Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

When you think of someone who has changed the world, who comes to mind? If you’re like most people, you probably think of famous explorers, powerful rulers, mighty revolutionaries, and business innovators?  That’s because we often think that changing the world requires grand gestures and historical relevance. But what if I told you changing the world actually more commonly occurs through small, everyday actions done for the person in front of you? This is the truth at the heart of our On Fire For Good initiative. Each month we introduce you to individuals whose humility, commitment and unflinching love has changed the world around them. And our January honoree, Bob Schricker, is a brilliant example of this truth in action. Let me explain.

Stephen Panus is a father, sports marketing executive, and author whose story reminds us that even in loss, we can choose to walk on and create a legacy of love. After losing his son, Jake, Stephen transformed his grief into purpose, choosing to honor Jake’s legacy through scholarships and acts of kindness that inspire others to lead with compassion and determination. Today, Stephen shares how he faced unimaginable loss, learned to embrace forgiveness, and opened his heart to unexpected joy. He reveals the fine line between despair and hope, offering wisdom on turning pain into purpose and creating a meaningful life through vulnerability and community. My friends, if you’re navigating grief, searching for hope, or striving to find light in life’s darkest moments, this conversation is for you. You’ll leave inspired to honor your challenges, embrace healing, and take the next step forward with courage, gratitude, and love.  

Several years ago, with Christmas nearing and Beth and I unable to make eye contact with our boys due to the hair covering their eyes, I loaded up the car and took the teenaged boys to get haircuts. Despite their slumped shoulders as they entered and the soft-spoken answers they provided as she worked, the stylist could not have been sweeter to my boys. In thanking her afterwards for how she made them look and how kind she had been to them, she asked me a seemingly simple question: “Are you ready for Christmas?” Now, I don’t think she was actually curious if my house was cleaned, the tree was up or the dinner rolls ordered. Do you think she was truly interested if my suit was ironed, shoes were polished or if the last several weeks of Advent had prepared my heart for the final two weeks before Christmas?

Blessing Offor is two-time Grammy nominee and multi-talented artist who proves that resilience and authenticity can create a life—and a legacy—of purpose. From humble beginnings as a young blind man in a small Nigerian village to now shining on global stages, Blessing’s story is as vibrant and soulful as his music. With chart-topping hits like “Brighter Days”, competing on The Voice, and collaborations with icons like Dolly Parton, Blessing inspires millions through his artistry and story. Today, Blessing shares how music became his compass through life’s challenges. From navigating blindness and identity to finding his voice in the world, Blessing shares profound lessons in embracing your story, leaning into joy, and using creativity as a bridge to connection. My friends, Blessing reminds us that brighter days aren’t just ahead- they’re here when we choose to see them. You’ll leave this conversation with a renewed sense of purpose, an appreciation for the gift of community, and perhaps a new favorite song.

As you journey through the frequently chaotic Christmas season, while navigating hardships globally, divisiveness nationally, challenges professionally, and adversities personally, maybe it’s time to heed the advice from Matt Maher's song Alive Again. Let me explain.

For more than three decades, Caroline Adams Miller has been a globally recognized expert in goal setting, grit, happiness and success. And yet, as a Harvard graduate, black-belt martial artist, and author of eight life-changing bestselling books, Caroline’s path —from overcoming bulimia to inspiring millions—embodies resilience and determination. Today, Caroline shares her story of transformation, the science behind effective goal setting, and her groundbreaking BRIDGE methodology for achieving lasting success. As the new year approaches, learn why conventional strategies (like SMART goals!) frequently fall short, and how crafting intentional, purpose-driven goals can lead to meaningful change. My friends, if you need a spark to reignite your ambitions and the reminder that the best of our days remain ahead, this conversation is for you.

In celebrating my son Henry’s birthday this past weekend, I was reminded of an experience from several years ago that perfectly captures his zest for life and joyful character. In sharing it with you today, I hope it ignites within you a desire to be a bright light of loving hope for others. Let me explain.

Annabelle Tometich is a med-school-reject-turned-food-critic and author of The Mango Tree. And her story is as layered and sweet as the tropical fruit at the heart of her family’s saga. Today, Annabelle takes us on a journey through the cultural contrasts of her upbringing as a mixed-race Filipina, the heartbreak of her father’s untimely death, and the strength of her mother’s fiery spirit. When her mother’s unexpected arrest for defending her beloved mango tree shakes their family to its core, Annabelle begins to see her world—and her family—through a lens of resilience, empathy, and ultimately, healing. My friends, this conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt stuck in their circumstances or searched for meaning in life’s messiest moments. Annabelle’s story will inspire you to embrace the complexity of family, find strength in vulnerability, and discover beauty in unexpected places.

“My name is James.” With that statement, the man in front of me smiled warmly, extended his hand, and shook mine firmly. And from this seemingly ordinary introduction launched a conversation with an amazing man who clearly lives in joy and radiates love. In hearing his story, though, it was impossible not to be moved profoundly by his journey and his desire to do more through his life. Let me explain.

Haven Shepherd, a courageous Paralympic swimmer and advocate for adaptive sports, shares her incredible journey from surviving a bomb explosion in Vietnam as a child to thriving in sports. She discusses how adversity shaped her strength and molded her perspective on life. Haven emphasizes the importance of grace in overcoming challenges and the joy she found in swimming and in family support. With a heartwarming take on resilience, she inspires listeners to appreciate their unique journeys and recognize the power of personal stories.