In this episode of the “It’s a Good Life” podcast, John O’Leary shares with host Brian Buffini the story behind his new film, “Soul on Fire.” The movie recounts how when John was only 9 years old a devastating fire left him with burns on 100% of his body. With courage, faith and love — and the ongoing support of the legendary St. Louis Cardinals broadcaster Jack Buck — the family persevered in helping John through a grueling recovery. Today John is a loving husband and father, bestselling author and in-demand motivational speaker. This is an episode that will bring you to tears but also motivate you to ensure you are living your life to the fullest every day.
YOU WILL LEARN
- How acts of kindness can have ripple effects far beyond your own life leading to miracles.
- Why you need to look beyond your personal pain as a way to let others share their part in your story.
- Why love and forgiveness are always more powerful than shame and guilt.
NOTEWORTHY QUOTES FROM THIS EPISODE
“I look up, and then he adds, ‘I have never been so proud of anyone in my entire life and my little buddy, this morning, I'm just glad to be your dad.’ And then he follows it with, ‘Love you and there's nothing you can do about it.’” — John’s dad, Dennis O’Leary
“Baby, do you want to die? It’s your choice. If you want to live, take the hand of God and fight like you’ve never fought before.” — John’s mom, Susan O’Leary
“Jack Buck recognized the voice of God is not tomorrow, it's now. And the time to act isn't next week, it's right now.” — John O’Leary
“Your life is a precious, priceless gift. You’ve got one job — say yes to being used for good.” — John O’Leary
“Brian, you taught me years ago to hold on to relationships as if they're precious and not to use them to get the next speech or sell the next house or earn the next transaction, but to love the one in front of you sincerely for them.” — John O’Leary
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