Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

Are you sick of hearing about the “divisive” time we live in? Me too! Tarek Mounib shares how to foster sincere dialogue and better understand people with viewpoints different than your own. Tarek’ tips were learned on his journey with an unlikely group of US travelers to the Middle East. He captured this experience in his film Free Trip to Egypt to help people see the power sincere listening and simple human connection have in overcoming “divisive” worldviews. Today's conversation will not only inspire you but give you the tools to become part of the solution. SHOW NOTES: Tarek is focused on working on meaningful projects that bring people together + influence humanity in a positive way. Tarek's love of arts came from his mom while his love of science + logic came from his dad. At nine years old, a teacher emanated kindness and empathy towards Tarek, leaving a lasting impact on his life. Instead of unity, Tarek believes that September 11 created a false division and was not addressing the true enemy of fear.  His film Free Trip to Egypt was inspired by questioning if there something we can together to impact the world in kindness instead of the negative acts. After announcing the project on the internet, Tarek received unexpected criticism and skepticism. Tarek humanized the conversations when speaking with others respectfully face-to-face. "[Free Trip to Egypt] showed me there are very few bigoted people in America and that's what renewed my faith in humanity." "As long as I am not reacting out of fear, I have access to people" Break down the fear: Tarek hoped to bring people to Egypt that were afraid of Egyptians, Muslims or the Middle East yet were courageous enough to make the step. What will happen when opposites come together? Tarek paired Americans with Egyptians from different backgrounds and watched the dynamics, connections + journeys that unfolded.  "Human connection is more powerful than any difference we might have." A shift in perspective: Each participant had a powerful, transformative change.  #PledgeToListen: A pledge to not demonize anyone who holds certain opinions, views or beliefs, but instead will try to understand their reasons and their arguments and express your own views in return. Take the pledge here. Find a Free Trip to Egypt screening near you, or host one in your community, here. If you enjoyed hearing how human connection can change the world, you'll love my conversation with Leon Logothetis. Leon travels the world relying solely on the kindness of strangers, which he pays back in unexpected, inspiring ways. Listen to Leon on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 136. TAREK MOUNIB'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? The Prayer of Quintessential. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Naïve optimism. 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 guitar and I’d play “Let it Be” by The Beatles. 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 grandfather. 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Be true to your heart. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? You're good the way you are. 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 loved the world.  *** 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 “Monday Moments” segments. “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” ― Leo Buscaglia Today, I invite you to view others, challenges, and meltdowns through the lens of compassion. When others put their heads down and step away, be encouraged instead to lift yours and step forward. Realize not only the profound magnitude of generosity but the truth that you can be its epicenter. *** 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.  

“There are no quick wins in business or life – it takes years to become an overnight success." This quote from entrepreneur Richard Branson is a great reminder of the value of hard work and the importance of not comparing ourselves to others’ supposed “overnight” success. Today’s guest’s story reiterates this truth. Jake McEntire dedicated 14 years to writing his script for Run the Race. He finally saw it become a feature film produced by Tim Tebow earlier this year. Today, Jake joins us to shine a light on how to uncover what we are called to do in life and how to steadfastly pursuit it. SHOW NOTES: As a child, Jake fell in love with the art of storytelling, inspiring him to move hearts as movies did for his family. All for one, one for all: Jake's father encouraged a close bond between Jake and his five siblings. Growing up in a small, north Texas town allowed Jake to experience a variety of clubs + sports, including football and acting. After tearing his ACL, Jake played Randle in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, inspiring him to focus on acting. Jake taught himself screenwriting, using the scripts from Shawshank Redemption and Sling Blade as guides. Run after God. As long as you have him, you have everything you need not matter what happens to you.   Professional sports star Tim Tebow and his brother Robby Tebow became Executive Producers of Run the Race after reading the script. Run the Race is available on DVD and digital download. Get it here. If you enjoyed today's episode, you'll love hearing my conversation with John Smith. John shares his miraculous story of fall into an icy lake. If you’re struggling to make sense of your suffering, have lost your personal faith or have stopped believing in miracles, this episode is for you. Listen to John on Live Inspired ep. 168 here. JAKE MCENTIRE'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? The Bible and The Morning and Evening by Charles Spurgeon. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Being overly optimistic, enthusiastic and zealous. 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? Old computer that has pictures that aren't backed up yet. 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? Billy Graham and the first question would be, “did you ever dream your life would turn out the way it did? Tell me how it happened, why God did it and what is your secret to being obedient.” 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? You can’t make deals with God. Put everything at the foot of the cross, even the simple stuff. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Just relax. Enjoy the day that God has made. 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?  This guy ran after God + his dreams as hard as he could, and encourage everyone to do the same.  *** Did you enjoy today's 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.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments. “You may not control all of the events that happened to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” – Maya Angelou Today, I share the story of Marguerite Ann Johnson, better known as Maya Angelou. Maya endured horrific adversity as a child before finding her voice which has been heard all over the world. We have all endured our own challenges and there is no doubt we will face more. When the next challenge arises, remember this: “you may not control all of the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” *** 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.

What is your boulder? The obstacle blocking you from becoming the best version of yourself? Joe De Sena is the founder + CEO of Spartan Race, the global leader in obstacle course racing. He has a vision of empowering over 100 million people to change their life for the better through camaraderie and competition. Today's conversation will encourage you to conquer life's obstacles and push past your comfort zone to achieve more than you thought possible. SHOW NOTES: Spartan has engaged hundreds of thousands of people through 275 events in 42 countries. Most people need a partner to hold you accountable to be the best version of yourself. Game changers in Joe's youth: After hours of unsuccessfully trying to move a boulder for his dad, Joe told him that he'd find someone that could. While purchasing a car, Joe's mom reminded him that he could buy a fancy car if he worked for it. With the encouragement + guidance of his neighbor, Joe started a pool cleaning business that grew to 700 customers. After fighting his way into Cornell University, a friend introduced him to a mentor that led him to a career on Wall Street. Full circle: Joe sold his finance business to purchase an organic farm in Vermont.  Finding the physical aspect of the farming inspiring, Joe began inviting his former Wall Street colleagues to the farm for challenging races up the mountains. Why name it Spartan? It's simple yet hard. You’re going to sweat but there's a reward at the end with your comrades. “Whether you think you can, or you think you can't -- you're right." - Henry Ford You better do some burpees: Burpees are the most efficient way to promote movement + circulation in the body. Joe encourages others to sign up for something hard, where you need to be held accountable and have others join in order to make healthier habits. When you do something hard, it feels rewarding. Do the work. Get to a point where you enjoy the work. Leo is Joe's 40-pound kettlebell that he carries with him every day. Happiness is wanting what you have. One way to want what you have is to throw a few obstacles in front of yourself every day. Joe hopes to get Spartan in the Olympics and reverse health + wellness trend with children. Bond by doing tough things together. Joe suggests couples do 100 miles before a marriage certificate and 200 miles before they can get a divorce. For tips to make long-term impactful change, consider Change or Die by Alan Deutschman. Get 20% off your Spartan Race registration with promo code LIVEINSPIRED.  If you enjoyed today's episode, you'll love hearing my conversation with Koran Bolden. Koran shares how he overcame losing his brother to gun violence and a 3-step analogy to pivot in life. Listen to Koran on Live Inspired ep. 36 here. JOE DE SENA'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 What is the best book you’ve ever read? Atlas Shrugged Ayn Rand. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Relaxed a little more. 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 computer. 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? Ernest Shackleton. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Happiness is wanting what you have. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Patience.  It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? Here’s a man who worked hard, tried hard *** 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 “Monday Moments” segments. "Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly" ― Bobby Kennedy Today, I share a story of the heroic acts of a young man after a passenger ship collided with another vessel on Lake Michigan in September 1860. Let this serve as a reminder that with every day, and every interaction, provides the opportunity to make a difference. by daring greatly to do your best. *** 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.

Today, we’ll discuss groundbreaking research that illustrates how love, friendship, environment and a sense of purpose have a greater impact on our health than the care we receive from our doctors. Astounding – and true! Dr. Kelli Harding joins us to share about her new book The Rabbit Effect which makes a compelling case for treating others with kindness and living inspired (hey, your health depends on it!). Don’t miss this fun, warm and life-changing conversation. SHOW NOTES: As a child, Kelli loved science + helping others which led her to pursue medicine.  During medical school, Kelli became intrigued with what was going on inside the body and the environment it was surround by and how that affected health. The Rabbit Effect: Dr. Robert Nerem's experiment involving genetically similar rabbits fed the same high-fat diet inspired Kelli because the kindness + company of a lab researcher kept one group healthier. Bella + Daisy: One paper, Bella is on death's door yet is functioning well when you meet her whereas Daisy is not thriving but it can't be explained with standard tests. "Our social world is changing our biology." The power of touch: A growing body of research shows that hugs and physical touch are protective towards illness.   "A faithful friend is the medicine of life." - Ecclesiasticus proverb Kelli shares how telomeres, the "caps" to our DNA, protect our DNA and interplay with our social environment.  Find ways to boost your connection to your community and buffer how stress affects you to live a happier, healthier life. Learn to recognize that stress isn't necessarily bad, it's how you respond to it. Navigate stress by meditating, exercising, building meaningful connections, practicing kindness and having a sense of purpose. "The goal isn't to live forever. It's to live well within the days that are given." Adverse Childhood Experiences: The higher your ACE score increases your risk for diseases causing long-term health effects decades later. Kelli emphasizes the important of Post Traumatic Growth and finding opportunities to grow from the experiences that happened to us. "True health is hidden in the million tiny moments of everyday life." "People are just a collection of tissue, of muscle, of ligament and of bone. Expect of course, they’re not." Get Dr. Kelli Harding's The Rabbit Effect here. If you enjoyed learning about Post Traumatic Growth, you'll love hearing from Live Inspired guest Michaela Haas. Michaela shares how her research can lead overcome trauma and lead to a deeper understanding of strength. Listen to Michaela Haas on ep. 4 here. DR. KELLI HARDING'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Being Mortal by Atul Gawande and Travels with Charley in Search of America by John Steinbeck. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I have to work on being silly. I have a good sense of humor but think I can lighten up a little more. 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? Handwritten letters from my grandmother. 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 husband or my mother. 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Institutions don't love you back so dedicate your time to things that are important but at the same time it's the people that are important. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? When you have the choice, show up. Work is important but think about your relationships and the important things in life. 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 celebrated the light. *** 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 “Monday Moments” segments. As the school year begins, I wanted to take a moment to celebrate a teacher taught me invaluable lessons on school and life. Mrs. Cathy Collins showed me that regardless the subject we may teach, there is no finer foundation, no clearer lesson plan, and no more effective motivation than love. If you have questions or want to share how the Live Inspired Podcast has impacted your life, send them to me and my team at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com. Can't wait to hear from you! *** 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.

Bethany Hamilton was just 13 years old when she became a household name after being attacked by a shark while surfing. She lost her arm and nearly her life, but just one month after the attack, returned to surfing. Today, 15 years later, Bethany is a professional surfer, contestant on Amazing Race, wife, mother and role model. Her amazing story has been shared in the award-winning biopic Soul Surfer and her new documentary Unstoppable. Today, Bethany shares her inspiring story with us firsthand. If you ever face a challenge (and we all do, right?) this episode is for you – Bethany will show you how to overcome with faith and gratitude. SHOW NOTES: The up-close and personal documentary Unstoppable was released in July 2019 and covers Bethany’s incredible journey from a girl through becoming a woman, a resilient athlete and mom. Watch the trailer here. Bethany and her husband Adam finished third in season 25 of CBS's reality television show Amazing Race and enjoyed tackling challenges together.  Bethany's mom led her to explore her spirituality + faith. She attributes her positivity and resiliency after her attack to her faith in God. "I know I'm going to surf again." Shortly after attack, a reporter asked Bethany if she'd ever surf again and her confidence + boldness inspired others. As she matures, Bethany is learning to embrace her story and use it to inspire others. Four weeks after the attack, Bethany rode a wave to shore, giving her hope + realization that she'd return to surfing.  Friend of Bethany is a foundation produces events that inspires, shares stories hope, and responds with encouragement to traumatic amputees to give hope in a difficult time. Learn more here. World Vision invited Bethany to Thailand a year and a half after the tsunami to inspire fisherman to return to the ocean, despite their fear. Faith in God, spending time in the ocean, and being a mom + wife keep Bethany grounded and tethered to what matters.  In Unstoppable, Bethany shares her journey and daunting accomplishment of surfing an infamous 65 foot, 30 mph+ wave nicknamed Jaws. John 16:33: I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. Bethany refers to this verse to provide hope + peace to herself + others when going through a difficult time. Bethany found the emotional aspect of her recovery more difficult than the physical and is thankful for her support system. Bethany's book Body and Soul shares tips for young women to become the best versions of themselves. Get a copy here. If hearing Bethany's story inspired you to live an unstoppable life, you'll love hearing Live Inspired Podcast guest Amberley Snyder. Amberley shares her struggles during recovering from an accident, her strong family bond, and turning tragedy into triumph. Listen to Amberley ep. 63. You'll also love hearing Live Inspired Podcast guest Chris Norton. Chris' story of sustaining an spinal cord injury and determination throughout his recovery will give you amazing insight to live more inspired today. Listen to Chris on ep. 43. BETHANY HAMILTON'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? The Bible and Rules for a Knight by Ethan Hawke. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I've become more of a realist and would love to have even more positivity. 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 surfboards. 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 husband or Jesus. 5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Be willing to try because you never know what you're able to accomplish. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Keep doing what you’re doing. 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? Always willing to try, put herself in uncomfortable situations to achieve her accomplishments and received the grace of God to keep going in a direction that she may have never planned herself. We can all live an unstoppable life. *** 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 “Monday Moments” segments. Today's question was submitted by Live Inspired community member Michael S.  Michael S. asked: I am struggling to connect with my 16-year-old daughter. Any advice on a good book to read? Beneath that snarky teenage attitude, remains your little girl, desperately seeking approval, figuring out who she is, what matters to her, how she best fits in and how she can push the boundaries as far as possible.  Rather than providing a single book, I’d consider checking out any of the following ranging from very conservative to a bit more liberal, and from books for dads to one from a mother’s perspective: Be the Dad She Needs by Kevin Leman Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters by Meg Meeker Dial down the Drama by Collen O'Grady But Dad! (Gross) by Margaret E. Gross If you have questions or want to share how the Live Inspired Podcast has impacted your life, send them to me and my team at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com. Can't wait to hear from you! *** 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.