Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

How do you want to be remembered? It’s paradoxical that answering a question about death can be so wildly important to living a more vibrant life.  Perhaps even more surprising, though, is realizing the very thing that is assured to us all is also so rarely considered. And yet my friends, it turns out that while we may indeed share equally in the profound gift of this day, we also share in the certainty that tomorrow is promised to none of us. So, if tomorrow does not come, how do you want those who knew you best to remember you? Just weeks before his own death, Martin Luther King Jr asked his congregation to consider this question.  He acknowledged that the world pressures individuals to strive to be first, to endeavor to be great and to be seen as truly important. Let me explain.  

Dr. Margaret Rutherford, clinical psychologist and host of The SelfWork Podcast, discusses perfectly hidden depression, breaking free from perfectionism, and embracing transparency. She shares her journey from brokenness to empowerment, the importance of vulnerability, and strategies for coping with perfectionism. This conversation goes beyond mental health, highlighting the gift of embracing life in all its shades.

A few years ago, I spoke at a conference in Washington. It was for leaders serving in emergency services. I reminded these firefighters, first responders and EMTs of the value of their work, the impact of their efforts, and the ripple effect of their lives. Today, I share a story that will inspire you to honor your mentors by letting them know their impact.

In 1937, Stephanie Stuckey’s grandfather opened one roadside pecan stand. At its peak, Stuckey’s was a one-stop oasis for travelers along America’s highways, with their iconic pecan log rolls available in more than 350 stores in 40 states. After her grandfather’s death and decades of outside ownership however, the once beloved Stuckey’s brand fell into disrepair. And yet, it’s never too late to reimagine what is possible. Today, Stephanie shares how she’s reviving an iconic American brand, how she continues to build upon her family’s legacy and how she’s calling upon her grandfather’s wisdom to help Stuckey’s become the go-to pecan snack brand in the world. If you’re looking for a story that celebrates how to embrace life’s pivots to make a comeback, this conversation is for you.  

Turning the calendar from December to January is supposed to usher in new hope, goals, and possibility. To absolve us of our holiday indulgences and pave the way for commitments to eat better, work out more and grow spiritually. All this to become better versions of ourselves. But in reality, ringing in the New Year can sometimes feel deflating. Instead of a focus on possibility, it can be a fixation on all that went wrong in the year that’s ending. Devastating global events, divisive politics, destructive weather. Failed promises, fractured relationships and personal disappointments. The worst versions of us on full display. For many, 2023 could not end soon enough. And yet, when we look at history and cycles within nature, we are reminded that adversity and hardship frequently pour the foundation for coming success. Perhaps no illustration reveals this truth more beautifully than the caterpillar. Let me explain.

Josh Wilson had a vision to make an impact on deeply rooted systemic poverty in his community. In learning the importance of listening over telling and how to act with more than just good intentions, Josh has connected families with resources as prevention methods for violent outcomes for more than 16 years. Today, Josh shares how his non-profit Mission: St. Louis has become a lighthouse for the community, and how they’ve empowered individuals for social and economic growth through relationship and opportunity, breaking the cycle of poverty. My friends, this conversation illustrates the power of how loving the one in front of you, forging relationships, and creating purposeful opportunity can transform communities and our world.

With everything the season’s been culminating toward just a single night’s sleep away, what child sleeps well on Christmas Eve? As the time off school, holiday parties, drives to see lights, visits to Santa and preparations come to a peak before tomorrow's Christmas celebration, John shares one tradition that helps his family remember the reason for the season.

Ash Beckham is an equality advocate, on a journey toward creating a world of inclusion, where everyone's voice is heard and valued—even when our perspectives may differ. Today, Ash shares stories of her own transformation from a place of isolation and anger to one of greater openness and connection. Reminding us of the importance of having empathy, humility and authenticity for each other,  Ash guides us to continue building a world where everyone belongs. Whether your path involves cause-oriented work or simply cultivating a positive voice in your workplace, home, and community, this conversation is a reminder that, in the tapestry of humanity, each thread is unique yet contributes to the beauty of the whole.

It started with a speech seven years ago where one producer asked me for the right to turn the story she heard into a movie. Several months later, she brought in a couple of her producer friends who agreed to propel the project forward. They brought in a screenwriter who delivered a brilliant screenplay. And a genius film director who agreed to lead the project. Countless rejections followed from prospective investors who felt the timing was wrong, the risk too high, the likelihood of success too low. And yet, 47 financial investors stepped forward, determined that despite the odds, the story was simply too important to not tell right. So, into St. Louis came more than 200 outstanding crew members working tirelessly to support the work of 52 principal actors and more than a thousand background actors, all to get to the point last Friday that Director Sean McNamara excitedly proclaimed, “And that’s a wrap!” My friends, two decades into a professional speaking career, the past several months have by far been the hardest I’ve worked. Early mornings, long days, late nights, tons of stress, lots of risk, a few tears…and yet, it was by far the most fun I’ve ever had working in my entire life. It was also a crash course in learning about an industry I knew nothing about before this journey began. Today, I want to share with you three things I learned about making movies that have nothing to do with movies … and explain what they mean for you.

As a singer-songwriter and musician, Colton Dixon – who appeared on season 11 of American Idol – turns personal truths, stories and experiences into universal anthems. Recently nominated for the GMA Dove Song of the Year for his massive hit “Build a Boat,” Colton joins us to share his journey of faith, family and discovering his true calling. Today, Colton helps us get into the holiday spirit with his beautiful original track “Home For Christmas”, bringing a modern, whimsical feel to the meaning of being home for Christmas. My friends, join me in celebrating this life-giving man who will leave you inspired and full of hope.