Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

Dr. Jessica Peck has spent more than two decades as a pediatric nurse practitioner, a professor, and a nationally recognized advocate for children and families. She’s treated teens battling anxiety, depression, and self-harm, helped parents navigate the challenges of raising children in a rapidly changing world, and fought to protect young people from modern-day dangers like cyberbullying and trafficking. But her most important role? A mom of four who has learned firsthand the power of forgiveness, resilience, and hope in parenting. Today, Dr. Jessica Peck shares how her own struggles with perfectionism and family trauma shaped her journey, why healing isn’t just for you (it impacts generations to come!) and how healthy communication can transform our most important relationships. She also offers practical tools to help parents create safe spaces for tough conversations, set boundaries with love, and guide their kids through life’s biggest challenges with confidence and grace. My friends, if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pressures of parenting, this conversation is for you. You’ll walk away with hope, wisdom, and real-life strategies to strengthen your relationships and support the young people in your life.

With so much negativity spewed by the media, each month we share examples of individuals who are grateful for all they have, joyful in all they do and profoundly impactful in the communities where they serve. This month’s On Fire For Good honoree’s journey is remarkable and his professional impact is stunning, but what he celebrates most are the three letters signifying his achievements behind his name. Let me explain.

Carlos Whittaker, bestselling author of Reconnected and renowned thought leader, is on a mission to help us rediscover the art of real connection. In a world dominated by screens and constant noise, Carlos did something radical: For seven weeks, he lived among Benedictine monks and Amish farmers, immersing himself in silence, simplicity and the rhythms of deep, intentional connection. Today, Carlos shares what happened when he stepped away from technology and into a world without distractions. He reveals how living screen-free transformed his relationships, deepened his mindfulness, and reshaped his understanding of presence. More importantly, he shows us what this means for all of us—how we can reclaim our attention, be more present with the people we love, and foster deeper, more meaningful connections, even in a world that often feels more divided than ever. My friends, if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the noise of social media, lost in the busyness of life, or just craving real, honest connection, this conversation is for you. You’ll leave inspired to rethink your relationship with technology, embrace the beauty of the world beyond your screen, and take simple yet powerful steps toward a more present, connected life.

What do you do when the weight of the world seems to fall directly on your shoulders? And how do you show up when you’re pulled in so many directions that it feels hard to do anything particularly well? As I struggled with these questions in my own life, one person cruising past me showed me not only how to turn around my outlook but also revealed how to avoid the struggle in the first place moving forward. Let me explain.

By 28, David Vincent had been arrested over 30 times, faced 18 felonies, and was staring down a 15-year sentence. Raised in the streets of Memphis by a mother who taught him to steal and a violent stepfather, his future seemed set—until he cried out for another chance. Today, he’s the founder and CEO of the Warrior Center, a faith-based rehabilitation program that helps men, women, and veterans battling homelessness and addiction find hope, healing, and a new future. Join me as David shares his remarkable road to redemption—from a childhood of crime and survival to a life transformed by faith and purpose. He opens up about the moment everything changed, the miracles that led to his early release from prison, and how he turned his second chance into a mission to serve others. My friends, you'll leave this conversation with a renewed belief in grace, the power of purpose, and the truth that your story isn’t over yet.

Why me? This was the question I wrestled with frequently after getting burned. When I was finally able to communicate with my parents after more than a month, the first question I asked wasn’t “When will I get out of here?” or “What’s next?” or “Who is watching my siblings while you sit at my bedside around the clock?” No, it was simply, “Why me?” Let me explain.

Orphaned at eight years old, Orv Kimbrough spent his childhood navigating the foster care system, facing setbacks that could have defined his future. And yet, he instead chose a different path. Today, he’s the chairman and CEO of Midwest BankCentre, leading with purpose and creating opportunities for others to thrive. Join me as Orv shares how he refused to let his circumstances determine his future, the mindset shifts that helped him break generational cycles, and the power of choosing resilience—even when the odds are stacked against you. He opens up about faith, leadership, and the lessons he’s learned as a husband, father, and business leader. My friends, if you’ve ever felt like life was working against you, this conversation is for you. You’ll walk away inspired to see obstacles as stepping stones, embrace your own story, and take bold steps toward the life you’re meant to live.

Each summer I have the honor of speaking at a camp for children who have one thing in common. No, it isn’t a political party or a shared ethnicity. It’s not a singular sex nor a similar economic background. What galvanizes the children at Midwest Children’s Burn Camp is the shared experience of being burned. One of the most difficult aspects of enduring a fire is the lifelong mark embossed on a survivor’s skin. These scars serve as a visible reminder not only of the agonizing struggle endured, but of how different we remain from others because of it. The scars can make us feel less than, set apart, totally isolated. Which is why an activity I witnessed at camp several years ago not only helped elevate the lives of participating campers but carries a lesson that may elevate your life today. Let me explain.

Human trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar criminal industry that denies freedom to more than 25 million individuals around the world. Gina Jernukian is the founder of Soul Survivor Ink, a nonprofit dedicated to helping survivors of human trafficking and former gang affiliation heal from the pain of their past by assisting them in the removal of “branding” tattoos and scars. Through this work, she helps survivors reclaim their identities, dignity, and freedom. Today, Gina shares the moment that shifted her purpose forever, the incredible journey of launching Soul Survivor Ink, and the profound impact of helping survivors erase the painful reminders of their past. She reminds us that while our past may shape us, it does not have to define us—and that healing, hope, and new beginnings are always within reach. My friends, if you need a reminder that one person can make an extraordinary difference, this conversation is for you. You’ll leave this episode with a deeper understanding of the hidden crisis of human trafficking, the power of small acts of kindness, and the unwavering truth that no matter where you’ve been, freedom and healing are always possible.

Life’s most beautiful moments are often wrapped in imperfection. We all wonder if we are enough and worry about the opinion of others. Reading a book recently reminded me that the most beautiful things are often imperfect. Let me explain.

Scott LeRette is a husband, father, and author of The Unbreakable Boy, the book that inspired the feature-length film of the same name. At its heart, his story is about one family's journey through brokenness, healing, and embracing life's messy, beautiful moments. Today, Scott shares what it was like raising a son with brittle bone disease and autism, how his own battle with alcoholism nearly tore his family apart, and the moments of grace that changed everything. He opens up about his mother’s tough love, the lessons his son Austin teaches him daily, and the journey from brokenness to faith. With honesty, humor, and deep reflection, Scott reminds us that life’s hardships don’t define us—our response to them does. My friends, if you need a reminder that life’s most beautiful moments are often wrapped in imperfection, this conversation is for you. You’ll leave with a renewed sense of hope, a deeper appreciation for the people in your life, and the encouragement to embrace every day—challenges and all—with gratitude.

Briana Morales was ready to give up. Although it was the Christmas season, she felt defeated, hopeless and absent of joy. The high school teacher was sitting at the bedside of a former student who had been shot. Having already lost more than a dozen current and former students to gun violence in the past few years, this was not an unfamiliar scenario for her. As she held vigil at that former student’s bedside, she received a phone call that another beloved student, a young girl named Da’Miya, had been killed in a car accident. All of a sudden, the losses felt like too much and she began to question if her work was worth the effort. Let me explain.

Jason Wahler is an addiction and mental health advocate whose personal battle with addiction has shaped his mission to educate, inspire, and support others in recovery. Once living a life of reality TV fame and endless opportunities, he was also struggling with substance abuse, on the brink of losing it all. After years of public struggle, Jason turned his life around and is now committed to helping others break free from addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Today, Jason opens up about his early struggles with OCD, the pressures of reality TV, and the turning point that led to his lasting transformation. He also shares the power of making amends, the role of faith in his life, and his dedication to helping others rewrite their own stories. My friends, this conversation serves as a powerful reminder that no matter the challenges, redemption is possible and the best is yet to come.

Long before Steve Jobs put a device in our hands that lets us mindlessly tap away - giving the illusion of purpose while we wait and a tool to avoid any interaction whatsoever with strangers – I found myself seated alone at a lunch counter awkwardly waiting for my burger, fries and root beer. While watching the cook throw burgers on the grill, I heard behind me the unmistakable and unparalleled voice of Jack Buck belt out: “I didn’t know you had such a refined palate.” Jack was a Hall of Fame broadcaster, the voice of the St. Louis Cardinals and the biggest celebrity in our city. Additionally, he was a significant reason I survived a fire as a child, had been incredibly generous to me in the years since it and undoubtedly had altered the entire course of my life. He walked over, patted me on the back, asked if the stool next to me was taken and sat down. And so began this unexpected lunch with my hero. Let me explain.

Sharon Pope is a relationship coach who has helped countless couples find clarity and confidence in their relationships. After navigating her own journey through heartbreak, self-discovery, and lasting love, she now guides others to build relationships rooted in trust, communication, and joy. Today, Sharon shares how to rekindle intimacy and fun in long-term relationships, how to bridge the divide when couples feel disconnected, and how taking radical self-responsibility can transform not just relationships, but life itself. She opens up about her own story, from growing up in a home where emotions weren’t always expressed to leaving a marriage that no longer served her, and the lessons that shaped her path forward. My friends, Sharon’s wisdom will challenge you to look inward, embrace curiosity, and take ownership of the love you want to experience. Whether you’re searching for clarity in a relationship or simply want to strengthen the connections in your life, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling empowered, hopeful, and ready to take the next step.

This emphasis on self is one strongly encouraged by the society today. We’re challenged to focus singularly on our personal lives and our individual versions of happiness. Paradoxically, it’s in letting go of our self-centered desires that we find serenity. It’s in faithfully keeping our hearts open to serving others – even sometimes having them broken by those we love – that the meaning, joy and real peace we seek is gradually revealed. Let me explain.

A once-thriving chef, Jake Haendel’s life took a devastating turn when he was diagnosed with a rare and terminal condition. Known as Locked-In Syndrome, Jake was left completely paralyzed—fully aware but unable to move or communicate. Doctors said there was no way out, and yet Jake's story is one of unimaginable adversity, resilience, and hope. Today, Jake shares how he survived 10 months trapped inside his own body, what he learned in that time, and the extraordinary steps that led to his recovery. He opens up about the darkest moments, the mental resilience it took to endure, and the sheer willpower that helped him reclaim his life. My friends, if you need a reminder that hope is never lost, this conversation is for you. You'll leave this episode inspired to face challenges with renewed strength, embrace each day with gratitude, and believe in the power of the human spirit.

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.