Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

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MasterChef Winner Christine Ha (ep. 342) Mar 18, 2021

Show notes

Can you imagine losing your ability to see? At 20 years old, this became Christine Ha's reality. Instead of losing faith or focusing on what she had lost, she used it as her inspiration to pursue her life's passion: cooking.

Christine joined the competitive cooking reality TV show Masterchef,hosted by notoriously hard-to-please celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.

Christine won MasterChef Season 3, has hosted her own show, opened her own restaurant, written a New York Times bestseller Recipes from my Home Kitchen and so much more. In a season of great uncertainty for many of us, Christine's story of resilience, courage and passion will speak to your soul.

SHOW NOTES:

As an only Christine struggled to balance embracing her American roots and her family's heritage.
Growing up as a first-generation Vietnamese-American, Christine struggled yet is now grateful for an enriched childhood.
While losing her mom at 14, Christine maintained a strong connection to her mom's culture by living with her grandparents + extended family.
At 20, Christine began experiencing optic nerve inflammation, causing blurry vision and shifting her life's perspective.
Before being properly diagnosed with Neuromyelitis optica (NMO), Christine suffered from spinal cord inflammation leading to paralysis from the neck down.
Learning to live with vision loss: For years, Christine was constantly adapting to gradual vision loss causing her to re-learn how to accomplish daily tasks.
Building confidence: Leaning on her network of support + local resources for adapting to a later-in-life disability, Christine learned how to use public transportation, use a white cane and read Braille.
Celebrate the small victories: Starting with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, Christine took small steps to relearn her culinary skills, giving her courage to continue.
With the encouragement of her husband and friends, Christine auditioned for MasterChef only anticipating it'd be material for her creative writing.
Fake it until you make it. Try your best, and if you believe it then eventually you will get there.
"In spite of my disability, I was able to compete with the best of them."
Second-guessing: While facing numerous disadvantages, Christine found not being able to see what her competitors were preparing as an advantage.
As a female Asian-American in the male-dominated culinary field, Christine found her success on MasterChef gave her confidence + courage.
During each grueling challenge, Christine expected the worst and hoped for the best. In the final round, shocked + exhausted, Christine moved Gordon Ramsey to tears and was crowned the winner.
"I wouldn't ask for my vision back because my life has gotten better. It's taught me gumption and fearlessness. My life is fuller now because I reach for things that I love like writing and cooking which I would not have done. I would have lived a safe life."
The Blind Goat: a twist on her nickname "The Blind Cook" and being born the year of the goat, Christine's first restaurant is a modern Vietnamese gastropub. Learn more here.
Xin Chao: meaning "hello" in Vietnamese was opened during the pandemic features modern Vietnamese dishes. Learn more here.
Despite losing between 50-80% of expected revenue during the pandemic, Christine maintains hope + faith.
Advice to those facing struggles: "I don't like saying 'things will get better' because it's a promise I can't hold. I'd tell them things can suck and while I don't know exactly what it feels like to be in their shoes, I've had my own struggles. Surround yourself with the right support network + be willing to ask for help and you will find the strength to make it through."

CHRISTINE HA'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read? Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I was less concerned about others.

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 MacBook Air because it has all my photos and recipes.

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? Mother Theresa and ask, "what's life like on the other side?"

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? Believe in yourself.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Don't care about the superficial things. You need to find out who your true friends 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? Christine Ha led the best life and was the best person she could be in the time that she lived.

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What Matters Most? (ep. 341) Mar 15, 2021

Show notes

"We get so wrapped up in numbers in our society. The most important thing is that we are able to be one-to-one, you and I with each other at the moment. If we can be present to the moment with the person that we happen to be with, that's what's important." ― Fred Rogers

It's easy to simply race through the day, check off the to-do-list, go to bed exhausted, wake up tired, wash and repeat. We seldom pause and ask the question, "What truly matters most right now?"

The global pandemic over the past year has taught us much. One vital lesson we would be wise to remember is the fragility and preciousness of life.

Sometimes we can only recognize the grandeur of that miracle by slowing down long enough to take inventory of our blessings, the gift of relationships and the power of love.

And one of the best ways to celebrate those blessings is to choose to be fully present with the individuals who matter most.

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***

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ABC News Anchor Paula Faris Finds Purpose (ep. 340) Mar 11, 2021

Show notes

Paula Faris spent two decades ascending to two of the most coveted jobs in broadcast journalism: co-anchor on Good Morning America + co-host on The View. Yet burnt out + frustrated, Paula walked away... and was left unsure of her identity outside of her career.

Today, Paula shares the success she achieved professionally, the chaos that came with it + how embracing her fear of failure brought her peace.

This conversation is a reminder that we're worth so much more than our work. Join us in this episode to find more peace, purpose, and balance in your day-to-day life.

SHOW NOTES:

After leaving Good Morning America + The View at the height of her career, Paula went through a season of introspection, solidifying her identity + worth beyond what she does for a living.
Dedicated to her father, her book Called Out explores finding the immoveable, unrouteable parts of ourselves that we can cling to.
"I want to leave the legacy of being. Investing in what's important, living a life of impact and a life of purpose."
Twenty Questions: Even as a child, Paula was naturally curious, telling stories with inflection and passion. Her high school drama teacher was the first of many who breathed life and encouragement into a career in broadcasting.
Peel back your layers to determine your talents, releasing you to try new things, reinvent yourself and to find your calling.
What is your calling? Ask yourself:
1. What am I good at?
2. What do I love?
3. What do trusted people noticed that I'm good at?
"Vocation is seasonal. We're called to do different things at different times. We shouldn't feel trapped because of a paycheck."
Life shifts are inevitable. If our identity is one-dimensional, we lose sight of who we are and what we want to be.
Pressing into fear: Captivated by the coverage of 9/11, Paula was motivated to overcome her fear of failure and pursue a career in broadcasting.
Imposter Syndrome: When you are called to do something, you will be equipped to do something. You have to step out in faith, obey and press into fear.
Burnt out and struggling professionally + personally, Paula recognized accomplishment, achievement + success in her work became an addiction.
Am I answering my calling? Ask yourself:
1. Are my professional + personal choices clashing with my values?
2. Am I finding too much significance in things that shift?

As a sign to slow down, Paula felt God intervened five times in seven months, which included a miscarriage with emergency surgery, concussion while shooting a segment, car crash and influenza which developed into pneumonia.
In taking "the next big step": Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)
To avoid repeated burnout, Paula intentionally sets boundaries so she meets her most important role of being present with her family.
Front porch mentality: If your 70-year-old self is looking back on this moment, what decision would they make?
Listen to Paula Faris' podcast Journeys of Faith here.
Get a copy of Paula Faris' book Called Out here.

PAULA FARIS' LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read? The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman andThe Case for Christ by Lee Strobel.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Carefree, hanging out with friends.

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? Fireproof box with all my important things and all my photo albums.

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? Bono and I'd like to explore this faith.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? Regarding fear, focus on what's the best thing that can come out of it versus the worst.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Have fun, give yourself grace and your biggest flaws and failures will probably be your biggest successes.

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? My name is Paula. I'm a wife, mom, Jesus follower, curious, like to ask questions and champion, challenge + connect people.

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***

How I Learned to Shake Hands After Losing My Fingers to Amputation (ep. 339) Mar 08, 2021

Show notes

We live in a marketplace that feels so isolated, stressed and divided.

At age 10 a painful experience revealed how broken, disabled, and imperfect I was, and it's a lesson we can all benefit from today.

Today, I invite you to view your painful experiences as a gift preparing you for something bigger. You will not find peace, acceptance or joy in someone else's opinion of you, but by choosing to love yourself. Approach friends, acquaintances and strangers with confidence, love and an open embrace.

Accepting this challenge is certain to elevate the way we feel about our own lives. It will also liberate us to extend our hands and hearts to those still desperately seeking acceptance in theirs.

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***

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Netflix Co-Founder Marc Randolph's Unconventional Idea of Success (ep. 338) Mar 04, 2021

Show notes

As co-founder and founding CEO of Netflix, Marc Randolph laid much of the groundwork for the streaming service that's grown to 150 million subscribers, and fundamentally altered how the world experiences media.

With over 40 years of entrepreneurial experience, Marc has built six other successful companies, mentored hundreds of early stage entrepreneurs, and invested in dozens of successful tech ventures.

Today, Marc reveals seldom-shared anecdotes about Netflix including how the iconic brand got its name and their David versus Goliath story with Blockbuster. Yet it's Marc's unconventional definition of success (hint: it's not money or fame!) and how creating positive workplace culture starts with the leaders that's most intriguing.

This episode will inspire you to take action to make your next big idea or lofty dream a reality and remind you that while it may not be easy, it's always possible.

SHOW NOTES:

"It's what I did, not who I am." – on not wanting to be typecast as "the Netflix guy"
The defining characteristic of Marc's youth was his parent's encouragement to experiment.
NOLS: At 14, Marc spent a month in the Wyoming wilderness with National Outdoor Leadership School which taught him how to lead and communicate with confidence + clarity.
Immersing himself in nature allows Marc to live in the moment unlike anything else.
Randolph's Rules for Success: Before starting his first job, Marc's father outline rules on how to be a good person like: be open-minded but skeptical, quantify when possible, and be considerate always.
Early in his career, Marc learned that success is not economic or commercial-based. Instead it's fulfilling your passions and strengths while being able to enjoy a family + hobbies.
In his late-20s, Marc + his now-wife prioritized planning date nights, found planning imperative, something he avoids as an entrepreneur.
Demonstrate the culture you want. Through intentional planning and discipline, Marc prioritizes and demonstrates a work-life balance which allows others in organizations to model as well.
Before landing on what would become Netflix, Marc + Reed Hastings brainstormed numerous direct-to-consumer, 1:1 subscription-based concepts including custom shampoo, custom dog food and personalized baseball bats.
April 1998: Netflix is born. The inciting event that led to the development of Netflix was mailing a CD (to mimic the newly invented DVD) through the mail and it arriving the following day, intact, for the price of a stamp.
"The idea counts for nothing. The idea that you start with almost never the product you end up with. It's starting somewhere + the journey that follows that leads to something that does work."
Only way out is through: Desperate for a collaboration with then-giant Blockbuster, Netflix's pitch was rejected. Knowing their model was more sustainable, they strategically identified opportunities during a volatile economy in order to survive while taking Blockbuster head-on.
Little Engine That Could: Two years after the Blockbuster rejection, Netflix's innovative business model allowed them to go public providing them ample resources to adequately compete with Blockbuster.
On his new podcast That Will Never Work, Marc coaches early-stage entrepreneurs frequently on the personal issues involved with starting a business like maintaining confidence and relationships versus tactics and strategy.
"I am most proud of my optimism."
Listen to Marc Randolph's podcast That Will Never Work here.
Get Marc Randolph's book That Will Never Work here.

MARC RANDOLPH'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read? Endurance by Alfred Lansing.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Lack of embarrassment and willingness to be ridiculous.

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? I'm a history buff so maybeSigmund Freud, Ernest Shackleton or Julius Caesar.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? Freud told me how big the Internet and Bitcoin would be. No, nothing specific leaps out.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Trust your intuition about others.

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 got people off their ass.

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The Audacity to Give (Monday Moment ep. 337) Mar 01, 2021

Show notes

After delivering more than 2,000 speeches and speaking live to several million people, I have been honored to not only hear amazing stories from audience members, but on occasion to receive gifts from them.

Today, I share a few of the most memorable gifts received and why the audacity of giving is more important than the gift itself.

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***

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Ben Nemtin of MTV's 'The Buried Life': What Do You Want to Do Before You Die? (ep. 336) Feb 25, 2021

Show notes

In 2006, Ben Nemtin and three childhood friends started The Buried Life: a list of 100 things to do before you die. For every item on the list they accomplished, they helped a stranger cross something off their bucket list.

Ben has crossed off 93 including write a New York Times bestselling book What Do You Want to Do BeforeYou Die?, make a TV show, be interviewed by Oprah (who called their mission "truly inspiring") and play basketball with President Obama (who said Ben is an "inspiration for a new generation").

Today, Ben shares what inspired the bucket list quest, its impact on millions to thrive personally and professionally and the practical steps you can take to create your bucket list today.

SHOW NOTES:

Growing up in Pleasantville: Although Victoria, British Columbia + his childhood was idyllic, Ben put unsurmountable pressure on himself leading to anxiety and crippling depression as a young adult. After being dropped from the national rugby team, Ben dropped out of school and became isolated.
Rediscovering a zest for life, Ben + three friends set out on a two-week road trip with a bucket list of 100 things they'd like to do before they die, and helping others accomplish something on their list along the way.
MTV's The Buried Life
- The series name The Buried Life was inspired by Matthew Arnold's poem written in 1852 by the same name.
- "But often, in the world's most crowded streets, But often, in the din of strife, There rises an unspeakable desire After the knowledge of our buried life." Read the full poem here.
- A-Ha, the Ripple Effect: During the 14-year journey, The Buried Life team was inspiring others to create and go after their own personal goals and passions.
- When creating an item for the list, which included play basketball with President Obama, ride a bull and sing the National Anthem to a packed stadium, they pretended they had $10 millions and that anything was possible. Get the full list here.
- In 2006, a man named Brent wanted to deliver pizzas to the homeless shelter he spent three years living in. He pulled himself out of that homeless shelter by starting a business that relied heavily on a now-broken down truck. With $408, the team bought him a truck and felt the profound impact they were having on others.
- Valuing authenticity, they battled to executive produce The Buried Life when MTV signed them to a contract in 2010.
- "No goal is greater than any other goal." Kissing the Stanley Cup was a reminder that no matter how mundane or epic a list item was, it was important as long as it was important to them.
"You're 77% more likely to achieve your goal if you have someone checking in on you."
Take action on your bucket list:
1. Take 30 minutes to develop your initial list with things that are important to you, understanding it will evolve as you evolve.
2. Create accountability by sharing your goals with others.
3. Break down the bigger, more important items into smaller, tangible steps.

"You are the architect for your own inspiration. Start taking steps towards your goals to create inspiration through action."
"Accountability and inspiration through action will drive us towards our personal goals."
Of the original 100, Ben looks forward to crossing off "make a movie" and "go to space".
Organically over time, Ben graduated into the next evolution of his career as the outrageous list items seemed less intriguing.
How to manage + improve your mental wellbeing:
- Acknowledge that feeling any type of anxiety or depression is okay.
- Speak to someone you trust about these feelings, giving others the chance to help you.
- Develop a Resilience or Mental Health Toolkit with things that increase your wellbeing.

BEN NEMTIN'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read? The Overstory by Richard Powers and Third Door by Alex Banayan.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Naivety.

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? Mugs from when my grandfather was in the war.

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? President Obama.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? The truth will set you free.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Slow down and smell the roses.

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? What do you want to do before you die?

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What is your Biggest Dream? (Monday Moment ep. 335) Feb 22, 2021

Show notes

"The dreams we chase, the goals we set, and the prayers we request say much about the lives we lead."

Today I share the story of two incredible parents who when faced with the unimaginable, chose to offer up their pain for a cause even greater than themselves.

I hope this serves as a reminder of the importance of the dreams and goals we choose to chase in life and legacy... and how one life indeed can make a difference.

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"Hottest Comic in America" Sebastian Maniscalco (ep. 334) Feb 18, 2021

Show notes

New York Times calls Sebastian Maniscalco "the hottest comic in America". With sold-out comedy shows, hit television specials and interviews on all the major late-night talk shows, Sebastian's distinct style of stand-up comedy has struck a chord, bringing joy to millions during the pandemic.

Today, Sebastian shares how perseverance and hustle have been the key ingredients to attaining the success he once only dreamed of, the challenges that come with it and where he finds inspiration.

If you're looking for a good laugh or a bit of joy, this episode is for you.

SHOW NOTES:

While spending most of 2020 forming unbreakable bonds with his two children + wife, Sebastian is eager to return to stand-up with a deeper appreciation.
Pillars of strength: Admiring his parents for their unrelenting work ethic, Sebastian credits them to his success and often includes his dad Sal in his acts.
Growing up, Sebastian masked sadness with humor. Often shy, he came to life with his humor while in front of others.
Practice, patience and repetition: After failing his first act miserably at Northern Illinois University, he focused on refining his craft.
Understanding the importance of timing in comedy, Sebastian also strives to master the silence like his idol Johnny Carson.
As he become more confident onstage, Sebastian's comedy evolved to be more expressive + more aligned to who he is off-stage.
Sebastian often breaks the "fourth wall" to captivate + hold the attention of the audience.
Dealing with "cancel culture": Sebastian's acts generally poke fun at those close to him, avoiding political and current events yet believes audiences can appreciate the fearlessness of some other comedians.
Overnight success a decade in the making: Moving to Los Angeles in 1998, Sebastian didn't have a back-up plan if comedy didn't pan out, so he became a workhorse, performing as much as possible – including a laundromat!
"I never want to say 'I've made it' because I feel like there is always something more I'm trying to do."
What keeps Sebastian motivated? "As good as the people feel laughing, I feel ten times as good."
Pre-pandemic, Sebastian would record his nightly performances when testing new material. Today, he leans on his podcast co-host Pete Correale and his mother when developing new material.
Taste of success: Sebastian feels the pressure to remain on top is twice as hard as it was to reach the top.
Sebastian turned the tables and asked me, "if it wasn't for Jack Buck, would you have survived?"
Learn more about Sebastian Maniscalco, including his podcast The Pete and Sebastian Show here.

SEBASTIAN MANISCALCO'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read? Open by Andre Agassi.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I wasn't so weary of others. I wish was more open to people and not making quick judgements.

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? There is a photo of my wife and daughter coming on stage in Toronto but if everyone is safe, I'd print off a new photo from the Cloud. So maybe some cheese? I go for the food.

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? Mohammad Ali because of his inspirational stories and sense of humor.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? My father says, "you can't pay attention to what others are doing. The only control you have is what you're doing."

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Don't worry so much. You'll find your way even though you may not have a career path after college. You have the ability work hard and once you find your passion, you'll explode.

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 never gave up.

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The Power of Doing Life Together (Monday Moment ep. 333) Feb 15, 2021

Show notes

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." – Helen Keller

Jimmy Choi is an accomplished marathon runner, triathlete and participant on American Ninja Warrior. Remarkably, he's done all of this after his diagnose of early onset Parkinson's disease.

During an emotional inflection point a decade ago, Jimmy Choi made a a promise to his family that he'd no longer simply surrender his life to a disease.

What he's learned since is that the daily decisions we make profoundly influence the life we live. That while we can't always choose the path we walk, we can always choose the manner in which we walk it.

He's also learned that by himself he could do so little. Together, driven by a compelling purpose and cheered by a generous community, we can do so much.

Valuable lessons we all must remember in the race of life.

Join our Live Inspired Together community, text PODCAST2021 to 314-207-5010.

***

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