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 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:

• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/zychgabriela
• Instagram: @zych.gabriela  |  X: @zychgabbi

For full show notes, visit:

Send us a text.

💬 This episode includes a special message about Sandy’s LinkedIn Makeover service—designed to help professionals show up online with confidence. Want your profile to reflect your expertise and stand out? Book your makeover at sandy-adams.com/linkedin.

Grab my new book, "The Visionary Personal Brand Playbook" and start building your brand today.  Grab your copy at sandy-adams.com/playbook

Support the show

Follow The 5th Quarter Podcast:
Instagram | Threads | X | Facebook | Linkedin | Youtube

🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite platform.
📺 Watch on our Youtube channel

Connect with us: Website | Email

Follow Host Sandy Adams on Instagram | Linkedin | X | YouTube | Website