
Monday, October 13, 2025

Sometimes, a story comes along that doesn’t just inspire you—it awakens something within you. The new movie Soul on Fire is one of those rare films. Based on the true story of John O’Leary, a boy who was burned on 100% of his body and given no chance to live, it’s a powerful reminder that life’s most defining moments often come from our greatest pain. Through faith, family, and perseverance, John not only survived—he discovered a deeper purpose for his life: to inspire others to truly live.
Watching this film, I couldn’t help but think about the message I’ve shared with leaders and business owners for years: Success without significance leaves us empty. We can climb the mountain of achievement, but if it’s the wrong mountain, we’ll still find ourselves searching for meaning at the top.

In Soul on Fire, John’s transformation from a victim of tragedy to a messenger of hope is not about avoiding pain—it’s about transcending it. He found clarity in his calling, and that clarity became the compass for his life’s work.
The same principle applies in business and leadership. We all face moments of challenge, uncertainty, or burnout. But it’s in those moments that we have the opportunity to shift our focus—from chasing success to pursuing significance. That’s when leadership becomes transformational.
When I work with leaders through coaching or in our mastermind groups, I often ask:
“Are you climbing the right mountain? Or are you so focused on getting to the top that you’ve lost sight of why you started climbing in the first place?”
Clarity doesn’t come from doing more—it comes from pausing long enough to ask why you do what you do.

John O’Leary’s story reminds us that each day is a gift, and with that gift comes responsibility—to use our time, talents, and influence for good. In business, that means leading with intention, serving others, and aligning our work with what truly matters.
If you’re leading a company, a team, or even your family, you are called to more than results—you’re called to impact.
Purpose is the spark that lights the fire of significance. Without it, success fades quickly.
After watching Soul on Fire, I left with this thought:
“When was the last time you felt truly alive in your work and your life?”
If it’s been a while, maybe it’s time to rekindle that fire—to reconnect with your mission, your faith, and the people you serve.
We can all take a lesson from John’s story: the world doesn’t need more people chasing success—it needs more leaders living with significance, clarity, and purpose.
Let this movie be your reminder that no matter what you face, you have the power to choose how you respond—and that choice can set your soul on fire.
If you haven't watched it yet, find out more information at SoulOnFireMovie.com
If you haven’t seen Soul on Fire yet, make it a priority. Watch it with your family, your team, or your friends—and allow its message to move you. Then, take the next step in your own journey toward clarity and significance.
I invite you to schedule a free coaching discovery call with me to explore how you can find greater purpose in both business and life. Together, we’ll help you climb the right mountain—one that leads to true greatness.
👉 Schedule Your Discovery Call
👉 Watch Soul on Fire in theaters this week or find a local showing near you.

Gary Wilbers is a seasoned entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and leadership expert known for his dynamic approach to personal and professional development. With a career spanning several decades, Gary has amassed a wealth of experience in the fields of business, leadership, and self- improvement.

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