Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

This week, The Voices of SOUL ON FIRE series concludes by welcoming Mark Isham, the award-winning composer for film and television whose music has shaped some of the most moving stories of our time. From A River Runs Through It to Crash to his latest masterpiece in SOUL ON FIRE, Mark's work carries emotion, depth, and grace. Yet what shines even brighter than his talent is his humility. He views music not as notes on a page, but as a way to communicate love, courage, and connection. Today, Mark shares how he's learned to listen deeply, both in music and in life. He reflects on the blank canvas every artist faces, the mix of fear and faith that comes with creating, and how the secret to lasting success in both art and relationships is communication. Through stories of working with Robert Redford, Jodie Foster, and scoring the life-changing moments of SOUL ON FIRE, Mark reminds us that the best art begins in stillness, honesty, and a willingness to keep growing. My friends, if you've ever questioned your purpose, your talent, or your next step forward, this conversation is for you. You'll leave it reminded that creation isn't about perfection. It's about persistence. The best work and the best life come from showing up, listening well, and believing that the best is yet to come.

The past few weeks have been humbling and joy-filled. Interviews, headlines, sold-out theaters, and messages from around the world have celebrated SOUL ON FIRE. But the greatest joy has been watching how this story has lifted the people I love most. My sisters glowed on the red carpet after years of cheering from behind the scenes. Mom hasn't stopped smiling, and Beth's quiet grace is being recognized everywhere. But my favorite hero to celebrate is the one who likes attention the least: my brother Jim. Let me explain.

Join actor and musician John Corbett, known for his roles in My Big Fat Greek Wedding and Northern Exposure, as he shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in West Virginia to Hollywood fame. He reflects on pivotal moments, like discovering his talent for storytelling in an improv class and battling through a workplace injury that changed his path. John also opens up about his deep love for Bo Derek, navigating fame, and the emotional challenges of portraying a father in Soul on Fire. His message? Life can take unexpected turns, and joy is what truly shines.

Returning to school after the fire 38 years ago, I worried if I'd still belong. That day, my classmates embraced me, and last Thursday they again showed up in love, reminding me just how much has changed… and how much hasn't. Let me explain.

William H. Macy, an Academy Award-nominated actor and master storyteller, dives into his transformative role as Jack Buck in Soul on Fire. He shares poignant life lessons from his parents, particularly the humor of his father and the resilience of his mother. Macy reflects on the essence of truth in acting, the challenges of rejection, and the journey from stage to screen. With humility, he emphasizes the importance of persistence, authenticity, and the emotional weight behind storytelling, leaving listeners inspired to pursue their passions with heart.

Join a heartwarming journey as a family steps onto the red carpet for the world premiere of SOUL ON FIRE. Experience the magic of grace as they reflect on how it shapes lives through adversity. Hear about the powerful moment when Amazing Grace was played, honoring the film’s poignant message. Witness the audience's overwhelming standing ovation, celebrating transformative grace. Plus, find out why the opening weekend is crucial and how to support this inspiring film.

This week, The Voices of SOUL ON FIRE series welcomes the actor tasked with the impossible job of being as charming, joyful, and good-looking as yours truly: Joel Courtney. Known for his breakout role in Super 8 and Netflix's beloved The Kissing Booth trilogy, Joel's latest role in SOUL ON FIRE may be his most inspiring yet. With a gift for bringing heart to every role, Joel shines brightest when the story he tells can spark hope in others. Today, Joel shares how a boy from Idaho chasing a $100 commercial ended up leading major films, why he said "yes" to sharing my story on the big screen, and the lessons he carried from portraying someone who refused to let tragedy define their life. He reflects on the heroes who shaped my journey, and invites all of us to recognize the quiet heroes shaping ours. My friends, you'll leave this conversation reminded that there is no joy without gratitude and that the stories we choose to live can inspire far beyond ourselves. If you need a boost of courage, perspective, or hope, this episode is for you.

In just over a week and a half, SOUL ON FIRE will light up theaters across the country. And last week, as part of The Voices of SOUL ON FIRE podcast series, you heard from one of the people who helped to bring this story to life, Stephanie Szostak. For me, Stephanie's role in this film is especially personal. She portrays one of the greatest heroes of my life: my mom, Susan O'Leary. Let me explain.

This week, The Voices of SOUL ON FIRE series welcomes my dear friend Stephanie Szostak. Stephanie has brought memorable characters to life in A Million Little Things and The Devil Wears Prada. Now, in the upcoming film SOUL ON FIRE, she steps into her most meaningful role yet as my mom Susan O'Leary. She brings her talent to the screen with depth and grace, and in this conversation she shares her heart, her wisdom, and the life lessons that have shaped her along the way. Today, Stephanie shares stories from her childhood in France, the values she's carried from her parents and brother, and the pivotal moments that shaped both her career and her outlook on life. She opens up about grief and resilience, the gift of tough love, and what it meant to step into my mom's shoes for SOUL ON FIRE. Together, we talk about family, faith, and the power of showing up for the people we love. My friends, you'll leave this conversation reminded that resilience is born in relationships, that love can carry us through even the hardest seasons, and that your story (yes, yours!) can be a beacon of hope for others. If you need encouragement today, this one is for you.