Stay ConnectedExpected to die, today he’s inspiring others to truly live.
World-renowned inspirational speaker + national bestselling author John O’Leary wants to help you wake up from accidental living so you can do, be, achieve and impact more through your life. Every Monday, John shares a quick burst of inspiration to help start your week on fire. Every Thursday, John interviews an amazing guest on their story, successes, failures, lessons, and life to help you uncover tips to apply in yours.
What does it take to be victorious when it matters most?
That's the question being asked of those gathered in the locker rooms of the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs this week. Most analysts and the experts on TV will suggest the difference makers are things like elite quarterback play, strategic coaching and game management, impenetrable defensive lines, and special teams excellence.
And while this weekend's Super Bowl is sure to include much of the above, with one team ultimately bathing their coach in Gatorade, lifting high the Lombardi trophy, and stating proudly their intentions to go to Disneyworld, I think there is a much more important victory that we should be seeking. Namely, how do we accomplish something so transformationally important that it will endure decades after the confetti has been swept up?
Eric Close is an accomplished actor and director most recognized for his roles on television shows Without a Trace, Nashville and Suits. For decades, Eric has built an impressive career in Hollywood while staying true to his core values: faith, family, and purpose.
Today, Eric shares how his faith has guided every step of his career, the intentional choices he and his wife made to keep their family strong, and how he's learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Plus, he opens up about his struggles with anxiety, the wisdom he's gained from Hollywood icons like Clint Eastwood, and his experience portraying Coach Joe Kennedy in Average Joe—a man whose simple act of prayer after football games sparked national controversy.
My friends, if you've ever questioned your path, battled self-doubt, or needed reassurance that your struggles have meaning, this conversation is for you. You'll leave with a reminder that we are never alone and the encouragement to stand firm in your beliefs.
When you read the headlines about a fire, shooting, conflict or loss, do you keep scrolling like most of us? Or do you actively step up and show compassion in your own personal way? How you respond may not only change your life, but the lives of others. Let me explain.
Adam Wright is the President and CEO of Pilot, one of North America's largest travel center networks serving more than 1.2 million travelers daily. From an All-American football player to a corporate leader overseeing 30,000 team members, Adam's journey is a roadmap in resilience, intentional leadership, and the transformative power of faith and family.
Today, Adam shares how life's challenges can fuel greatness, the pivotal role of faith and discipline in his life, and the importance of showing people they matter at every turn.
My friends, you'll leave today's conversation with practical wisdom on embracing grace, grit, and purpose and actionable insights on leadership, faith, and the power of relationships to build a life of impact and joy.
The first trip Beth and I took as a young couple was to San Francisco. As picturesque as the city was, it was what we encountered upon leaving the city that was most remarkable. With the most recent devastating fires engulfing California it is my hope that the lessons I learned decades ago might inspire us with courage to keep moving forward boldly today. Let me explain.
Jennifer Jefferson is a wife, mother, veteran and Executive Director of FOCUS Marines Foundation, who has dedicated her life to uplifting others, creating community and changing lives.
Today, Jennifer shares the transformative work of FOCUS – an organization I've been proud to partner with for more than a decade. Plus, Jennifer shares what it means to "choose each other every day" in marriage, her family's decision to welcome her nieces into their home, and how trauma doesn't have to define us.
My friends, if you need a reminder that love is an action, not just a feeling, this conversation is for you. You'll leave with actionable lessons on the power of choice, the value of building community and the strength to face life's challenges with purpose and hope.
Homeless guy. Single mom. Burn survivor. Wealthy person. Immigrant.
Regardless the intent, our quick judgements and descriptors for others always fall short of fully describing another human being. Several weeks ago, during an overnight shift at a hospital, I witnessed the downside of labels. And yet, minutes later, I saw the healing power that comes when we more fully embrace the humanity of the person in front of us. Let me explain.
Dr. Bertice Berry is a sociologist, award-winning author, and celebrated storyteller who has inspired millions through her wisdom, humor, and heart. From growing up in poverty as one of seven children to earning a Ph.D. in sociology, Bertice's story encourages us to live authentically, reflect our best selves, and shine brighter for those around us.
Today, Bertice shares how her early struggles shaped her belief in hope and blessings, even in the hardest of times. She reflects on the life lessons learned from her mother's transformation, the importance of forgiveness, and why "cleaning the light" (literally and metaphorically) helps us see life more clearly. Bertice also discusses her challenges with MS and the mental chains that can hold us back more than the physical ones.
My friends, if you need a reminder that your story matters and your struggles can become blessings, this conversation is for you. You'll leave inspired to embrace your own narrative, find strength in your scars, and share your light with the world.
Who would do that?
This was the question my son asked last weekend. He wanted to know why I was planning to wake up early the following day, drive six hours to Cincinnati, surprise a friend for his birthday, and then turn around to drive home after just 30 minutes since I had to get back for a previously scheduled commitment.
To Patrick, it seemed like a nicely written card or a gift mailed in advance would have been a sufficient gesture, but I shared with my son a few reasons why this person mattered enough to be there in person. Let me explain.
Damon West went from a Division 1 starting quarterback at Texas A&M to becoming the "Uptown Burglar" and being sentenced to 65 years in prison. Now, a keynote speaker and the bestselling author of The Coffee Bean, Damon is a testament to resilience, redemption, and the power of personal change.
Today, Damon shares the pivotal lessons learned from his darkest days—how he found hope and purpose in a Texas supermax prison and rebuilt his life one choice at a time. You'll also learn about the inmate who showed him how to be a "change agent," the freedom he discovered in surrendering control, and the essential role of faith, service, and community in his recovery.
My friends, if you need a reminder that change is always possible, this conversation is for you. You'll leave with practical tools to overcome adversity, shift your perspective, and take ownership of your life.
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