
What does it take to move 4,000 miles from home to a new city & school sight unseen and become a national champion? Gabriela Zych has the answer.
In this episode, Sandy Adams sits down with Gabriela Zych, University of Memphis rifle standout and the first national champion (2x) in Memphis rifle history.
Gabriela shares her journey from Anchorage, Alaska to Memphis, how she discovered shooting in high school, and how mindset, consistency, and perseverance helped her build a record-breaking career both on the range and in the classroom.
She opens up about her training, competing under pressure, balancing academics with athletics, and the mental discipline that drives her success.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- How Gabriela discovered rifle in high school and decided to stick with it
- Her move from Alaska to Memphis to pursue her sport
- The mental discipline behind precision shooting and high-pressure competitions
- Competing outdoors at the USA Shooting National Championships
- Maintaining a 4.0 GPA while excelling at the national level
- Journaling, mindset, and building resilience as tools for success
- Her goals for coaching and giving back to the sport
Gabriela’s story shows that growth comes from showing up, trusting yourself, and putting in the work—even when stepping into the unknown.
NIL Opportunities: HERE
Follow Gabriela on Social Media:
Instagram: @zych.gabriela | X: @zychgabbi
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/zychgabriela
🎧 >>Listen Now<< on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you tune in.
Larry O’Bannon Jr. on Career Alignment, Identity After Sports, and Redefining Success – The 5th Quarter Podcast with Sandy Adams
- Larry O’Bannon Jr. on Career Alignment, Identity After Sports, and Redefining Success
- Gabriela Zych: From Alaska to Memphis — Mindset Behind a Record-Breaking Rifle Career
- Jazzmin Mancilla From Soccer Star to Mom and Entrepreneur
- Rikishi Smith-Rey on Turning Setbacks Into Success After Soccer
- Will Coleman on Basketball, Overcoming Self-Doubt, and Being a Girl-Dad
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“The podcast is entertaining, educational AND thought-provoking!” If you enjoy the show, please consider rating and reviewing my show! Your support helps me inspire more people to pursue the life, find their passion and push for the career they desire.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’ll be adding a few bonus episodes to the feed, and if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
SPONSORED BY: Sandy Adams Creative Group: Unlock the secrets to personal branding and career strategy with Sandy Adams, an expert with over 20 years of experience. Go >>HERE<< to get started today at https://sandy-adams.com/
Where you can find us!
If you like the show please FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE and please LEAVE A REVIEW…





Leave a comment