Live Inspired Podcast With John O'leary

When fires ignite, cancers attack, or tragedies strike, we lean into our community for support, prayers and love. But often when the invisible challenges of depression, bipolar disorder, or mental illness arise, we feel we’ve got to quietly shoulder the weight alone. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. And because my family, the families of my co-workers, and the families of innumerable friends have been directly impacted by both mental health challenges and suicide, we wanted to bring to light what too often remains castigated to the dark. Listen to Dennis Gillan's story on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 46 here. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Mike Kai is a pastor, leadership expert and host of the Pound for Pound Leader podcast. From humble + challenging beginnings, Mike learned firsthand that in order to lead a team, cultivating a healthy culture is key. Whether you're leading a small family or large company, today's conversation will help you practice excellence (not perfection!), move forward with intention and build sustainable change in order to leave a lasting legacy. Join us to learn real-life examples and practical principles that will inspire you to grow in any season of life and be reminded that the best of our days remain ahead. SHOW NOTES: The only astronaut from Hawaii, Ellison Onizuka, inspired Mike to pursue his dream to be a fighter pilot. Mike's kuleana: After learning he was becoming a young father, Mike abandoned his dream to provide for his family, losing sight of his purpose.  How Mike grew during a turbulent season: Discovered a relationship with God, cultivating self-worth and pursued a purpose, read dozens of books includi

Thebest and most meaningful aspects of our lives are discovered in the seemingly ordinary experiences, tender moments of grace, and ordinary human interactions with others throughout the day. Today, I share the story of a young girl I met at a burn camp, and the reminder I shared that the beauty of scars, the resiliency they possess, and ultimately, that she is being prepared for something bigger and better than she can currently fathom. As you prepare to sprint into your day, land the mighty projects, race the kids out the door, or successfully check off that long to-do list, don’t miss the fact that the real gift of this day isn’t found in getting through it. The best of this day will be realized in slowing down long enough to savor the experiences, conversations, and moments that actually matter throughout it.

Ever feel over-scheduled, over-committed and over-tired in today's world? That we do so much, yet somehow, feel we're not doing enough? Christy Wright, bestselling author of Take Back Your Time and host of The Christy Wright Show, is an expert in cultivating balance, ditching distractions and prioritizing what actually matters. If you or someone you know is seeking a guilt-free tool to cut out what doesn't matter, prioritize the things that do and take back your time and your life, this episode is for you. SHOW NOTES: "Making it" because of struggle: Growing up, how Christy's mom launched a small bakery business was pivotal in teaching character, integrity, persistence and work ethic her formative years. Before becoming a speaker full-time with Ramsey, Christy said "yes" before knowing how and stepped in for Rachel Cruz while she was a project manager. "Some of the most incredible career opportunities are not positions that are posted but problems that are solved." - Sheryl Sandburg "If you wait until you ha

The most important aspect of any work is seeing how it serves the larger community. Join me as I share about a cherished, irreplaceable colleague and the reminder that leaders impact most by showing others they matter. And today, my friends, I remind you of the fact that you, too, are absolutely irreplaceable. Your work matters, your dreams matter, your prayers matter, your words matter, your actions matter. Your life most certainly matters. You are irreplaceable. And in a marketplace that sometimes forgets it, act like it.

Bob Costas has earned 29 Emmy awards - more than any other sports broadcaster. He is also the only person to have won in news, sports and entertainment. So, what do Bob and I have in common? Bob was mentored by my dear friend, Jack Buck. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation as Bob reflects on his humble beginnings + his most iconic interviews and memorable moments from 25 years of covering the greatest events of our time. Watch the interview on Facebook or YouTube. If you enjoyed hearing from my hometown friend... You’ll love our St. Louis playlist featuring iconic change agents, sports legends and entrepreneurs from the Gateway to the West.  Listen to the St. Louis playlist now. BOB COSTAS' LIVE INSPIRED 7 Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read? A. Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger. Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? A. A sense of wonder. Q. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity t

Recently, I was nearing the end of hectic week of speaking events and it was obvious I was getting sick with a sinus infection. What began as a raspy voice when I started the speech turned into a whisper by the end of it. By the time I got home that evening, my voice was completely gone. What started as a sinus infection, manifested into a double ear infection, lead to swollen, irritated throat and eventually total laryngitis. Today, I share the five lessons I learned from losing my voice.

Alison Levine knows what it’s like to survive in the world’s toughest environments. She served as team captain of the first American Women's Everest Expedition, scaled the "Seven Summits," and skied to the North and South Poles. Join us to hear Alison recount her history-making expeditions, the lessons in leadership they've taught her and how you can achieve more than you ever thought possible. SHOW NOTES: “Technique and ability alone do not get you to the top—it is the willpower that is the most important. This willpower you cannot buy with money or be given by others—it rises from your heart.” “We can’t control the environment; all we can control is the way we react to it.” Adventure Grand Slam: Alison served as team captain of the first American Women’s Everest Expedition, climbed the highest peak on each continent and skied to both the North and South Poles—a feat known as the Adventure Grand Slam, which only twenty people in the world have achieved. Alison is the first American to complete a 600-mile tr

After yet another catastrophe devastating our neighbors in Haiti, I wanted to share with you the amazing work being done by an organization striving to make a difference there. Today, I share a story was shared with me by last week's Live Inspired Podcast guest Tim Brand, Founder of Many Hands for Haiti. They are making a profound, positive impact during a time when need is so overwhelming. It’s a message that will remind you of the ripple effect of your life. Even when you don’t see it. Learn more about Tim Brand + the life-changing work his organization is doing in Haiti on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 388 here.

Headlines often leave us feeling overwhelmed and like we can’t make a positive impact. Today's guest reminds us that we can absolutely make a transformative impact through love in action. Tim Brand founded Many Hands for Haiti after a life-changing mission trip to the small, tropical country. A decade later, they've served 7.5 million meals, educated 1,200 children, constructed 990 safe homes... and so much more. His strategy focuses on six key elements in order to bring about lasting change: education leadership development agronomy (soil management and crop production) safe homes medical assistance economic development Don’t miss this conversation. It will inspire you to join me in supporting this organization that is caring for our neighbors after yet another devastating earthquake again this month. SHOW NOTES If you didn't grow up with a strong foundation, are you going to be that for your family and those in your community? At 18 years old, Tim planned his first mission trip to Haiti after being inspi

“When he worked, he really worked. But when he played, he really, really PLAYED!”― Dr. Seuss My friends, doesn’t it seem children have more fun than adults? They smile far more often, skip more frequently, laugh a bit louder and enjoy life a lot more.  Today, I share how my daughter reminded me how fun travel can be and how good life still is during our annual tradition.

Jim McCloskey founded Centurion Ministries, the first organization devoted to exonerating wrongfully convicted prisoners serving life sentences or sentenced to death. Jim has helped free 65 innocent people. Today, Jim shares how his path was first one of destruction, followed by redemption and only then was he able to begin his amazing, life-giving work. Tune in for Jim’s awe-inspiring reflections on the emotional responses from his clients. In hearing his telling of the laborious process of re-investigating cases, you will be reminded of the value of hope and sacrifice. Don’t miss my conversation with this dedicated advocate for justice. SHOW NOTES: The National Registry of Exonerations tracks over 2,800 cases of individuals who were wrongly convicted of crimes, based on new evidence. Centurion Ministries has taken on over 80 cases, freeing 66 people.  Collectively, these individuals have served 1,488 years in prison. When Jim's mother contracted polio in 1947, his father modeled the importance of respondin

As the school year begins, I wanted to take a moment to celebrate a teacher taught me invaluable lessons on school and life. Mrs. Cathy Collins showed me that regardless the subject we may teach, there is no finer foundation, no clearer lesson plan, and no more effective motivation than love.

Design expert Ingrid Fetell Lee has spent over a decade researching the relationship between happiness + our surroundings. She's worked with iconic brands such as Target and Kate Spade and her wildly popular TED Talk has been viewed more than 17 million times. Today's conversation will empower you to be more intentional on what joy means to you and dedicating yourself to finding more joy in life and at work. Join us to hear Ingrid's actionable tips to find joy all around you and to be reminded of the impact joy has on your health, resilience and well-being. SHOW NOTES: By nurturing her creative spirit, Ingrid credits her Nana as the reason she became inquisitive of the power within the physical world. “We think of joy as this light, fluffy, airy thing but joy is so integral to what it means to be a healthy, fulfilled human.” Moments of joy have a positive effect on physical health, productivity, creativity and resilience. What is joy? An intense momentary experience of positive emotion. When happiness is pin

Tom Vanderbilt, New York Times bestselling author of Traffic, is known for writing about the mundane to the obscure, shedding light on surprising patterns of human behavior. Through his extensive research + first-hand experience, Tom shares the remarkable benefits of pursuing new skills and hobbies, the pressure-free approach we had as children and its transformative impact on our lives. Whether you're 17 or 70, today's conversation will inspire you to take the next right step in unlocking the joys that come with starting something new. SHOW NOTES: While at University of Wisconsin – Madison, Tom dropped out of the journalism department finding working at the school newspaper was the best way to learn the craft of journalism and allowing time to study other intriguing subjects. Tom’s work focuses on insightful research of everyday life such as design, technology, science, and culture and how things really work. New York Times bestseller Traffic is an eye-opening investigation at human behavior while driving.

Dara Torres made  history as the first American swimmer to compete in five Olympic Games and again as the oldest swimmer to win an Olympic medal at age 41 in 2008.   Today, Dara shares the "heart-racing, thrilling" feeling of earning her first medal in 1984, what it felt like to defy expectations with two comebacks and how she balanced her career while being a mother.   With the 2020 Olympics in full swing, this conversation  continues the celebration of inspiring moments in global sports. SHOW NOTES: Before becoming a 12-time Olympic medalist, Dara recognized her love for swimming at a YMCA competition at 12 years old. Caught up in excitement of the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, her first, Dara recalls how rival Jill Sterkel helped her refocus after swimming poorly during qualifying. Heart-racing, thrilling, adrenaline-filled for days: Dara shares the indescribable feeling of winning her first gold in 1984 and her appreciation of her 2008 silver. At University of Florida, Dara earned 28 All-America

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 You won’t believe the impact the sweet, simple gift these Starbucks baristas gave had on their customer. This is beautiful reminder that you matter and your actions and words shape the lives of those around you. Don’t underestimate that doing little things well greatly elevates the lives of those around you. *** This story was shared with me by my friend Howard Behar, retired president of Starbucks. He saw Starbucks grow from a couple dozen stores to more than 15,000 around the world. How did he do it? By reminding his team they were in the People business serving coffee. Click here to hear my conversation with Howard on ep. 378.

Howard Behar, retired president of Starbucks, joined the company when they had 28 stores and grew that number to over 15,000 during his tenure. A successful leader, speaker, author and mentor, Howard is best known for his generosity and integrity. Hear how Howard influenced the growth of Starbucks, his tips on how to be a servant leader + why leading with values is the best recipe for success. Rewatch the livestream on Facebook or YouTube SHOW NOTES: At  15 years old, Howard's father left his family in Bulgaria to immigrant to Seattle where he saved his money from pushing carts in Pike Place Market to open a small grocery store. Not everything we do in life do you need to be paid for. By not charging a struggling family for strawberries, Howard's father taught him a valuable lesson that influenced how Howard began his work at Starbucks. Dreaming of the benefits he'd offer employees if he owned a company, Howard noticed how in sync they were with Howard Schultz, recognized as the modern-day founder of Starbuc

From shaming and shunning to mocking and ridiculing, it’s stunning how many relationships have been damaged amongst people with opposing political views in recent years. To begin healing and finding meaningful ways to move forward together, we’ve invited Apolitical unification expert Peter Montoya to join us. First, Peter shares the facts and landscape for what has led us to the growing divide. Then, he offers practical strategies to improve your relationships now. Today's conversation is a reminder that real change starts within each of us. Only then can our communities, nation and, ultimately, our world change. It starts with us. SHOW NOTES: One third of Americans believe we’re headed towards a second Civil War. Peter describes this current season of divisiveness and polarization as a “cold” social war, unlike the Civil War in the 1860s. During the global pandemic the usual large national events of sporting champions, awards shows that rallied us together were missing, causing politics to become a way of l

In the midst of managing the complexities of life, what we often need most is a reminder that there is reason for hope. Today, John shares a much-needed reminder from someone who may have needed it even more than him. If you have challenges, this reminder will help you prosper and see the good to come. Learn more about resilience, faith, courage, redemption, family, love and life from John's mom, Susan O'Leary here.