Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

Latest Episodes:

Christine Caine, Founder of A21, human trafficking abolitionist, sexual abuse survivor S8 Ep 82 May 17, 2018

Show notes

Christine Caine's hurdles may seem insurmountable: She is a survivor of both sexual abuse and cancer. At 32, she found out she was adopted. Yet, she is living a profoundly inspired life. Christine leads a global anti human-trafficking movement and was honored with the 2017 Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social Justice. Have you ever felt like your story was derailed by unexpected or unwanted news? Christine's story and tips will show you how to "let go of your history so you can step into your destiny."

SHOW NOTES:

John was determined to have Christine on the show after being shocked when a man recently shared that he'd been taken from his home in Africa to be a slave in the US.
Christine's organization A21 is currently helping 28 adult victims + 14 children in the US alone.
Learn more about A21 Campaign and 21 steps you can take to abolish slavery here.
Christine's passion to help victims stems from being sexually abused for more than a decade during her youth.
You can rise above the adversity of your past and fulfill a life of purpose. That has been my story; hopefully my past can give others a future.
The advent of the #MeToo movement: There is a wakening that this is not okay and realization that it is far wider spread than anyone thought.
It's important that we bring justice into the light so that justice can be brought into the circumstance.
I would have been very angry; my faith gave me a path forward.
It's important to find healing. Anger, bitterness and un-forgiveness do not need to be the end of your story.
How do you encourage abuse victims?
- It's not your fault. Don't internalize what happened or identify yourself by it. You're not what happened to you.
- Denial doesn't help. It just pushes down anger, resentment + bitterness, all of which must come out.
- Good counseling. Venting does not equate to healing and wholeness. Process the pain in a safe place with a counselor. When you do, you will come out the other side.
Christine's new book Unexpected: "Just because everything around you is crazy, doesn't mean you have to be! Be rooted."
Unexpected things do not have to take you out; you can navigate that. My life is a testament to this truth.
What happens to you does not need to define who you are. Your greatest challenge or unexpected news is not where the story ends.
Secrets manifest. Learn how to disclose things in a safe place.
Rise above your circumstances. There's a place for lament + grief, but you have to use tools to overcome your adversity.
Have faith in this climate of anxiety and fear. Start doing it afraid, until you are no longer afraid.
What if we don't have faith? Take the next step toward your future and trust that there is something more than you. Decide what is the next best thing you can do. You'll step into new relationships, opportunities, one door leads to another.
How do you do it all? I work a perfectly imbalanced life:
1. There are seasons of high focus in different aspects of life. I center myself in faith.
2. I'm drawn by what is important, not the tyranny of the urgent.
3. I live disciplined, organized and enjoy the journey.
4. I know that I can't do everything. I don't bear the burden or responsibility for everything I can't change.
5. I lead through people, empower them and know we are better together.
6. I do the best I can. At the end of the day, it's enough.
How do you let go of the urgent + focus on important?
- Be intentional. Keep adjusting your compass to go in the direction you're going. Don't be dragged by the current of the latest craze.
- Don't let others' agenda become yours.
- Don't be driven by ego, this puts everything out of order.
- Keep your soul healthy.
- We live in an outrage society. Don't react. Respond from a place of wisdom where you feel called to lead.

CHRISTINE CAINE'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read? The Bible and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. I read it decades ago and keep coming back to it.

2. What is characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Lack of cynicism. I loved when I was not jaded. I have to proactively fight to be unjaded. I wish I didn't have to fight so hard.

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? Passport!

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? Billy Graham. I'd ask, "How did you keep your passion alive?"

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? Remain a life-long student.

6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? Chill out. Don't be so uptight about everything. It will happen.

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? She stayed the course.

***

If you enjoyed today's episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

I can't wait to see you here next Thursday! Today is your day. Live Inspired.

Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning

Mitch Albom, Author of Tuesdays with Morrie S8 Ep 81 May 10, 2018

Show notes

Mitch Albom, author of the bestselling memoir of all time, Tuesdays with Morrie, never meant to be a writer.

Hear the unlikely way Mitch found himself writing his beloved professor's memoir; and what it means for your unfulfilled dreams. (Hint, there just might be a silver lining!)

Hear what it was like to learn Morrie's life lessons, from Morrie himself - first as a student in his classroom and, ultimately, as a friend in his hospital room.

My friends, 15 million have read the book. Countless have watched the movie (produced by Oprah!). Today, we will hear the story behind the wisdom Morrie shared 20+ years ago.

Don't miss this world-class episode.

SHOW NOTES:

"You know you've done a lot, when you realize how little you've done."
The first time Mitch met his professor, Morrie Schwartz, he wanted to drop his class. Listen to find out what made him stay.
"Morrie opened my eyes to being a whole person - and that, that was an accomplishment in it of itself. He made me think in terms of being multi-dimensional instead of just 'get a job, get a career, do well.'"
Morrie asked Mitch to keep in touch; 16 years passed without contact. Mitch said, "There was no time to concern myself with the past... only the future. I lost track of Morrie."
- Do you have a Morrie? Can you make time to reach out to him today? What might he say if you did?
Tuesdays with Morrie is about Mitch's "visit after I saw him on TV and realized how guilty I felt. He was in the throws of ALS, but was much more positive about life than I was."
Mitch saw the gap between them and wanted to know: What does Morrie know that I don't, about life now that he's looking [death] in the face?
Mitch wrote the book to help offset Morrie's medical bills. Mitch thought: "I'll write it and it will be over. I'll have done one nice thing for this man."
After being turned down by many publishers, Tuesdays with Morrie was published; without fanfare. It didn't debut on as a bestseller.
Man plans and God laughs.
What would Morrie say today? "Let me know if my head is getting swelled by this... because they aren't celebrating me, they're celebrating the message."
Morrie felt enlightened when he was dying; his whole perspective changed in the last two years of his life.
"I am on the last great journey of life and everyone wants to ask me what am I packing. " - Morrie Schwartz
What was the main lesson you learned from Morrie? "I asked, 'Why don't you accept the sympathy of your visitors?' He said, 'Why would I ever take from people? Taking makes me feel like I'm dying, giving makes me feel like I'm living.' That was a very profound lesson for me and I've never forgotten it."
The more you give the better you feel. The earlier you discover that formula, the happier you're going to be.
The best fatherly article John has ever read, was written by Mitch, about Chika, an unlikely friend and daughter he met in Haiti. Read it here.

MITCH ALBOM'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read? Gilliad, by Marilynne Robinson. It's a story of an old preacher getting ready to die, writing a letter to his young son. He shares his thoughts on life. It moves me no matter what page I open to.

2. Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do with it? Give it away.

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? All the pictures of me and my wife with Chika.

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? God. The first question I'd ask, "What don't we understand about why we suffer? If you created the world in your image, there's a disconnect between the pain we endure and the glory we think we're going to enjoy after we die."

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? My mom said to me, "You're only going to have a few really good friends in your life no matter how many people you meet. People will disappoint you. The only thing you can do better than to have [a few] people who will always be there and be true, is to marry the best one."

6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? Slow down. Stop thinking your life is measured by how much you accomplish. Pay attention to how nice people are being to you and how less than nice you are being to them. Recognize that you have a responsibility to the rest of the world, not just yourself. Take a breath now and then... like the Billy Joel lyrics, "Slow down you crazy child, you're so ambitious for a juvenile."

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 learned, he loved and he learned some more; and tried to be better everyday than he had been the day before.

***

If you enjoyed today's episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

I can't wait to see you here next Thursday! Today is your day. Live Inspired.

Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning

Erik Wahl, Graffiti Artist, Speaker & Author | S7 Ep. 80 May 03, 2018

Show notes

"It was good until it wasn't."

Erik Wahl valued hard work and success. Achievement + money were his measurement and, by his early 30s, he was very successful in corporate America.

Until he wasn't. During the dot-com bust in 2000, Erik lost the "financial fortress" he'd built and his identity along with it. This led him to ask the life-changing question:"Who were you before the world told you who you should be?"

Erik answered this question, made BIG changes in his life + redefined success. Now, as a performance graffiti artist, he helps clients like IBM, Microsoft and Disney answer this bold question, too. Today, we're going to "unearth great things lying dormant inside" of you. Join us!

SHOW NOTES:

Watch the entire episode on YouTube.
Often we're rewarded based on the 3 Deadly P's: Power, prestige + possession.
Our script for how to live is off, we tend to live with a scarcity mindset. "I must secure what's mine so I can build; there's not enough available." Choose abundance instead.
When you're rocked at your core foundation - financial, relational, health - you realize you long for something more.
"As a speaker, I bypass the cynical brain + go straight to the heart. I stretch minds so we can see everything a bit differently."
A mind stretched never returns to its original dimensions.
Create for the sake of creating, not the finished product.
I changed my definition of success: "What if success is a good meal with my wife and boys at the end of the day? I don't need certain life elements to be a certain way to be successful."
Today, Erik is a performance graffiti artist. Check out John's behind the scenes tour of Erik's studio.
Opportunity for love, relationship and empathy are hidden in plain sight. Don't be too "successful" to see them.
Better leaders are more creative + adapt to change.
Everyone is creative, but our creativity is hidden in uncertainties + the quietness of life... a space we don't often enter.
Creativity, like gratitude, is a discipline. Embrace the choice to be creative like you embrace doing other difficult things.
When asked "Who here is an artist?" Every hand goes up when we're kids, very few as adults. Why? Hear Erik's answer.
"Let go of the idea that we 'earn value' through how we perform on paper, what college our kids go to, what car we drive."
- How do I pivot into this? Look at your life + values. Are you living a life of success or significance? Does your calendar reflect your priorities?
Art is an exploration of getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. Can I get out and dance with my wife and not let the critics or my own internal voice of judgement stop me from the enjoyment of moving with someone I love?
How do we encourage the next generation to hold tight to their crayons? Commission your child to create. While doodling, they're thinking expansively + problem solving, not for a grade.
- "Paint a picture of what you want to be when you grow up, and I'll take you for ice-cream... Write a poem about how much you love your mom, and I'll take you to a game."
- Ask questions about your child's creation. It gives you insight to who they are.
Spontaneity is a mini lab to practice living present in the now.
Follow Erik at www.TheArtofVision.com
Demarius "found" Erik's first geo-cached painting.
Erik dedicated his books Unthink and The Spark & The Grind to his wife and business partner, Tasha.
For those of us enduring a trying season in our marriage, what would you say? Focus on why you got married, to: Lift each other up, help your spouse become the very best, become better as two then we could be as one. You entered into it with excitement, love and lust; revisit those emotions.
It's how you act and react to bumps in the road that defines your marriage.

ERIK WAHL'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read? The Soul of Money by Lyn Twist. It changed my relationship with what had been a dominant identity for me.

2. Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do with it? Decreasing my wants and needs has been the most fiscally conservative policy I could have taken on. We'd use it to give to others; build traction for someone else's vision..

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? One of my wife's photo albums because I know how much she would want those and I want to see her face when I come out with it in hand!

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? St. Francis of Assisi, he came from a life of privilege and chose a life of connectedness. I'd want to talk with him about that transition + experience.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? Be present.

6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? Don't be so guarded around shaping your identity; you have no idea of what this future "you" will be doing in life... thinking you know is a recipe for challenge.

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? Servant.

***

If you enjoyed today's episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

I can't wait to see you here next Thursday! Today is your day. Live Inspired.

Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning

Sr. Madonna Buder, Nike's "Iron Nun" | S7, Ep. 79 Apr 26, 2018

Show notes

"Don't think of your age."

When asked how to actively age, 87-year-old Sister Madonna Buder, nicknamed "The Iron Nun" in her 2016 Nike Ad, shared the above.

She continued with, "Just keep moving." Sr. Buder began running at 48. She has since completed 45+ ironman races, 300+ triathlons and won her age group dozens of times.

My friends, if you think you're too old, too late, too inexperienced, too anything, to embrace a new dream in your life... then you absolutely cannot miss today's episode.

Sr. Madonna Buder, the Iron Nun, will encourage you to go ALL IN for your dreams, no matter your age or perceived limitation. Join us!

SHOW NOTES:

Everyone was expecting her to announce her engagement; instead she announced that she was entering the convent.
Began running at 48 and became a world-class athlete, completing in more than 300+ triathlons.
"Running harmonizes mind, body and soul." These words, shared by a priest, inspired Sr. Buder to start running.
"You have to run for 5 weeks before you get the runner's high."
"The only way to not put my body through this [painful training] again is to keep going. From now on, my body is ready."
She was in a Nike commercial; they call her "The Iron Nun."
She ran in the 2013 Boston Marathon. At 24 miles in, her race ended as they deterred runners after the bombing.
When you are met with opposition, it's something training you for the future to be strong.
How do you view time?
1. The only thing that doesn't change at all anymore is constant change. Everyday you wake up to a new day. Don't carry baggage from the past.
2. What I love to do that really helps me is to watch children in the park. They run more than they walk! I just think in my mind, I'm that kid running!
The Grace to Race, is Sr. Madonna Buder's book.

SISTER MADONNA BUDER'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read?The Bible, even though I've never read the whole thing!

2. Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do with it? I'd have to employ someone to decide which worthy causes to give it to.

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 birth certificate.

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'd go straight to the source, God Himself! The older I get the more questions I have, not answers.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? From my grandfather, "If there is anything worth doing it is worth doing well."

6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? Always consult with your maker.

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? In gratitude for all you have made, including me.

***

If you enjoyed today's episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

I can't wait to see you here next Thursday! Today is your day. Live Inspired.

Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning

S7|#78 - Tommy Spaulding: New York Times bestselling author Apr 19, 2018

Show notes

"When God takes something away, He gives a double dose of something else." Tommy Spaulding jokes that he had a 4.0 - if you add his high school and college GPAstogether... His dream was to become a lawyer; but he was rejected by the 30 law schools to which he applied. Fast forward:This once, less-than-stellar student is now a bestselling author and his "failed dream" led him directly to the successful career he has today. Don't miss Tommy's amazing story! He helps clients like Starbucks + General Electric leverage their "double dose," grow deeper relationships and succeed in work + life. Today, he will help us do the same. Join us!

SHOW NOTES:

At the end of the day, ask: Who did I bless? Who did I help?
"When God takes something away, he gives you a double dose of something else."
Tommy's book It's Not Just Who You Know - challenges corporate America to focus on relationships, not transactions.
Tommy's 2ndbestselling book The Heart-Led Leader - showsreadershow + why we must bring loveto the workplace.
Leaders must be vulnerable, humble, generous, transparent.
Go beyond "NSW (news, sports, weather) relationships."
We're called to build deeper, more meaningful relationships.
Tommy's life lesson from his grandpa's final words: "Don't tell me you love me, show me you love me."
"There are two types of people. Self-serving or servant leaders.
- Which are you? Would your family + colleagues agree?
Forget networking, and net give. Meet people + serve them first.
"5% of the population are the critics and the crazies; don't let them steal your joy. Lead and love the 95%."
Tommy's failed dream of becoming a lawyer led him directly to the successful career he has today. Listen to hear the amazing story!

TOMMY SPAULDING'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read?Fearless by Eric Blehm.

2. Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do with it? I would make sure my kid's college was taken care of and then set up a foundation to give the rest away.

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 signed 1976 New York Yankees baseball.

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? Abraham Lincoln or Jesus. Maybe both. That would be a great conversation.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? Marriage is not 50/50. It's giving 100% of yourself + not expecting anything in return.

6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? You're going to get kicked down and punched in the face. There are going to be critics and crazies. Focus on the 95%.

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? Well done my good and faithful servant.

***

If you enjoyed today's episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

I can't wait to see you here next Thursday! Today is your day. Live Inspired.

Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning

S7 | #77 - Hal Elrod: International Bestselling Author of "The Miracle Morning" Apr 12, 2018

Show notes

"When you accept the worst case scenario, it has no power over you."

Hal Elrod, international bestselling author of The Miracle Morning, established a miracle equation that helped him overcome two near-death experiences + build a highly successful business.

Hear Hal's amazing story and how to apply his equation so you can "divide odds and create miracles in your marriage, business and life." Now THAT sounds like living inspired! Join us.

SHOW NOTES:

Hal's book The Miracle Morning has sold 600,000+ copies
The Miracle Morning documentary is coming soon!
"Take an adversity + turn it into an advantage by helping other people with it."
At 20, he was hit by a drunk driver and not expected to walk. "When you accept the worst case scenario, it has no power over you. I thought, I'll be the most grateful human you've ever met in a wheel chair, because I'm in one either way. Putting energy into wishing it wasn't so would be futile."
Hal's Miracle Equation [to divide odds + create miracles in marriage, business, life] = maintain unwavering faith + extraordinary effort in every moment, of everyday
Often when we have obstacles, the first thing we lose is faith that it's possible.
When you lose faith, effort + drive go out the window.
The ABCs of Taking Life Head On:
- Accept things you can't change. Set a timer for 5 mins. to feel the emotions. When it goes off, say "I can't change it." Any negative emotion after is self created.
- Be grateful for everything. Why wait for the future to realize that every adversity can serve us if we learn from it?
- Create progress daily towards the life of your dreams.
The question Hal asked himself while battling cancer. What matters most: In my healing journey? In being the best husband? The best father? Overall in life?
Value health over productivity. What do you value more, your health or your productivity? Does your schedule reflect this?
Hear John on Hal's Achieve Your Goals Podcast here.

HAL ELROD'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read?Conversations with God by Neal Donald Walsch.

2. Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do with it? I would donate a minimum of 50% to charity. I just started a non-profit called support the unsupported and I would put some percentage to that also. I would take a percentage for retirement and fun.

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 computer without hesitation.

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 wife, Ursula.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? Do the right thing, not the easy thing.

6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? Everything is going to work out for the best.

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 elevated the consciousness of humanity.

***

If you enjoyed today's episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

I can't wait to see you here next Thursday! Today is your day. Live Inspired.

Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning

S7 | Episode 76 Director of "Man in Red Bandana" Apr 05, 2018

Show notes

"He wasn't trapped, he chose to stay and help others."

Matthew Weiss, Esq. was a lawyer. He didn't seek an opportunity to become a filmmaker; but a story that needed to be told found him.

The story of Welles Crowther was shared with him over lunch one day: On September 11, 2001, Welles was 24 and worked in the World Trade Center. The acts of heroism he displayed that day have inspired song lyrics, parents to name their children after him and President Obama's dedication speech for the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

Matt created the documentary Man in Red Bandana to inspire the world to be more selfless.

Today, Matt shares about the heroic final hour of Welles's life + how we can learn to live more inspired through the example of the "man in the red bandana."

SHOW NOTES:

Matt Weiss directed Man in Red Bandana, a documentary that tells the story of Welles Crowther, a young American who became a hero at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001.
- Follow on Facebook at: Facebook.com/ManInRedBandana
- Watch it on iTunes or Amazon.
Matt was a lawyer, inspired by a story. He spent his time and money turning Welles story into a film so the world might learn to be more selfless.
Matt is an entrepreneur and is inspired by entrepreneurs like Elon Musk [Tesla], Jeff Bezos [Amazon] & Simon Sineck [Start with Why].
On Sept. 11, 2001, Welles put out fires, carried a woman down 17 flights of stairs, went back up + saved the lives of 18 people.
10,000+ people ran / left the building. It's incredible he stayed.
- "He wasn't trapped, he chose stay and to help others."
9/11 was his finest hour, but he spent his life putting others first.
This story will inspire people to be more selfless. "Even just small acts like holding the door open for someone behind you; wait a little longer and hold the door open for them."
- No one who knew him was surprised that he stayed to help others.
Welles's parents + the Michigan foundation created the Red Bandana Project in his honor.

MATTHEW WEISS'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read?The E Myth, by Michael Gerber.

2. Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do with it? I would definitely help people. I'd be the perfect guy for that to happen to.

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 family photos and videos; to me everything else can be replaced.

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? Elon Musk. This guy is a rock star. The guy is just phenomenal.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? It is about gratitude and being grateful. That shift of being grateful is tremendous.

6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? Live every day like it is your last. Take it all in.

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 a selfless giving guy who really cared about others.

***

If you enjoyed today's episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

I can't wait to see you here next Thursday! Today is your day. Live Inspired.

Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning

S7 | Episode 75 Sue McCollum Mar 29, 2018

Show notes

"Don't stand by, stand UP."

Sue McCollum is the Chairman and CEO of Major Brands, Inc., an 80-year-old, family-run operation and the only liquor distributor in the U.S. run by a woman. But it wasn't Sue's dream to run a large operation.

Her husband, Todd, was planning to run the company his grandfather founded and one day - pass it on to his children. Needless to say, plans changed after Todd was diagnosed with brain cancer. Sue, in short, "stepped up."

Almost immediately after Todd's passing, Sue was labeled "Liqueur Widow" by competitors and the press as long-time clients were pulling out of agreements.

Sue will show us that it's possible to not only fight back, but do so honorably. And that you can run a successful business based on strong values.

My friends, join me and Sue to learn how to harness resilience, overcome adversity and live inspired.

SHOW NOTES:

"One day can bend your life."
- October 4, 2010 bent Sue's life. Her husband, Todd, had a seizure, which lead to a cancer diagnosis and a year to live.
Todd was determined to not let his death be the end of his family's business...or his story. While being treated, he had a quilt made from all of his neckties. His watches were engraved for graduations and other special occasions to give to his sons. In his last year, Todd enjoyed planning his memorial service.
Soon after Todd's death, two companies terminated business with Major Brands with no cause. Sue remembers asking herself, "Am I going to fight for this company or not?"
After winning in multiple court cases, Major Brands, Inc. did three things: Established a new scholarship in Todd's name, established a family emergency fund for employees, & gave all associates a loyalty award of $3,000.
"We only know our lives looking backward."

SUE McCOLLUM'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read?North Toward Home.

2. Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do with it? I would set up a foundation. I would begin to solve, from a research perspective, how we provide better education and opportunities for people who didn't have what I had.

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 photograph of my sons. I would grab it.

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? Marv Levy.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? It came from my second boss, my first woman boss. "Sue, don't beat yourself up. Others will do that for you. Never do it to yourself."

6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? Take more risks. Be a badass.

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 tried hard.

***

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Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning

S7 | Episode 74 Todd Davis Mar 22, 2018

Show notes

"We see the world as we think it is. Not as it really is. Wear glasses that work."

Todd Davis has spent 20+ years "looking for the right people." As Chief People Officer at FranklinCovey, a training company, he is an expert at identifying how human behaviors impact our life, our work and our output. His new book, Get Better: 15 Proven Practices to Build Effective Relationships at Work shares that the key to improving our effectiveness is found in improving our behaviors.

Todd's insights shine a light on the truth that an organization's greatest assets are undoubtedly its people and remind us that leadership is a decision, not a position.

This conversation is a journey in self-awareness. Join Todd and me for a great conversation and practical ways to fine-tune your behaviors so that you can live and work inspired.

SHOW NOTES:

Todd has worked for FranklinCovey, the award-winning training company started by the bestselling author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change, Stephen R. Covey for over 20 years.
We discuss the book he authored with FranklinCovey, Get Better:15 Proven Practices to Build Effective Relationships at Work.
Todd shares how his childhood has shaped him-a middle child from Utah, self-described peacemaker and son of a set designer and actress.
Todd never imagined that he'd write a book. It was "a labor of love" that took him two years and was inspired by The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change and The Leader in Me.
Don't miss Todd walking us through one chapter of his book: Make It Safe to Tell the Truth. He'll share why these four steps are necessary: 1. Assume good intent. 2. Ask for Feedback. 3. Evaluate the feedback. 4. Act on it.

TODD DAVIS'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read? Where the Red Fern Grows when I was a kid. Two others: The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell and The Linchpin by Seth Godin.

2. Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do with it? I would take it all down to Puerto Rico right now and help out.

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? Many years ago I would say pictures. On Christmas, our family spends an hour or two writing letters to each other before opening presents. I'd grab those.

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 Gandhi.

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

6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? To believe in myself.

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 who dies with the most meaningful relationships wins.

***

If you enjoyed today's episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

I can't wait to see you here next Thursday! Today is your day. Live Inspired.

Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning

S7 | Episode 73 Sue Klebold Mar 15, 2018

Show notes

"This process of accepting that your loved one has hurt other people. And accepting who that is and what it means to be a mother of someone like that, it takes not only months but years."

Sue Klebold is forever tied to a tragic day marked down in American history, April 20, 1999. It was on that day two gunmen entered Columbine High School and killed 12 students, a teacher and wounded two dozen others. One of the shooters was her son, Dylan.

After an excruciating journey, Sue has come to a place of peace and is using her life to honor the lives of those who died, raise awareness for mental health issues and do what she could to prevent another tragedy like Columbine from happening again.

Sue shares her story of a mother's love, heart-wrenching tragedy, sincere appeal for forgiveness, the long process of allowing herself to grieve, and letting go of the trauma of being hated, criticized and judged in order to focus on her heart, and the little boy she lost and adored.

Today Sue bravely, honestly and with great humility shares her 20-year journey of researching mental health, suicide, and their ramifications so that we as a community may be able to live more inspired. I think what will amaze you most is how much you can relate to Sue, her family and her story. Sue shares concrete ideas to make sure none of us have to step into her shoes. It is a podcast you won't want to miss.

SHOW NOTES:

Sue heard on the news that 25 had died and found herself praying that no more would die and if her son was the killer that he'd kill himself to stop the number of fatalities from growing.
"I didn't think of him as a vicious murderer."
"I went into the meeting with the sheriff thinking he'd been brainwashed or tricked. But I was shown what really happened and his level of involvement in the planning that I was in a state of shock all over again. I had to rebuild who Dylan was to me."
We were very isolated after the tragedy, I had a tremendous amount of humiliation to think that someone I loved and raised could do something like this. There was a lot of fear involved.
"Everybody who knew Dylan was as dumbfounded as we were. All wondering what we could have said to change his involvement...trying to understand what Dylan had done, look out for each other."
I remember Dylan with joy. Like if he died of cancer or a car accident.
- I thought I'd never get to this place. I thought the way in which he died would obliterate what he had meant to me.
Every time I saw kids with their moms and kids with their siblings I thought Dylan took that from people. I tried to make statements, write letters to the victims..."There is nothing you can do to adequately apologize for something like that." Read paralyzed Columbine survivor, Anne Marie Hochhalter's letter of forgiveness to Sue.
"I had perceived myself to be a good mother." "Previously, I had been one of those mothers who when crimes were being committed, went "uh-huh, what kinda parent was that."
People had to think of me as a bad parent or different than them because "The thought that you could do your best and be a good parent and this could still happen is a terrifying thought."
"I had no idea during his lifetime that he was in danger and that's why I speak about this a lot today. Now I look back - after being educated, reading, talking with experts - I can say that was a potential sign. But I didn't have the knowledge at the time."
- School counselors, therapist, teachers and his parents all missed potential signs. He said he'd show us that he was on the right track and he did. He worked, applied to college and did well for the next 14 months.
- Change in behavior happened his junior year. Changes in his sleep patterns. But he presented as a normal person.
"The thought that you could do your best and be a good parent and this could still happen is terrifying."
"Important point to remember about mental health: What we think people should be feeling and what they are feeling can be very, very different."
We need to do everything we can to truly understand what our children are going through. Ask open-ended questions (even though you can't be certain they'll answer truthfully):
- "Tell me something about yourself that no one understands, but that causes you pain?"
- Instead of trying to fix it, making your child feel like he has to "be happy" ... no matter their answer, your response should always be, "tell me more about that."
  - Ask the hard questions: Do you have thoughts about hurting yourself or someone else? Stay calm, don't try to argue with that person.
    - I wish I'd given more of an opportunity to share more of what he was dealing with and that whatever his feelings were okay. If I could do anything over, those are the things I would make happen.
Sue's book is a meditation on forgiveness A Mother's Reckoning.
There is a physiological difference in those who commit suicide; when someone is having persistent thoughts of suicide and can't shut it off - these are symptoms of a physiological brain malfunction. [Dr. Victoria Arango, Ph.D. from Columbia University]
According to the FBI, of mass shootings, 78% of them the shooter was suicidal. This is why I have become so focused on suicide prevention. If we can get someone away from a suicidal crisis, it gives us great opportunity to prevent a shooting like this from escalating.
"I practice gratitude a lot." I go to bed at night counting blessings to adjust my mind into a positive place.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-talk or go to their website to chat: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
All author proceeds from A Mother's Reckoning are being donated to various mental health charities, including Mental Health America (MHA), National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), American Association of Suicidology (AAS), and Brain & Behavior Research Foundation.

SUE KLEBOLD'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you've ever read? Oh, that's a great question, I wish I had a long time to think about that. Gone with the Wind, Amy Tann, one of the best books on suicide: No Time to Say Goodbye.

2. Tomorrow you discover your wealthy uncle shockingly dies at the age of 103; leaving you millions. What would you do with it? Well, I think I'd sit on it for a while. I don't think there is anything different that I would do from what I am doing. I try to live a life where I have donated what I can donate from my book. I would want to make sure that money was used well. I am so happy with how my life is.

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? I think I would grab pictures of my children.

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? Dylan.

5. What is the best advice you've ever received? It was in the process of my therapy, where I was allowed to grieve.

6. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at age 20? You are in for a wild ride. Nothing you can do is going to prepare yourself. You are more courageous and strong than you have any idea.

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? She did the best she could.

***

If you enjoyed today's episode: Subscribe (automatically get new episodes), rate & review (help spread the word!) this podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

I can't wait to see you here next Thursday! Today is your day. Live Inspired.

Live Inspired with John every day on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and get his Monday Motivation email: www.JohnOLearyInspires.com/Monday-Morning

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