"You have to be comfortable being uncomfortable."

In this episode of The Genius Hour: Voices of Indianapolis, our student hosts Annie and Nat sit down with a powerhouse of the next generation: Ava Wettrick. At just 24 years old, Ava has already built a career defined by curiosity, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of growth.

Ava’s journey started with a shift in mindset. Through the Innovation Classroom, she learned to view problems not as obstacles, but as opportunities. A lifelong athlete—competing in swimming, weightlifting, and rugby—she discusses how sports provided the foundation for her work ethic and why she remains a fierce advocate for youth athletics.

Now working alongside her father, the legendary Don Wettrick, at the STARTed UP Foundation, Ava reflects on the unique upbringing that shaped her. She shares how her parents’ focus on autonomy and intellectual stimulation gave her the confidence to start her own podcast, network with global entrepreneurs, and eventually become a writer and producer for major industry shows.

In this deep dive, Ava and our students discuss:

• The Art of the Interview: Why listening and engagement are more important than the questions on your paper.
• Failing Forward: How "ruining" conversations and being okay with "sucking at stuff" at first is the only way to get better.
• The Power of the Pivot: Moving from a student researcher to a professional producer and traveler.
• Intentional Community: The importance of surrounding yourself with people who both love you and challenge your priorities.
• The Mental Game: Why activities like rock climbing are essential for building mental toughness.

Ava offers a masterclass in people skills and life advice, pushing our students to consider their priorities and embrace the "pay" of the world through experience. Whether you’re a student, an educator, or a young professional, this conversation is packed with actionable insights on how to navigate the modern world.

Student Production Credits:

• Interviewers: Annie and Nat
• Production & Audio: PPHS Lab A/V Team

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