Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

What's your fear? Is that fear serving you or hindering you? Evy Poumpouras is one of the world's leading experts of fear. As a former Secret Service Special Agent, multi-platform journalist and star of Bravo's Spy Games, Evy has worked protective detail for four U.S. Presidents and is trained by the Department of Defense in the art and science of lie detection, human behavior and cognitive influence. Today, Evy is going to share her resilient + courageous journey from finding her purpose, nearly dying on 9/11 + beyond, and what it means to truly live fearlessly. This conversation will spark inspiration to find the strongest, fearless version of yourself. SHOW NOTES: Evy was raised in Harlem by hardworking Greek immigrant parents. During summers, Evy + her brother would return to her grandparents' small Greek village teaching her humility, appreciation and Greek culture. We have to listen to ourselves: Her parents didn't initially understand Evy choosing a career in law enforcement. "If you go through your entire career and never once use your weapon, you've had an awesome, productive career. [Your mouth] is far more powerful than [your weapon]." - Sergeant Corrigan of NYPD Get people to comply without force by learning how to properly communicate. Beyond earning her spot among the most elite, Evy had to prove her talents to earn the respect + acceptance of her male peers. "How you define yourself is your choice. How others define you is their choice. It's up to decide which definition you prefer." Objectively seek the truth: As an interrogator for the U.S. Secret Service, Evy learned to be less judgmental. Evy touts the importance and power of active listening in all aspects of our personal and professional lives. I will not die afraid: Evy was awarded the Secret Service Medal of Valor Award for her heroism on September 11, 2001. Pain is inevitable in life. It's how you take your pain and turn it into light. Finding meaning in tragedy helps us heal. Live fearlessly: Understand that it's okay to be afraid, but don't become paralyzed by fear. If you look at the obstacles you have to overcome, you'll kill your dream before it ever had a chance to exist. Don't tell me why it can't be done. Tell me how it can be done. Pre-order a copy of Evy Poumpouras' book Becoming Bulletproof here. If you loved hearing from a military hero, you'll love my Military + First Responder playlist! Hear how Forrest Gump continues to influence Gary Sinise, Jim Lovell's journey to the dark side of the moon and how one veteran embraces unexpected challenges. Listen to the Military + First Responder playlist. EVY POUMPOURAS' LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you've ever read? Circe by Madeline Miller. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Lightness, focusing on what you can control. 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? Nothing. 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 dad. I'd want to know what it's like where he is now and tell him that he did a good job. 5. What is the best advice you've ever received? How are we going to win this fight if we let it crush us? 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Don't worry about it, everything always works out. 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? Don't tell me why it can't be done. Tell me how it can be done. *** 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 welcome back Matt Emerzian, author, speaker + founder of Every Monday Matters, a non-profit dedicated to spreading the message of self-worth and compassion to people throughout the world. Matt shares his latest book You Matter and simple tips to find meaning and live fully―and change the world while doing so. This inspiring conversation will help start your week on fire! Get Matt Emerzian's new book You Matter here. Matt joined me for a full interview on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 58. He shared his story of finding a calm and grounded existence, and his first book Every Monday Matters. Listen here. *** 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.

Relationships are hard. Amber + Guy Lia, owners of faith-and family-friendly production company Storehouse Media Group, join us to share practical advice on some of the most common issues that trigger friction in partnerships. Married for 14 years, Amber + Guy are proof that a typical couple can break the reactionary cycle of outbursts and embrace the opportunity for growth as individuals and as a couple. Whether it's poor communication, busy schedules, different parenting styles, or another culprit, this husband-wife team offers easy-to-apply advice to counter adverse reactions to these triggers. Today's conversation will offer hope that anger + frustration can shift into peace + joy -- and it's not as hard as you think! SHOW NOTES: Find a rhythm that works for you. To balance writing with raising their four children, Guy + Amber carved dedicated time to work together by waking up at 2 a.m. Although Amber's first childhood memories were positive, she recalls dark periods which she attributes to her parents being raised in a strict separatist cult. "In the midst of all the conflict, my parents were incredibly devoted and exceedingly generous." Guy's parents were in a car accident when he was a child, causing conflicts in their relationship. After a massive heart attack, his parents learned a new way to love each other and present a better model of parenting. "I thought I was getting Prince Charming and he thought he was getting Princess Perfect and we were both falling short of that idea." From marriage to parenting within three months: Not having an opportunity to solidify the foundation of their friendship and marriage relationship caused stumbling blocks early in their marriage. Having been around kids her entire life, Amber did not expect the internal identity crisis she faced. Triggers will always be there. Stop reacting in anger and frustration, and start responding in more gentle, Biblical responses. When you're no longer friends... To rediscover why she fell in love with Guy, Amber wrote down one thing that she appreciated and valued about him. When you're weary and exhausted... being involved in their community eases the burdens Amber + Guy carries. When your marriage ebbs and flows... commit to "check-ups" with your significant other once or twice a month to openly communicate needs and problems. "Being proactive in our marriages prevents us from being reactive in our marriages." "Making our spouses happy is not our job but should be our delight." "Some of our biggest marriage triggers don't result from what we do but from what we neglect to do." "There is nothing anger can do that love can't do better" Get a copy of Amber and Guy Lia's book Marriage Triggers here. If you loved hearing from a married couple, then you'll love hearing from Smitty and Louise Harris! Married for 60 years, this love story of a decorated POW hero + his wife is truly remarkable. Listen to Smitty + Louise on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 210. AMBER AND GUY LIA'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you've ever read? Amber: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Guy: I wish I could have the balance, joy, and purposefulness today that I did 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? Amber: My Bible. I've read it every year cover-to-cover since 2000. 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? Guy: My father passed away shortly after I graduated college. I never got to have an adult conversation with him. 5. What is the best advice you've ever received? Amber: You don't have to figure this all out today. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Guy: Love the people who are in your life, not worry so much about what tomorrow is going to bring, and focus on what to do today to make it fantastic for me and those around me. 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?Amber: She loved God and she loved others; Guy: Happiness in life is not found in the destination but through the journey. *** 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 "Monday Moment" segment. Today's question was submitted by Live Inspired community member Mike M. Mike M. asked: It seems like our world is in turmoil every time I turn around! What can I do to help ease the turmoil AND my nerves about the world we live in? Tune in to hear my answer. 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.

Bethenny Frankel is the Founder & CEO of Skinnygirl, a lifestyle brand offering practical solutions to everyday problems, which has grown from sensible, low-calorie cocktails into a branding empire that including clothing, vitamins, skincare and more. In addition to her long-standing role on Bravo's Real Housewives of New York, Bethenny has been a guest shark on ABC's critically-acclaimed series Shark Tank, and runner-up in The Apprentice: Martha Stewart in 2005. Today, Bethenny is focused on raising her young daughter and establishing her worldwide disaster relief initiative bstrong. This program provides much-needed real-time relief to disaster-stricken areas across the United States and beyond. While assessing and delivering supplies to the Australian bushfire crisis, her team has continued their support in Puerto Rico, which has been named one of the largest privately-run humanitarian efforts in US history. Bethenny shares how she balances motherhood, her Skinnygirl empire, the critical impact her philanthropy is providing worldwide and will ignite the question, "what more can I do?" SHOW NOTES: Always a survivor: Bethenny's turbulent childhood taught her life-long lessons of dedication and determination. "Coming in second place doesn't count. Ironically, I came in second on The Apprentice: Martha Stewart and it was the best thing." "Win. Don't complain or explain." Playing chess > grand plans: Bethenny notes she looks at her business + professional life as a game of chess rather than having one grand plan. Bethenny went from being a participant of Mark Burnett's The Apprentice to recently partnering with him + MGM Television on producing female-centric programs. Naively, Bethenny hoped in winning The Apprentice she'd democratize health the way Martha Stewart democratized style. Bethenny was cast as the oddball character on Real Housewives of New York, and she committed to being vulnerable and her authentic self, focusing on the opportunity it provided to launch her Skinnygirl empire. bstrong: Bethenny directly oversees her worldwide philanthropic initiative that provides real-time emergency assistance to individuals and their families after impacted by disaster with much-needed gift cards, bank cards and critical supplies. "What's better? Pick up a broom and help clean up a mess or complain and look at the mess?" "You're pretty blessed if the people you love are alive." To learn more or donate to Bethenny Frankel's philanthropy B Strong, visit their website. If you enjoyed learning from a female entrepreneur, you'll love my conversation with Dina Dwyer-Owens. Dina shares a three-part focus that has led to an incredibly successful business + inspired life. Listen to Dina Dwyer-Owens on ep. 49. BETHENNY FRANKEL'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you've ever read? Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson, Kane and Abel by Jeffrey Archer, Bright, Precious Days by Jay McInerney, The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle, and by Rhonda Byrne. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Not worrying so much. 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 tray of watches because they all have different memories from different times in my life, and my pictures are on my phone. 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? Mark Zuckerberg and I'd ask, "how did you have the courage at a young age to turn down a billion dollars for your brand?" 5. What is the best advice you've ever received? Don't buy into the love and don't buy into the hate. 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? I need to find a way to make her understand to absolutely not worry at all about relationships and just have fun. 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 only sweat the small stuff. *** 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 "Monday Moment" segments. Today I share the amazing story and life of a humble man named Ben Fainer. At nine years old, Ben's town of Będzin, Poland was overtaken by Nazis. He told few people of the horror he endured during those 2,000+ days, often wearing long sleeves to cover up the number tattooed on his arm. Slowly, Ben began to share his story. We all have stories. They may not be tattoos or scars but we all have stories that are worthy of being lifted up, embraced and shared. *** 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.

Human trafficking is a massive, worldwide problem. It's estimated that 20-40 million people are victims of this form for modern slavery, and our communities are not exempt. Today I welcome survivor Rebecca Bender to share her harrowing journey from being human trafficked for nearly six years to now helping other survivors escape + rebuild their lives. In Rebecca's story, you're going to hear what she's been through, what she learned along the way and most importantly that you're not defined by what you've been through. My friends, today's conversation is incredibly emotional, important and timely. Human trafficking, specifically sex trafficking is a topic we seldom talk or think about, but one that's happening, quietly, all around us. SHOW NOTES: Rebecca grew up in the Pacific Northwest as a typical "small-town farm kid" until her parents divorced when her father became an alcoholic and her mother became involved in a series of unhealthy relationships. Wanted + engaged: In high school, Rebecca was not considered "at-risk" because she was a varsity athlete and even graduated high school as a junior. Unexpectedly, Rebecca became a teen mom, pivoting from attending Oregon State University to staying in her small town for community college. "It was all a trick." Rebecca moved to Las Vegas with her boyfriend where immediately their relationship drastically changed. "You think your situation is different the whole time until you meet other girls just like you." Power + control wheel: Rebecca refers to domestic human trafficking as a mixture of domestic violence, cult-like behavior, and prostitution. "If you give me the same amount of time you gave the enemy, I will never be outdone." Rebecca's advice for anyone feeling hopeless: There is nothing that you have been through or done that can't be undone and redone. Redemption is available for everyone; start today. Have grace for yourself and others. "I want people to know they are more than what they've been through." After Rebecca escaped, she created Elevate Academy and has helped hundreds of survivors of the commercial sex trade industry by providing resources to explore new careers and professional development. Learn more about Elevate Academy here. "There are 25 different forms of human trafficking and it's happening in every community in America." Today, Rebecca is married with four daughters and through the Rebecca Bender Initiative, works with law enforcement, FBI, Homeland Security and aftercare programs to provide expert testimony, trainings and consultation across the globe. Get a copy of Rebecca Bender's book In Pursuit of Love here. Get help: Confidentially call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, text 233733 or chat online on their website. On Live Inspired Podcast ep. 82, I welcomed Christine Caine to share her story. As a global anti-human-trafficking abolitionist, Christine was honored with the 2017 Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social Justice for her work. Listen to Christine Caine on ep. 82. 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. REBECCA BENDER'S LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you've ever read? God's Leading Lady by T.D. Jakes. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Innocence and trust. I wish I walked into situations almost more expecting the good. 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 from when I got saved 17 years ago. It has every note and every promise God has ever given me, highlighted and dated. 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? Martin Luther King Jr. and I'd ask how he got through the pressure, how he radically changed a nation, where did he start... I have so many questions! 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? "Run now, you can do it." If I couldn't run, I'd say, "It's going to be okay. You're going to be okay. Your daughter is going to be okay. You're going to get through this." 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? Against all odds, I will shine. *** Did you enjoy today's episode? 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 Moment" segments. "I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear." – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In honor of this great man's birthday and national holiday, I am sharing an excerpt from my first book ON FIRE that best demonstrates the immense power of love in my own life + the three simple words that changed my life. Not read ON FIRE yet? The first three people to email me at Podcast@JohnOLearyInspires.com will receive a personalized copy! *** 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.

Rudy Pérez is the definition of a music legend and has earned international success by shining the spotlight on others. He's written + produced hundreds of chart-topping songs for superstars like Beyoncé, Julio Iglesias and Christina Aguilera and has earned five Grammy Awards. As the first Latin music artist to win Billboard Magazine's Producer of the Decade, Rudy candidly shares about fleeing Cuba under Fidel Castro's reign and surviving a street gang. He also shares how he learned to embrace his talents and behind-the-scenes stories of his unprecedented career. Today's conversation will remind you that with hard work, dedication and faith, anything is possible. SHOW NOTES: Rudy grew up in Cuba during the 1960s when Fidel Castro came into power before escaping to Miami on one of the last Freedom Flights. It takes a village: Rudy's life was shaped by his parents + grandparents but he credits his uncle Enrique for his love of music. His mother taught him the importance of hard work in order to purchase his first guitar and amp at 13 years old. The Vulcan Gang: During one of his first tasks as a gang member, Rudy was caught and sent to juvenile detention, teaching him a lesson in true friendship. "Be the artist." This heartfelt wisdom from Ronaldo Lluis made a profound impact on a young Rudy + has continued to inspire him to provide opportunities for other young musicians. Rudy + music legend David Foster wrote Latin superstar Luis Miguel's hit Ayer, and inspiration came after watching a movie with his wife Betsy. Ayer became a chart-topper and sold over 11 million copies. Rudy and Academy Award winner Burt Bacharach produced Live to See Another Day, dedicated to survivors of school gun violence. Watch the incredible video here. Get Rudy Pérez's book The Latin Hit Maker here. If you enjoyed hearing from a Grammy Award winner, you'll love my conversation with gospel singer Erica Campbell. Erica shares her journey of finding her angelic voice, becoming a wife + mother and her faith in God. Listen to Erica on ep. 190. RUDY PÉREZ LIVE INSPIRED 7 1. What is the best book you've ever read? The Bible, specifically the book of Job. 2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? My tenacity and curiosity. Curiosity is so important and I wish young musicians today would be more curious about the greats of the past. 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 guitar my wife bought me. 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? Beethoven, Bach or one of those geniuses. 5. What is the best advice you've ever received? Happy wife, happy life! 6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Love. Love everyone. 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 the guy that did everything and never said he did anything. *** Did you enjoy today's episode? 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 Robert. Robert asked: In your life, you've had to cross that bridge of acceptance. Was there a moment, another event, a six-month, one-year or multi-year turning point? Can you say what moved your mindset forward? Tune in to hear my answer. 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.