Former Governor John Kasich shares powerful stories of faith, service, and community from his new book Heaven Help Us. Discover how real change starts in your own backyard on the Live Inspired Podcast with John O’Leary.
Former Governor John Kasich has spent his life bringing people together to tackle tough problems, guided by a deep belief that we all have a role to play in making the world a little better than we found it. As a former Ohio governor and four-time New York Times bestselling author, it’s his deep commitment to faith and building community that matters most to him.
Today, John Kasich shares why he believes the antidote to our cultural division isn’t politics — it’s purpose. Hear John share about his working-class roots, how losing his parents to a drunk driver deepened his faith, and why he believes real change always begins from the bottom up. He also reveals the stories behind his new book Heaven Help Us, which highlights unsung heroes whose love, compassion, and faith are quietly transforming communities across the country.
My friends, whether you consider yourself a Republican, Democrat, Independent or something completely different, this conversation is for you. You’ll leave reminded that you matter, that your choices ripple, and that faith—when lived boldly and lovingly—can unite, heal, and change the world.
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SHOW NOTES:
- John shares how growing up the son of a mail carrier and nurse shaped his deep respect for hard work, humility, and faith.
- After tragically losing both of his parents in a drunk driving accident, John leaned deeper into his faith and appreciated the support of his friends.
- Anything is possible: As a college freshman, he wrote a letter to President Nixon—and ended up in the Oval Office.
- “I’ve always believed that the power comes from the bottom up.” John believes true healing, purpose, and transformation start at the grassroots level.
- His book latest book Heaven Help Us features powerful stories of everyday people whose faith fuels extraordinary acts of kindness and leadership, from nuns offering shelter to students launching immigration clinics. Get a copy of Heaven Help Us here.
- If you have a noble cause, do not give up on it. John reminds us that if you have a passion about something, you can change the world.
- John shares about a unique interfaith project called the Tri-Faith Initiative, which brings together a synagogue, a church, and a mosque on a single plot of land.
- “We need something greater than ourselves. We’ll be the instruments of change.”
Did you enjoy today’s episode?
You’ll love my conversation with Florence Ann Romano. She’s an author and advocate who shares how to build the kind of village we all need that’s filled with support, connection, and trust. If you’ve ever felt lonely in a crowd or unsure where to turn for help, this episode will guide you back to meaningful community. Listen to Florence Ann Romano on ep. 544 now.
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FORMER GOVERNOR JOHN KASICH'S LIVE INSPIRED 7
- Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read?
A. Our Heavenly Father: Sermons on the Lord's Prayer by Helmut Thielicke, The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard, Surprised by Hope by N.T. Wright, and The Hardy Boy series. - Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today?
A. Hopefully the little boy of Johnny Kasick is not dying inside of grown up John Kasick. - Q. 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.There's nothing that stands out–since they're all out. Maybe the 1976 flyer from a phony organization called the Citizens Committee on Energy.
- Q. 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?
A. Aside for Jesus, John the Baptist, Paul or Abraham Lincoln. - Q. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A. Do the right thing. Make things better. - Q. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
A.You're doing great kid. Try to slow down a little bit and listen a little bit more.
- Q. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read?
A. Love his family and his friends, and he was kind.
