Just eight months ago, Brie Bauer was 27-weeks pregnant with her third child when suddenly a life-threatening infection changed her life forever. After experiencing flu-like symptoms, Brie delivered a premature but healthy baby boy before spending the next 10 days in a coma where her body fought off streptococcal toxic shock syndrome from group A streptococcus.

With her strength and willpower tested, she made a brave choice that redefined her life in ways she never imagined: amputate her four limbs that didn't receive enough blood and oxygen.

Today, Brie shares how she's learning to embrace a "new normal" as she navigates life as a wife and mother of three. With unyielding spirit, she talks about the power of the support that surrounded her and how she continues to choose courage and joy every step of the way.

My friends, whether you're facing challenges, or love someone who is, this conversation is a reminder that our lives are precious, priceless gifts and that there is an innate strength within each of us to tackle anything that comes our way.

Though we live in the midst of anxiety and hardship, a simple blessing from my mom, Susan O'Leary, on my wedding day reminds us that moving forward with confidence and defiant hope will free us from burdens.

I was a nervous 26-year-old, wearing an ill-fitting tuxedo, already feeling insecure with all the attention. Having never told most people anything about being burned, I certainly didn't feel like this was the time or place to change that. Definitely not as I knelt next to Beth, waiting for our wedding ceremony to conclude, a chance to kiss my new bride, to walk down the aisle and begin our lives together.

But my mom had requested a chance to share a few words at our wedding, and Beth and I had agreed to her request. Let me explain.

At almost 97 years old, Dr. Edith Eger is a Holocaust survivor, renowned psychologist, and author of the bestselling and award-winning memoir The Choice. In 1944 as a Jewish teenager living in Nazi-occupied Eastern Europe, Edith was sent to Auschwitz where she endured the most unimaginable hardships. And yet, rather than being defined by the trauma of her past, she's chosen to rise above it – and inspires others to do the same.

Today, Edith is joined by her grandson Jordan. Together, they share a story of love, loss, survival, and most importantly, the freedom found in choosing how we respond to life's greatest challenges. Edith's journey is a reminder that we can't always choose the path that we walk in life, but we can always choose the manner in which we walk it.

My friends, if you're in need of a message of hope and the reminder that, in spite of the headwinds, the best is yet to come, this conversation is for you.

In 2007, Brad Formsma had an idea to inspire people around the globe to live generously. After selling his landscaping company, Brad became the Founder & President of I Like Giving, a movement which has inspired more than 125 million people in 170 countries to live generously.

Today, Brad joins us to share practical ideas and inspiring stories on how we can use our thoughts, words, money, influence, time, attention, and belongings to live generously and create generosity ripples in our own community.

My friends, you'll leave this conversation inspired to become more others-focused, and be reminded of how simple actions will make a long-lasting impact in our lives.

Each year, my four children join their dad for one-to-one time on a work trip. It's sacred time we get to spend together and is affectionately known as their "daddy trips." Each child looks at my schedule, chooses where they want go, and plans out absolutely everything we do once we get there.

Today, just a day before my oldest turns 18 years old, I  treasure important life lessons Jack has taught me, one of the most important being how much better life gets when I simply say "Yes" to the opportunities and experiences all around me.

Kwame Alexander is a poet, educator, and New York Times bestselling author of 39 books. 

Known for his unique style of blending poetry and prose to create engaging and relatable stories for young readers, Kwame has earned countless awards including a Newbery Medal for The Crossover and The Caldecott Medal for The Undefeated - the two most prestigious honors for children's authors!

Today, Kwame joins us to share powerful excerpts from his most recent book, an intimate and non-traditional memoir titled Why Fathers Cry at Night. Hear lessons from his journey of learning how to love, how brokenness and beauty can play together as one and what that means in our story.

My friends, this conversation will inspire bravery and vulnerability in all of us who have experienced the passion, heartbreak, failure, and joy of love.

It's been a seven-year journey.

Constant challenges and significant setbacks.

An amazing community of friends showing up right on time with their financial investments, their connections, their ideas, their prayers and their encouragement to propel the effort forward.

Today, at 9 a.m., on the set of the forthcoming feature film On Fire, Director Sean McNamara will bark out for the first time the words, "And………Action!"

My friends, from financing to filming, every part of this has been a wild ride—some of which I have shared, much I have not. But nothing has been as surreal as selecting actors to play real life characters. Roles required for the movie include a Hall-of-Fame announcer named Jack Buck, two incredible parents, a brilliant physician, passionate nurses, and an important custodial member.  We filled roles for my siblings and friends, baseball players and fire fighters, bartenders and inmates. (Yeah, you gotta see the movie). Dozens of roles had to be filled.

So, which role yielded the most auditions?

As a psychotherapist and relationship expert, Dr. Morgan Cutlip is on a mission to help women feel empowered in all of their relationships so that they feel whole, light, and deeply connected to those they love. To date, Morgan has helped more than 100,000 moms regain their sanity and prevent burnout.

Today, Morgan shares her wisdom around how to prioritize your life, the myth around a permanent resting state of balance, the important of focusing on the good instead of the ways we fall short… and so much more.

My friends, whether you're a parent or caregiver, or love someone who is, this conversation reminds each of us that we have the agency to make changes that can lead to massive transfer transformation in your relationships.

This time of year, masks are mainstream for kids and adults alike. Halloween gives us an excuse to lean into childlike playfulness, get dressed up for a night and be someone radically different than we typically are.

I love Halloween. And I love getting dressed up for it.

But for many of us, masking our true selves isn't reserved for once a year. For many, it's Halloween all the time.

Let me explain.

Arthur Smith is famous for his innovation and audacity, and as the man behind some of the longest-running unscripted series in television history. His groundbreaking hit Hell's Kitchen forged the modern food competition reality genre, while his Emmy-nominated American Ninja Warrior has spawned a cultural movement, with Ninja-inspired gyms in every major American city.

Today, Arthur shares adventures, triumphs, and hard-won lessons in his journey from a shy, introverted nine-year-old boy to climbing the ranks of sports production to become the youngest-ever head of CBC Sports, Canada's premiere sports broadcaster.

My friends, this conversation is a reminder of just how far you can go when you work hard, take risks, and reach for your dreams.

On the afternoon of May 20, several thousand St. Louis University graduates would receive their diplomas. Thousands of parents, siblings and loved ones would fill an arena cheering for them. Everyone in the arena excitedly looking forward to this day they've worked a lifetime to achieve.  Everyone except one: The commencement speaker.

Although I've delivered thousands of keynotes, each time I deal with a bit of anxiety and self-doubt. Leading up to the day of the commencement address, those fears were almost debilitating.

And yet at 6:14am that day while pacing in my living room, the anxiety and self-doubt faded. A single text message showed up and transformed my anxiety into peace and my fear into gratitude. Let me explain.

Willie Robertson is a remarkable example of entrepreneurship and dedication built on hard work, faith, and family.

Serving as CEO of Duck Commander and Buck Commander and star of A&E's Duck Dynasty, Willie has expanded his family companies from a living room operation to a multi-million-dollar enterprise and destination for all things outdoors.

Today, Willie shares how his father Phil overcame the shadows of his past to achieve an unexpected redemption, their journey from profoundly humble beginning to building a corporate empire built on faith and family, and so much more.

My friends, whether you're familiar with the Duck Dynasty family or not, you'll love this humorous and redemptive conversation.

Political, spiritual, cultural and personal divides can at times seem insurmountable and far too complex for any one person to make a difference. But by choosing love over hate, understanding over prejudice, and dialogue over discord, we not only do what we can to honor the King legacy, but also fulfill the dream she shared with her husband.  A sword that heals—a force capable of mending the wounds of the past and shaping a future where justice, equality, and compassion reign supreme.

Given the conflicts that have recently reared the grotesque head of violence around the world, savagely affecting innocent lives again, a long road remains in the pursuit of justice.

Perhaps it's time to reach for a sword that heals.

Does it seem like people are quick to anger these days? For many, it's as if they go around seeking reasons to be disappointed, upset or infuriated.

What happens, though, when an individual who has every right to be upset chooses instead to respond with grace?

Years ago on an early morning Southwest Airlines flight I had such an experience. Let me explain.

Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King are dedicated to continuing the philosophy set forth by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr and promote peace, justice and equity for all.

As the oldest son of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King III is a thought leader on the world stage, a peacemaker, and a negotiator on some of today's most critical national and international platforms for social change.

Arndrea Waters King has dedicated herself to serving humanity as a passionate leader in the global fight against inequity, injustice, hate crimes, and all forms of pain. Throughout her life, Arndrea has consistently worked on behalf of those who have been marginalized by helping them find — and collectively use — their voices for change.

Join us as Arndrea and Martin share how their continuing the King legacy, their work with the Drum Major Institute, and more.

You'll leave today's conversation with a renewed sense of unity, faithfulness, togetherness, peace and ultimately forgiveness.

As a little boy, my dream was to fit in and be ordinary. Not to stand out, not to shine. I just wanted my scars to fade, fingers to grow back and normal life back. Which makes what I'm about to share even more stunning.

If you would have asked 10-year-old John if he'd ever stand at the front of the room and talk about the most tender parts of his past in front of strangers, you would have gotten a hard no. Why would anyone want to hear it?

If you'd asked if he would write a book about the hardest times in his life and the lessons learned? Again, no. Who would read it?

What about turning his story into a movie? Nope. How would that even happen?

And yet, my friends, the story of a little boy who should have died after being burned and then hid from those scars for decades has been shared thousands of times from the stage. It has inspired two best-selling books. And (are you sitting down?) is about to begin filming a full-length feature movie in my beloved hometown.

Go ahead and read that again.  Yes, you read that right! ON FIRE is about to be made into a full-length feature movie and it's being filmed in St. Louis!

How's that possible? Let me explain.

Dave Pelzer endured years of unimaginable child abuse inflicted by his own mother, and yet emerged from the depths of despair to become a beacon of hope and resilience.

In 1995, Dave courageously shared his harrowing experiences in his memoir, A Child Called It, a book that not only touched the hearts of millions but also achieved an unprecedented feat by remaining a New York Times bestseller for an astounding six years. Today, Dave has made it his life's mission to empower others to discover their inner strength, persevere through adversity, and unlock their fullest potential.

Join us as Dave shares about the unimaginable torment he endured during those years of abuse and the pivotal roles his teachers played in his path to survival. He also delves into the profound and transformative journey of forgiveness, illustrating the incredible power it holds in healing the wounds of the past.

My friends, this conversation is a reminder that no matter how dark your past may be, there is always a way to rewrite your own narrative and emerge from the shadows into a brighter, more resilient future.

Sometimes the moments when we disappoint those we cherish the most can teach us the significance and value of keeping our word. The death of my beloved grandmother, a mistake I made afterwards, and an important lesson taught by my dad left an indelible impact on my life. Applying the lesson in your life might elevate not only your life, but also those to whom you make promises. Let me explain.

Phil Keoghan is arguably the most traveled television host on the planet. As the host of The Amazing Race, the multiple Emmy Award-winning reality series where teams of two embark on a trek around the world, Phil has experienced a life full of travel and adventure.

Today, fresh off the milestone 35th season premiere of The Amazing Race, Phil joins us to share how he's been globetrotting since a young boy, how his working-class parents and grandparents inspired his other hit show Tough as Nails and so much more.

My friends, today's conversation will inspire you to take risks, accept and love all of those around you, and live life to the fullest.

"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, becoming more difficult to swallow.

And yet today, Dad, seated in his trusty wheelchair, is the perfect embodiment of the joy we all wish we possessed. Let me explain.

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 is my mother, Susan O'Leary. She's remarkable, and she's not alone. 

Often caregiving is a burden to bear and a problem to be solved. And yet as an expert in gerontology, Dr. Sarah Teten Kanter is on a mission to make caregiving and care receiving a time to savor and an opportunity for personal growth.

Today, Sarah shares the simple activities, conversation-inspiring questions, and self-care practices designed to immerse caregivers and their care partners in gratitude, empathy, forgiveness, love, and awe. Why these five specific emotions? By exuding these positive emotions, it's been shown to improve health, reduce stress and create meaning in daily life in the relationships of caregivers and care receivers.

My friends, this conversation reminds us to embrace the full gift of life at every stage and every age.

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 will be part storytelling, part concert, and all heart. It will bring together the very best of those I've met on one stage to remind the rest of us of our ability to positively change the world — starting with our own.

This experience, On Fire For Good, will fill your heart with gratitude, prepare you for the coming holiday season, and remind you that your best is yet to come.  We want you to share it with us.

Not sure if you can make it?  Not sure it will be worth your time? Not sure if the message will resonate with you?  Not sure if you'll be back from your black Friday shopping spree?

Come and see.

My friends, in the busyness of the holiday season and the chaotic nature of our lives, this experience will remind you what matters most, reinforce the beauty of your story, and absolutely set you On Fire For Good. Join me the Saturday after Thanksgiving, November 25th, at 7 p.m. either in our live audience in St. Louis or our virtual audience by livestreaming wherever you are that night.

It will be an evening of inspiration, celebration, and community.

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 love, parenting, self-discovery, and the importance of laughter in thoughtful reflection.

Do you want to be inspired to think more, feel more, do more and be better? This conversation is for you.

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.

As a seasoned Human Resources expert with more than 30 years of experience, April Simpkins is a powerhouse in the realm of mental health advocacy. With relentless determination, she has tirelessly championed the cause and became an even more visible advocate following the passing of her beloved daughter Cheslie Kryst (Miss USA 2019) who battled depression for many years.

Today, April shares her professional journey, her unexpected path into pageantry and life as a mother of six. Equally important, she shares about the accomplishments of her late daughter Cheslie, the struggles Cheslie silently face, and how she continues to keep Cheslie's legacy alive.

My friends, with September being National Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, I hope today's conversation will provide hope and guidance for you to continue forward boldly in your journey.

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 some of his darkest moments, his journey to hitting rock bottom and how he overcome addiction and despair to find the joy in life and a strengthened relationship with God.

My friends, this conversation is a reminder that no matter how dark and difficult life may seem, there is always hope that the best of our days remain ahead of us.

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.

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, how he faces his numerous challenges with the utmost resilience and positivity, and so much more.

If you're looking for an uplifting conversation packed with humor, heart, edginess and determination, this episode is for you.

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.

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 knowledge to allow each of us to live with more meaning, passion, and joy. 

My friends, today's conversation truly has something for everyone, no matter where you are on the wave of constant change.

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.

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 coaches, foreign government ministers and corporate leaders to help make deep, permanent change in their lives.

Today, Dr. Jud joins us to explain why our habits are hard to overcome and the clear, solution-oriented steps we can implement to conquer them. Using curiosity and kindness, Dr. Jud shares how to break the cycle of worry and fear that drives anxiety and addictive tendencies.

Whether you or someone you love is struggling with compulsively checking social media, binge eating, smoking, excessive drinking… or any other addictions, this conversation is for you.

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.

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 brain beyond hope.

Soon after burying his youngest child, images of the tragedy haunt Granger as he faced debilitating parenting guilt. Although he found himself in a dark pit of grief, that's not where his story ends.

Today, Granger joins us to share how he found himself caught in a runaway river of grief that he could not escape and how he discovered the purpose of his suffering: to bring comfort, hope, and encouragement to anyone who has ever suffered.

My friends, through Granger's vulnerability, we're reminded that life's journey is not meant to be traversed alone, and that in surrender, we can find the grace to navigate even the most challenging circumstances.

If you're seeking a remarkable story of surrender, redemption, and the enduring power of faith, this conversation is for you.

"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 to start? Start with the reflection in the mirror.

In June of 2021, I flew to Los Angeles and interviewed a Hollywood director. No sound was recorded, no video was captured, no notes were taken. But what he shared, the way he shared it, and what happened because of it positively changed my life.  Let me explain.

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 and supervised probation.

Today, Lara joins us to share her downward spiral from soccer mom to opioid addict to jailhouse shot-caller and her unlikely comeback as a highly successful ghostwriter.

Hear Lara share how she learned to forgive herself and others, navigate life as a felon on probation, prove to herself that she is more good than bad, and much more.

My friends, today's conversation is about lying and stealing. But more importantly it's about healing, redemption and how we all have the power to rewrite our narratives to embrace the many lives we're meant to live.

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 little corner of the internet absent the negativity found elsewhere. It's our Live Inspired homebase where you and I can connect – and it's packed with inspirational content, virtual gatherings, and curated opportunities to serve. 

It's designed to help you embrace the power of perspective, the gifts you already possess and the truth that your best days are yet to come. 

It's free. It's awesome. And it is for you.

Join me at Live Inspired Together by clicking the registration link below.

My friends, what we focus on, grows. I can't wait to focus on the good with you and positively change the world one life at a time. Starting with our own.

https://community.liveinspiredtogether.com/registrations/groups/66867

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 connections with locals and learns not just about the world, but also about himself.

Today, Jeff shares his personal transformation from a novice traveler to a globetrotting journalist. His heartfelt story and infectious enthusiasm will leave you believing in your own potential and eager to embark on new adventures.

My friends, leave your passports behind as Jeff takes us on an amazing adventure, reminding us all that life's greatest joys lie beyond our comfort zones.

"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.

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, determined to reclaim her life and reignite the fire within her.

Today, Katie is celebrating more than 12 years of sobriety, three successful Katie's Pizza and Pasta locations and a booming national frozen pizza delivery service.

Join us as Katie shares her incredible journey to recovery, the pivotal role her family has played in her success and her unwavering commitment to creating moments of joy and connection through her culinary creations and warm hospitality.

My friends, this conversation is reminder of the transformative power of second chances and that no matter how dire the circumstances, the best is yet to come.

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 us.

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 commonalities.

Today, John joins us to share his journey from being a skeptical agnostic to a firm believer, along with numerous gripping stories of near-death experiences and what they mean for us.

Whether you have pondered the mysteries of life after death or seek solace after the loss of a loved one, this conversation is for you.

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.

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 accountability and commitment shaped him, how promises are more than just words—they are commitments that shape our character and define our relationships— and what it means for each of us.

My friends, in a society where it's easy to leave ourselves and others disappointed with broken commitments, this conversation will remind you of the life-changing impact we can make simply by keeping our word.

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, many times over, what you put into it.

Not just on the 4th of July, but every day of the year.

Director Sean McNamara is the force behind such films as Spare Parts, The Miracle Season, Soul Surfer, and the recently released Reagan. His creative prowess, directorial skills, and even more so, his humble nature, have gained him a reputation in the industry as "an actor's director."

Six and a half years ago, Sean read the script for a film called ON FIRE, fell in love with it and has been steadfast in bringing it to life.

Today, Sean shares insight from the filming of ON FIRE the film. But more importantly, he shares what it was like growing up in a large Irish family, how his parents challenged him to do mighty things, his journey from starting as a Production Assistant delivering scripts to directing box-office hits, and so much more.

My friends, you'll leave this conversation- with my friend Sean McNamara- full of joy, hope and excitement for what's to come not just for On Fire the film, but for your lives.

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 advocate for the integrity of the sport—a visionary who calls for unyielding anti-doping measures.

My friends, this conversation transcends the sport of cycling. Greg is a true champion that has rewritten the boundaries of what it means to be truly great. If you're searching for an upstanding model of courage, resilience, integrity, determination, and overcoming all odds, this conversation is for you.

"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 as a family. The kids loved it – and him. Afterwards, they were all humming the Superman theme song as they flew down the hall toward their rooms.

While watching the movie, I realized that Superman wasn't just showing me how to fight crime in a fictional world, but how to parent, serve and lead in the one in which we live. Here are four lessons from Superman for parents (interchange "parents' with friends, spouses, leaders) that apply to us all.

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 matter how successful or high achieving, everyone experiences moments of stagnation or feelings of being stuck in our lives—in our relationships, careers, our bodies, habits, and more. This conversation is for you.