Honoring the people who made SOUL ON FIRE- and my life- possible.
Wow! These past few weeks have been humbling and joy-filled. Interviews, headlines, sold-out theaters, social media filled with smiling faces, and messages pouring in from friends near and far celebrating the release and success of SOUL ON FIRE.
But the greatest joy, by far, has been watching how this story, our story, has elevated the people I love most.
I’ll never forget seeing my four sisters step out onto the red carpet at the global premiere back on October 2. They were radiant, confident, and simply so joyful to have that moment together. For decades they stood behind the scenes, supporting me in thousands of unseen ways. But at the premiere, the spotlight shone on them. And it was awesome!
Then there’s Mom. She hasn’t stopped smiling in weeks. As friend after friend reaches out telling her what the film means to them, she is more certain than ever that the agonizing journey she and Dad endured as parents was worth it. (And in a surprising move, Mom is singlehandedly elevating our box office numbers as she saw Soul On Fire for the ninth time on Sunday!)
My wife, Beth, has been celebrated as one of the film’s central heroes — as she should be. Her high school, her college, even her employer have all reached out to write stories honoring her courage, her faith, and her steadfast love. The actor portraying Beth shines on the screen, but Beth is even more remarkable in her humility, grace and love in real life.
But my favorite hero to celebrate is the one who likes attention the least: my brother Jim.
If you’ve seen the film, you know that Jim is the reason I survived the fire. He was the first to hear my cries, to run toward danger. He beat down the flames with a rug, burning himself in the process. The first time he visited me in the hospital, I was still unable to talk, but using a click board I spelled out: YOU SAVED ME. YOU ARE MY HERO.
And yet, over the four decades since, we rarely talk about it.
That changed two weeks ago, though, when we gathered as family and friends at a St. Louis Blues game. I mentioned to Jim I had to do a quick interview about the film and asked if he’d walk over with me. What he didn’t know was that the entire segment wasn’t about the film or me; it was about him.
The Blues publicity team led me to an area behind the goal with Jim following innocently behind. The lights dimmed in the arena and a beautiful video montage played on the jumbotron showing scenes of our friendship starting when we were kids while a voice over described all Jim has done for me over the years. Then, over the loudspeaker, the announcer said:
“Ladies and gentlemen, St. Louis Blues fans, please welcome St. Louis’ own — and John’s hero — Jim O’Leary!”
A pair of cheerleaders then ushered Jim out of the shadows and into the light. He awkwardly followed them, asked me what the heck was happening and waved sheepishly at the camera as 20,000 fans erupted in applause.
My friends, in the rollout of SOUL ON FIRE, I’ve done hundreds of interviews and spoken on countless stages. I’ve been incredibly blessed by the notes and messages from people around the world sharing how our story has touched them.
And yet, nothing compares to watching my brother, my hero, finally be celebrated for what he did decades ago- and for who he still is today.
Here’s why this story matters to you: don’t wait for a spotlight, a feature film or a Jumbotron to tell your hero how much they mean to you. Don’t wait until tomorrow to thank them for all they did. Do it today. Tell them you love them — and that there’s absolutely nothing they can do about it.
You’ll both be glad you did.
Today is your day. Live Inspired.
48 replies on “Bringing Heroes into the Light”
My sister passed away Oct 26. She had a stroke Jan. 2025. She was hospitalized, in nursing home for 6 months, back and forth. Visited her as many times as possible. She was my hero. This movie touched tremendously.
Wonderful story of your brother. He looks like John Goodman, the actor who played Roseann Barr’s husband on her sitcom.
We just got back from watching the movie. What a truly wonderful and inspirational story. Everybody should go see it. God bless you.
I went with a coworker to the movie last week. It was amazing. We already knew your story from live monthly meetings you had with our company previously so it felt like we already knew you. Thank you for sharing your story with us all. You are so inspirational and motivating.
I just saw this Incredible & Moving film last night at my theater!! I totally enjoyed this film!!! John O’Leary is such A Hero for what he went through & what he endured!! Although this film at times made me cry I will never forget the impact it had on me!
What am amazing movie!! Loved it!! What an amazing family you have and what an amazing person you are!!
This life event and its aftermath, so beautifully and inspirationally portrayed in the movie, has left an indelible imprint on my heart. It is days later and my mind and heart are mulling over the many touching themes. I thank God for bringing John’s and his family’s story to light. I praise God for giving John courage to choose life when the overwhelming odds of death stared him in the face at 9 years of age.
John’s life is a W-O-W gift to me and the world. I have never seen a film like this one. Every detail was basked in the love of Jesus and screams hope, love, courage, etc.
May God continue to foster a powerful, faith-filled legacy in John and his family. May all of the honor and glory go to Jesus, the Christ, who is the ultimate HERO for all who choose to believe.
I met you in Ft. Worth in 2017 at HRSouthwest. I heard your story, visited and bought your book. Read it, but to see your story coupled with that brief connection gave the movie a special meaning to me personally. Thank you for it all as our meeting, the book, and now “Soul on Fire” (saw it with my wife of 55+ years) continues to inspire my faith in God and the will to be at my best. Thank you, John. God bless your family and your good works.
I saw the movie on Friday, with my husband and youngest daughter. I cried, and cried hard, throughout the whole movie. I have always been moved by human interest/people overcoming obstacles movies. But this one hit home the closest. It just so happens that through a variety of crazy circumstances, I connected with a Millenial aged co-worker this summer, and soon a relationship like Mr. Buck and John has evolved. My friend has not been physically burned, but has been “burned” by lots of unfortunate events and people in his life. I see a lot of potential in him, and like Mr. Buck, I will not give up on him! Thanks for showing in the movie what an impact one random person can make in another person’s life, and how both people grow and evolve when they don’t give up on possibilities, despite terrible odds.
I am truly touched and inspired by the strength you and your family had and still have; something we should all embrace. Thank you all for sharing your stories
I loved the movie, there were so many heroes, I’m going to see it again soon
If you ever get back to Wichita Falls, Texas I would really like to see you in person. We went yesterday to see Soul on Fire and loved it. Such an inspiring story.
Soul on Fire was very inspiring, heartwarming, and had a great message to those going through adversity. I watched the trailer and knew my husband and I would like the movie. I thought that he could use some motivation because he has Parkinson’s and has a lot of apathy, which is a non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s. I was surprised when the part of John’s Dad having Parkinson’s appeared. I hope it made my husband think about his attitude along with John and his Dad’s attitude. This movie made me rethink my own attitude as well. It showed how no matter what you do, do your very best. It may have more impact than you think. Soul on Fire was an excellent movie without all the garbage.
Thank you! We need more movies like this.
I plan on going to see it again myself with friends. You are all heroes in the movie.
I’m going for the 3rd time tomorrow! The Live Inspired Podcast was my Jack Buck in 2017 after suffering a brain aneurysm. Listening to so many stories of people surviving overwhelming odds made me strive to get stronger and not lose hope. Our faith, lots of prayers, the support of our community and not to mention the wonderful medical team helped us through those difficult times. I follow John and am so thankful for his inspirational messages.
Great tribute to brother Jim, John! Yes, very deserving. My wife and I have discussed it at the Eagles lodge, the Elks, and the Moose lodges here in Sarasota/Bradenton for all members to see it. When I take a break from singing, I address the importance and value of the film to those in attendance. So far great responses from those who went to see it. Thank you for your continued efforts to spread your amazing story John. Blessings brother!
Thank you John for the blessing of Soul on Fire! Well done!
I loved the film, the faith shown in Jesus Christ and the glory you give to Him. Also, your book, On Fire, was the most inspiring I have ever read. The same goes for your mother’s book. To God be the glory!
John I loved the music movie my dad always called him my hero and my first love. Your story is so amazing. Your brother, your sisters and your parents were so remarkable too. The movie I took my mom because our family believes in faith. I wouldn’t be where I am at without god walking beside me.🥰
I did see the film last week with my prayer group. It was very inspiring, and this hero reflection just brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing your story and thank you to Jim for saving your life so you had the story to share!
❤️🙏🏻
I read “On Fire” when it first came out and after hearing John speak at our church. I also purchased the book for my sister-in-law who had brain cancer (John asked who the person was that I was buying it for and inscribed it with her name and “the best is yet to come.”) and her husband read it to her which meant a lot to both of them. She was one of my heroes for living life the way she did. My husband and I saw the movie this weekend, and there were a number of heroes in it, including his brother. Nice that he was recognized in this way!
I absolutely LOVED the film. Loved hearing you speak at Oakland University in Rochester Hills MI. Loved the book.
I have shared this story so many times in the last few weeks. Thank you.
My sisters and I met you and your lovely mother just two months since your father’s passing. We were all at City Coffee. I felt how special you both are and how much you miss your dad. I miss my dad, too! He was a marvelous picture of Christ. I anxiously awaited the day I could see your movie. We went last Thursday to a sold out Ronnie’s theater and I’m forever grateful for it and you. You are correct—your brother saved your life. God bless you all!
Ahh, John, There’s nothing like a good Monday morning cry to kick off the week! Love you!
Yes! Such a beautiful story & beautiful film. John was with us @ the. Cintas Center in Cincinnati Ohio many years ago & I receive his email messaged daily :))
What an awesome gesture. I learned a phrase from a friend at work that I’ve used for years. It’s simple, but means so much more than what we hear when someone says ‘thank you’. Instead, I now say, ‘I appreciate you.’ I know when I hear it said to me, it hits differently, and so I want others to know the same. Another thing I like to do when sending a thank you email to someone. I copy the person they report to. That kind of acknowledgement is also deeply meaningful to people and gives them additional recognition.
Thanks for reminding us all how acknowledgment of those who are meaningful to us is important.
Congrats John for a wonderful movie that inspired all audiences positively.
The great success of the movie is primarily due to YOU and your passionate efforts.
I am so happy to note that all of my friends were very positively moved by the movie.
Thank you for producing an excellent inspirational and unforgettable movie.
It was great being part of this project. I was humbly featured in the movie as an ‘extra’ and received some good screen time. The diversity featured among the caregivers and the prominent roles they were given as part of Mr. O’Leary’s recovery was very special. The faith in God that was paramount throughout the movie was very encouraging.
I came to know about John’s story through a recent Matthew West podcast – I wept as I listened to it alone as I am walking through a very heartaching situation in my life – I immediately signed up for the Monday inspiration email and my wife and I are going to see the movie tomorrow – to say that your story is inspirational is an understatement – thank you so much!
John, my wife and I went and fully embraced the movie yesterday. Reading In Awe several times has taken me on a personal journey committed to do more to spread the joy of living the life we have each been given to the fullest and supporting others to see the possibilities and joy in each day. The movie was outstanding, and yes, your family and wife seem to be amazing.
John…Your life is Truly a miracle at a time when we need it so badly.
May Jesus continue to bless you, your family & all who are part of your story..
Your podcasts, your book, In Awe, have blessed my life immensely. Right after I saw Soul on Fire, I reached out to my boss, Pete Savage, to say thank you for introducing me to you. His commitment to pay what inspires him forward, makes him a “hero” in my book.
I looked forward to viewing the movie! Since your visit to McCook, NE several years ago, I have followed your journey and your mission to lift up those who have a story of inspiration. That day, I purchased your book, On Fire and the book written by your parents reliving their journey. I also purchased In Awe at the time of its release and have pulled it from the bookshelf. From the pages, I saw bent Postum notes on so many pages, so I chose to LISTEN during my daily walk. Now, I remember the many reasons for choosing to mark so many pages! This book is extraordinarily meaningful! I experienced so many emotions as I walked. It is a MUST read for everyone especially in such challenging times. Listening to you read it this time was delightful! You are a treasure!
Thank you for the hope you’ve shared with me.
John, YOU are a hero to so many people all over the world, I am sure, for your generosity in focusing the light on all the OTHERS who have done their part to help you, and others in their lives. I heard you speak years ago at the Assistance League Author Brunch in St Louis, and have “followed” you ever since. I LOVED the movie yesterday.
I await your mother’s book, which I just ordered through your website. You are ALL an amazing family. Thank you all for sharing so much.
Jim O’Leary,
You are a true brother and a hero. All of the siblings are. You all saved John in eachand every way. Jim, you physically knew what to do and instinctively did it as a child that is incredible! Girls, you each did your parts too! Water on the face, never giving up hope and support of your brother is huge!! Your entire family from your parents faith, discipline and undying love on through to the children was not easy but in the end look at how you all have survived and thrived. You all are a blessing to each other, our proud St. Louis Metro community and now to the world. As a retired healthcare professional, I can tell you that if you do not believe in miracles and the power of prayer you should wait because you will see them happen before your eyes. If you are open, people will share their experiences with you as well. I have witnessed many and people have shared many experiences as well. God is real and healing is happening an over the place. God uses whatever vessels he needs to reach his people. He is the way the truth and the light. God put these people in John’s life because he needed him to do his work.
I already receive John’s Monday motivation
I’m telling everybody about Soul on fire. I went twice but I love that your mother has gone nine times. And the fact that your brother has gotten his due is amazing. Grateful for this newsletter today I learned this lesson in 1990 when my 16-year-old son died suddenly from a heart condition we didn’t know he had. Life is precious. Enjoy each moment
I am at the point that I can’t read anything you write without crying, John!! Every movie trailer reduced me to tears. The actual movie found me sobbing more than I ever have for any reason in my life!! Each column I read of yours does the same. Your honesty, vulnerability, willingness and desire to lift up everyone around you touches my heart, again and again. What a magnificent work God has done in and through you, not only for your good, but for the good of everyone else who encounters you and your story! All praise, glory and thanksgiving to our incredible God whose love can overcome all adversity and pain. For those who are open to His Spirit, He so beautifully transforms the pain that it is no longer transmitted. (This last sentence a paraphrase from Richard Rohr.) What a wonderful world 🌎 we could inhabit if we all would allow Him to work in each of our hearts in this way! 🙏🕊️🌅🦋❤️🫂🎁🔥💕
I’ve seen your story on the big screen with my husband & 13 year old granddaughter. I’ve posted the photo alive on my social media site with the words “ the whole wide world should see this story” it’s powerful & and has so many powerful points! I do have a Hero many times for the years what he has back to me and what he did for me in my lifetime. I lost that Hero, my dad and March 2025 and I will be forever grateful to him and pay forward the lessons he taught me in life.
You all are a huge inspiration to me. God bless all of you.
Thanks for the additional back story on Jim, again your words are heart warming!!
Me and my girlfriends watched your movie yesterday in Huntsville, Al. ( we are visiting from the Houston , Tx area but originally from Louisiana ) we cried , laughed and smiled while watching your movie. I have been receiving your emails for years and been following. You inspire so many!!!! Keep being you and keep saving lives.
Oh John, I’ve followed you for years, read your books over and over, listened to your podcasts, shared them with friends and now finally saw your movie. It was perfect, everything about it. I think the cameo of your Dad at the wedding was so special. I think of him not witnessing the movie in person but can only imagine his Joy watching from his heavenly seat. Thank you. I will be taking more friends to witness your story. And yes, your brother was the HERO. God be the glory!!!
My daughter, Katelyn and I saw your movie this weekend. It was surreal. In 2018 you gifted us a signed copy of your book. My daughter was battling Crohns. She was in the hospital for 87 days. What you wrote in our book, INSPIRED us to push through the HARD. I can’t THANK YOU enough. Cheers!
I saw the movie yesterday with my mother and two of my grandchildren. My mother and I both agree there should be more movies like this one coming to the big screens. The trauma that your family went through and the positivity that always came out of it is incredibly inspiring. Thank you for sharing your story!!
Very good movie!! I loved it, but I loved even more when I first met you and you told your story to a group of farmers!! Oh how I wish you could tell your story to my church friends!!!
Great message John! Love the honoring of you hero/brother! Brotherly love!!! Great reminder!
I love all your postings. They inspire me and bring me to tears at the same time. Very heartwarming messages.