Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

With so much negativity spewed by the media, each month we share examples of individuals who are grateful for all they have, joyful in all they do and profoundly impactful in the communities where they serve. This month’s On Fire For Good honoree’s journey is remarkable and his professional impact is stunning, but what he celebrates most are the three letters signifying his achievements behind his name. Let me explain.

Join Carlos Whittaker, a bestselling author and thought leader, as he shares his transformative journey of living among monks and Amish farmers. He reveals how stepping away from technology awakened deep connections and mindfulness. Carlos discusses the challenges of our screen-filled lives and offers practical insights on reclaiming attention and fostering genuine relationships. His compelling stories encourage listeners to savor everyday moments and embrace uncertainty, inspiring a renewed appreciation for real, authentic connection.

What do you do when the weight of the world seems to fall directly on your shoulders? And how do you show up when you’re pulled in so many directions that it feels hard to do anything particularly well? As I struggled with these questions in my own life, one person cruising past me showed me not only how to turn around my outlook but also revealed how to avoid the struggle in the first place moving forward. Let me explain.

By 28, David Vincent had been arrested over 30 times, faced 18 felonies, and was staring down a 15-year sentence. Raised in the streets of Memphis by a mother who taught him to steal and a violent stepfather, his future seemed set—until he cried out for another chance. Today, he’s the founder and CEO of the Warrior Center, a faith-based rehabilitation program that helps men, women, and veterans battling homelessness and addiction find hope, healing, and a new future. Join me as David shares his remarkable road to redemption—from a childhood of crime and survival to a life transformed by faith and purpose. He opens up about the moment everything changed, the miracles that led to his early release from prison, and how he turned his second chance into a mission to serve others. My friends, you'll leave this conversation with a renewed belief in grace, the power of purpose, and the truth that your story isn’t over yet.  

Why me? This was the question I wrestled with frequently after getting burned. When I was finally able to communicate with my parents after more than a month, the first question I asked wasn’t “When will I get out of here?” or “What’s next?” or “Who is watching my siblings while you sit at my bedside around the clock?”  No, it was simply, “Why me?” Let me explain.

Orphaned at eight years old, Orv Kimbrough spent his childhood navigating the foster care system, facing setbacks that could have defined his future. And yet, he instead chose a different path. Today, he’s the chairman and CEO of Midwest BankCentre, leading with purpose and creating opportunities for others to thrive. Join me as Orv shares how he refused to let his circumstances determine his future, the mindset shifts that helped him break generational cycles, and the power of choosing resilience—even when the odds are stacked against you. He opens up about faith, leadership, and the lessons he’s learned as a husband, father, and business leader. My friends, if you’ve ever felt like life was working against you, this conversation is for you. You’ll walk away inspired to see obstacles as stepping stones, embrace your own story, and take bold steps toward the life you’re meant to live.

Each summer I have the honor of speaking at a camp for children who have one thing in common. No, it isn’t a political party or a shared ethnicity. It’s not a singular sex nor a similar economic background. What galvanizes the children at Midwest Children’s Burn Camp is the shared experience of being burned. One of the most difficult aspects of enduring a fire is the lifelong mark embossed on a survivor’s skin. These scars serve as a visible reminder not only of the agonizing struggle endured, but of how different we remain from others because of it. The scars can make us feel less than, set apart, totally isolated. Which is why an activity I witnessed at camp several years ago not only helped elevate the lives of participating campers but carries a lesson that may elevate your life today. Let me explain.

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.