-filterSky’s podcast – The ADHD Skills Lab - https://www.unconventionalorganisation.com/theadhdskillslabWebsite: 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- Pre-order my new book TODAY -  www.thehabitbook.com - 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.com5 Best Books to Read in 2025 (That Will Change Your Life)In this 1:1 episode, I’m sharing the 5 books that are shaping my 2025—and why they might just change your life too.From personal mastery to performance, longevity to leadership—these reads have shifted how I think, work, and live. If you want to grow this year, start with the right inputs. These are mine.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why The Wealth Money Can’t Buy might be Robin Sharma’s most important book yetThe single mindset shift from Essentialism that’ll change how you manage timeWhat I learnt about legacy and leadership from All Black legend Sam Whitelock’s autobiographyThe biohacking breakthroughs inside Tony Robbins’ 600+ page deep dive, Life ForceA sneak peek into my upcoming book, Habits of High Performers, and how to claim $450+ in launch bonusesIf you’re serious about growth this year, don’t just scroll—read.Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comHave me deliver a keynote or workshop to your team - email Caroline at [email protected] to the episode I did with Greg McKeown here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDX3h5Tx09M&list=PLwEV0R3KOLDBvJ3Wy6hdPZ_6yddT3lAIl&index=38 Send me a personal text message- Pre-order my new book TODAY -  www.thehabitbook.comSupport the show

Pre-order my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.com In a world divided by ego and isolation, Mike Robbins reminds us of what truly drives high performance: connection, courage, and humanity.Mike has spent over two decades inside Fortune 100 companies helping teams unlock extraordinary performance—not through pressure, but through purpose.In this conversation, we unpack his bestselling book We're All In This Together and explore what it really takes to build high-performing, values-driven teams in today’s hybrid, high-pressure world.But this isn’t just about better teamwork—it’s a call to lead with empathy, to embrace hard conversations, and to show up as your whole self.What we cover:Why belonging is the foundation of high performanceHow to build real trust in hybrid teamsThe truth about psychological safety (hint: it’s not comfort)How to give feedback that actually landsThe power of “sweaty-palm conversations”Appreciation vs recognition—why both matterWhy the best leaders lead with humility and humanityWhether you lead a team of 3 or a global company of 3,000—this episode will transform how you think about leadership, performance, and purpose.Learn more about Mike here - https://mike-robbins.comGrab a copy of Mike’s new book here - https://mike-robbins.com/books/Follow Mike on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/mikedrobbins/Connect with Mike on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrobbins/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- Pre-order my new book TODAY -  www.thehabitbook.com - 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.comFrom Good to Elite: The All Blacks’ Leadership BlueprintIn this solo episode, I share powerful behind-the-scenes insights from three of the greatest minds in sport: Scott Robertson (head coach of the All Blacks), Gilbert Enoka (former mental skills coach), and Sir Wayne Smith (former assistant coach of the All Blacks and head coach of the Black Ferns).We recently shared the stage at a special leadership event. What stood out wasn’t just their accolades—it was the mindset, culture, and clarity they live by.If you’re building a team, leading a company, or just want to level up in life—this one’s for you.In this episode, you'll learn:Why humour is a serious competitive edgeHow belonging boosts performance more than any techWhat radical clarity of success actually looks likeWhy high performers don’t suffer fools—and neither should youHow to set a standard and actually uphold itThis is a short, no-fluff episode packed with the exact thinking used by some of the most successful leaders in sport.Grab a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comHave me deliver a keynote or workshop to your team - email Caroline at [email protected] me a personal text message- Pre-order my new book TODAY -  www.thehabitbook.comSupport the show

Pre-order a copy of my new book Habits of High Performers here - www.thehabitbook.comSam Harvey went from being bullied in school to becoming one of the world’s top ultra marathon runners. In this conversation, we dive deep into how he built elite-level resilience, redefined pain, and created a career doing what most would call impossible.What we cover:The mental and physical demands of backyard ultrasHow Sam ran 101 hours with only micro-napsWhat separates high performers from the restWhy he walked away from a traditional careerHow trauma, doubt, and drive fuel his successThis is more than a conversation about running—it's a blueprint for turning struggle into strength. Don’t miss it.Learn more about Sam here - https://www.samharveyultra.comCheckout coaching with Sam here - https://www.samharveyultra.com/coachingFollow Sam on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/samharvey_cloudlander/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- Pre-order my new book TODAY -  www.thehabitbook.com - 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 today and learn the essential principles to thrive in life and work - www.thehabitbook.com Di Foster was told she had 12 months to live. That was 15 years ago.In this deeply moving conversation, Di shares how she rejected a terminal cancer diagnosis, removed herself from the medical system, and created her own path to radical remission—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.But this isn’t a conversation about illness. It’s about ownership. It’s about what happens when you take full responsibility for your mind, your health, and your life.What we cover:Why Di refused to "suffer" and instead chose joyThe 3 life-saving whispers she heard—and followedHow she reframed trauma, relationships, and self-perceptionWhy her conversation with death changed everythingHow presence, natural healing, and gratitude helped her defy the oddsDi’s approach to parenting, partnership, and building a values-driven businessDi is one of the most intentional, joyful, and fiercely real people I’ve ever had on the show. If you want a masterclass in emotional mastery, mindset, and living on purpose, this is it.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Di here - https://www.difoster.comFollow Di on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/difoster.live/Follow Di on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/di-foster/Listen to Di on Accidental Business Owners here - https://youtu.be/08ETxVufrSY?si=JKTr14CxWjjG8Lub 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- Pre-order my new book TODAY -  www.thehabitbook.com - 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 In a world where toxic workplaces are the norm, Kyle McDowell is leading a values-first revolution.Kyle spent decades inside Fortune 10 companies—leading tens of thousands of people—and what he learned will change how you lead forever.In this conversation, we explore his framework for transforming culture and leadership through The 10 WEs—a set of radical, clear, and actionable principles that drive high performance from the inside out.But this isn't just about better leadership at work—Kyle's approach impacts how you show up in life, relationships, and the world around you.What we cover:The biggest leadership lessons Kyle learned from toxic bossesWhy leading 20 people is no different from leading 20,000The true cost of toxic culture—and how it kills innovationThe 10 WEs: the foundation for values-based leadershipHow to own mistakes, pick each other up, and lead by exampleThe danger of rewarding busyness over outcomesWhy real culture change starts with the leaderThe power of authenticity and relatability to build trustHow these principles apply at home, not just at workWhether you're a CEO, coach, manager, or parent—this episode will challenge how you think about leadership and give you tools to lead with purpose and integrity.This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nzLearn more about Kyle here - https://kylemcdowellinc.comGrab your copy of Kyle’s book here - https://kylemcdowellinc.com/bestselling-book/Follow Kyle on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/kylemcdowellinc/Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylemcdowellinc/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, Send me a personal text message- Pre-order my new book TODAY -  www.thehabitbook.com - If you're interested in booking me for a keynote or workshop, contact Caroline at [email protected] the show