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The NxtUp Ballers Podcast Host Christian Noel, sits down with 17-year-old author and mentor Rodav Kalengayi and educator-turned-CEO Anthony King for a candid conversation about vision that actually holds up in real life. From a 1.28 GPA turnaround to a student’s first published book, we track the choices, mentors, and faith that turn uncertainty into momentum. Legacy doesn’t happen by accident—it grows from presence, purpose, and the people who pour into you.

Rodav opens up about crafting his poetry collection, “When God Cracks the Sky,” and the moment a single phrase reshaped how he sees hope meeting you where you are. He unpacks imposter syndrome with refreshing honesty and shares how peers, parents, and trusted mentors kept him focused on the work instead of the doubt. Anthony maps out the values that guide his career—educate, inspire, expose, empower—and why he left a principal’s chair to get closer to the students who matter most. His take on student voice is clear: get out of the way, build spaces that listen, and co-design systems with the true stakeholders.

Along the way, we explore a practical playbook for anyone planning their future without losing the present. Think like a toddler: be confident, say no to protect your peace, explore boldly, and ask why until the real answer appears. Try Anthony’s past–present–future reflection to spot patterns, define who you are this season, and set goals that serve now. And carry two sticky notes for the hard days: “Everything looks stupid until you win,” and “Tomorrow starts today.”

Whether you’re a student mapping college choices, an educator rebuilding culture, or a parent looking for language that empowers, this story-driven conversation offers tools you can use today—leadership at eye level, community that sustains, and faith that meets you right where you are. If this resonated, subscribe, share it with someone who needs a lift, and leave a review telling us the one step you’ll take this week.

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