The Lou Holtz Show S2 EP10 | Rocket Ismail on Notre Dame, CFL/NFL & Faith-Filled Purpose #podcast

Rocket Ismail reflects on faith, football, and the moment that changed his life forever. Must-watch.

Join legendary Coach Lou Holtz and Notre Dame football icon Raghib “Rocket” Ismail for a heartfelt conversation filled with speed, spirit, and spiritual wisdom. Rocket shares his journey from a shy high school running back to a national champion at Notre Dame and a successful career in the CFL and NFL. But more than the records and the touchdowns, this episode dives deep into the transformational power of faith, family, and finding one’s true purpose.

In this episode, Coach Holtz and Rocket relive legendary moments—including the unforgettable 1988 Miami game, the infamous punt return in the Orange Bowl, and Rocket’s transition from Muslim roots to Christian faith, guided by his grandmother’s spiritual wisdom. They also reflect on the changes in America’s culture, the importance of judgment and discernment, and what leadership truly means in today’s world.

Rocket opens up about his family, his children’s success in the arts, and how he’s grown from a quiet young man into a confident man of God, using his platform to inspire others.

This powerful episode is a must-watch for Notre Dame fans, football enthusiasts, and anyone who believes in the value of faith, humility, and hard work.

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Chapters:
0:00 – Intro & Welcome
1:45 – How Rocket Got His Name (And His Brother Became the Missile)
5:00 – The Launchpad: Rocket’s Mother Goes Viral
8:45 – Rocket’s Grandmother: Her Role in His Life & Faith
13:20 – A Muslim Child's Encounter with Jesus
18:10 – Transitioning from Running Back to Wide Receiver
20:30 – Rocket’s Freshman Struggles & Holtz’s Encouragement
23:00 – The Greatest Memory: Pregame Fight with Miami
27:00 – Lou’s Epic “Jimmy Johnson's A…” Pregame Speech
30:15 – National Title Season Reflections
33:30 – Rocket’s Shyness & Finding His Voice
36:00 – Why Rocket Chose the CFL & Thoughts on the NFL Transition
40:20 – Differences Between NFL Teams and Notre Dame's Culture
43:10 – Building a Winning Team Culture in Carolina
47:00 – Rocket Talks Fatherhood: His 4 Children & Their Passions
50:00 – Rocket on Culture: “Don't Judge” vs. Spiritual Discernment
52:30 – Final Thoughts & Coach Holtz’s Praise