Live Inspired Podcast With John O'leary

Bethany Hamilton was just 13 years old when she became a household name after being attacked by a shark while surfing. She lost her arm and nearly her life, but just one month after the attack, returned to surfing. Today, 15 years later, Bethany is a professional surfer, contestant on Amazing Race, wife, mother and role model. Her amazing story has been shared in the award-winning biopic Soul Surfer and her new documentary Unstoppable. Today, Bethany shares her inspiring story with us firsthand. If you ever face a challenge (and we all do, right?) this episode is for you – Bethany will show you how to overcome with faith and gratitude. SHOW NOTES: The up-close and personal documentary Unstoppable was released in July 2019 and covers Bethany’s incredible journey from a girl through becoming a woman, a resilient athlete and mom. Watch the trailer here. Bethany and her husband Adam finished third in season 25 of CBS's reality television show Amazing Race and enjoyed tackling challenges together.  Bethany's mo

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments. Today's question was submitted by Live Inspired community member Michael S.  Michael S. asked: I am struggling to connect with my 16-year-old daughter. Any advice on a good book to read? Beneath that snarky teenage attitude, remains your little girl, desperately seeking approval, figuring out who she is, what matters to her, how she best fits in and how she can push the boundaries as far as possible.  Rather than providing a single book, I’d consider checking out any of the following ranging from very conservative to a bit more liberal, and from books for dads to one from a mother’s perspective: Be the Dad She Needs by Kevin Leman Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters by Meg Meeker Dial down the Drama by Collen O'Grady But Dad! (Gross) by Margaret E. Gross If you have questions or want to share how the Live Inspired Podcast has impacted your life, send them to me and my team at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com. Can't wait t

I loved today's conversation. Joe Koenig, President of World Wide Technology, shares how he grew it from a few million dollars and a couple dozen employees to several billion dollars and 6,000 leaders. Even more impactful, you'll hear the humility behind the mission and the love story of Joe and his wife Kim. They share about a cancer diagnosis, the journey that followed, and a love and faith that continues to guide their way. Today, hear how they have transcended the big diagnosis and how they're choosing to lead their lives to serve others. SHOW NOTES: The gift of grit: Kim moved nine times before high school giving her the skills to not feel scared or intimidated walking into new situations later in life. When Joe started at World Wide Technology, a technology solution provider, in 1993 when it was a young, start-up with 15 employees and $8 million in revenue. By 2018, it's grown to over 6,000 employees and over $11 billion in revenue.  THE PATH: The core values at WWT are Trust, Humility, Embrace change,

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment. "Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day." - Henri Nouwen Tune in to hear how my son Henry recently reminded me of the importance of this quote.  *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.    

Keah Brown, the journalist behind the viral #DisabledandCute, exudes pride, confidence, and humor – but that’s not always been the case.  Through years of introspect, Keah has learned to celebrate her cerebral palsy and strives to bring awareness to the struggles and triumphs of persons with disabilities. Her new book The Pretty One explores her journey to self-love and what it means for you. This candid conversation explores how to better accept, love, and empower ourselves and each other. SHOW NOTES: During her adolescence, others began calling attention to Keah's disability, leading her to believe it as negative. Keah has reformed a friendship with her non-disabled twin sister Leah after a season of resentment in high school.  Keah put the view of her self in the hands of others. "Insecurity is often the catalyst that sparks the most judgment." Every day, Keah would remind herself four things that she loved about herself allowing her to accept + love herself. #DisabledAndCute: To celebrate her self-love,

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments. Today's question was submitted by Live Inspired community member Simon.  Simon asked: How would you describe success? Tune in to hear my answer. If you have questions or want to share how the Live Inspired Podcast has impacted your life, send them to me and my team at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com. Can't wait to hear from you! *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.  Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Greg Matthews has spent most of his life serving our nation. Looking at any one of his very long list of accomplishments would equate to more significance and impact than many of us could hope to amass in a lifetime. And yet, Greg never felt it was enough. He was incredibly driven… for all the wrong reasons. Until a gruesome, nearly fatal encounter with a grizzly bear gave him an unexpected encounter with God and an inflection point that completely changed his life. Greg joins us to share how past hurts can be healed and today can be more impactful and joy-filled than you ever thought possible. SHOW NOTES: For over 27 years Greg is protecting and serving, currently as Anti-Terrorism Officer for Army Corps of Engineers. Greg recalls a vivid + emotional memory of loading boxes into his father’s car. This shattered his foundation, leading him to believe he was unworthy and unlovable. Greg shares horrific stories from the search of his NYFD Rescue 5 friend Andre Fletcher at Ground Zero after 9/11. Every year, Gr

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments. Are you wealthy? I asked a friend this question several years ago as we sat in his large, beautiful kitchen surrounded by lavish furnishings. Turns out, he'd over-spent during the good times and was behind on his house payments. He went on to say, “It’s not our home and it’s just a matter of time before we are asked to leave it. I've got nothing." After listening, asking a few questions, giving him a hug and telling him I was sorry, it was time to shift gears. I asked him four questions I once used in a leadership discussion about real wealth, true success and proper perspective. Answer the question: Are you wealthy? Make a list of everything that truly matters to you. Circle every item on that list you still have (or could earn, enjoy, experience again). Finally, answer this question: So, are you wealthy? We too frequently confuse status or square footage or retirement accounts as wealth. This question doesn’t ignore th

Are you discontent even though everyone around you thinks you “have it all?” Lloyd Reeb, founding partner of Halftime Institute, is on a mission to help you ensure your next season in life is defined by joy, impact, and balance. Today, Lloyd will remind us of the importance of not just doing what is valuable, but doing what is priceless. Regardless of your age or what you can bring to the marketplace, Lloyd will encourage you to get clear, get free and get going. SHOW NOTES: How can your second-half be even more impactful, fun and joyful than the first half was? At 14-years-old, Lloyd's father helped him purchased a few acres of land, charging interest which taught him values. “What do I need to do to pass down the values of generosity, honesty, and hard work before passing the monies down.” A successful building developer inadvertently taught him the importance of significance beyond success. The exposure to what was happening around the world inspired Lloyd to serve or give back to others. Lloyd was introd

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments. Today's question was submitted by Live Inspired community member Carol.  Carol asked: What keeps you grounded? Tune in to learn how these four phrases keep me grounded: I love you, and there is nothing you can do about it. Thank you. This too shall pass. Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return. If you have questions or want to share how the Live Inspired Podcast has impacted your life, send them to me and my team at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com. Can't wait to hear from you! *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.  Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.  

When I walk on stage to give a keynote, I'm often introduced "expected to die, now teaching others to truly live, John O’Leary.” Today, I welcome 19-year-old John Smith who just 5 years ago fell into an icy lake, spent 15 minutes trapped below the ice and did not take a breath for over an hour. He was declared dead; yet he is alive and fully recovered today. His miraculous story was recently featured in the major film Breakthrough and today he shares it with us. If you’re struggling to make sense of your suffering, have lost your personal faith or have stopped believing in miracles, this episode is for you. SHOW NOTES: John was adopted at 5 months old from Mixco, Guatemala. January 19, 2015: John + two friends are playing on a lake when the ice broke. One self-rescued, the other was rescued by emergency personnel. With his life flashing before his eyes, John realized he was going to die. Firefighter Tommy Shine heard a voice, directing him exactly to John's location, pulling him up after being underwater for

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment. What do you want to do today? Recently, my wife reminded me of the power to look at every task as an opportunity. *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email. Read more at https://johnoleary.libsyn.com/#8PPjbxkThy1rvcs5.99

For over a decade, Amy Roloff has welcomed millions of viewers to her sprawling 100-acre Oregon farm on TLC’s hit reality television show Little People, Big World. Today, Amy shares about growing up with achondroplasia dwarfism, how she learned to accept + love herself and how she’s embracing her “second act” after raising four children. This genuine and heartfelt conversation is for you if you want to hear about honoring your own version of perfection. SHOW NOTES Amy refused to go to school in fear that others would ridicule her for her dwarfism. Her dad recognized that others may be inconsiderate of her differences but reminded her she had the power to accept + embrace her differences. In first grade, Amy refused to engage with a boy that was taunting her and leading her to believe she wasn’t good enough. Amy's positive outlook is contagious: “I can get through this day because tomorrow may be different.” Motherhood encouraged Amy to release her inhibitions. Amy's has four children: twins Jeremy + Zach, Mo

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment. Today I welcome back Chris Norton to remind us that life's lowest moments can be the source of our greatest blessings. This conversation will give you hope + inspiration to help start your week on fire!  Get Chris Norton's book The Seven Longest Yards here. Chris first shared his journey on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 43. Listen here. *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

More than 1,700 people have jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge with the aim of taking their own life. Today's guest is one of the 25 known survivors.  Kevin Hines suffers from bipolar disorder with psychotic features. At 19, he was suffering silently and it resulted in his attempt to take his own life. Today, Kevin shares about “brain pain” or mental illness and his story of hope, faith, + thriving in spite of it. One of the most prominent suicide awareness and prevention activists, Kevin’s message of striving to live “mentally well” is an urgent one you must hear. SHOW NOTES: Kevin has built a close support network called his "personal protectors" aimed to keep him thriving and that will not let him fail or fall alone. Kevin finds to be a privilege to be able to defeat his mental illness, which he refers to as brain pain, daily. "My goal is to go around the world and help other people thrive, just as I am, even inside the pain." - Kevin on the importance of sharing his survival story. September 25, 2000: Kev

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment. The Fourth of July likely rekindles memories in each of us from backyard barbeques, fireworks and funnel cakes. In a reflective mood this morning, I’d like to share one of my most memorable experiences from this day.  Who are you grateful for today and why? Don’t miss an opportunity to let your loved ones know that you are grateful for them and love them. If you enjoyed today's episode, you'll love my Monday Morning Motivation email. Click here to subscribe. *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.  Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.  

Molly Fletcher negotiated over $500 million in contracts + represented 100s of professional sports biggest stars before changing careers to have an even bigger impact on the lives of more people. Molly’s passion to better serve and love others will absolutely inspire you. Her energy, business acumen, relationship brilliance + unwavering optimism will propel you to live your life more ON FIRE today than ever before. I can’t wait to introduce you to my newest friend, entrepreneur, speaker and author, Molly Fletcher. SHOW NOTES "I lived in this apartment complex for free for nine years. It became the model I used when recruiting athletes" "Say yes, lean in and outwork everyone around me": Working at Super Bowl Host committee office created an opportunity to create connections with sports leaders in Atlanta. Grew her client list by over-delivering to her athletes, connecting authentically with prospects, and serving them in a way that was different than others. At one time, Molly represented nearly 300 athletes

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment. Today, I reminisce on my false-summit during a trip the Maroon Bells in Colorado. My friends, I encourage us to remind ourselves that it's not always about reaching the summit but enjoying the journey to it. *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.  

Most people know today's guest as the award-winning actor in ABC's The Good Doctor or from his nine years on CSI: NY. But Hill Harper is also a four-time New York Times bestselling author + trailblazing humanitarian focusing on financial literacy and mentorship. Hear Hill share seldom-told stories about his selfless passion for empowering underprivileged youth, his friendship with Barack Obama and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. Today's inspiring, down-to-earth conversation is for you if you would like to hear what is right in the world, and get ideas for how you can make it even better. SHOW NOTES "It’s our responsibility to make the world a better place." Hill shares about his friendship with Barack Obama and a seldom-told story about when Hill took him to a prison to play basketball with inmates when they were classmates at Harvard Law School. Hill shares an exclusive story on his passion for Big Brothers Big Sisters. Develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives o

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment. Today I welcome back New York Times bestselling author Andy Andrews to share the inspiration behind his latest book The Bottom of the Pool, why it took him 20 years to write this book and more. This energetic conversation will help start your week on fire!  Get Andy Andrew's latest book The Bottom of Pool here. Andy shared his incredible life story and his journey from homelessness to a bestselling author on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 25. Listen here. *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.