Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

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.

What are you wishing for? It’s a question many of us ask our children this time of year. But what if the question was asked of you? What if you could arrange a one-to-one meeting with Santa? What would you wish for? Near the end of a tumultuous year for so many around the world and in the midst of an array of personal challenges so many face, I was reminded of a remarkable little boy’s answer to that question. Let me explain.

For the past five weeks, I’ve had the pleasure to work alongside hundreds of talented producers, stunt coordinators, set designers, production assistants, boom operators, award-winning actors, makeup artists… and so many other crucial contributors in bringing a feature-length film to life. Today, as we’re just two days from calling “it’s a wrap!” on filming of the On Fire movie, I invite you to join me in reflecting on some of the most incredible moments. We'll delve into behind-the-scenes stories, answer questions from our vibrant and loyal Live Inspired community, and provide you with a front-row seat to the magic of filmmaking. Yes, you heard it right – I recorded this episode right from the heart of the action on the set! My friends, I promised to bring you along for the ride, and today, you get an exclusive glimpse into the making of the On Fire movie.

Do you ever have days where you ask yourself the self-defeating question: Why do I even bother? Sure, sometimes it’s asked in different ways- Do I matter? Do I make a difference? Does my work here impact anything?- but we’ve all had those days. Last week, my friends from Hollywood filmed a scene for the On Fire movie that reminded me of the unseen impact we all have the potential to make- even if it takes 25 years to realize it. Let me explain.

In 1995, a 16-year-old Bobby Bostic found himself caught up in a series of poor choices including robbery and armed criminal action. Judge Evelyn Baker, convinced he was a lost cause, handed down a jaw-dropping 241-year sentence on him, parole only becoming a glimmer of hope at the ripe age of 112. While serving the longest sentence in Missouri for a non-homicide juvenile offense, Bobby didn't crumble. Instead, he evolved, showed significant remorse for his actions and began reshaping what his future could hold. Today, after serving 27 years of his sentence, Bobby is embracing his shot at redemption by teaching writing workshops at juvenile detention centers and using his story to mentor kids to keep them out of trouble. Join me as Bobby shares his journey in navigating an unlikely path to freedom, fostering a reconciling connection with the judge who initially sent him away, and revealing the transformative power that liberates us from the shackles of our mistakes. My friends, it’s easy to criticize others for their sins, crimes and missteps. And yet, when we delve into the narratives that precede those missteps, an empathic heart emerges. This episode is a reminder that our past doesn't have to be our defining chapter. And that even in the face of adversity, the best is yet to come.