In celebration of Homecoming 2017, the deans of the University of Missouri schools and colleges are bringing John O’Leary, best-selling author of ON FIRE: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life for a lecture and book-signing. O’Leary will speak beginning at 6 p.m., Oct. 19, at the Missouri Theatre in Columbia.

In 1987, John O’Leary was a curious 9-year-old boy. Playing with fire and gasoline, he created a massive explosion in his St. Louis home and was burned on 100 percent of his body. He was given 1 percent chance to live.
This epic story of survival was first showcased in John O’Leary’s parents’ book, Overwhelming Odds, in 2006. Originally printing 200 copies for friends and family, his parents have sold more than 60,000 copies, most in back-of-room sales at John’s speaking events. It was this book that first invited John O’Leary to embrace his miraculous recovery and share it with the world.
O’Leary inspires 50,000-plus people at more than 100 events each year. He speaks to companies and organizations across industries, such as sales, healthcare, business, safety, marketing, financial services, faith, education and insurance. His schedule is a testament to the power of his message and who he is as an individual. His emotional story-telling, unexpected humor, and authenticity make his presentations truly transformational.
His first book ON FIRE: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life quickly became a national bestseller. More than 30,000 copies were sold in the first three weeks. He is a contributor for The Huffington Post and Parade Magazine website and has an online community of more than 75,000.
This event is free and open to the public.