Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

Human trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar criminal industry that denies freedom to more than 25 million individuals around the world. Gina Jernukian is the founder of Soul Survivor Ink, a nonprofit dedicated to helping survivors of human trafficking and former gang affiliation heal from the pain of their past by assisting them in the removal of “branding” tattoos and scars. Through this work, she helps survivors reclaim their identities, dignity, and freedom. Today, Gina shares the moment that shifted her purpose forever, the incredible journey of launching Soul Survivor Ink, and the profound impact of helping survivors erase the painful reminders of their past. She reminds us that while our past may shape us, it does not have to define us—and that healing, hope, and new beginnings are always within reach. My friends, if you need a reminder that one person can make an extraordinary difference, this conversation is for you. You’ll leave this episode with a deeper understanding of the hidden crisis of human trafficking, the power of small acts of kindness, and the unwavering truth that no matter where you’ve been, freedom and healing are always possible.

Life’s most beautiful moments are often wrapped in imperfection. We all wonder if we are enough and worry about the opinion of others. Reading a book recently reminded me that the most beautiful things are often imperfect. Let me explain.

Scott LeRette is a husband, father, and author of The Unbreakable Boy, the book that inspired the feature-length film of the same name. At its heart, his story is about one family's journey through brokenness, healing, and embracing life's messy, beautiful moments. Today, Scott shares what it was like raising a son with brittle bone disease and autism, how his own battle with alcoholism nearly tore his family apart, and the moments of grace that changed everything. He opens up about his mother’s tough love, the lessons his son Austin teaches him daily, and the journey from brokenness to faith. With honesty, humor, and deep reflection, Scott reminds us that life’s hardships don’t define us—our response to them does. My friends, if you need a reminder that life’s most beautiful moments are often wrapped in imperfection, this conversation is for you. You’ll leave with a renewed sense of hope, a deeper appreciation for the people in your life, and the encouragement to embrace every day—challenges and all—with gratitude.

Briana Morales was ready to give up. Although it was the Christmas season, she felt defeated, hopeless and absent of joy. The high school teacher was sitting at the bedside of a former student who had been shot. Having already lost more than a dozen current and former students to gun violence in the past few years, this was not an unfamiliar scenario for her. As she held vigil at that former student’s bedside, she received a phone call that another beloved student, a young girl named Da’Miya, had been killed in a car accident. All of a sudden, the losses felt like too much and she began to question if her work was worth the effort. Let me explain.

Jason Wahler, an addiction and mental health advocate, shares his remarkable journey from the pressures of reality TV to a life of recovery. He candidly discusses his struggles with OCD and how they led to substance abuse. Wahler emphasizes the importance of faith, making amends, and personal accountability in the recovery process. His inspiring transformation showcases the power of redemption and his commitment to helping others rewrite their stories, proving that even from the depths of despair, hope and healing are possible.

Long before Steve Jobs put a device in our hands that lets us mindlessly tap away - giving the illusion of purpose while we wait and a tool to avoid any interaction whatsoever with strangers – I found myself seated alone at a lunch counter awkwardly waiting for my burger, fries and root beer. While watching the cook throw burgers on the grill, I heard behind me the unmistakable and unparalleled voice of Jack Buck belt out: “I didn’t know you had such a refined palate.” Jack was a Hall of Fame broadcaster, the voice of the St. Louis Cardinals and the biggest celebrity in our city. Additionally, he was a significant reason I survived a fire as a child, had been incredibly generous to me in the years since it and undoubtedly had altered the entire course of my life. He walked over, patted me on the back, asked if the stool next to me was taken and sat down. And so began this unexpected lunch with my hero. Let me explain.

Sharon Pope is a relationship coach who has helped countless couples find clarity and confidence in their relationships. After navigating her own journey through heartbreak, self-discovery, and lasting love, she now guides others to build relationships rooted in trust, communication, and joy. Today, Sharon shares how to rekindle intimacy and fun in long-term relationships, how to bridge the divide when couples feel disconnected, and how taking radical self-responsibility can transform not just relationships, but life itself. She opens up about her own story, from growing up in a home where emotions weren’t always expressed to leaving a marriage that no longer served her, and the lessons that shaped her path forward. My friends, Sharon’s wisdom will challenge you to look inward, embrace curiosity, and take ownership of the love you want to experience. Whether you’re searching for clarity in a relationship or simply want to strengthen the connections in your life, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling empowered, hopeful, and ready to take the next step.

This emphasis on self is one strongly encouraged by the society today. We’re challenged to focus singularly on our personal lives and our individual versions of happiness. Paradoxically, it’s in letting go of our self-centered desires that we find serenity. It’s in faithfully keeping our hearts open to serving others – even sometimes having them broken by those we love – that the meaning, joy and real peace we seek is gradually revealed. Let me explain.

A once-thriving chef, Jake Haendel’s life took a devastating turn when he was diagnosed with a rare and terminal condition. Known as Locked-In Syndrome, Jake was left completely paralyzed—fully aware but unable to move or communicate. Doctors said there was no way out, and yet Jake's story is one of unimaginable adversity, resilience, and hope. Today, Jake shares how he survived 10 months trapped inside his own body, what he learned in that time, and the extraordinary steps that led to his recovery. He opens up about the darkest moments, the mental resilience it took to endure, and the sheer willpower that helped him reclaim his life. My friends, if you need a reminder that hope is never lost, this conversation is for you. You'll leave this episode inspired to face challenges with renewed strength, embrace each day with gratitude, and believe in the power of the human spirit.

What does it take to be victorious when it matters most? That’s the question being asked of those gathered in the locker rooms of the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs this week. Most analysts and the experts on TV will suggest the difference makers are things like elite quarterback play, strategic coaching and game management, impenetrable defensive lines, and special teams excellence. And while this weekend’s Super Bowl is sure to include much of the above, with one team ultimately bathing their coach in Gatorade, lifting high the Lombardi trophy, and stating proudly their intentions to go to Disneyworld, I think there is a much more important victory that we should be seeking. Namely, how do we accomplish something so transformationally important that it will endure decades after the confetti has been swept up?