Gratitude Focus: I am Grateful For John O’Leary.


 

Reflection/Why I’m Grateful:

 Today, I participated as a guest on John’s Live Inspired podcast. I have done a few of these now and anticipate more. But this podcast was the first time I wasn’t anxious in the days leading up to and in the discussion. I attribute some of the ease in nerves to the coaching I have been getting along the way—“just be you” in all corners.

With John, he started off by asking, “Is there anything that is off limits?” To which I said, “No.” He then said, “Okay, we are just two guys having coffee, let’s go.” And so we went—and an hour or more later, we were done.

I am grateful for him speaking into my life about my book, which he read, by the way—he remembered details without looking at any notes. Details that weren’t necessarily the “talking points” that come up about the book.

After the meeting, he encouraged me to take my message to a broader audience. He definitely gave me some things to think about. I am grateful we are now connected.

When was the last time someone spoke into your life in a way that made you rethink or retool your path? What personal barriers have you overcome to fully show up as yourself?

Question for Reflection

 


 

Hi, I’m Orvin Kimbrough, volunteer, board director, chairman, and CEO. I help professionals move from feeling stuck to being strengthened by reshaping how they think, lead, and live. My work focuses on confidence, leadership, and influence through mindset shifts, expanded networks, and bold, values-aligned action. My perspective is rooted in lived experience, from growing up in foster care to leading complex institutions as a CEO and shaped by faith, resilience, and a deep belief in human potential.

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Books for Every Stage

Twice Over a Man

A memoir often described as a leadership guide wrapped in an honest, relatable story of perseverance, healing, and growth. It explores how pain can be reframed into purpose and how ordinary people build meaningful lives through courage and clarity.

More Than a Conqueror

Written for teens and young adults, this book encourages confidence, resilience, and identity formation during the years when self-belief is being shaped.

Ward and the State

A children’s book that gently introduces big ideas like belonging, courage, and hope, helping young readers see themselves as more than their circumstances

INTRODUCING: The Thriver’s Path™

This blog is part of The Thriver’s Path™—a growing ecosystem of writing, courses, reflections, and community designed to help people of all ages reframe their thinking, reclaim their agency, and take their next meaningful move.

→ Ready for your next move?

Explore more writings, resources, and ways to engage at orvinkimbrough.com, or join the conversation inside the Thrivers Club™ community.

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