John O'Leary: "The Power of One"
Date: Tuesday, May 4, 2027
Time: 5:30-6:30 MST via Zoom
Presented in partnership with PEN and ISACS (Independent Schools Association of the Central States)
Overview: Playing with fire and gasoline at nine years old, O’Leary created a massive explosion in his garage and was burned on 100% of his body. Given less than a 1% chance of survival, O’Leary is proof of the power of the human spirit. His unlikely recovery meant a journey of pain and loss that could have easily been insurmountable. Far from simply enduring tragedy, he became a luminous example of thriving through adversity. And surprisingly, this “survivor” story isn’t focused on O’Leary—rather, it is a celebration of heroes who intimately served him and his family. Every individual involved in this fire teaches us this truth: one person can make a profound difference in the lives of others. Using emotional storytelling and unexpected humor to highlight the powerful role parents and caregivers play in shaping resilience, perspective, and hope in their children; he reminds us of the impact of our daily attitudes, the power of gratitude, and what it looks like to model courage and compassion—reinforcing that even small, intentional moments of connection can leave a lasting imprint on the lives of our kids. Reawaken a sense of purpose—both in parenting and beyond—that what we do everyday matters.
About the Presenter: At age nine, John O’Leary survived a life-altering explosion that left him burned on 100% of his body and fighting for his life. Today, he shares that extraordinary journey as a bestselling author and sought-after speaker, inspiring audiences around the world to live with greater gratitude, courage, and purpose. His story continues to impact millions through his writing, podcast, and the film adaptation of his story, Soul on Fire, which was released in theaters in October 2025.
GOOD TO KNOW: After registering, you will receive a link to the webinar from Graland. Registering for a session grants you access to the event recording, allowing you to watch it at your convenience. Questions? Please contact Nikki Spiers.
Time: 5:30-6:30 MST via Zoom
Presented in partnership with PEN and ISACS (Independent Schools Association of the Central States)
Overview: Playing with fire and gasoline at nine years old, O’Leary created a massive explosion in his garage and was burned on 100% of his body. Given less than a 1% chance of survival, O’Leary is proof of the power of the human spirit. His unlikely recovery meant a journey of pain and loss that could have easily been insurmountable. Far from simply enduring tragedy, he became a luminous example of thriving through adversity. And surprisingly, this “survivor” story isn’t focused on O’Leary—rather, it is a celebration of heroes who intimately served him and his family. Every individual involved in this fire teaches us this truth: one person can make a profound difference in the lives of others. Using emotional storytelling and unexpected humor to highlight the powerful role parents and caregivers play in shaping resilience, perspective, and hope in their children; he reminds us of the impact of our daily attitudes, the power of gratitude, and what it looks like to model courage and compassion—reinforcing that even small, intentional moments of connection can leave a lasting imprint on the lives of our kids. Reawaken a sense of purpose—both in parenting and beyond—that what we do everyday matters.
About the Presenter: At age nine, John O’Leary survived a life-altering explosion that left him burned on 100% of his body and fighting for his life. Today, he shares that extraordinary journey as a bestselling author and sought-after speaker, inspiring audiences around the world to live with greater gratitude, courage, and purpose. His story continues to impact millions through his writing, podcast, and the film adaptation of his story, Soul on Fire, which was released in theaters in October 2025.
GOOD TO KNOW: After registering, you will receive a link to the webinar from Graland. Registering for a session grants you access to the event recording, allowing you to watch it at your convenience. Questions? Please contact Nikki Spiers.
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
