Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

Few stories move me as powerfully as Victor Hugo's Les Misérables. Set in the midst of a revolution in France, it's a deeply moving portrait of individuals from various walks of life wrestling with grace, meaning, redemption, love and loss. Last month while watching this play with my wife, it became clear to me that the main character from Les Misérables illuminates not only how we should live as individuals, but also how we must move forward as a nation. And the character that modeled this example to me might not be who you expect. Let me explain.

In our polarized world, Rabbi Susan Talve stands as a beacon of hope, dedicating her life to building relationships across divides. As the founding rabbi of Central Reform Congregation, Susan has inspired a movement of community and connection, reminding us of the beautiful interconnectedness of humanity. Today, Susan shares how an archeological dig in Israel opened her heart and mind to a life of spiritual leadership, how she channels the grief of losing her daughter Adina into creating positive change and her mission of "Tikkun Olam" – repairing the world. My friends, this conversation is a testament to the power of faith, humility and the truth that listening, understanding and building bridges have the power to heal the world.

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.