In the last few episodes, we’ve explored the many ways students can lead through innovation, dialogue, and action.

We’ve seen, again and again, that when teens identify their core values and then make a meaningful impact aligned with those values… that’s the kind of leadership colleges simply cannot ignore.

But today, I want to zoom in on something even more foundational:

What does it actually mean to make an impact?

When adults talk about impact, it often sounds abstract, almost mysterious.

And for teens who are used to classroom projects that stay theoretical, the idea of solving real problems in the real world can feel overwhelming… even scary.

The students you’re about to hear from — Ava Dinapoli and Aavi Patel — felt all of that.

They ran into roadblocks.

They doubted themselves.

They had to figure things out step by step.

But they stayed committed to making the most meaningful impact they could.

And because of that persistence… their work is literally saving lives.

I hope you listen to their stories and feel as inspired as I am, not only because of the size of their impact, but because of the way they achieved it.

They didn’t leap into greatness.

They moved forward one step at a time, exactly the way any young person can.

Let’s listen in.

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