"Sympathy is easy because it comes from a position of power. Empathy is getting down on your knees and looking someone else in the eye, and realizing that you could be them, and that all that separates you is luck." -Dennis Lahane While on my knees next to my fallen dad several years ago, I thought of this quote. Dad has been living with Parkinson's disease for almost three decades. Over this time, he's lost the ability to walk, drive and earn. It's difficult for my dad to speak and lately, beco...
Sep 25, 2023•7 min•Season 14Ep. 605
Each day, more than 54 million Americans are responsible for serving as a caregiver for a loved one. Three decades with Parkinson's disease has made movement for my father Denny O'Leary nearly impossible. But with the help of another person, guiding him from spot to spot, supporting him in the shower, assisting as he gets dressed, and guiding a wheelchair from room to room, the absolute impossible becomes possible. And this care happens all day, every day. For Dad, the person doing all that work...
Sep 21, 2023•52 min•Season 14Ep. 604
After years of traveling, hundreds of podcast interviews, and innumerable impromptu conversations on airplanes, I've met some of the most remarkably talented and inspirational people in the world. I've heard life stories that filled me with hope and reminded me we all have the potential to be used for good. To ensure we kick off the upcoming holiday season right, I'm hosting a live event that you can attend in my hometown of St. Louis or stream virtually anywhere around the world. The evening wi...
Sep 18, 2023•7 min•Season 14Ep. 603
Kelly Corrigan is a celebrated storyteller and New York Times bestselling author of Tell Me More , Glitter and Glue, The Middle Place and more. As the host of PBS' Tell Me More with Kelly Corrigan and the creator of the popular podcast Kelly Corrigan Wonders , Kelly shares insightful conversations with thought leaders, pulling out poignant lessons others can use to find their own calling or better understand themselves. Today, Kelly joins us to share her heartfelt wisdom and profound lessons on ...
Sep 14, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Season 14Ep. 602
Today, on this 22nd anniversary of the September 11th attacks , choose to treasure the simple moments, celebrate our shared humanity, and act with a bit more kindness, compassion, and hope in a global marketplace that still aches for it. Choose to recognize the immeasurable value of your life - and the lives of those you encounter. And choose to believe the little things you do matter. Because, ultimately, our children will receive the future we'll be giving.
Sep 11, 2023•7 min•Season 14Ep. 601
Over the past four decades, Jeff Allen has been recognized for his clean, family-friendly comedy celebrating everyday life, the ups & downs of marriage, the challenge of raising children, the bliss of the empty nest, the joys of being a grandparent and more. Known for coining the phrase "happy wife, happy life," Jeff believes that his story, though not without its challenges, can provide hope and encouragement to those who feel frustrated, empty, and unfulfilled. Today, Jeff candidly shares ...
Sep 07, 2023•54 min•Season 14Ep. 600
At age 10, a painful experience revealed how broken, disabled, and imperfect I was. A conversation with my mother afterward, though, challenged me to never believe lies that cheapen the blessing of my life. And heeding her advice positively changed my life. Let me explain.
Sep 04, 2023•8 min•Season 14Ep. 599
Zach Anner is an award-winning comedian, TV writer, disability advocate and viral sensation (with over 100 millions views on social media!). After winning "Oprah's Search for the Next TV Star" competition, Zach hosted a travel show called Rollin' with Zach on the OWN network. In the show, he traveled around the United States, exploring different cities and engaging with the local culture and activities. Today, Zach shares how he's learned to not let his cerebral palsy define him or his goals, ho...
Aug 31, 2023•50 min•Season 14Ep. 598
It is in our smallest gestures that the biggest difference can sometimes be seen. This week, look for a chance to do something for someone who can never repay you. Pay attention at the grocery store, at work, in the school pickup line or across your fence and wait for that ripple effect.
Aug 28, 2023•5 min•Season 14Ep. 597
For more than two decades, Bruce Feiler has explored the intersection of families, relationships, health, and happiness, and is one of America's most thoughtful voices on contemporary life. He is the author of seven New York Times bestsellers, including Life is in the Transitions , The Secrets of Happy Families , and Council of Dads. His three TED Talks have been viewed more than four million times. Known for living the experiences he writes about, Bruce shares his timeless wisdom and timely kno...
Aug 24, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Season 14Ep. 596
After a summer of buses and teachers and students hibernating, can we create the space where our young people share more honestly and expansively their experiences, their thoughts, and their feelings? How can we connect more closely with the little ones that matter most to us, and in doing so reinforce within them the priceless value of their life? Instead of asking how their day was, consider a nightly routine of asking these four questions. Let me explain.
Aug 21, 2023•6 min•Season 14Ep. 595
As the New York Times bestselling author of Unwinding Anxiety and The Craving Mind , Dr. Jud Brewer is an expert in addiction, anxiety and modifying unhealthy behaviors to establish new, positive habits. With more than 20 years of rigorous research at Brown University, Dr. Jud uses his proven, evidence-based guidance to those struggling with unwanted behaviors and "everyday addictions." Passionate about understanding how our brains work, Dr. Jud has collaborated with U.S. Olympic athletes and co...
Aug 17, 2023•58 min•Season 14Ep. 594
Eight years ago, I had the privilege of sharing the stage with Brené Brown and speaking to the leadership team at Southwest Airlines. Visiting with Brené was a once in a lifetime experience. Having lunch with Southwest President and CEO Herb Kelleher was an honor. But one of the greatest gifts from that day was a friendship that was planted and blossomed afterwards. Let me explain.
Aug 14, 2023•5 min•Season 14Ep. 593
Country music star Granger Smith is known for his chart-topping hits that include "Backroad Song" and "Happens Like That", but on a sunny June day in 2019, Granger faced a devastating loss that is every parent's worst nightmare. While outside playing with his three children, Granger's youngest son three-year-old River wandered off. Moments later, Granger found River face down in their pool, unconscious. Although they were able to revive his heart, the oxygen deprivation damaged little River's br...
Aug 10, 2023•1 hr 23 min•Season 14Ep. 592
"Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into water, the actions of individuals can have far reaching effects that change the world" -Dalai Lama Today, be reminded of the magnificent power of your life to influence change for good. It turns out regardless of our age, status or job title, that the ripples created by our actions truly do have the ability to impact lives around the world, across the street and across the aisle. Not sure when to start? Start today. Not sure where ...
Aug 07, 2023•6 min•Season 14Ep. 591
Lara Love Hardin is a four-time New York Times bestselling collaborative writer… yet for years, she lived in constant fear that someone would Google her and uncover her checkered past. When a worsening addiction from prescribed painkillers lead to smoking heroin, Lara began stealing neighbors' credit cards and other identifying information to buy groceries and gas after her cash went to buying drugs. Caught, Lara was convicted of 32 felonies and was sent to a year in County Jail, drug treatment ...
Aug 03, 2023•1 hr•Season 14Ep. 590
For those desiring it, evidence is everywhere of heroes, of possibility, of beauty, and of the power of a unified community being used for good. Flourishing individually, encouraging others, and connecting in community is what we strive to foster at Live Inspired. It is likely why you listen to our podcasts, read our materials, and share our posts. And it's why we want to give you an exciting opportunity to go even deeper via our new online community called Live Inspired Together . It's our own ...
Jul 31, 2023•9 min•Season 14Ep. 589
Travel journalist Jeff Jenkins didn't step foot on a plane until he was 20 years old, but once he did, he started living by his mantra: "Life begins where your comfort zone ends." As the host of the new National Geographic show Never Say Never , Jeff travels the world testing the limits of his physical abilities -- from attempting to climb 70-foot mountain faces, to rafting class 5 rapids, to sailing in a windstorm at the end of the world. Throughout his global odyssey Jeff makes deep connection...
Jul 27, 2023•49 min•Season 14Ep. 588
"What's the kindest thing someone did for you…who didn't even know you?" I was asked this unusual question during a recent interview. Although the interviewer likely thought I'd share some story from my time in the hospital, the answer that came to mind actually occurred a decade after the accident. The undeserved and overwhelming generosity that was offered to me though, is something we can all learn from today. Let me explain.
Jul 24, 2023•6 min•Season 14Ep. 587
Katie Collier is a renowned chef, entrepreneur and true visionary behind the award-winning Italian concept restaurant known as Katie's Pizza and Pasta Osteria. At 24 years old, Katie fearlessly embarked on a mission to introduce handcrafted, artisanal Neapolitan pizza to the vibrant city and her hometown of St. Louis. And yet personally, addiction had taken hold of her life, threatening to shatter her dreams and everything she had built. Feeling broken and alone, Katie reached out for help, dete...
Jul 20, 2023•1 hr•Season 14Ep. 586
Brené Brown reminds us that the willingness to show up changes us by making us a little braver each time. It also makes us a little more compassionate to others, a little more grateful for gifts and a little more cognizant of what matters most. My friends, I can't say no to my mom. And that's a good thing because every time I'm with her it's obvious to me – and now, after this episode, to you- how our lives are so much richer when we say yes to doing a little more and loving the one in front of ...
Jul 17, 2023•6 min•Season 14Ep. 585
What happens when we die? Is there another life? Why are we here? These are questions we've wrestled with since the dawn of humanity. As the author of the New York Times bestselling book Imagine Heaven , John Burke has spent more than three decades studying firsthand accounts of individuals who've returned from the brink of death. These awe-inspiring experiences have been shared by people of all ages and cultures, including doctors, college professors, and bank presidents, revealing striking com...
Jul 13, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Season 14Ep. 584
One of my favorite expression all kids use is: "I want a Do-Over." I hear it after beating my kids in a fierce match of ping pong, or after one of my sons beats another in an intense game of basketball, or after Grace beats her brothers in a friendly (frequently turning violent) game of Sorry. It may sound childlike to insist on a "Do-Over," but embracing the potential within the expression could be transformative for adults, too. Let me explain.
Jul 10, 2023•6 min•Season 14Ep. 583
Alex Sheen is on a mission to better humanity through promises made and promises kept. As the founder of the social movement and nonprofit "because I said I would," Alex believes individuals can create a world where promises are kept, fostering trust, empathy, and positive change. Inspired by his father's legacy, Alex has distributed more than 14 million "promise cards" to 178 countries with the intention of bridging the gap between intention and action. Today, Alex shares how his father's accou...
Jul 06, 2023•47 min•Season 14Ep. 582
My friends, tomorrow you and I will have the opportunity to participate fully once again in life. March with me, will you? Choose to not merely watch passively, but to engage actively. Choose to put your swimsuit back on and jump into the pool. Choose to lift your voice, sing your song and march in your parade. Choose the joy you experienced as a kid! If you truly want to love life, determine to engage in it, give it all you've got and love it with a passion. Because life truly does give back, m...
Jul 03, 2023•6 min•Season 14Ep. 581
Greg LeMond has revolutionized the sport of cycling. As one of the most iconic cyclists in history, Greg is the sole American to clinch the Tour de France, not just once but three times. Today, Greg takes us on a journey behind the scenes of his life and career, unveiling his intense rivalries with cycling's finest and how a near-fatal hunting accident reshaped his purpose both personally and professionally. And yet, Greg's quest for greatness extends far beyond personal triumph. He is a fierce ...
Jun 28, 2023•1 hr 10 min•Season 14Ep. 580
"Who's your favorite?" Several years ago my boys asked me this question while I was driving them to school. They were talking about superheroes and sharing their favorites. The boys shared names like Green Lantern, Batman and a little rodent with a big mouth named Rocket Raccoon (don't ask!). After sharing that mine was Superman, I was stunned to learn that the fellas had reached the ripe old ages of 7, 9 and 11 without watching this classic. That evening, we made popcorn and watched the movie a...
Jun 26, 2023•9 min•Season 14Ep. 579
Britt Frank is a trauma specialist, licensed psychotherapist, and author of The Science of Stuck . Committed to unraveling the myths that keep us stuck and stressed, Britt offers a fresh perspective on mental health and well-being. Drawing from her personal story of struggle, insightful clinical research, and the powerful concept of "micro-yesses," Britt joins us for a down-to-earth conversation that will boldly inspire you to break through whatever is holding you back in life. My friends, no ma...
Jun 22, 2023•52 min•Season 14Ep. 578
"An arch consists of two weaknesses, which, leaning on each other becomes a strength." -Leonardo da Vinci With yesterday's celebration of Father's Day, I'd like to celebrate the man who was strength for me when I was weak, the model of love he radiated so brilliantly and the reason my family and I are more certain than ever that our Dad really is a superhero. Let me explain.
Jun 19, 2023•8 min•Season 14Ep. 577
Chris Didier is turning his own heartbreak and pain into heartfelt purpose. In 2020, Chris' son Zach was a 17-year-old star athlete, exceptional student, friend to everyone, and above all, a loving son. After being contacted by a drug dealer on the social media app Snapchat, Zach consumed what he thought was be a legitimate pharmaceutical grade pill. Instead, Zach had unknowingly ingested a counterfeit pill made with a lethal amount of fentanyl. Today, Chris works tirelessly in his advocacy to b...
Jun 15, 2023•1 hr 9 min•Season 14Ep. 576
