Colonel Carlyle Smith “Smitty” Harris spent 2,871 days (that’s nearly 8 years!) as Vietnam POW. At the same time, his beautiful bride Louise was courageously raising three young children while becoming an advocate and role model.

Today, Smitty + Louise take us on a 60-year journey that’s packed with love, but also the horrors of a North Vietnam prison and how a forgotten military code changed everything.

If you’re looking for a story of forgiveness from a decorated war hero or a romantic love story filled with drive, sacrifice and compassion, you’re going to love today’s episode.

SHOW NOTES:

• Smitty + Louise have been married for over 60 years.
• On April 4, 1965, Smitty became the sixth POW captured in North Vietnam during the Vietnam War.
• For nearly 8 years, Smitty and hundreds of other American POWs, including John McCain and George “Bud” Day, suffered torture, solitary confinement and abuse at the infamous Hoa Lo prison, nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton.”
• Louise returned to America to raise her three young children and went on to become an advocate + role model for the other wives of the POWs.
• Smitty lost about 20% of his body weight, bringing him to about 90 pounds.
• Miracles presented themselves: Smitty and his fellow POWs learned that their faith was stronger, their resistance to the enemy would continue and strength to continue.
• Tap code is a way to communicate letter-by-letter using taps or knocks using this chart below, and gave them strength and unity, even allowing them to have weekly church service.
•  
• Smitty's tin drinking cup is in the Smithsonian Institute.
• "Hi Jane, it's Tarzan." The first words that Smitty spoke to Louise after his time as a POW, proving their love hadn't missed a beat.
• "You will never be tested beyond your power to endure."
• Get a copy of Smitty Harris' Tap Code here.

If today's story inspired you, you'll love our Military + First Responders Playlist. This specially curated list includes Capitan Charlie Plumb. Listen to the Military + First Responders Playlist here.

SMITTY + LOUISE HARRIS' LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Louise: The Bible, and  Losing Cooper by J.J. Jasper.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Smitty: I've always been inquisitive, optimistic and a risk-taker, but I also had a deep abiding love of God and I still have that today.

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? Louise: Letter from Smitty and the three pastel portraits of our 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? Smitty: Louise, and I talk with her every day and enjoy doing so.

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Louise: "You will never be tested beyond your power to endure."

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Smitty: Make the same decisions you made because you'll have a blessed and wonderful life.

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? Louise: I am profoundly grateful for every single day. I have been truly blessed. Smitty: I am the most fortunate man I know. My health is good, my attitude towards life and God is good.

***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moment” segments.

Today's question was submitted by Live Inspired community member CB. 

CB asked: My brother and I were best friends growing up. Now it’s been years since we’ve even spoken. Any suggestions on reconnecting when it’s been so long?

Tune in to hear my answer. Then, listen to Live Inspired Podcast ep. 88 where I share the heroic acts of my siblings did that saved my life.

Have you successfully reconnected with a family member or friend after months or years of not talking?

If you have questions or want to share how the Live Inspired Podcast has impacted your life, send them to me and my team at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com. Can't wait to hear from you!

***

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Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram+ get his Monday Motivation email.

What is the hard-to-define, touchy-feely idea of empathy and why is it so important?
 
Business expert Michael Brenner joins us to share how empathy, kindness + self-reflection can save us both professionally and personally.
 
You will leave today’s conversation understanding how being kind, cool + being yourself is the best path to happiness + success.

SHOW NOTES:

• Is society meaner? A recent University of Michigan study shows a 40 point drop in empathy in the last 20 years.
• Michael's parents were ultimate examples of empathy and it teaches him to be the same way with his kids.
• Of his 53 jobs, Michael shares about being let go from one, only to be hired back weeks later. 
• Bullseye: What's in it for the customer or person we are serving?
• "Bureaucracy kills good ideas."
• Break down the walls that divide us by using Michael's Pushback method: Who is this for? What is the impact it's going to create for them? How do we measure it?
• "Behind every bad idea is an executive that asked for it."
• "The customer is not always right, but they should always be heard."
• "Be kind. Be cool. Be you."
• Microsoft is focusing on a cultural shift to demonstrate more empathy, and it's leading to more innovation.
• Jørgen Vig Knudstorp turned the fate of Lego around by focusing on the mission rather than profits.
• "Do you champion your employee's ideas?"
• Pivot from being the victim: Develop a personal mission statement by asking who are you serving, where is your passion, and how can you measure that result?
• "We have a choice."
• Check out the Mean People Suck Companion Guide here, which includes my favorite: the Bullseye organizational chart.
• Get a copy of Michael Brenner's Mean People Suck here.

Did today's episode inspire you? 

• Listen to Liz Fosslien shares the importance of embracing our emotions, and simple tips to be the best versions of ourselves at work and in life. Listen to ep. 122 here.
• Hear Andre Norman share his journey from juvie to jail to Harvard and how choosing empathy led him to find forgiveness. Listen to ep. 95 here.

MICHAEL BRENNER'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Fear. There is a lot to learn from the things we're afraid of.

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 picture of my wife and I walking down the aisle on our wedding day.

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? Martin Luther King, Jr. I'm completely inspired by the environment he grew up in, the person he became and the fight that he led with such compassion and empathy. What allowed him to turn what must have been rage into such an effective form of change?

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? A piece of paper from my dad's workbench that said, "quityerbellyachin'"

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? It's going to be okay.

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? Focusing on others is the counterintuitive secret to success.

***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments.

Today, I share some very exciting news around my new book In Awe, the inspiration behind its mission and even an exclusive excerpt. In Awe hits bookshelves in May 2020, but I want to give Live Inspired Podcast listeners the first opportunity to pre-order a copy.

Visit ReadInAwe.com to order a copy of In Awe and gain access to bonus features like the In Awe Playbook. This 20-page, full-color Playbookwill introduce you to the basic concepts of the book, show you how you can begin to apply them in your life and give you something tangible to enjoy (or gift!) in time for the holidays.

***

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

I consider Thanksgiving one of my favorite family holidays. It's certainly a wonderful time away from work, enjoying good food, viewing football, and taking inventory of the many blessings in life.

Join me as I share the original reason for this holiday + a new tradition I'll be implementing at my family feast. Today's episode will ignite an abundance of gratitude and help you celebrate Thanksgiving on fire.

SHOW NOTES:

• Read Abraham Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation here.
• I share a longstanding tradition Live Inspired community member Rona's family does before their Thanksgiving meal.
• Download + print the Meal Tickets I'm using with my family here.

Five-time New York Times bestselling author Brené Brown shares how practicing gratitude enables you to pivot away from negativity and towards hope + courage. Listen to our conversation on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 103.

***

Did you enjoy today’s episode? Subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts!

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram+ get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments.

“Every solution to every problem is simple. It’s the distance between the two where the mystery lies.” – Derek Landy

Being a good friend, courteous neighbor, helpful coworker, visionary leader or humble servant are all challenging roles, and every worthy relationship is certain to endure periods of tension.

Whatever challenge you're facing, I’m convinced that these questions and the honest answers to them can ignite reconciliation and rebirth. 

1. If this meeting was extremely successful, what would I want to achieve?
2. When things were better, what were we doing and how did we interact and feel?
3. What changed that lead us to where we are today?
4. What could a super healthy, engaged relationship achieve? What am I willing to do to bring about the desired change?
5. In order to bring about the desired change so we can move forward, together, I am asking that you…

***

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Did you know that almost three-quarters of us find meetings ineffective or unproductive, and they waste more than $37 billion dollars every year?

Elise Keith, CEO and co-founder of Lucid Meetings, joins us to share about her expertise and her mission to make it easy for teams to run successful meetings every day, in the business world + in life outside of work.

Whether you’re leading a meeting at your child's school or an executive at a Fortune 500 boardroom, Elise is here to share real-life examples + practical methods that will lead to more productive + effective meetings and happier participants.

SHOW NOTES:

• "Every meeting is walking into another room with another group of individuals that aren't the same as you, and hopefully having a moment to connect and create something great."
• Get curious: Productive meetings happen when individuals can treat each other with respect, let their voices be heard and their opinions valued without judgment.
• Meetings aren't just transactional. It's about being successful with people.
• "Bad" meetings are always a reflection of something deeper going on in the culture. 
• Many leaders are leading bad meetings because that's what's always been done.
• Doing a job their not trained to do: Leaders are spending 70-80% of their workweek in meetings, and fewer than 25% of them have any training on how to lead effective meetings.
• Look at how high-performing organizations meet successfully to drive performance. In an effort to improve employee engagement at the technology company Cisco, teams regularly touch-base in a positive way.
• Frequency of care: How often do you show interest in what your team members are working on, say thank you, recognize others for bringing meaning + value to our work?
• Breaking the doom loop: You can't get a positive result when you start with a negative belief.
• "Every meeting is an opportunity to bring people together and achieve something that you can't achieve on your own."
• Get clear on your "why": Use this Lucid Meeting resource to define which of the 16 types your meeting is, and design it to be most productive.
• Elise shares a strategic technique on how to use silence to increase critical feedback to be shared + heard by all members of the meeting.
• Organizations that design meetings with a clear end goal in mind meet far less and waste fewer resources.
• Start meetings with icebreaker techniques to create bonds between team members and combat loneliness.
  
  • Live Inspired office: Share an experience from the past week on how our individual work ties to the overall mission.
  • Starbucks: Share a coffee tasting together.
  • Lululemon: Clearing to be present before a Vibes Watcher.
• Elise shares 4 practical tips to have better meetings starting today:
  1. Take a moment before every meeting to create a clear vision of the purpose + desired outcomes of the meeting.
  2. Connect with each other as people first.
  3. Close the meeting by getting clear on your promises.
  4. Say "thank you."
• Get a copy of Elise Keith's book Where the Action Is.

Elise Keith shared that she practices Hal Elrod's Miracle Morning principals every morning. On Live Inspired Podcast ep. 77 my dear friend Hal Elrod shares the techniques of his international bestselling book The Miracle Morning and how those practices helped him overcome two near-death experiences + build a highly successful business. Listen to Hal's Live Inspired Podcast episode today.

ELISE KEITH'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Don Miguel's Four Agreements.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Sit still and not be fretting about everything I need to do.

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 laptop + a box of my kids' precious school pictures.

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 great, great grandfather Jake Patrick Aldridge. There are all types of family legends about him and I'd love to hear them come straight from the source.

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Eat all the chocolate while you can.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Just do the work.

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, that was fun!

***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Ten years ago, Susannah Cahalan's life pivoted rapidly in a radically different direction. Recounted in her New York Times bestseller Brain on Fire, Susannah bravely shares her harrowing story of being diagnosed with a rare + newly discovered neurological disease.

Fully recovered + thriving, Susannah calls in from the tour of her newest book, The Great Pretender. It dives deep into an investigation of Stanford psychologist David Rosenhan + his landmark 1970s study which led many to question the validity of psychiatric diagnoses.

If you’re seeking a miraculous story of triumph, this episode is for you. Susannah will articulately show you how to overcome with gratitude, grace + tenacity.

SHOW NOTES:

• In 2009, 24-year-old Susannah was working as a tabloid reporter for the New York Post when what seemed like depression rapidly morphed into psychosis, paranoia + hallucinations.
• Various diagnoses were presented during her month-long hospitalization including alcohol withdrawal, bipolar, schizoaffective disorder before a creative thinking Dr. Souhel Najjar was able to properly diagnose Susannah with anti-NMDA-receptor autoimmune encephalitis. 
• Road to Recovery: It took a year and a half of treatment for Susannah to fully recover. Looking back, she is able to pinpoint a belief of a bedbug infestation as the beginning of her tailspin.
• Before being diagnosed, Susannah vividly remembers “high emotional content” like the belief that Abraham Lincoln was following her around her father’s house.
• She credits her family taking her to a hospital versus a psychiatric hospital as the reason she was able to get the proper care + be alive today.
• Mirror Images: Susannah has met others who have diagnosed with her same illness, but were given different + unsuccessful treatments at their psychiatric hospitals. 
• The Half Clock: Clinician + researcher Dr. Najjar asked Susannah to draw a clock, which was the piece of evidence to the puzzle that didn’t make sense in diagnosing schizoaffective disorder. It led to a brain biopsy + spinal tap which confirmed the suspicion of anti-NMDA-receptor autoimmune encephalitis.
• Medical Marvel: Writing The Great Pretender helped Susannah recognize the full extent of her journey + how lucky she was to be the 217th patient properly diagnosed with her illness.
• In her latest book The Great Pretender, Susannah examines a 1970s experiment created by Dr. David Rosenhan, where eight volunteers posed with classic mental illness symptoms to challenge the validity of psychiatric diagnosis.
• Watch Susannah Cahalan's TEDx Talk here.
• Get a copy of Susannah Cahalan's New York Times bestseller Brain on Fire here.
• Get Susannah Cahalan's latest book The Great Pretender here.

If you enjoyed hearing from a New York Times bestselling author, listen to our Bestselling Authors playlist, featuring my conversations with bestselling authors like Mitch Albom, Judith Viorst + Gary Sinise.

SUSANNAH CAHALAN'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I had a strong sense of tenacity.

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? The journal I kept when I was sick. It has mine + my father’s recollections of that time.

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? William Shakespeare and I'd ask, “Did you really write all of your masterpieces?”

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Dr. Najjar: You have to look backwards to see the future.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Stop obsessing about how you look, how much you weigh, the unimportant things.

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 was curious, she was fair, and she was compassionate.

***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments.

Recently I had the honor of speaking at a Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) event. Afterward, I had the opportunity to speak with incredible leaders and surprisingly, the most emotional conversations were not with the soldiers but with the spouses of those soldiers.

As we celebrate Veteran's Day today, let's be mindful of the sacrifices being made for our freedom by the soldiers + their spouses courageously serve their households.

***

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram+ get his Monday Motivation email.

There are many adversities we face in life. Some of outward-facing while many are scars we carry on the insides of our hearts. Today's guest can speak to both.

Jonathan Lopez is an Army Infantry veteran + member of Operation Enduring Warrior (OEW). OEW is a veteran-founded non‐profit whose mission is to honor, empower, and motivate our nation’s wounded military and law enforcement veterans through physical, mental and emotional rehabilitation.

Jonathan joins us for a raw, emotional and honest conversation about serving our country, learning how to accept unexpected circumstances + challenges in life and inspiring others to do the same.

(Thank you to Live Inspired community member Martina for sharing her special relationship Jonathan, his connection her late son Thomas + the work OEW is doing in our communities. Share your guest recommendations with us at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com)

SHOW NOTES:

• According to the 2019 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, more than 16 United States veterans die by suicide every day.
• At 17 years old, Jonathan joined the Army seeking brotherhood + community, something that was lacking in his life.
• During Special Forces Training, Jonathan realized the community he always sought was already in the barracks + quit.
• Days later, Jonathan was involved with a head-on motorcycle accident that resulted in 17 fractures in his left leg, broke every rib on his left side + the amputation of his left arm.
• Finding peace: "Not too long ago, I let go. It was one of the most liberating things." 
• Jonathan's focus + determination on rehabilitating his leg helped him cope with the loss of his arm.
• Unleashing a monster: While rehabilitating his leg, Jonathan became addicted to opioids, which eventually led to a suicide attempt.
• "Figuring out how to do things with one hand is not that complicated. Mental rehabilitation is hard."
• Redemption: During induction to Operation Enduring Warrior's Masked Athlete Team, Jonathan's mentor Jeff Farmer presented an opportunity for redemption.  
• "Face your obstacles, smile + get it over with."
• Jonathan attempted suicide not wanting his children to grow up with a "deadbeat father". Today, he's choosing to live because of his kids.
• Learn more about Operation Enduring Warrior here.

If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Other Live Inspired Podcast guests have shared about suicide prevention + awareness.

• Kevin Hines speaks of overcoming his "brain pain" + thriving in spite of mental illness on ep. 164. 
• Dese'Rae Stage speaks about sharing stories of other suicide attempt survivors on ep. 156. 
• Dennis Gillan discusses the loss of two brothers to suicide on ep. 46. 

JONATHAN LOPEZ'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Raising Men: Lessons Navy SEALs Learned from Their Training and Taught to Their Sons by Dina Santorelli and Eric Davis.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I was never afraid of the unknown.

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. Part of my evolution in life has to become a minimalist, be purer and not be attached to anything.

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 grandmother.

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? My grandmother taught me to plant a tree, write a book and have children. My friend Scott encourages me to leave my footprints to guide others.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Nothing. It would change where I am today.

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? Die first, then quit.

 ***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment.

Today I am honored to welcome back international bestselling author Mitch Albom. Mitch shares the heartwarming + emotional story about a young girl who taught him the true meaning of family. This conversation will remind you the importance of family, regardless of how they're made.

• Chika was born into extreme poverty three days before the 2010 earthquake in Haiti.
• After being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, Mitch and his wife Janine brought 5-year-old Chika to America in search of quality medical care.
• Finding Chika: Chika enjoyed playing hide-and-seek but it was an eloquent question that inspired the name of the book.
• "We didn't lose a child. We were given one."
• Proceeds from Finding Chika go to the Have Faith Haiti Orphanage. Learn more here.
• Get Mitch's new book Finding Chika here.

Mitch joined me for a full interview on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 81. He shared about his relationship with his beloved professor Morrie Schwartz and how that inspired him to write the bestselling memoir Tuesdays with Morrie. Listen here.

***

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

How do we react when an unwanted diagnosis appears? Or when adversity arises with a child, a loved one or for ourselves? How do we move forward with compassion, courage, love, respect, possibility, and certainty that the best remains in front of us?

Dr. April Jones holds many professional credentials. Yet it’s her personal journey that makes her an authority on transforming pain into purpose. Before her son's 2nd birthday, he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer... and April + her husband were faced with an agonizing, life-changing decision.

April's heartfelt journey + uplifting story is sure to help those seeking to turn struggle into strength!

SHOW NOTES

• At 16 years old, April met future husband Billy. He offered encouragement when she wasn’t sure if she believed in herself + they had similar goals and sense of adventure to grow as a person outside of their small town
• Embracing change: Billy and her married at 19 + unexpectedly became pregnant 3 months later.
• “We can always learn from our feelings, even if we don’t like them. We control how we react to situations.”
• Tyler’s cancer: Her oldest son was almost 2 years old when he was diagnosed with cancer.
• February 2, 2004: April makes the life-changing decision to amputate Tyler’s leg, and cancer, to achieve full remission.
• “Sometimes it takes losing everything we thought was important to us to find that we have everything we actually need. Sometimes we have to hit rock bottom before we will force ourselves to finally look up.”
• Some of their greatest supporters were a couple named Todd + Dawn. After losing their son to cancer, they supported other families dealing with life-threatening childhood illnesses and became an inspiration to many families.
• Little reminders were helpful + impactful:
  • Support through First Baptist Church in South Haven was a reminder that they weren’t alone in Tyler’s fight.
  • The support from the community celebrating Tyler’s life during his Make-a-Wish grant was life-changing.
• Advice for others in a similar situation: Have hope. Allow yourself the freedom to feel what you feel + know that’s okay.
• “Life is fleeting. Just like the good moments are fleeting, so are the bad.”
• “At some point, what your current situation is, is going to be the story that inspires someone else or helps you relate to someone else so that they can listen to what you have to say.”
• Tyler was 2018 Paralympic High School All American for Track and Field.
• “How someone treats you says nothing at all about you and everything about them.”
• “Whether you are proud of where you came from, ashamed of it or pretend it does not matter, you either let where you came from propel you forward or hold you back. But the good thing is this: you get to choose.”
• Get a copy of Dr. April Jone's book No Mess, No Message here.

Are you or someone you know dealing expected diagnosis or illness? We’ve compiled to Live Inspired Podcast guests that are living inspired after cancer or other illness has affected their lives. Listen to the Cancer + Illness playlist here.

APRIL JONES' LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? The Shack by William Paul Young.

[William Paul Young was a guest on the Live Inspired Podcast! Listen to my conversation with him on ep. 19.]

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Imagine without analyzing.

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 first little diamond necklace on this delicate chain with a handwritten note from my grandmother that says “a little something special for someone special.”

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? If Jesus is not an option, Oprah.

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? My friend Julia said, “what’s the worse that could happen? What are you worried that could be the worst outcome of this decision on each side? How would you deal with that situation if it happened?”

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Regardless of what happens, you’re going to be okay.

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 sparkled.

***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments.

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill

Today I share the story of someone choosing to be happy and striving to make every experience a gift for his clients. As you head into this week, I encourage you to embrace your responsibilities + to make the best of your day, your work and your life.

***

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

How do you handle situations that feel like massive setbacks? How do you react when you’re told, “it can’t be done,” "you’re not good enough," or "you’re destined to be a failure?"

William Hung has received that harsh feedback many times. The most memorable was when he was laughed off the stage by American Idol judges for his rendition of Ricky Martin’s “She Bangs”.

Those that  laughed, judged + critiqued missed what was actually happening: the power of an individual believing in his dreams. 

Today's conversation is truly heart-warming. William shares about taking chances, the courage to fail forward, and rising above cynics to become a champion by choice and smiling every step of the way.

SHOW NOTES:

• William’s mother was very supportive + encouraged him to do his best in a school. 
• During high school, William excelled in math and science but struggled academically while studying civil engineering at the University of California, Berkeley.
• William won a talent show at UC Berkeley singing Ricky Martin’s "She Bangs", giving him the confidence to audition for American Idol days later.
• Recalling the 2004 American Idol audition, William knew he wouldn’t advance to the next round because of Randy Jackson’s immediate reaction.
• “I already gave my best. I have no regrets at all.”: William’s response after Simon Cowell’s comment, “You can’t sing. You can’t dance. What do you want me to say?”
• The primary motivations for continuing with his singing career was not money but defending who he is and counteract others making things up about him.
• William remembers watching other auditions from his season and seeing contestants getting so angry they’d throw water bottles. He understood that the judges were just playing their roles + doing their job and it was no reason to get upset.
• During a UC Berkeley volleyball game, a record company presented William a $25,000 check to record a record album. It went on to hit #1 on the independent charts.
• “It doesn’t matter if you have the most talent. It matters if you can bring happiness with your entertainment.”
• “You are already unique. You are already special. Keep believing in that truth. Do not give up and you will succeed.”
• “I’m infamous, and some people think, a joke. That doesn’t make me feel good because I am a genuine person. I don’t let it get to me because I am who I am.”
• “It’s not what they say. It’s what you choose to hear.”
• “Looking back on my American Idol experience, I realize Randy was smiling. Paula was smiling. Even Simon was smiling. I realize when people saw me, I freed them to smile.”
• Today, William is a professional motivational speaker + hopes his audiences choose to be happy in their lives
• “I don’t feel the need to justify my value.”
• Watch William Hung’s American Idol audition here.
• Listen to William Hung’s TEDx Talk here.
• William Hung’s latest book Champion by Choice inspires others to choose to be happy by rising above the haters. Get a copy here.

If you enjoyed hearing William Hung's story, you'll love my conversation with Lizzie Velasquez. Lizzie shares her positivity, her life's work at spreading kindness, and how she's standing up to bullies. Listen on ep. 71.

WILLIAM HUNG'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Tapping into Wealth by Margaret Lynch.
2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I still have that kid in me.
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 wallet. I’m very practical!
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? Ricky Martin. My first question would be, “What kind of impact do you want your music to make on others?”
5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? The only way you can fail is if you give up.
6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Find a true talent instead of randomly putting yourself out there on American Idol.
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? Live your best life and have no regrets. 

***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments.

“Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th.” – Julie Andrews

Life innately involves failures and missteps along the way. Today, I want to share 4 steps to help you successfully fail forward.

1. Know what you want.
2. Risk becoming more.
3. Embrace the gifts of failure.
4. Resiliently bounce back and step forward.

This week, enjoy the bumps, lessons, + clarity knowing along the way that the best is yet to come.

***

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram+ get his Monday Motivation email.

Have you ever thought about how much your thoughts, beliefs, and emotions influence your days, health and ability to heal?

From years spent studying cutting edge science, ancient medicine, and spiritual practices, Kelly Noonan Gores has discovered that we have far more control over our well-being, health + life than we tend to believe. Her documentary Heal, streaming on Netflix, was so popular, it was recently turned into a book.

Today, Kelly joins us to share how to choose love over fear + gives concrete tips on how to make strides in your personal wellness journey.

SHOW NOTES:

• The teachings of Bruce Lipton, Deepak Chopra, Marianne Williamson, among others inspired Kelly to create the documentary and book Heal.
• While dealing with depression in college, Kelly was given Marianne Willamson's book A Return to Love which guided her in finding a grounding force. 
• Fear + love: Kelly sees fear every day but has spiritual practices to avoid being taken over by fear.
• "You do not have to be a victim to your genes."
• Epigenetics: Our DNA is a blueprint and our lifestyle choices are the triggers that turn on or off our genes. 
• Chemical, emotional + physical stress has an incredible impact on our health.
• Kelly reduces stress in her life by practicing meditation, earthing/grounding, and gratitude. 
• Placebo Effect: when we have a belief or expectation that something is going to help us 50-75% is has a positive effect.
• Grammy-winning singer John Legend performed All of Me at her wedding. 
• Watch Kelly Noonan Gores' documentary Heal on Netflix.
• Get Kelly Noonan Gores' book Heal: Discover Your Unlimited Potential and Awaken the Powerful Healer Within here.

If you enjoyed hearing about how your environment can have an effect on your health, you'll love my conversation with Dr. Kelli Harding. Kelli shares her groundbreaking research + the importance of treating others with kindness on ep. 180.

KELLY NOONAN GORES' LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I was sassy + witty. I still have a quick wit but I've toned down the sass.

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? Old photo albums from the 1970s + 1980s.

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? Jesus and I'd ask him, "please tell me everything. Can you tell me everything?"

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Remembering that the universe, or God, has your back.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Anything is possible and follow your heart. In every oak tree, there is an acorn.

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 took the leap, she was terrified on the way down, but she had a lot of fun along the way.

***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments.

Today's question was submitted by Live Inspired community member Christine. 

Christine asked: How should I deal with negativity at work?

Tune in to hear my answer.

If you have questions or want to share how the Live Inspired Podcast has impacted your life, send them to me and my team at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com. Can't wait to hear from you!

***

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram+ get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments.

"Those who danced were thought to be quite insane by those who could not hear the music" - Angela Monet

The more we experience events, the easier it is to take them for granted. Today, I invite you to look more closely at the joy + beauty in each day.

***

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

I am honored to welcome one of the most successful gospel singers of all time, Mrs. Erica Campbell, onto the show. Her achievements, voice, sense of self and faith are profound. Yet it’s her story, first finding her angelic voice at the age of five at church in an impoverished California neighborhood, that will blow you away.

Erica is part of the hit group Mary Mary, solo artist, wife, mother, Christian and as of very recently, author. In our conversation, Erica radiates positivity, hope + optimism – and it’s infectious. You can’t listen to this episode and not live inspired.

SHOW NOTES

• Falling in love with Jesus allowed her to understand the importance + meaning of the word “love”.
• Tough love: Erica's father prepared her for the harshness of the entertainment industry.
• Erica was just six-years-old when her brother Andre Lovell Adkin, who had Downs syndrome, passed away.
• Erica began singing around 12 years old in church + with a group called The Young Annonited but stopped singing after forgetting the words at a big event.
• Mary Mary: After filling in for her sister's absent singing partner, Erica + Tina began singing together as Mary, Mary and earned four Grammys.
• "There are some things that have been said about me that are harsh. But when they said it, I didn’t lose my gift, my ability to sing."
• "Everyone can’t be #1. If I’m #5, I am going to cheer on #1 because I know my time is coming."
• Erica is proud to have her daughter Christa in featured on Grammy-winning track Help.
• Erica’s book More than Pretty was inspired by her inner-journey of finding herself.
• "You have to learn to find your own confidence."
• Erica met her now-husband Warryn Campbell when he was working at Death Row records with rappers Snoop Dogg and Tupac.
• "If you don’t have confidence in private, you will not have power in public."
• Get a copy of Erica Campbell's book More than Pretty here.

If Erica's positivity and optimism inspired you, you'll love hearing from Journey's Jonathan Cain. Jonathan shares about his life, his inspiration behind the song Don’t Stop Believin’ and so much more. Listen to Jonathan on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 100.

ERICA CAMPBELL'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? God is Able by Priscilla Shirer.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I think I still have it! It’s the ability to be optimistic.

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? The picture books of my kids.

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 daddy and I would tell him, “I was listening,” and that his words hit my heart and I’m doing my best to carry out everything that he taught me.

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? My mother said, “you can live anything down.”

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Erica, you are going to be amazing. Just don’t quit. Don’t let self-esteem take you down. Don’t make poor body image make you hide in the dark. Don’t think that there is always somebody better than you. Stay focused. Don’t take people personally. Don’t hold grudges. Forgive easy and quickly. Love fiercely.

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 loved God and she loved people.

***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our Live Inspired Podcast Monday Moments segment.

Today, I welcome back productivity expert, author + speaker Tonya Dalton. Tonya's work provides actionable strategies to help discover your purpose, clarify your priorities, simplify your life, and achieve true harmony by embracing the ‘unbalance’ that is inherent in our lives. This energetic conversation will help start your week on fire! 

Get Tonya Dalton's latest book The Joy of Missing Out here.

Tonya first joined us on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 106 to empower ourselves through productivity and shared three ways to do less + produce more. Listen to Tonya's episode here.

***

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Student loan and credit card debt are at epidemic levels. It's weighing us down and stealing our freedom. 

Today, Anthony ONeal shares how to get through college debt-free and debunks most of our misbeliefs around finance and success. If you or your loved one need help thinking through smart decision-making around money – you don’t want to miss Anthony’s incredible story. From college drop-out and $35,000 in debt to living 100% debt-free, Anthony’s written the playbook and today, he shares it with you.

SHOW NOTES:

• Anthony's latest book Debt-Free Degree teaches parents how to get their kids into + through college 100% debt-free. Get a copy here. 
• Growing up in a strict conservative family, Anthony focused on going to school + church and was not taught about finance, building wealth or manage + control money.
• Free pizza + t-shirt: Anthony maxed out his credit card within 13 hours, First day in college, Anthony signed up for a credit card for free pizza and t-shirt.
• In his first year of college, Anthony racked up $15,000 in credit card debt. After being kicked out of college + losing his work-study job Anthony was up to $35,000 in credit card debt.
• Over 70% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. Read a Forbes article here.
• At 19 years old, Anthony was living out of his car.
• After months of living in a car, his father brought him back into their house. Anthony's father gave him 6 months to budget + work on getting debt-free from the principals of Dave Ramsey.
• "When the mind plays tricks on me, I remember where I was, where I do not want to go and how I’m helping people."
• Tough love + train up: Allow your child to fall in your presence, then you don't pick them up but you show them how to get up.
• Say no to student loans: The average student will graduate with $30,000 worth of debt, paying nearly 15% of their take-home-pay back to student loans and living paycheck to paycheck.
• Step toward financial freedom:
  • Choose an affordable school.
  • Choose an in-state school.
  • Drive to school, rather than live on campus.
  • Purchase recycled textbooks.
  • Apply for grants + scholarships.
• "It's not about where you go [to college] but about who you become."
• "The choices you make today determine the caliber of your future."
• Follow Anthony on Instagram @anthonyoneal.
• Tune into my conversation with Dave Ramsey on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 6.

If you enjoyed learning about how to earn financial independence, you'll love my conversation with Rachel Cruze. Rachel gives a clear path to help you win, gain control and lower stress around personal finances. Listen to Rachel on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 83.

ANTHONY ONEAL'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Smiling and being a people person.

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? The Bible my mother gave men when I preached my first sermon.

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? Martin Luther King, Jr. and I’d ask, “what made you want to become the man you became?”

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Stop downloading what the world wants you to do and download what God wants you to do.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Leave that girl alone.

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? Anthony ONeal loved people and he wanted to help everyone become debt-free and build wealth. 

***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Join me every Monday for a quick burst of inspiration on our “Monday Moments” segments.

Today's question was submitted by Live Inspired community member MacKenzie. 

MacKenzie asked: What's the biggest mistake you've ever made?

Tune in to hear my answer.

If you have questions or want to share how the Live Inspired Podcast has impacted your life, send them to me and my team at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com. Can't wait to hear from you!

***

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate & review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.

Are you sick of hearing about the “divisive” time we live in? Me too!

Tarek Mounib shares how to foster sincere dialogue and better understand people with viewpoints different than your own. Tarek’ tips were learned on his journey with an unlikely group of US travelers to the Middle East. He captured this experience in his film Free Trip to Egypt to help people see the power sincere listening and simple human connection have in overcoming “divisive” worldviews.

Today's conversation will not only inspire you but give you the tools to become part of the solution.

SHOW NOTES:

• Tarek is focused on working on meaningful projects that bring people together + influence humanity in a positive way.
• Tarek's love of arts came from his mom while his love of science + logic came from his dad.
• At nine years old, a teacher emanated kindness and empathy towards Tarek, leaving a lasting impact on his life.
• Instead of unity, Tarek believes that September 11 created a false division and was not addressing the true enemy of fear. 
• His film Free Trip to Egypt was inspired by questioning if there something we can together to impact the world in kindness instead of the negative acts.
• After announcing the project on the internet, Tarek received unexpected criticism and skepticism. Tarek humanized the conversations when speaking with others respectfully face-to-face.
• "[Free Trip to Egypt] showed me there are very few bigoted people in America and that's what renewed my faith in humanity."
• "As long as I am not reacting out of fear, I have access to people"
• Break down the fear: Tarek hoped to bring people to Egypt that were afraid of Egyptians, Muslims or the Middle East yet were courageous enough to make the step.
• What will happen when opposites come together? Tarek paired Americans with Egyptians from different backgrounds and watched the dynamics, connections + journeys that unfolded. 
• "Human connection is more powerful than any difference we might have."
• A shift in perspective: Each participant had a powerful, transformative change. 
• #PledgeToListen: A pledge to not demonize anyone who holds certain opinions, views or beliefs, but instead will try to understand their reasons and their arguments and express your own views in return. Take the pledge here.
• Find a Free Trip to Egypt screening near you, or host one in your community, here.

If you enjoyed hearing how human connection can change the world, you'll love my conversation with Leon Logothetis. Leon travels the world relying solely on the kindness of strangers, which he pays back in unexpected, inspiring ways. Listen to Leon on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 136.

TAREK MOUNIB'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? The Prayer of Quintessential.

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

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 guitar and I’d play “Let it Be” by The Beatles.

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 grandfather.

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Be true to your heart.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? You're good the way you 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? He loved the world. 

***

Did you enjoy today's episode? Share it with your friends! Then subscribe, rate + review on Apple Podcasts.

Live Inspired with John daily on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram + get his Monday Motivation email.