607: How to Live and Love Fully with John O'Leary

Oct 15, 2025

John O'Leary, a burn survivor and motivational speaker, shares his incredible journey from tragedy to triumph. He discusses the profound impact of his father's love and teachings, particularly the message, "I love you, and there’s nothing you can do about it." John emphasizes the importance of viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and the value of serving others. He reflects on how embracing love in interactions transforms relationships, and he encourages listeners to find purpose through their struggles and appreciate everyday heroes.

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ANECDOTE

Surviving Total Burns And Community Care

At nine, John O'Leary survived an explosion that burned 100% of his body and led to decades of surgeries and life challenges.
The community, nurses, and family supported his recovery and shaped his future purpose.

ANECDOTE

A Father's Unconditional Presence

John describes his father as unwaveringly present and loving, saying "I love you, and there's nothing you can do about it."
That presence guided the family through fires, Parkinson's, and financial struggle and shaped John's way of loving others.

ANECDOTE

Greeting Death With Joy

John recalls his father's calm, joyful acceptance of death after decades with Parkinson's, which his son Henry called "a great way to die."
That attitude taught John to seek excitement, hope, and joy even in hard seasons.

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When life knocks us down or tragedy strikes us or our loved ones, it’s easy to think life is unfair and wonder, “Why me?” But what if your greatest challenges—past and present—are actually divine opportunities for growth and contribution?

My good friend, John O’Leary, knows this better than most. At just 9 years old, a gas can exploded, burning 100% of his body, and he was given virtually zero chance of survival. Yet he not only survived, he thrived, and has shared his inspiring story with millions of people around the world.

And if that wasn’t enough, his life story was told in the new Sony Pictures film, Soul on Fire, which was released last week. I took my wife and teenage kids to see it, and we all agreed that it is literally one of the best movies we have ever seen!

In today’s podcast episode, John joins me to share many heartfelt life lessons he learned from his father (who passed away 15 days after watching the movie), and he gives the backstory on one of the most powerful things his dad ever said: “I love you, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”

You’ll hear how John turned his pain into purpose and suffering into a life of service and gratitude. From learning to say “yes” to being used for good, to discovering that real heroes are the people who show up and ask for nothing in return in our darkest moments.

John’s sincerity and wisdom may move you to tears, and hopefully inspire you to see your biggest challenges as divine opportunities for growth and contribution.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Powerful Life Lessons John Learned From His Dad
The Power of Presence and Loving People Where They Are
A Different Way To Go Through Life and Face Death
Why Ordinary People Are the Real Heroes
Saying “Yes” to Being Used for Good
Being of Service to Others Unlocks Fulfillment
Imagine Yourself Starting Every Interaction with Love
The Mindset Shift From Victimhood to Victor
John’s Message for Anyone Struggling With Pain or Regret
Why Soul on Fire Is a Movie Everyone Needs to See
Three Words from John’s Dad: “What a Gift”

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To get full access to today's show notes, including audio, transcript, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit MiracleMorning.com/607

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