John O’Leary welcomes Stephen Panus on the Live Inspired Podcast to inspire us to honor your challenges, embrace healing, and take the next step forward with courage, gratitude, and love.
Stephen Panus is a father, sports marketing executive, and author whose story reminds us that even in loss, we can choose to walk on and create a legacy of love. After losing his son, Jake, Stephen transformed his grief into purpose, choosing to honor Jake’s legacy through scholarships and acts of kindness that inspire others to lead with compassion and determination.
Today, Stephen shares how he faced unimaginable loss, learned to embrace forgiveness, and opened his heart to unexpected joy. He reveals the fine line between despair and hope, offering wisdom on turning pain into purpose and creating a meaningful life through vulnerability and community.
My friends, if you’re navigating grief, searching for hope, or striving to find light in life’s darkest moments, this conversation is for you. You’ll leave inspired to honor your challenges, embrace healing, and take the next step forward with courage, gratitude, and love.
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SHOW NOTES:
- Growing up in Rochester, New York, Stephen’s parents fostered his dreams, helped him build resilience and strengthen his relationship with faith.
- “ Despite the circumstances, I never became hopeless. I felt helpless at times, but not hopeless.”
- In one of his fondest memories with Jake, Stephen recalls taking him to the 2015 Belmont Stakes where American Pharaoh won the Triple Crown.
- Starting when Jake was around five years old, Stephen would write morning messages on sticky notes of character traits and values that he found important.
- August 9, 2020: At 16-years-old, Jake was killed while a passenger of the car of an underage driver who was under the influence.
- The forgotten grievers: Often known as the “forgotten grievers”, Jake’s brother Liam was just 11 years old when his brother passed and faced profound struggles.
- Do you know someone who is grieving? Stephen reminds us to worry less about what to say and more about simply showing up.
- “Grief is the flip side of love. You grieve to the extent that you love.”
- “The wound is where the light enters.” – Rumi
- As Liam was struggling to heal, Stephen had him scrape a piece of bark off a tree to show that although the tree will heal, it may look and feel different… and that’s okay.
- “Our vulnerability is our strength.”
- After a mission trip his first church youth group mission trip to Red Shirt Table on Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in Oglala County, South Dakota, Jake felt compelled to help the Lakota children. After his death, they quickly established a scholarship in Jake’s name.
- Hoping to follow in Stephen’s footsteps, Jake was planned to attend University of South Carolina. After connecting with Head Football Coach Shane Beamer, they established a scholarship in Jake’s name for a walk-on football player who share his leadership attributes.
- Jake’s sister April: Even as a young child, Jake referred to having a sister. After his death, April was placed in foster care with the Panus family. Between similar mannerisms and overall joy, they believe April was sent by Jake.
- Get a copy of Stephen Panus’ book Walk On here.
Did you enjoy today’s episode?
You’ll love my conversation with Kurt Warner. From stocking grocery store shelves to becoming a Super Bowl champion, Kurt’s journey is remarkable—but it’s his dedication to family and living his faith boldly that truly stands out. You’ll love this story of perseverance, faith, and extraordinary character. Listen to Kurt Warner on ep. 264 now.
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STEPHEN PANUS' LIVE INSPIRED 7
- Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read?
A. Many Lives, Many Masters by Brian L. Weiss. - Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today?
A. Resilience. - 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. I won't run back in. I have my memories and that's all I need. - 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. Jake. - Q. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A. Never give up. - Q. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
A. Follow your passion because it will bring the most happiness and enjoyment. - 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. I experienced the wholeness of life.
