NIL is not a plan—it’s a possibility.

The world of college athletics has changed—fast.

With the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), student-athletes now have the opportunity to earn income, build personal brands, and leverage social media in ways that didn’t exist just a few years ago.

But with opportunity comes complexity.

In this episode of From Carpool to College, we sit down with Chris D’Avanzo, attorney and founder of NIL in Motion, to break down what NIL actually means for high school students and their families—and what it doesn’t.

We move beyond the headlines to give parents a grounded, realistic understanding of how NIL fits into the college planning process.

Because this isn’t just about sports—it’s about identity, decision-making, and long-term strategy.

Because this isn’t just about sports & influencing...it’s about identity, decision-making, and long-term strategy.

🎯 What You’ll Learn

• What NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) actually is—and why it exists
• How NCAA rule changes reshaped college athletics
• The difference between perception vs. reality when it comes to NIL money
• Why very few athletes earn significant income—and what families often misunderstand
• How social media presence can impact opportunities (and risks)
• The role of agents, collectives, and third-party organizations
• What high school athletes should be doing now if they’re interested in NIL
• How NIL fits into a broader college and career strategy—not just athletics

🧠 Our Perspective

At Academic Mentoring, we guide families to think beyond hype and headlines.

College planning is not just about admission—it’s about helping your child develop direction, resilience, and informed decision-making in a rapidly changing landscape.

NIL is one piece of that landscape—not the foundation.

🔗 Resources & Next Steps

• Learn more about NIL opportunities and compliance through the NCAA
• Explore guidance and education from NIL professionals like Chris D’Avanzo
• Visit Academic Mentoring, LLC for personalized college and career planning support

🎧 Listen & Subscribe

If this episode helped clarify the noise around college athletics and NIL:

• Follow From Carpool to College
• Share this episode with another parent navigating youth sports
• Stay with us as we continue to break down the college process through the lens of development—not just outcomes