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August 24, 2025 61 mins

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 world


Shelly’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 world



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.

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