Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

Zach Anner is an award-winning comedian, TV writer, disability advocate and viral sensation (with over 100 millions views on social media!). After winning "Oprah's Search for the Next TV Star" competition, Zach hosted a travel show called Rollin' with Zach on the OWN network. In the show, he traveled around the United States, exploring different cities and engaging with the local culture and activities. Today, Zach shares how he’s learned to not let his cerebral palsy define him or his goals, how he faces his numerous challenges with the utmost resilience and positivity, and so much more. If you’re looking for an uplifting conversation packed with humor, heart, edginess and determination, this episode is for you.

It is in our smallest gestures that the biggest difference can sometimes be seen. This week, look for a chance to do something for someone who can never repay you. Pay attention at the grocery store, at work, in the school pickup line or across your fence and wait for that ripple effect.

For more than two decades, Bruce Feiler has explored the intersection of families, relationships, health, and happiness, and is one of America’s most thoughtful voices on contemporary life. He is the author of seven New York Times bestsellers, including Life is in the Transitions, The Secrets of Happy Families, and Council of Dads. His three TED Talks have been viewed more than four million times. Known for living the experiences he writes about, Bruce shares his timeless wisdom and timely knowledge to allow each of us to live with more meaning, passion, and joy.  My friends, today’s conversation truly has something for everyone, no matter where you are on the wave of constant change.

After a summer of buses and teachers and students hibernating, can we create the space where our young people share more honestly and expansively their experiences, their thoughts, and their feelings? How can we connect more closely with the little ones that matter most to us, and in doing so reinforce within them the priceless value of their life? Instead of asking how their day was, consider a nightly routine of asking these four questions. Let me explain.

Dr. Jud Brewer, a New York Times bestselling author and expert in addiction with over two decades of research, dives into the science behind breaking bad habits. He highlights the importance of curiosity and kindness as tools to overcome anxiety and cravings. The conversation covers how stress impacts health, the role of mindfulness in managing worry, and practical strategies to reshape unhealthy behaviors, like eating and technology distractions. Dr. Brewer also emphasizes self-awareness in navigating habit loops for lasting change.

Eight years ago, I had the privilege of sharing the stage with Brené Brown and speaking to the leadership team at Southwest Airlines. Visiting with Brené was a once in a lifetime experience. Having lunch with Southwest President and CEO Herb Kelleher was an honor. But one of the greatest gifts from that day was a friendship that was planted and blossomed afterwards. Let me explain.

Country music star Granger Smith shares his journey of surrender, redemption, and the power of faith after the tragic loss of his son. He discusses grappling with guilt and grief, the birth of his miracle baby, and navigating tragedy together with his wife. Through vulnerability, he inspires listeners to find hope and healing in the face of overwhelming circumstances.

"Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into water, the actions of individuals can have far reaching effects that change the world" -Dalai Lama Today, be reminded of the magnificent power of your life to influence change for good. It turns out regardless of our age, status or job title, that the ripples created by our actions truly do have the ability to impact lives around the world, across the street and across the aisle. Not sure when to start? Start today. Not sure where to start? Start with the reflection in the mirror.

Lara Love Hardin is a four-time New York Times bestselling collaborative writer… yet for years, she lived in constant fear that someone would Google her and uncover her checkered past. When a worsening addiction from prescribed painkillers lead to smoking heroin, Lara began stealing neighbors’ credit cards and other identifying information to buy groceries and gas after her cash went to buying drugs. Caught, Lara was convicted of 32 felonies and was sent to a year in County Jail, drug treatment and supervised probation. Today, Lara joins us to share her downward spiral from soccer mom to opioid addict to jailhouse shot-caller and her unlikely comeback as a highly successful ghostwriter. Hear Lara share how she learned to forgive herself and others, navigate life as a felon on probation, prove to herself that she is more good than bad, and much more. My friends, today’s conversation is about lying and stealing. But more importantly it’s about healing, redemption and how we all have the power to rewrite our narratives to embrace the many lives we're meant to live.

Explore the power of doing small acts of good and the impact it can have on communities. Reflect on the impact of selfless actions and love from others. Join the Live Inspired Together Community to connect, find inspiration, and make a difference.