John O’Leary returns to The Daily Helping with a timely reminder born from extraordinary adversity. Burned across 100% of his body at age nine and given less than a 1% chance to live, John has since inspired millions as a keynote speaker and the bestselling author of On Fire and In Awe. Now, his story reaches the big screen in Soul on Fire, a feature film shot in the very St. Louis places where his life unfolded—starring Joel Courtney, John Corbett, and William H. Macy.
We explore how John’s recovery was never a solo act: it was powered by everyday heroes—family, broadcasters, nurses, custodians—whose ordinary courage changed everything. John challenges us to “say yes to being used for good,” to vote for hope with our attention and our dollars, and to recognize our own agency in a cynical age. What’s new here is the cinematic proof: real locations, real people, and a real throughline that our small, faithful actions matter. As he honors his late father’s example, John models humble leadership, grateful living, and a contagious belief that our best is still ahead.
The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important Takeaway
This too shall pass—both the mountaintops and the valleys. Stay grounded, choose to be used for good in this moment, and trust that the best is yet to come.
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Produced by NOVA