Mental Toughness Is a Skill, Not a Gift with Dr Braden Brown

In this episode I sit down with Dr Braden Brown, Director of Mental Health at BYU and mental performance specialist, to explore the mental skills that help us perform at our best.Drawing on his experience as a former college football player and his work with high-performing athletes, Braden shares practical tools for managing pressure, overcoming self-doubt and building mental resilience.What we cover:How to manage pressure, nerves and self-doubtWhy psychological flexibility is key to performanceHow mindfulness can strengthen your mental gameWhat separates the world's greatest performersHow to reset and refocus after making a mistakeWhether you're an athlete, leader or simply want to perform better under pressure, this conversation offers practical tools for strengthening your mental game.Learn more about Braden here - https://b4lsac.byu.edu/directory/braden-brown-phdFollow Braden on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/drbradenbrown/Connect with Braden on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/braden-brown-phd-005ba544/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 Habits of High Performers 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

In this episode I sit down with Ezra DeWolfe, founder of ADHD Tools, to explore ADHD in high performers and why traditional productivity advice doesn’t always work.Ezra shares how ADHD can affect focus, time awareness, consistency and burnout, and why understanding how your brain works can help you perform at your best.What we cover:Why high performers can go years without recognising ADHDThe connection between ADHD and burnoutWhy traditional productivity advice can failTime blindness, task paralysis and hyperfocusHow to build consistency without relying on motivationThe connection between ADHD, dopamine and addictionHow ADHD can impact relationshipsWhether you have ADHD or simply want to understand it better, this conversation offers a practical perspective on working with your brain rather than against it.Learn more about ADHD Tools here - https://www.theadhdtools.comSeth Godin’s interview on the Faster Than Normal podcast - https://www.fasterthannormal.com/ftn-025-seth-godin-on-adhd-will-power-triggers-and-changing-your-life/Connect with Ezra on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/theadhdtools/?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 Habits of High Performers 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

In this episode I sit down with creativity explorer, author and global keynote speaker Fredrik Härén to explore what it really means to be creative and how we can create the conditions for better ideas.Drawing on 25 years of studying creativity and interviewing thousands of creative people around the world, Fredrik shares why creativity can be developed, the importance of curiosity, and why we need space to turn inspiration into action.What we cover:Why creativity can be learned and developedHow curiosity helps us generate better ideasWhy constantly consuming inspiration can hold us backHow to create an environment that supports creativityWhy stepping away can help overcome creative blocksHow to seize opportunities without constantly hustlingWhether you consider yourself creative or not, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on curiosity, ideas and creating space for your best thinking.Grab a copy of Fredrik’s book here - https://bookhero.co.nz/products/the-unvisible-by-fredrik-haren-9789814954556Learn more about Fredrik here - https://www.fredrikharen.comConnect with Fredrik on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrikharen/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 Habits of High Performers 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

In this episode I sit down with Cambridge University researcher and lecturer Itamar Shatz to explore why we procrastinate, what’s really happening beneath the surface, and how we can stop relying on willpower to get things done.Together, we unpack why procrastination isn’t simply laziness, how fear, uncertainty and perfectionism can keep us stuck, and why distractions like social media are often a symptom rather than the real problem. Itamar also shares practical strategies from his book Solving Procrastination for making action easier and creating systems that work with our behaviour rather than against it.What we cover:Why we procrastinate, even when we know exactly what we should be doingHow perfectionism, fear and uncertainty can make procrastination worseWhy social media may not be the real reason you're avoiding important tasksHow breaking big goals into tiny, manageable steps can make it easier to take actionWhy systems, reducing friction and the “reality rule” can be more effective than relying on willpowerWhether you're putting off a career change, struggling to start an important project, avoiding your tax return or simply finding yourself scrolling instead of taking action, this conversation offers a practical, research-based approach to understanding procrastination, and finally doing something about it.Grab a copy of Itamar’s latest book here - https://solvingprocrastination.com/book/Learn more about Itamar here - https://itamarshatz.meConnect with Itamar on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/itamarshatz/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 Habits of High Performers 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

In this episode I sit down with epigenetic longevity strategist Chris Barnes to explore how our genes influence our health, and why our genetics don't necessarily determine our future.Together, we unpack the science of epigenetics, how everyday choices like sleep, nutrition, movement and stress can influence gene expression, and why a personalised approach to health may be more effective than blindly following the latest diet, supplement or longevity trend.What we cover:What epigenetics is and how your lifestyle can influence gene expressionWhy your genetics aren't necessarily your health destinyHow genetic and epigenetic testing can help personalise your approach to healthWhy more supplements, biohacking and health data aren't always betterThe simple daily habits Chris believes can support long-term health and longevityWhether you're focused on high performance, longevity or simply having more energy for the people and things that matter most, this conversation is a fascinating look at why understanding your individual biology could help you make better decisions about your health.Learn more about Chris here - https://chrisbarneswellness.com.au/about-wellness-programs/Follow Chris on IG - https://www.instagram.com/chrisbarneswellness/Connect with Chris on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-barnes-wellness/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 Habits of High Performers 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

In this episode I sit down with former Navy SEAL Jonathan Wilson to explore what truly separates those who succeed under extreme pressure from those who don't, and why mental health may be the next frontier of high performance.Together, we discuss the mindset required to survive one of the toughest military selection processes in the world, the hidden cost of elite performance, and Jonathan's deeply personal journey from combat, loss and depression to building technology that can detect declining mental wellbeing before it reaches crisis point.What we cover:The mindset that separates those who succeed under extreme pressureWhy elite performance often comes with a hidden personal costHow wearable technology could predict declining mental health before crisisPractical habits to improve your mental wellbeing, including sleep, breathwork and gratitudeJonathan's journey through purpose, faith and finding meaning after military serviceWhether you're leading a business, performing at a high level, or simply trying to take better care of your mental wellbeing, this conversation offers a powerful reminder that sustainable performance starts long before burnout becomes visible.Follow Jonathan on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/jdbemore/?hl=enFollow Jonathan on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathandeanwilson/Learn more about INVIMH here - https://invimh.comIf 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 Habits of High Performers 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

In this episode I sit down with psychotherapist Rachel to explore why your nervous system may be the hidden factor shaping your success, stress and wellbeing.Together, we unpack why high performers often live from the mind instead of the body, how unresolved patterns keep us stuck, and why slowing down can feel so uncomfortable. Rachel also guides me through a powerful live somatic exercise that completely shifted my perspective. What we cover:Why your nervous system determines what you can hold in lifeHow trauma and childhood experiences shape ambition and stressWhy many high performers tie their identity to achievementPractical tools to regulate your nervous system and perform sustainablyIf you've ever felt driven but exhausted, this conversation will give you a completely new way of understanding yourself. Learn more about Rachel here - https://www.theembodiedmind.com.au/about-rachelFollow Rachel on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/rachelpfeiffer/?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 Habits of High Performers 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

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with New Zealand Commonwealth Games medallist, international judo representative, and high-performance coach Jason Koster to explore what it really takes to sustain excellence over decades.We discuss the power of simple daily habits, mental resilience, visualisation, coaching with empathy, building high-performing teams, setting uncompromising standards, and why success is built by focusing on the process rather than the outcome.Whether you're leading a team, striving for personal excellence, or navigating a challenge of your own, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom on discipline, resilience, leadership, and performing at your best when it matters most.Learn more about Jason here - https://pejudo.com/our-team/Follow Jason on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/jasonkosterjudo/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

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with functional health expert Dr. Anna Marie Frank to explore how your nervous system, mindset, and body work together to shape your health, energy, and performance.We discuss the hidden signs of stress, practical ways to regulate your nervous system, improve sleep and gut health, overcome burnout, and harness the power of your thoughts to influence your wellbeing.Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, looking to optimise your health, or simply wanting to perform at your best, this conversation is packed with practical tools and actionable insights.Grab your copy oDr Anna Marie’s book here -https://happywholeyou.com/collections/education/products/stop-bullying-yourselfTake the Quantum Alignment Assessment here - https://happywholeyou.com/pages/quantumalignmentassessmentdr-annamarieFollow Dr. Anna Marie on IG here - https://www.instagram.com/happywholeyou/Bemer PEMF Mat link: https://flowidaho.bemergroup.comIf 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

In this episode of the Habits of High Performers Podcast, I sit down with four-time world champion weightlifter and creator of the Happy Body programme, Jerzy Gregorek, to explore why the best life is built through hard choices, daily discipline, and relentless self-improvement.Jerzy shares the mindset that has guided him from escaping communist Poland to becoming one of the world's leading experts in longevity, strength, and healthy ageing. We discuss the power of micro-improvements, lifelong learning, building a resilient body, and why strength, flexibility, and consistency matter more than ever as we age.Whether you want to perform at a higher level, stay strong for life, or simply become a better version of yourself each day, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and timeless lessons.Grab your copy of the Happy Body book here - https://thehappybody.comLearn more about Jerzy here - https://thehappybody.com/about-the-creators-jerzy-gregorek-aniela-gregorek/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