Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment Today, every topic broached is immediately polarizing and leads to rigidly drawn lines between two opposing sides. Join me as I share how to veer away from this hostile, divisive path and instead draw a new inclusive one. *** My new book IN AWE is now available... and became an instant bestseller! Learn how to rediscover your childlike sense of wonder to unleash inspiration, meaning and joy. Visit ReadInAwe.com today!  *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.  Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram+ get his Monday Motivation email.

We've all heard laughter is the best medicine, and according to Forbes, laughing has science-based benefits that stimulate healing, strengthen relationships and promote brain activity. As we're facing headwinds of divisiveness, negative headlines and mounting stress, comedian Trey Kennedy brings some much-needed reprieve. You may be familiar with his tasteful humor + poignant parodies like “couples during quarantine”, “millennials at a hardware store” and “moms pre-pandemic” that have earned tens of millions of video views. Making some of today’s struggles relatable + humorous, Trey reminds us not to take ourselves so seriously that we cannot find joy in the moment. Today’s episode is sure to uplift as Trey shares how his career exploded as a social media sensation, what inspires his humor and his pride in delivering clean laughter that can be enjoyed by all. SHOW NOTES: Sometimes shy + reserved, Trey has gained confidence through his humor. Getting his start on the now-defunct video-based social media app Vine, Trey has spent a decade creating content for over eight million online followers.  After going "viral", Trey was turned down for numerous social media + marketing positions, inspiring him to focus on his own brand. John 3:30: He must increase, but I must decrease. Do less. God bless. In his personal + professional life, Trey prioritizes quality over quantity. Watch some of Trey's most recognized videos: Couples during quarantine Girls be like... Millennials at a hardware store Moms pre-pandemic vs. post-pandemic Follow Trey Kennedy on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter + YouTube. Listen to Trey Kennedy's Correct Opinions and Do Less God Bless podcasts here. TREY KENNEDY'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Abba's Child by Brennan Manning. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Stressless joy. 3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? When I was 18 years old, my mom gifted me with journals she had been writing the details of my life. 4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? Professionally Steven Martin. Relationally Brennan Manning. 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? My dad always told me to do my best and have fun. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Believe in yourself + be confident. 7. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? He was a guy who didn't seek his own glory. He just wanted to provide joy to those around him. *** About our sponsor: Keeley Companies wholeheartedly believes that if you get the people right -the results will follow. They set themselves apart with a forward-thinking culture that empowers their people and fosters loyal partnerships. Keeley Companies are a proud sponsor, partner, and super fan of the Live Inspired Podcast. Learn more about Keeley Companies.  *** Pre-order your copy of IN AWE today to receive access to fun, interactive bonus features emailed to you in the lead-up to the book’s release! Visit ReadInAwe.com.  *** Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.  

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment.   We see things not as they are, but as we are." - Immanuel Kant The above is one of my favorite quotes and comes from a poet who wrote eloquently and extensively on living a more meaningful, impactful and worthwhile life regardless of the challenges around us. With all the challenges we face as individuals and as a society, I thought today might be a good day not only to send our own children back to school, but for us to get a refresher on what remains possible in our lives, too. *** My new book IN AWE is now available... and became an instant bestseller! Learn how to rediscover your childlike sense of wonder to unleash inspiration, meaning and joy. Visit ReadInAwe.com today!  *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.  Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram+ get his Monday Motivation email.

Patricia Heaton is one of TV’s most recognizable and beloved female leads from her role as Debra Barone on the long-standing comedy Everybody Loves Raymond. Today, the three-time Emmy winner shares about the unexpected + sudden loss of her mother as a child, the pockets of hope that kept her acting dream alive + how she's thriving in her "second act" of life as an ambassador for World Vision. This warm conversation will remind you that no matter what stage of life you're in, crisis can serve as a golden opportunity for reinvention.  SHOW NOTES: After reeling from the unexpected death of her mother, Patricia's father found ways to be loving + supportive. For nearly a decade of working odd jobs in New York City, enough meaningful encouragement came along the way to keep Patricia's hope of becoming an actor alive. Using the residuals from a commercial, Patricia produced and starred in a play in Hollywood where casting directors came + she started getting auditions. After a short mission trip, Patricia refocused her commitment to God and then became a successful actor. God gave her both. Today, Patrica is an ambassador for  World Vision, where she travels around the globe to witness firsthand their impact in developing countries. "Being completely away from the entertainment business + being completely of service to others, cleared my soul and cleared my mind." Humanitarian work gives Patricia her sense of peace, purpose and value. Because of the unpredictability of acting, Patricia has adjusted the way she looks at life and appreciates that reality. "There are three things Jesus is telling us to do: help the poor, help the poor and help the poor." - Kathryn Compton, World Vision In her book Your Second Act, Patricia shares her stories + those of numerous others that have been faced adversity + have now found their true calling.  Patricia celebrated two years sober in July. Get Patricia Heaton's book Your Second Act. PATRICIA HEATON'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis and The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Fearlessness. 3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? My KitchenAid mixer. 4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? My mom. I didn't get to know her as her own person. 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? "There are three things Jesus is telling us to do: help the poor, help the poor and help the poor." - Kathryn Compton, World Vision 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Stop drinking and be more disciplined. 7. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? Well done my good and faithful servant. *** About our sponsor: Keeley Companies wholeheartedly believes that if you get the people right -the results will follow. They set themselves apart with a forward-thinking culture that empowers their people and fosters loyal partnerships. Keeley Companies are a proud sponsor, partner, and super fan of the Live Inspired Podcast. Learn more about Keeley Companies.  *** Pre-order your copy of IN AWE today to receive access to fun, interactive bonus features emailed to you in the lead-up to the book’s release! Visit ReadInAwe.com.  *** Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment. A good teacher is like a candle – it consumes itself to light the way for others. - Mustafa Kemal Atatürk Today I share an open letter of gratitude to teachers, who have historically been selfless in serving youth, and today more than ever. My friends, our educators have demonstrated repeatedly in the midst of turmoil, natural disasters, human tragedies and ordinary life their commitment to the children in their classroom. And yet, as summer fades to fall, as a nation remains on edge, and as schools navigate wildly difficult circumstances, let’s have confidence that the same profession that has served nobly in the past will be effective, instructive and invaluable during these times, too. Be assured that the light will shine, we’ll get through this together and the best days remain ahead.  *** My new book IN AWE is now available... and became an instant bestseller! Learn how to rediscover your childlike sense of wonder to unleash inspiration, meaning and joy. Visit ReadInAwe.com today!  *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.  Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram+ get his Monday Motivation email.

Dr. Gary Chapman is just the man to turn to for help on strengthening our most important relationships. Two decades after publishing his continuous New York Times bestseller The 5 Love Languages, millions of readers credit him with saving their relationships by providing simple and practical ways to communicate their love. As we face great uncertainty, there is a profound need for love in our life. Today's encouraging conversation will inspire you to better express your love + develop stronger relationships. SHOW NOTES: Growing up, Gary's parents worked opposite shifts at the local textile mill to ensure someone was home with the children. As his dad was serving in WWII, Gary recalls how every generation faces challenges + how fragile life is. In its first year, The Five Love Languages only sold 4,000 copies. Today it's sold more than 13 million and has been on the New York Times bestseller list since 2007. "The deepest emotional need we have is the need the feel love by the significant people in our lives." "What makes one person feel loved does not make the other person feel loved." People express + receive love through one of the five languages: words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, physical touch. "Love is an attitude that is the opposite of selfishness." "Every couple will have conflict. As a culture, we will always have conflict because we're not always going to agree on everything. But we can treat people with dignity and respect." What's your love language? Take The 5 Love Languages quiz! Get a copy of Dr. Gary Chapman's bestseller The 5 Love Languages. DR. GARY CHAPMAN'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Choose Greatness: 11 Wise Decisions that Brave Young Men Make by Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Clarence Schuler. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Carefree. 3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? The Bible I'm currently reading. 4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? Dawson Trotman, the founder of The Navigators. 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Recognize that if you're going to accomplish anything worthwhile in life, there will be opposition. Treat them with kindness + dignity, listen to them and learn from them. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Make the most of where you are. Don't wait to serve people. 7. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? Faithful onto death. Keeley Companies wholeheartedly believes that if you get the people right -the results will follow. They set themselves apart with a forward-thinking culture that empowers their people and fosters loyal partnerships. Keeley Companies are a proud sponsor, partner, and super fan of the Live Inspired Podcast. Learn more about Keeley Companies.  *** Pre-order your copy of IN AWE today to receive access to fun, interactive bonus features emailed to you in the lead-up to the book’s release! Visit ReadInAwe.com.  *** Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment. Today I share about the difficult times we’re experiencing and how it’s easy to get stuck in the negativity. You'll hear what it means to actually live and learn one simple thing to reestablish meaning in your life. *** My new book IN AWE is now available... and became an instant bestseller! Learn how to rediscover your childlike sense of wonder to unleash inspiration, meaning and joy. Visit ReadInAwe.com today!  *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.  Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram+ get his Monday Motivation email.

Lori Allen is one of the world's foremost experts on bridal couture and the central figure of TLC's longstanding reality show  Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta. Today, Lori shares about owning Bridals by Lori for four decades, overcoming breast cancer and why she thinks marriages during the COVID-19 pandemic are among the strongest she’s ever seen. SHOW NOTES: Growing up, Lori parents instilled strength, selflessness and self-sufficiency which created security. God's grace and Elmer's glue: In their 4 decades together, Lori and her husband Eddie have become a better team by dealing with life's challenges. Bridals by Lori: Inspired by her Aunt June, Lori has grown her own bridal shop by having an open mind + always looking to improve. "When you sit still, you fad away." "We gotta start loving ourselves." Lori shares the importance of taking care + living ourselves both internally + externally. As an empty nester, Lori has learned the importance of rediscovering what your personal passions are + reconnecting with your partner to fully enjoy the later years of life. In the 4 decades of working with brides, Lori feels fulfilled by giving brides a sliver of hope + joy, no matter their circumstances. "These are some of the most strong marriages I've ever seen." - Lori referring the weddings during a global pandemic Get a copy of Lori Allen's book Say Yes to What's Next. LORI ALLEN'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I was more fearless. I'm a bit more reserved today. 3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? My wedding pictures. 4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? God. And I have a lot of questions! 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? My dad: You got this. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Be a little kinder to yourself + relax a little bit more. 7. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? She loved her life. She never gave up. She did her best. *** Pre-order your copy of IN AWE today to receive access to fun, interactive bonus features emailed to you in the lead-up to the book’s release! Visit ReadInAwe.com.  *** Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment. “Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms - to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” - Viktor E. Frankl   My friend, as you step into your Monday and begin your week, determine to control what you can and let go of what you can’t. As you prepare for the unknowns ahead, choose to unclench your fist, let go of your anxiety and open wide your heart. Recognize that powerlessness fades when we embrace the brilliance, the miracle, and the influence within our attitude, decisions and lives.   This choice will fundamentally change your world. And in that, you’ll be liberated to improve the larger world, too. *** My new book IN AWE is now available... and became an instant bestseller! Learn how to rediscover your childlike sense of wonder to unleash inspiration, meaning and joy. Visit ReadInAwe.com today!  *** Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.  Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram+ get his Monday Motivation email.

Jillian Michaels is a world-renowned fitness expert, distinguished nutritionist and wellness entrepreneur. As one of the original trainers on the hit reality TV series The Biggest Loser, Jillian Michaels has built an empire in the health + wellness arena including being an 8-time New York Times bestselling author, publishing numerous successful fitness DVDs and launching the award-winning Jillian Michaels Fitness app. Today, Jillian opens up about her struggle with childhood obesity, facing ridicule from her peers and the infliction point that provided newfound confidence and triggered an appreciation for fitness to provide empowerment in all facets of life. You’ll leave this conversation with a plethora of practical tips + step-by-step instructions that will inspire your mind + body. SHOW NOTES: Her parent's divorce sent 12-year-old Jillian into a spiral where she became obese + was ridiculed by her peers until karate became a powerful, positive force in her life. With newfound confidence after her passing her 2nd Degree Black Belt test, Jillian gradually began to appreciate fitness as a means to empower people in all facets of life. "Life doesn't stop kicking you. Fight your way out of the corner." When starting on The Biggest Loser, Jillian was hesitant of this unprecedented reality television format but saw it as a "life or death intervention" for contestants that were severely obese. Commitment to change: To trigger commitment, Jillian needs 3 things to occur with clients: Hit rock-bottom. Take responsibility. Experience success.  "We don't engage in destructive behaviors because we're weak, lazy or stupid. We engage in that habit because it meant our psychological survival." "He who has a why to live can bear almost any how." - Friedrich Nietzsche To find your "why", Jillian uses leading questions that ignite emotions to be a compass that wakes you from a comfortably numb state. Try this exercise: For two weeks, set an alarm to go off every hour to take inventory of what you're doing and how it makes you feel. In Jillian's formula for a healthy lifestyle, 7-8 hours of sleep is critical + uncompromisable, 12 hours a week is dedicated to emotional and physical well-being with the remainder for work + running a home.  "When you fail, it's an opportunity to learn + is preparing you for the next person, place or thing waiting around the corner in life for me to be better." After failure, Jillian gives herself grace by reframing the negative as a positive, then identifies the lesson to incorporate into future growth. JILLIAN MICHAELS' LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? As a child, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl, The Princess Bride by William Goldman and The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. As an adult, Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl, Physics of the Future and Physics of the Impossible by Michio Kaku and The Fabric of the Cosmos by Brian Greene. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I had far fewer expectations as a child. 3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? A necklace my daughter was wearing when I picked her up. 4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? Albert Einstein. 7. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? I am a narrow conduit for something greater. *** Pre-order your copy of IN AWE today to receive access to fun, interactive bonus features emailed to you in the lead-up to the book’s release! Visit ReadInAwe.com.  *** Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts. Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.