Episode 12 | To The Mountaintop with Paul Vaden

In this episode of the "To The Mountaintop" podcast, Drew Schlosberg and Jean-Evna Lusca, a student at Patrick Henry High School, interview Paul Vaden, a professional world boxing champion and San Diego native, who shared his journey from childhood dreams to becoming a world champion. Inspired by Muhammad Ali, Vaden began boxing at eight and trained at the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA. He emphasized the importance of perseverance, empathy, and interpersonal skills. Vaden discussed overcoming challenges, including losing his first trophy and the impact of a fatal fight in 1999. He highlighted the significance of mentors like Robert Coons and Ron Cheatham. Vaden advised students to maintain faith, embrace challenges, and always strive for betterment, emphasizing that success is a continuous process.

Paul Vaden's Early Life and Inspirations

• Paul Vaden shares his upbringing in Southeast San Diego, emphasizing his dream of greatness from a young age.
• He recounts his admiration for Muhammad Ali, which inspired his pursuit of boxing.
• Paul discusses the impact of the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA on his development as an athlete and human being.
• He reflects on the significance of his first fight and the lessons learned from it.

Challenges and Role Models in Paul's Career

• Paul talks about the challenges of balancing his high school studies with his extensive travel for boxing and basketball.
• He mentions his role models, including Muhammad Ali, Michael Jackson, and Sugar Ray Leonard.
• Paul emphasizes the importance of giving back and uplifting others, as exemplified by Ali.
• He shares his experiences of overcoming obstacles and the support he received from his community.

High School Experience and Personal Growth

• Paul describes his high school experience at Patrick Henry, highlighting his unique style and the influence of Michael Jackson.
• He recalls the camaraderie and the sense of community at his school.
• Paul discusses the challenges of traveling and maintaining academic performance.
• He reflects on the importance of hard work and discipline, which he learned through boxing.

Paul's Journey to Becoming a World Champion

• Paul recounts his early successes and the setbacks, such as losing his first trophy.
• He shares the story of his first competitive fight and the lessons learned from it.
• Paul discusses the importance of perseverance and the impact of external voices on his motivation.
• He reflects on the significance of his 30-year anniversary as a world champion.

Empathy and Mentorship in Paul's Life

• Paul emphasizes the importance of empathy and supporting others, especially underdogs.
• He shares his experiences with mentors like Robert Coons and Ron Cheatham, who guided him both as an athlete and a person.
• Paul discusses the role of his mother as a constant source of support and encouragement.
• He reflects on the impact of his faith and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook.

Advice for Students and Future Athletes

• Paul advises students to answer the bell, meaning to persevere and overcome challenges.
• He emphasizes the importance of interpersonal skills and building strong relationships.
• Paul encourages students to have faith in themselves and to see each setback as an opportunity for growth.
• He shares his motto of never arriving, meaning to always strive for more and to help others achieve their goals.

Final Thoughts and Reflections

• Paul reflects on the privilege and honor of sharing his story and inspiring others.
• He emphasizes the importance of giving back and supporting the next generation of athletes.
• Jean-Evna Lusca shares her thoughts on the importance of faith and perseverance in achieving goals.
• Drew Schlosberg thanks Paul and Jean-Evna for their insights and contributions to the podcast.

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