How to run a business with your spouse - our year in review

Join me at the 2026 Goal-setting Workshop here - jjlaughlin.com/2026goalsIn this episode of Lead On Purpose, I sit down with my partner in life and business, Caroline, for a conversation we usually have off camera.We look back on 2025 and reflect on what really went well, what didn’t, and the lessons we’ve learned from running a business together while building a life together.We talk openly about growth, pressure, boundaries, clarity, and why success often looks very different behind the scenes than it does on the outside. We also share a personal update that we haven’t spoken about publicly before.This episode is honest, reflective, and very real.What we cover:The biggest highs and hardest moments from 2025, personally and professionallyWhat running a business together has taught us about communication, boundaries, and trustThe pressure points that show up when work and life collide, and how we navigate themWhy clarity is so rare, how distraction keeps people stuck, and what actually helpsThe lessons we’re taking into 2026, and how reflection creates better goalsA personal milestone that made 2025 one we’ll never forgetIf you’re building something meaningful, navigating a relationship alongside ambition, or simply wanting to reflect before setting your next goals, this conversation will give you perspective, reassurance, and a few hard truths you might need to hear.Here is the list of book recommendations:Habits of High Performers – James LaughlinMain Street Millionaire – Cody SanchezUnreasonable Hospitality – Will GuidaraThe Alchemist – Paulo CoelhoVisualize – Maya RaichooraThe Untethered Soul – Michael A. SingerBreaking the Habit of Being Yourself – Dr. Joe DispenzaThe Wealth Money Can’t Buy – Robin SharmaThrough Shifts and Shocks – Steve VamosThe Psychology of Money – Morgan HouselIf 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