October 10, 2025
William H. Macy: From Shameless to Soul on Fire
The Determined Society with Shawn FrenchAbout this episode
Academy Award nominee William H. Macy joins Shawn French on The Determined Society for a powerful conversation about his latest film, Soul on Fire — the true story of John O’Leary, a boy who defied the odds after a devastating fire and grew into a beacon of hope. In this wide-ranging discussion, Macy reflects on the film’s deeper message — that determination, compassion, and connection can pull us through even the darkest moments. From portraying legendary sportscaster Jack Buck to exploring the healing power of music, Macy brings humility and depth to every insight. He opens up about the creative process behind Soul on Fire, the challenge of balancing authenticity and artistry, and what drew him personally to the story. The episode also dives into Macy’s views on parenting, resilience, and defining success on your own terms — all anchored in the belief that ordinary people can do extraordinary things when fueled by purpose. This episode is an invitation to rediscover your own spark — and to believe, no matter what, that you can rise again. Key Topics: -Behind the making of Soul on Fire and the story of John O’Leary -Portraying Jack Buck and honoring his real-life legacy -The emotional power of music and Macy’s lifelong connection to it -Why community support and human empathy matter more than ever -Defining determination as the art of finding a way forward -Life lessons on parenting, common sense, and success Whether you know him as Frank Gallagher, Jerry Lundegaard, or one of the many unforgettable characters he’s brought to life, you’ll leave this episode with a new perspective on William H. Macy—the man behind the roles, and the fire that still drives him. Connect with me : https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA William H. Macy https://www.instagram.com/williamhmacy/ SOUL ON FIRE MOVIE https://www.instagram.com/soulonfiremovie/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.