Live Inspired Podcast With John O'leary

Eight years ago, I had the privilege of sharing the stage with Brené Brown and speaking to the leadership team at Southwest Airlines. Visiting with Brené was a once in a lifetime experience. Having lunch with Southwest President and CEO Herb Kelleher was an honor. But one of the greatest gifts from that day was a friendship that was planted and blossomed afterwards. Let me explain.

Country music star Granger Smith is known for his chart-topping hits that include “Backroad Song” and “Happens Like That”, but on a sunny June day in 2019, Granger faced a devastating loss that is every parent’s worst nightmare. While outside playing with his three children, Granger’s youngest son three-year-old River wandered off. Moments later, Granger found River face down in their pool, unconscious. Although they were able to revive his heart, the oxygen deprivation damaged little River’s brain beyond hope. Soon after burying his youngest child, images of the tragedy haunt Granger as he faced debilitating parenting guilt. Although he found himself in a dark pit of grief, that’s not where his story ends. Today, Granger joins us to share how he found himself caught in a runaway river of grief that he could not escape and how he discovered the purpose of his suffering: to bring comfort, hope, and encouragement to anyone who has ever suffered. My friends, through Granger's vulnerability, we're reminded that l

"Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into water, the actions of individuals can have far reaching effects that change the world" -Dalai Lama Today, be reminded of the magnificent power of your life to influence change for good. It turns out regardless of our age, status or job title, that the ripples created by our actions truly do have the ability to impact lives around the world, across the street and across the aisle. Not sure when to start? Start today. Not sure where to start? Start with the reflection in the mirror.

Lara Love Hardin is a four-time New York Times bestselling collaborative writer… yet for years, she lived in constant fear that someone would Google her and uncover her checkered past. When a worsening addiction from prescribed painkillers lead to smoking heroin, Lara began stealing neighbors’ credit cards and other identifying information to buy groceries and gas after her cash went to buying drugs. Caught, Lara was convicted of 32 felonies and was sent to a year in County Jail, drug treatment and supervised probation. Today, Lara joins us to share her downward spiral from soccer mom to opioid addict to jailhouse shot-caller and her unlikely comeback as a highly successful ghostwriter. Hear Lara share how she learned to forgive herself and others, navigate life as a felon on probation, prove to herself that she is more good than bad, and much more. My friends, today’s conversation is about lying and stealing. But more importantly it’s about healing, redemption and how we all have the power to rewrite our nar

For those desiring it, evidence is everywhere of heroes, of possibility, of beauty, and of the power of a unified community being used for good. Flourishing individually, encouraging others, and connecting in community is what we strive to foster at Live Inspired. It is likely why you listen to our podcasts, read our materials, and share our posts. And it’s why we want to give you an exciting opportunity to go even deeper via our new online community called Live Inspired Together. It’s our own little corner of the internet absent the negativity found elsewhere. It’s our Live Inspired homebase where you and I can connect – and it’s packed with inspirational content, virtual gatherings, and curated opportunities to serve.  It’s designed to help you embrace the power of perspective, the gifts you already possess and the truth that your best days are yet to come.  It’s free. It’s awesome. And it is for you. Join me at Live Inspired Together by clicking the registration link below. My friends, what we focus on, gr

Travel journalist Jeff Jenkins didn't step foot on a plane until he was 20 years old, but once he did, he started living by his mantra: "Life begins where your comfort zone ends." As the host of the new National Geographic show Never Say Never, Jeff travels the world testing the limits of his physical abilities -- from attempting to climb 70-foot mountain faces, to rafting class 5 rapids, to sailing in a windstorm at the end of the world. Throughout his global odyssey Jeff makes deep connections with locals and learns not just about the world, but also about himself. Today, Jeff shares his personal transformation from a novice traveler to a globetrotting journalist. His heartfelt story and infectious enthusiasm will leave you believing in your own potential and eager to embark on new adventures. My friends, leave your passports behind as Jeff takes us on an amazing adventure, reminding us all that life's greatest joys lie beyond our comfort zones.

“What’s the kindest thing someone did for you…who didn’t even know you?” I was asked this unusual question during a recent interview.  Although the interviewer likely thought I’d share some story from my time in the hospital, the answer that came to mind actually occurred a decade after the accident. The undeserved and overwhelming generosity that was offered to me though, is something we can all learn from today. Let me explain.

Katie Collier is a renowned chef, entrepreneur and true visionary behind the award-winning Italian concept restaurant known as Katie's Pizza and Pasta Osteria. At 24 years old, Katie fearlessly embarked on a mission to introduce handcrafted, artisanal Neapolitan pizza to the vibrant city and her hometown of St. Louis. And yet personally, addiction had taken hold of her life, threatening to shatter her dreams and everything she had built. Feeling broken and alone, Katie reached out for help, determined to reclaim her life and reignite the fire within her. Today, Katie is celebrating more than 12 years of sobriety, three successful Katie’s Pizza and Pasta locations and a booming national frozen pizza delivery service. Join us as Katie shares her incredible journey to recovery, the pivotal role her family has played in her success and her unwavering commitment to creating moments of joy and connection through her culinary creations and warm hospitality. My friends, this conversation is reminder of the transforma

Brené Brown reminds us that the willingness to show up changes us by making us a little braver each time. It also makes us a little more compassionate to others, a little more grateful for gifts and a little more cognizant of what matters most. My friends, I can’t say no to my mom. And that’s a good thing because every time I’m with her it’s obvious to me – and now, after this episode, to you- how our lives are so much richer when we say yes to doing a little more and loving the one in front of us.

What happens when we die? Is there another life? Why are we here? These are questions we’ve wrestled with since the dawn of humanity. As the author of the New York Times bestselling book Imagine Heaven, John Burke has spent more than three decades studying firsthand accounts of individuals who’ve returned from the brink of death. These awe-inspiring experiences have been shared by people of all ages and cultures, including doctors, college professors, and bank presidents, revealing striking commonalities. Today, John joins us to share his journey from being a skeptical agnostic to a firm believer, along with numerous gripping stories of near-death experiences and what they mean for us. Whether you have pondered the mysteries of life after death or seek solace after the loss of a loved one, this conversation is for you.

One of my favorite expression all kids use is: “I want a Do-Over.” I hear it after beating my kids in a fierce match of ping pong, or after one of my sons beats another in an intense game of basketball, or after Grace beats her brothers in a friendly (frequently turning violent) game of Sorry. It may sound childlike to insist on a “Do-Over,” but embracing the potential within the expression could be transformative for adults, too.  Let me explain.

Alex Sheen is on a mission to better humanity through promises made and promises kept. As the founder of the social movement and nonprofit “because I said I would,” Alex believes individuals can create a world where promises are kept, fostering trust, empathy, and positive change. Inspired by his father’s legacy, Alex has distributed more than 14 million “promise cards” to 178 countries with the intention of bridging the gap between intention and action. Today, Alex shares how his father’s accountability and commitment shaped him, how promises are more than just words—they are commitments that shape our character and define our relationships— and what it means for each of us. My friends, in a society where it’s easy to leave ourselves and others disappointed with broken commitments, this conversation will remind you of the life-changing impact we can make simply by keeping our word.

My friends, tomorrow you and I will have the opportunity to participate fully once again in life. March with me, will you? Choose to not merely watch passively, but to engage actively. Choose to put your swimsuit back on and jump into the pool. Choose to lift your voice, sing your song and march in your parade. Choose the joy you experienced as a kid! If you truly want to love life, determine to engage in it, give it all you’ve got and love it with a passion. Because life truly does give back, many times over, what you put into it. Not just on the 4th of July, but every day of the year.

Greg LeMond has revolutionized the sport of cycling. As one of the most iconic cyclists in history, Greg is the sole American to clinch the Tour de France, not just once but three times. Today, Greg takes us on a journey behind the scenes of his life and career, unveiling his intense rivalries with cycling’s finest and how a near-fatal hunting accident reshaped his purpose both personally and professionally. And yet, Greg's quest for greatness extends far beyond personal triumph. He is a fierce advocate for the integrity of the sport—a visionary who calls for unyielding anti-doping measures. My friends, this conversation transcends the sport of cycling. Greg is a true champion that has rewritten the boundaries of what it means to be truly great. If you’re searching for an upstanding model of courage, resilience, integrity, determination, and overcoming all odds, this conversation is for you.

“Who’s your favorite?” Several years ago my boys asked me this question while I was driving them to school. They were talking about superheroes and sharing their favorites. The boys shared names like Green Lantern, Batman and a little rodent with a big mouth named Rocket Raccoon (don’t ask!). After sharing that mine was Superman, I was stunned to learn that the fellas had reached the ripe old ages of 7, 9 and 11 without watching this classic. That evening, we made popcorn and watched the movie as a family. The kids loved it – and him. Afterwards, they were all humming the Superman theme song as they flew down the hall toward their rooms. While watching the movie, I realized that Superman wasn’t just showing me how to fight crime in a fictional world, but how to parent, serve and lead in the one in which we live. Here are four lessons from Superman for parents (interchange “parents’ with friends, spouses, leaders) that apply to us all.

Britt Frank is a trauma specialist, licensed psychotherapist, and author of The Science of Stuck. Committed to unraveling the myths that keep us stuck and stressed, Britt offers a fresh perspective on mental health and well-being. Drawing from her personal story of struggle, insightful clinical research, and the powerful concept of “micro-yesses,” Britt joins us for a down-to-earth conversation that will boldly inspire you to break through whatever is holding you back in life. My friends, no matter how successful or high achieving, everyone experiences moments of stagnation or feelings of being stuck in our lives—in our relationships, careers, our bodies, habits, and more. This conversation is for you.

“An arch consists of two weaknesses, which, leaning on each other becomes a strength.” -Leonardo da Vinci With yesterday’s celebration of Father’s Day, I’d like to celebrate the man who was strength for me when I was weak, the model of love he radiated so brilliantly and the reason my family and I are more certain than ever that our Dad really is a superhero. Let me explain.

Chris Didier is turning his own heartbreak and pain into heartfelt purpose. In 2020, Chris’ son Zach was a 17-year-old star athlete, exceptional student, friend to everyone, and above all, a loving son. After being contacted by a drug dealer on the social media app Snapchat, Zach consumed what he thought was be a legitimate pharmaceutical grade pill. Instead, Zach had unknowingly ingested a counterfeit pill made with a lethal amount of fentanyl. Today, Chris works tirelessly in his advocacy to bring awareness and education of the dangers of illicit synthetics. He has partnered with numerous school districts, and state and federal agencies across the United States in an effort to saves lives. Join us as Chris brings life-saving awareness to fentanyl’s deadly role in our communities, and learn how by dedicating himself to advocacy, it has helped Chris navigate his grief, find healing, and bring about meaningful change. My friends, with the CDC calling illicit fentanyl the leading cause of death to Americans age

It has long been an axiom of mine that the little things are infinitely the most important.” -Sir Arthur Conan Doyle What are you most looking forward to this season of summer? Big moments worthy of celebrating, indeed. Yet, as we step into this season of summer and further down the path through life, recognize the gift of the ordinary.

Aiming to serve others, Scott Brickell has spent more than three decades guiding some of my favorite artists to develop successful and long-lasting careers. From successful Christian bands like MercyMe and Switchfoot to solo artists like Phil Wickham, Micah Tyler and Matthew West, Scott’s artists have more than fifty number one singles, numerous gold, platinum, and multi-platinum records, and multiple Grammy, Dove, and American Music awards. Today, Scott shares his accidental introduction to the music industry and the journey from unpaid road manager to launching his own management company, BrickHouse Entertainment. My friends, if you’ve ever wanted a behind-the-scenes peek into the innerworkings of the music industry, this conversation is for you.