Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

Hollywood has a reputation of attracting individuals capable of portraying one version of themselves in front of a camera … and a very different version when no one is watching. Perhaps that’s why when people learn a movie was made about my life, and they hear about the actors who participated in the film, one of the most frequently asked questions is, “So, what are they really like?”  After spending months with some well-known actors, producers, directors and leaders in the industry, my answer typically surprises them. Let me explain.

Randy Gravitt is an author, speaker and coach who dedicates his life to empowering leaders to achieve greatness both at work and at home. As a devoted husband, father to four daughters, and grandfather to six, Randy understands the delicate dance between professional responsibilities and personal commitments. His life is a testament to the power of nurturing meaningful relationships while pursuing excellence in one’s career. And his wisdom goes beyond mere strategies — he offers practical steps to create a life rich with purpose, personal growth, and positive impact. My friends, whether you’re leading a family unit, a church group, or a large corporation, this conversation is a reminder to shift our focus from external achievements to internal fulfillment, building connections that matter, investing in the people we love, and living a life that truly inspires.

What do we do with memories that sear? How do we cope with losses from our past? And how do we heal from scars we still bear? After returning from war, Bill Goodreau wrestled with these questions. In discovering an answer, he ultimately discovered not only a good life for himself, but one that could be used for good to elevate others.  Let me explain.

Retired Navy SEAL Captain John Doolittle dedicated 25 years of service to the United States of America, embodying resilience, determination, faithfulness and humility. Today, John shares his incredible journey of becoming a Navy SEAL, the struggles he faced and the invaluable lessons he learned along the way. Plus, the importance of camaraderie, the power of leaning on others, the immense strength found in mental toughness, how these qualities shaped his path and what it can do for you as you navigate your path forward. My friends, this conversation is a reminder that life is a series of challenges, and developing the strength to rise again and again can make a difference for ourselves and those that we are called to serve.

For the past six summers, all four of my kids have been able to pick a work trip they wanted to join their dad for. They look through my schedule. They pick the location, anywhere in the country. And other than the time I’m speaking, they determine what we do when we get there. My job is simple: say "yes" to whatever ideas they come up with while we are together. They affectionally call it “The Daddy Trip.” They think it’s for them. Selfishly, it's an excuse for me to spend focused one-on-one time with each of my kids. And it’s my favorite trip of the year. Let me explain.

Patric Young, a former basketball star and two-time SEC Defensive Player of the Year, faced an unimaginable challenge in 2022 when a car accident left him paralyzed from the waist down. Once a towering force on the court, Patric now embarks on a journey of resilience, faith, and rediscovery, confronting the depths of his identity and strength. Today, Patric shares his journey as he faces adversity and embraces his renewed purpose in life. This story is a guiding light, reminding us to focus on what we can control and to find joy in life's simplest moments. My friends, if you’ve ever wondered how to remain steadfast in the midst of a storm, this conversation is for you.

“Do you ever have bad days?” While speaking with a group of college interns for a large insurance agency last week, I was asked this question. My answer surprised them. In sharing it with you, I hope it offers some encouragement for you. Let me explain.

Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge has led some of the world’s most iconic brands. And yet, it’s what she uncovered about her family's past that’s most incredible. After discovering that her great-great-great-grandmother had been enslaved in Missouri, wrongfully convicted of a crime, and denied the justice she so deserved, Pamela eagerly sought to learn more about her family’s heritage. My friends, today’s episode goes beyond Pamela’s journey as we celebrate unity, collaboration and how we can’t change the past, but we can certainly learn from it.

Every day offers the same opportunity: To invest in activities, efforts, work and conversations that build others up or to choose attitudes, words and actions that push others down. The choice we make profoundly influences how we feel about our lives and our capacity to positively impact the lives of those around us. Let me explain.  

At the tender age of nine, Kim Meeder faced an unimaginable tragedy when she lost both her parents in a matter of minutes. Though losing her parents in such a horrific way could have shattered her spirit forever, she discovered strength in her faith and solace in the company of horses. It was in taking care of, riding, and simply being in the presence of these majestic animals that she found her path to healing. Today, Kim shares how she transformed her pain into a life filled with purpose and joy, and how she shares this freedom with others, encouraging them to find their own paths to healing through Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch. My friends, if you want to hear a story of what being open to the unexpected can bring, and how to turn an evil tragedy into a life of beautiful healing, this conversation is for you.