Becoming Uncommon with Coach Rich

Legacy in Motion: Olympic Gold to Coaching the Next Generation Becoming Uncommon w/ Brittney Reese

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0700

On this special episode of Becoming Uncommon, we sit down with Olympic Gold Medalist and one of the greatest long jumpers of all time, Brittney Reese.

From dominating the world stage to now leading the next generation as a jumps coach at Long Beach State, Brittney shares the mindset and moments that shaped her legendary career. We dive deep into how she developed her “clutch gene” — the ability to rise when it matters most — and what it really takes to sustain excellence over time.

But this conversation goes beyond medals and marks…

We talk about:

The journey from raw talent to all-time greatness
How she approaches coaching with an individualized, athlete-first mindset
The balance of being a competitor, coach, mother, and mentor
Her personality off the runway — sneakerhead, jokester, and authentic leader

This episode is a masterclass in confidence, preparation, and staying true to who you are — on and off the track.

🎙️ Whether you're an athlete, coach, or someone chasing greatness in any field… this one is for you.

Tap in. Learn. Become Uncommon.

#BecomingUncommon #TrackAndField #LongJump #OlympicGold #Coaching #Leadership #StudentAthletes

Becoming Uncommon: Coaching With Purpose | Jebreh Harris

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Becoming Uncommon Podcast | Featuring Jebreh Harris

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, we sit down with Jebreh Harris, a respected coach and leader whose impact extends far beyond the track.

🔗 Learn more about Jebreh Harris:
https://athletics.apu.edu/staff-directory/jebreh-harris/545

Coach Harris dives deep into what it truly means to lead individuals—not just athletes. He shares powerful insights on how great coaching is rooted in relationships, trust, and understanding each athlete as a unique person.

This conversation goes beyond X’s and O’s. It’s about respecting the art of coaching—recognizing that coaching is not just a science, but a craft that requires intentionality, emotional intelligence, and continuous growth.

💡 Key themes from this episode:

Leadership starts with knowing your people
Coaching is an art, not just a system
The importance of being a multi-dimensional coach
Balancing performance with personal development
Why connection always comes before correction

Coach Harris challenges us to rethink what it means to show up as leaders in sport and in life. If you’re serious about becoming a better coach, mentor, or leader—this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now and continue your journey of Becoming Uncommon.

#BecomingUncommon #Leadership #TrackAndField #Coaching #Mentorship #StudentAthlete #PersonalGrowth #CoachLife #CerritosCollege #USATF

Becoming Uncommon Podcast | Meet a Falcon Edition Featuring Logan Smith | Cerritos College Decathlete

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 22:00:00 -0700

Becoming Uncommon Podcast | Meet a Falcon Edition
Featuring Logan Smith | Cerritos College Decathlete

In this special Meet a Falcon episode, Coach Richardson sits down with Cerritos College decathlete Logan Smith — a true embodiment of what it means to become uncommon.

Logan’s journey didn’t start on the track… it started on the soccer field. Growing up as a soccer player, he discovered a new passion in track & field — not just for competition, but for the challenge of mastering multiple disciplines. That passion led him to the decathlon, one of the most demanding events in all of sports.

Since arriving at Cerritos College, Logan has committed himself fully to the process. Through setbacks, adversity, and growth, he has never taken a single moment for granted. That mindset has helped him rise into one of the top decathletes in the state of California.

In this episode, Logan shares:

⚽ His transition from soccer to track & field
🔟 What drew him to the decathlon and the grind behind it
🧠 How he balances academics, life, and elite-level training
💪 Lessons learned through adversity and perseverance
🎯 Why being “all in” is the key to success at the next level

As a team captain and leader for Cerritos College Track & Field, Logan leads not just through performance, but through connection, consistency, and character.

💬 His message to future college student-athletes:
"Be all in. There’s always something to improve — and that’s the beauty of the journey."

Why Being Yourself is Your Greatest Competitive Advantage: Becoming uncommon w/ Magnolia Lafleur

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:00:00 -0700

Becoming Uncommon Podcast | Magnolia (Howell) Lafleur

Authenticity, Art, and Extending a Professional Running Career

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, Coach Richardson sits down with former teammate and longtime friend Magnolia (Howell) Lafleur (@magnolia.aotr) — professional athlete, artist, and creative spirit.

Magnolia shares her powerful journey of staying authentic while pursuing elite sport. From lessons learned growing up with a strong family foundation to navigating the highs and challenges of professional track & field, she opens up about the importance of being your true self in a performance-driven world.

While Magnolia once dreamed of becoming an Olympian for Trinidad & Tobago, she reflects on how her path led to other international titles and an extended professional career. Through self-belief, creativity, and maximizing the guidance of great mentors, she discovered that success isn’t always defined by one goal — but by growth, resilience, and identity beyond the sport.

This conversation is a must-watch for athletes, creatives, and anyone chasing big goals while staying grounded in who they truly are.

Magnolia’s story reminds us that you can be both creative and competitive — and sometimes embracing who you are is the very thing that unlocks your best performance.

In This Episode We Discuss

Staying authentic as an elite athlete

Lessons learned from family and upbringing

Balancing creativity and high performance

Extending a professional running career

Redefining success beyond Olympic dreams

Confidence, mentorship, and trusting your journey

Follow Magnolia

Instagram: @magnolia.aotr

Subscribe to Becoming Uncommon

For conversations on elite performance, leadership, mindset, and life beyond sport.

Connect with Coach Richardson

Instagram: @coachrichardson
Podcast: Becoming Uncommon

Remember:
"Your path may look different than you imagined — but it can still be uncommon."

Sean Furey: Building an Olympic Dream While Working as an Engineer Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0700

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, Coach Richardson sits down with Sean Furey — 2x Olympian, 2x World Championships competitor, 3x USA National Champion, Dartmouth Academic All-American, coach, and mechanical engineer.

Sean shares his incredible journey from Massachusetts to Dartmouth, from engineering to elite javelin, and from chasing big dreams to becoming one of the top javelin throwers in the United States. This conversation dives into the mindset, discipline, patience, and long-term habits required to pursue greatness at the highest level.

We also talk about:

how Sean found javelin
why there are no real “shortcuts” in sport
balancing elite athletics with academics and career
what it takes to stay committed over the long haul
coaching philosophy and athlete development
the value of building a life that supports your goals

Sean Furey has coached and consulted with athletes at the high school, college, and Olympic level since 2017. Before coaching, he built a remarkable post-collegiate javelin career that included two Olympic Games (2012, 2016), two IAAF World Championships (2009, 2015), and two Pan American Games (2011, 2015). He also competed at the USA National Championships for 14 straight years, winning three national titles.

If you are a coach, athlete, parent, or anyone pursuing excellence in sport and life, this episode is full of wisdom and perspective.

Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on leadership, coaching, mindset, and what it means to become uncommon.

#BecomingUncommon #SeanFurey #Javelin #Olympian #TrackAndField #Coaching #Leadership #Mindset #Dartmouth #AthleteDevelopment

30+ Years of Coaching… Here’s What Actually Matters Becoming Uncommon Featuring Andy Sythe

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0800

What does it take to become uncommon?

In this powerful episode of Becoming Uncommon, we sit down with Andy Sythe, retired longtime Director of Track & Field and Cross Country at Long Beach State University.

Coach Sythe built more than winning programs — he built leaders.

In this conversation, we dive into:

The true meaning of leadership and how to develop it over time

The impact of fatherhood and leading first at home

Learning how to grind when no one is watching

Why surrounding yourself with like-minded, high-character individuals changes everything

The gratitude he feels toward former athletes and alumni

An honest look at work–life balance and the sacrifices behind sustained success

Coach Sythe opens up about the lessons that shaped his decades-long career and the principles that helped him lead at a high level while staying grounded in what matters most.

If you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or leader striving to level up — this episode is for you.

🎙️ Listen in and learn what it really means to become uncommon.

#BecomingUncommon #Leadership #TrackAndField #LongBeachState #Fatherhood #Coaching #personalgrowth

From Pain to Purpose: Ashley & Josue on Identity, Faith, and Building Wealth: Becoming Uncommon

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, Coach Richardson sits down with two powerhouse humans: Josue Louis (professional decathlete + high-performance & identity strategist) and Ashley Ann Lora-Louis (eczema patient advocate, consultant, and community builder).

Josue shares how identity comes before achievement—how he started speaking “world champion” into existence months before training, and how he now teaches athletes, executives, and students to build routines and a mindset that produces real results now, not “someday.”

Ashley opens up about living with a chronic condition (eczema / atopic dermatitis), navigating topical steroid withdrawal, and transforming pain into purpose—building a global community, consulting, and creating opportunities she never imagined.

Together, they break down what it really looks like to co-create a life of peace, wealth, love, and high performance—without becoming a prisoner to hustle culture.

In this episode:

Identity strategy: becoming who you want to be before you arrive

Turning adversity into purpose (and building a mission-driven career)

Entrepreneurship, routines, and high-performance habits

The “co-creation” approach to manifestation (faith + action + clarity)

Relationship growth: emotional intelligence, therapy, communication, and service

Building generational wealth + how they think about property and freedom

Advice to younger self: authenticity, joy, community, and being kind to yourself

The idea of “pushing paper walls” (how leaders make the impossible possible)

Connect with today’s guests:

Ashley Ann Lora-Louis: Instagram @ashleyannlora

Josue Louis: Instagram @josuelou

If this episode hits home, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who’s building their next chapter—personally, professionally, or both.

#BecomingUncommon #Mindset #HighPerformance #TrackAndField #Decathlon #Entrepreneurship #Relationships #Eczema #Identity #Manifestation #CoCreation

Master Your Mind. Master Your Success BECOMING UNCOMMON FEAT. JAKE LEE

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0800

What if the difference between good and great isn’t talent… but the way you think?

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with mental performance coach Jake Lee, founder of Inner Edge Performance, to unpack a truth every coach, parent, and athlete needs to hear:

Master your mind, and you master your ability to be successful.

Jake earned his Master’s in Sport & Exercise Psychology from California State University, Long Beach, and for over seven years has helped athletes—from youth to pros—build confidence, resilience, emotional control, and consistency under pressure. His systems aren’t theory. They’re practical, personalized, and designed for real competitors in real moments.

We talk about:

Why athletes “fight their mind” during competition
The difference between mental toughness and mental training
How Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality influenced Jake’s career
What coaches and parents often do (unknowingly) that hurts confidence
How to build athletes who trust themselves when the pressure is highest
The mental systems that actually transfer to performance

If you’re a coach trying to help athletes perform with freedom…
If you’re a parent who wants to build confidence without adding pressure…
If you’re an athlete chasing consistency in big moments…

This conversation is your blueprint.

🔗 Read Jake’s article for parents:
https://inneredgeperform.com/blogs/news/the-parent-playbook-how-to-build-a-confident-athlete-without-adding-pressure

🎙️ Becoming Uncommon is about learning how elite performers think, lead, and grow.

#BecomingUncommon #MentalPerformance #SportPsychology #Coaching #AthleteDevelopment #InnerEdgePerformance

This Is What Elite Development Actually Looks Like: Becoming Uncommon Featuring Travis Geopfert

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 22:00:00 -0800

Becoming Uncommon Podcast – Travis Geopfert Episode Description

What does it actually take to build a program that produces Olympians, Bowerman winners, and NCAA champions—year after year?

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with Travis Geopfert, the new Director of Track & Field / Cross Country at Kansas State Wildcats and one of the most respected jumps and multi-events coaches in the world.

With 22 years of coaching stops at University of Arkansas, University of Tennessee, University of Northern Iowa, and University of Central Missouri, Geopfert has coached:

20 NCAA National Champions
106 First Team All-Americans
15 Olympians and 1 Paralympian
Multiple Bowerman finalists and winners
Olympic medalists including Tara Davis-Woodhall and Wayne Pinnock at the 2024 Summer Olympics

But this conversation isn’t about medals.

It’s about how.

We talk about:

Building a family culture that produces elite performance
What separates a good coach from an elite coach
How he develops high-performance jumpers and multi-event athletes
Lessons from coaching world champions and Olympic medalists
Recruiting wisdom for athletes trying to find the right college fit
Following a legend and leading a storied program into a new era
Why community, humility, and relationships are the real foundation of success

Geopfert shares stories from coaching Tara Davis-Woodhall, managing expectations at the highest level, and the mindset required to consistently produce greatness without losing the human side of coaching.

If you’re a coach, athlete, or parent trying to understand what elite development really looks like behind the scenes—this episode is a masterclass.

This is a conversation about legacy, leadership, and the uncommon habits that build champions on and off the runway.

From Downey High to the Hall of Fame | The Journey Unseen 5110 BECOMING UNCOMMON w/ Larry Cunningham

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 23:00:00 -0800

YouTube Description — Becoming Uncommon Podcast

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with a UC Riverside Hall of Fame basketball player, a former college and professional athlete, and one of my longest friends going all the way back to our days at Downey High School.

This isn’t just a sports conversation. It’s a life conversation.

We talk about growing up through sports, how family shaped the journey, and the lessons learned from high school gyms to college arenas to the professional level. We reminisce on unforgettable moments, locker room laughs, bus ride shenanigans, and the brotherhood that only comes from competing together and chasing big dreams.

This episode is about legacy, loyalty, resilience, and how the game prepares you for life long after the final buzzer.

If you love authentic stories about friendship, family, and the real journey behind an athlete’s success, this one is for you.

🎙️ Becoming Uncommon — Where stories of sport become stories of life.

Becoming Uncommon: Winning Starts Within with André Chapman Jr.

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800

Too many athletes have the physical tools to succeed — but crumble when the pressure hits.

They train their bodies relentlessly, yet no one teaches them how to manage nerves, reset after mistakes, or trust themselves when it matters most.

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, Coach Christopher Richardson sits down with André Chapman Jr., founder of Winning Edge Performance, to break down why mindset isn’t a personality trait — it’s a trainable skill.

From walking onto UCLA’s Track & Field team as the slowest 400m runner in his group to becoming a two-time Pac-12 finalist, NCAA Championship qualifier, and national top-30 hurdler, André shares how learning to lead himself from the inside out changed everything.

Today, André has coached 1,000+ athletes across sports — from high school standouts to Division I scholarship earners — helping them manage pressure, rebuild confidence, and compete with clarity when it matters most.

This conversation goes beyond sports.

It’s about learning how to:

Win the battle within

Build confidence under pressure

Reset after mistakes

Lead yourself before you try to lead others

Perform with composure in high-stakes moments

If you’re an athlete, coach, or parent who knows talent alone isn’t enough — this episode is for you.

Because real winning doesn’t start on the track, the field, or the court.
It starts within.

Built Through Setbacks: Michelle Atherley on Injuries, Identity, and Growth

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, Coach Richardson sits down with Team USA heptathlete Michelle Atherley—a NCAA pentathlon national champion, elite combined-events competitor, and one of the sport’s most thoughtful voices on what it really takes to thrive.

Michelle’s journey is unreal: South Florida → Port Charlotte High School → Auburn → University of Miami, where she built into a champion and earned her degree in Political Science plus graduate work in Public Administration and International Public Administration.
On the track, she’s hit the world stage—competing at the 2022 World Athletics Championships—and she won the World Athletics Combined Events Tour (2024), with a heptathlon personal best of 6465 at Götzis.

But this conversation goes deeper than results. Michelle opens up about:

How she went from multi-sport kid (gymnastics/soccer) to heptathlete

The mindset shift that helped her turn “trash long jump” into a pride event

Trusting coaches with big changes (including relearning key technical pieces after injury)

Balancing elite athletics with demanding academics—and the leadership lessons that came with it

Her take on how to make track & field mainstream (hint: storytelling + consistent structures)

What comeback training looks like right now—and what she’s building beyond sport

📍Follow Michelle: @ms.i.do.it.all (Instagram)

Subscribe for more conversations with athletes, coaches, and builders chasing uncommon growth.

How a Community College Athlete Became an ENT Doctor | Dr. Lily Trinh

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800

Becoming Uncommon | Meet a Falcon ft. Dr. Lily Trinh

In this powerful Meet a Falcon episode of Becoming Uncommon, we sit down with Dr. Lily Trinh—former Cerritos College hurdler turned future physician and global mentor.

Lily competed in hurdles at Cerritos College from 2011–2012 after graduating from Fountain Valley High School. Following Cerritos, she transferred to University of California, Irvine as a pre-med student, where her path toward medicine began to take shape.

Her journey didn’t stop there. Lily went on to complete medical school at Tulane University, and she is now completing her residency as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist—a testament to perseverance, discipline, and long-term vision.

Beyond medicine, Dr. Trinh has built a thriving mentorship and consulting business, inspiring and guiding thousands of medical students around the world. In this episode, we talk about:
• Her indirect and often unexpected path to medicine
• The mindset shift from student-athlete to physician
• Why mentorship and networking are non-negotiables for success
• Her long-term vision of owning her own medical practice

This conversation is a must-listen for future medical students, student-athletes, and anyone navigating a nonlinear path toward a big dream.

💡 Your journey doesn’t have to be straight—just intentional.

👉 Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs encouragement to keep going and start building their network today.

#BecomingUncommon #MeetAFalcon #StudentAthleteToDoctor #MedicalMentorship #CerritosCollege #WomenInMedicine #LeadershipJourney

Legacy on the Line: Meet the Falcons Who Made History

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0800

In this powerful episode of Becoming Uncommon, we sit down with Aryianna Faircloth, Rionna Wallace, and Jazzmine Davis — state champions, school record holders, and members of a regional-record-setting 4x100m relay at Cerritos College.

Together, they reflect on a season that tested them physically, mentally, and emotionally. From injuries and pressure to expectations and personal doubt, this wasn’t just a championship year — it was a year of growth, resilience, and transformation.

The athletes reminisce on:

Navigating adversity during a demanding season

Learning to trust teammates in high-stakes moments

The meaning of legacy beyond medals and records

How challenges shaped them as athletes and women

This conversation pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build championship culture — not just speed on the track, but connection, accountability, and belief.

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or leader, this episode is a reminder that the hardest seasons often produce the strongest people.

🎧 Key Themes

Championship mindset

Team chemistry & trust

Handling pressure at the highest level

Growth through adversity

What legacy really means

Life Changer on Mastering Authenticity: Becoming Uncommon w/Candice Chick

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0800

Becoming Uncommon Podcast | Featuring Candice Chick (Director of BEACH XP)

What does it really mean to lead with authenticity—and do the hard work of caring for others?

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, we sit down with Candice Chick, current Director of BEACH XP, to explore a life shaped by service, resilience, and purpose. Raised in Southern California, Candice developed an early passion for empowering others before competing at the elite NCAA Division I level in water polo. Her academic journey reflects the same depth and intention—earning a B.A. in Communication Studies followed by a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, Counseling, and Sports Management.

Today, Candice is a widely respected coach, leader, colleague, and mother who speaks openly about the obstacles she’s faced—and how those challenges forged uncommon strength, courage, and gratitude. This conversation goes beyond titles and resumes. It’s about the unseen work of leadership: choosing authenticity, embracing hard work, and changing lives by genuinely caring for and empowering others.

If you’re a coach, educator, leader, or someone committed to making a real impact, this episode will challenge and encourage you to lead with intention.

Key themes in this episode:
• Authentic leadership and doing the hard work that matters
• Using sport and service as tools for life change
• Empowering others through care, trust, and consistency
• Turning adversity into strength and gratitude

🎧 Listen in and discover what it truly means to Become Uncommon.

#BecomingUncommon #AuthenticLeadership #CoachingLife #WomenInLeadership #ServiceThroughSport #EmpowerOthers

Becoming Uncommon w/ Chris Sweeney | Founder of RightMealz — Fueling Champions & Changing Lives Through Nutrition

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0800

Becoming Uncommon w/ Chris Sweeney | Founder of RightMealz™ — Fueling Champions & Changing Lives Through Nutrition

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, Coach Rich sits down with Chris Sweeney, former Division I athlete and the visionary founder of RightMealz™, one of Southern California’s premier performance-driven meal prep companies.

Founded in 2015, RightMealz™ was born from Chris’s passion for self-work, nutrition, and fitness—and his desire to help both athletes and everyday people perform, feel, and live at their absolute best. What started as a purpose-driven idea has grown into a trusted nutrition partner for:

🏒 LA Kings
🏒 Ontario Reign
🏈 LA Chargers
🔥 200+ NFL athletes
💪 High-performance centers such as Exos LA, Evo Sports, USC Athletics
🏅 NFL Combine Training Programs
🏫 Southern California schools, academies & elite sports organizations

RightMealz™ brings 25+ years of combined food service experience, delivering nutrient-dense, affordable, high-volume meals with unmatched attention to detail and reliability—fueling champions when it matters most.

But the story doesn’t stop there. Chris and his team are committed to giving back, partnering with organizations such as:
• Boys & Girls Club
• Children Today
• Save the Children
• Snow on 15th Street

This episode dives deep into:
🔥 Chris’s journey from college athlete to CEO
🍽️ The science & strategy behind performance nutrition
🏆 How RightMealz™ scaled into the trusted brand for pro athletes
🌱 Purpose-driven entrepreneurship and giving back
💡 What it takes to build something uncommon

If you're an athlete, coach, entrepreneur, or anyone pursuing excellence—you’ll walk away inspired and equipped to elevate your performance and purpose.

Reinvention & Resilience: The Rise of Anthony Neal: Becoming Uncommon

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 22:00:00 -0800

BECOMING UNCOMMON | Featuring Anthony Neal

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, Coach Rich sits down with Anthony Neal — an entrepreneur, creator, mentor, and one of the most versatile leaders in the game today.

Anthony is the owner of The TRE Draft Training Complex, a powerhouse development hub shaping the next generation of athletes. He’s also the creator of multiple youth sports programs, an assistant coach for the nationally ranked Corona Centennial boys basketball team, and a former EMT, firefighter, music producer, and actor/entertainer.

But behind all the titles is a family man driven by purpose.

In this conversation, we dive into:

🔥 How Anthony reinvented himself across multiple careers
🔥 What pushed him to build his own business and step fully into entrepreneurship
🔥 The role his wife played in supporting his dreams
🔥 How his two kids shaped his identity and grounded his mission
🔥 Why service, discipline, and creativity continue to guide his path
🔥 What it takes to build youth programs that truly change lives

Anthony’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and faith — a reminder that your path doesn’t have to be linear to be extraordinary.

If you’re a coach, parent, athlete, entrepreneur, or someone looking to level up your leadership, this episode is packed with gems.

Becoming Uncommon isn’t about perfection — it’s about doing the work, making the sacrifices, and becoming who you were meant to be.

Watch now, learn, and share with someone who needs this mindset.

Becoming Uncommon: Feat. Dr. Angel Sifuentes

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

YouTube Description — Becoming Uncommon: Meet a Falcon | Dr. Angel Sifuentes

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon – Meet a Falcon Edition, Coach Richardson sits down with Dr. Angel Sifuentes, one of the most decorated and versatile athletes in Cerritos College history and now a rising leader in sports performance and chiropractic care.

A multi-sport athlete for Cerritos College (2012–13), Dr. Sifuentes’ legacy began with immediate impact. As a freshman, she won the state championship in the javelin with a mark of 42.27m, tying the school record and establishing herself as one of the conference’s elite competitors. She added a South Coast Conference title, a runner-up finish at the Southern California Championships, and later capped off her Falcon career with a second-place finish at the state championships in the heptathlon with 4546 points—still one of the best all-time performances in school history. That same year, she also finished second in the javelin, helping lead Cerritos to a team state championship.

After Cerritos, Dr. Sifuentes transferred to the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she set the school record in the javelin (43.62m) while completing a standout career as a Division I athlete.

Beyond competition, Dr. Sifuentes brings more than a decade of coaching experience across track & field, gymnastics, and cheer—mentoring athletes with the same passion and precision she brought to her own training.

Her academic accomplishments are equally remarkable. She earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree (Magna Cum Laude) from Texas Chiropractic College (2022), her Master’s degree in Kinesiology from UTSA (2018), and her Bachelor’s degree in Multidiscipline with emphases in Kinesiology, Sociology, and Psychology (2016). Today, Dr. Sifuentes serves as a coach, clinician, former record-holding athlete, and community role model—all rooted in the work ethic and resilience she developed as a Falcon.

Tune in as we explore her journey, her mindset, and what it truly means to become uncommon.

Becoming Uncommon Podcast
Hosted by Coach Richardson
Cerritos College Track & Field / Cross Country

Master the College Recruitment Process

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

How to Master Your College Recruitment (Do NOT Skip These Steps)

If you want to find the right school, stop guessing and start ranking what actually matters. Follow these steps ⬇️

1️⃣ Academics —
Does the school have your major, your program, and a real pathway for graduate school?
If not… keep scrolling.

2️⃣ Athletics —
Is the coach right for you?
Does the conference level fit your goals?
Do the facilities help you get better?

3️⃣ Environment —
Can you thrive in the culture, community, and social climate on campus?
If the vibe is off, the experience will be too.

4️⃣ Financial —
What’s the REAL cost of living, tuition, books, and going home?
Your budget matters more than the hype.

5️⃣ Location —
Are you built for distance from home, a new climate, or a different lifestyle?
Be honest with yourself.

🔥 Your Challenge:

Rank these 5 categories from most important to least important… and DO NOT compromise on your top two.
That’s how you take control of your recruitment and choose a school that fits you, not the other way around.

The Man Behind the Meets: How Rich Benoy Quietly Built a Track Empire | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with my longtime friend and one of the most influential behind-the-scenes figures in California track & field — Rich Benoy, owner of VS Athletics, meet manager, TV statistician, CIF committee member, and one of the biggest track nerds I know.

Rich went from a small-town hurdler with no coach, to a college athlete, to working in track production for NBC and ESPN, and eventually taking over one of the largest track & field equipment companies in the country. His journey is full of twists, setbacks, reinventions, and lessons every coach, athlete, and parent needs to hear.

We dive into:
✅ How he built a career in track without ever planning to
✅ The secrets of TV production, the world feed, and how meets REALLY get shown
✅ Why knowing the rules gives you a competitive advantage
✅ The future of high school recruiting, NIL, the portal, and the shrinking NCAA landscape
✅ Why today’s athletes are struggling with commitment — and what we can do about it
✅ How to stay in the room, stay informed, and never get blindsided

Rich’s story is a masterclass in adaptability, humility, and finding opportunity where no one else is looking.

Follow VS Athletics → @vsathletics
Subscribe for more uncommon stories and conversations that move our sport forward.

#BecomingUncommon #RichBenoy #TrackAndField #Leadership #Coaching #Mindset #Resilience #CoachRichardson #USATF #NCAA

Becoming Uncommon: Meet a Falcon with Josh Morales and Coach Rich. Discuss how Josh got into running and how he overcame injuries to build the grit to become one of the top runners in the State.

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

Becoming Uncommon: Meet a Falcon with Josh Morales and Coach Rich. Discuss how Josh got into running and how he overcame injuries to build the grit to become one of the top runners in the State.

They Risked Everything to Build a Legacy — Larry & Yvonne Wade | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with two people who’ve shaped not just my coaching career, but my life — Coach Larry Wade and Coach Yvonne Wade.

Larry is a former U.S. Track & Field champion turned world-renowned boxing trainer, working with elite fighters and building champions from the ground up. Yvonne, a former Olympian for Japan, has spent over 20 years in Division I coaching and now serves as the first-ever Athletic Director at Nevada State University.

We talk about:
✅ Transitioning from athletes to leaders and entrepreneurs
✅ The power of faith, resilience, and partnership
✅ What it means to lead with purpose in sports and life
✅ How to trust yourself when the path isn’t clear

Their story is one of sacrifice, legacy, and the courage to reinvent yourself — together.

Follow Larry Wade → @coachlarrywade
Follow Yvonne Wade → @coachyvonne
🎙 Subscribe for more uncommon stories of leadership and transformation.

#BecomingUncommon #LarryWade #YvonneWade #Leadership #AthleteDevelopment #Boxing #TrackAndField #Resilience #Mindset #CoachRichardson

How Curtis Beach Turned Failure into Freedom | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with my good friend Curtis Beach — once one of the most promising decathletes in the nation and now a creator, coach, and founder of Beach Track Club in San Diego.

Curtis’ journey is one of reinvention and resilience. From breaking national records in high school to competing at Duke and facing the harsh realities of injury and identity loss, he’s redefined what success truly means — both in sport and in life.

We dive deep into:
✅ The highs and lows of chasing Olympic dreams
✅ Finding identity beyond competition
✅ Building a thriving business and brand from the ground up
✅ Why authenticity and simplicity always win

His story reminds us that greatness isn’t about staying in your lane — it’s about building your own.

Follow Curtis on Instagram → @curtisbeach
Learn more → beachtrackclub.com

#BecomingUncommon #CurtisBeach #TrackAndField #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #Mindset #UncommonJourney #CoachRichardson

How One Cold Call Changed His Life Forever: Aron McGuire’s Story | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, Coach Richardson sits down with Aron McGuire, CEO of USA Bobsled & Skeleton, to uncover one of the most unexpected journeys in Olympic sports.

Aron went from studying to be a high-school science teacher to representing Team USA on the world stage — and eventually becoming the CEO leading America’s fastest winter athletes.

His story begins with a cold call to the Olympic governing body that changed his life forever. From there, Aron became a national team bobsledder, worked behind the scenes at USA Track & Field, and helped shape the next generation of Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ How to reinvent yourself when your first dream doesn’t go as planned
✅ What it takes to lead through change and build buy-in as a CEO
✅ The lessons athletes can apply to business, leadership, and life
✅ Why adaptability and curiosity open doors to uncommon success

Aron’s story is a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and believing in the power of saying “yes.”

Follow Aron on LinkedIn → Aron McGuire
🎙 Subscribe to Becoming Uncommon for more inspiring stories of reinvention and leadership.

#BecomingUncommon #AronMcGuire #USABobsled #OlympicLeadership #Mindset #Resilience #CareerGrowth #UncommonJourney

MacKenzie Monson Becoming Uncommon Meet a Falcon Edition

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

Becoming Uncommon Podcast | Featuring Mackenzie Monson – Cerritos College Track & Field All-American

From South Torrance High School, where she was voted Team MVP three years in a row, to becoming a California Community College Hammer Champion and All-American, Mackenzie Monson has built her journey around one core belief — greatness isn’t about a single season, but a lifelong pursuit of growth.

In this episode, Mackenzie opens up about her path as a thrower, balancing school, athletics, and self-discovery while chasing excellence at Cerritos College. She reflects on how each stage of her career — from mastering the hammer and discus to overcoming setbacks — has shaped her commitment to being great for the long term, not just the moment.

A Heartfelt Tribute:
Mackenzie shares powerful stories about the late, great Coach Lloyd Higgins, whose passion, mentorship, and technical mastery left a lasting impact on her development and on the Cerritos throws community. His legacy continues through athletes like Mackenzie who embody his lessons of patience, discipline, and purpose.

Beyond Athletics:
Off the field, Mackenzie aspires to become a teacher — inspired by the same mindset she brings to sport: to uplift, educate, and lead others toward their best selves. Nicknamed “Kenzie,” she balances her love for reading, karaoke, and family with her relentless pursuit of excellence.

Highlights:
• South Torrance HS MVP (3x)
• Masters Meet Qualifier (Weight Throw – 45’)
• Personal Bests: Hammer (155’), Discus (141’), Shot Put (41’)
• CCCAA Hammer Champion & All-American
• Aspiring Educator | Cerritos College Student-Athlete

Presented by Coach Richardson
The Becoming Uncommon Podcast shares stories of athletes and leaders who redefine success through purpose, perseverance, and passion.

#BecomingUncommon #CerritosCollege #TrackAndField #HammerThrow #MackenzieMonson #CoachRichardson #StudentAthlete #LloydHiggins #Leadership #AthleteSpotlight #LongTermGreatness #Inspiration

How Coach Megan Martinez Turned Failure Into a Softball Powerhouse | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

n this episode of Becoming Uncommon, Coach Richardson sits down with Coach Megan Martinez, one of the most inspiring leaders in college athletics.

Megan’s journey started with a tough 0–30 record and a $4,000 coaching salary—but she refused to quit. Over the past decade, she’s built Long Beach City College Softball into a powerhouse program defined by resilience, discipline, and heart.

We dive deep into:
✅ How she rebuilt her life and career after early setbacks
✅ What it takes to lead young women through adversity
✅ The balance between being a coach, a mom, and a mentor
✅ Why “nobody owes you anything” became her life mantra

Her story is proof that hard work, faith, and perseverance can rewrite your destiny.

Follow Long Beach City College Softball on Instagram: @lbccsoftball
🎙 Subscribe for more uncommon stories of resilience and leadership.

#BecomingUncommon #CoachMeganMartinez #Leadership #WomenInSports #Resilience #JuCoSoftball #Motivation #Mindset

How Gary Cablayan Turned Hustles Into Success | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with Gary Cablayan, a true entrepreneur at heart whose story is rooted in grit, hustle, and resilience. From running small side hustles to building real businesses, Gary’s journey is about betting on yourself, learning through failure, and pushing past doubt to create success.

Gary opens up about his upbringing, the early challenges that shaped his mindset, and how he built the confidence to take risks and turn ideas into opportunities. We dive deep into the lessons he’s learned as a business owner, a leader, and someone who refuses to settle for the ordinary.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ The mindset shifts required to move from hustler to entrepreneur
✅ How to overcome fear and failure in pursuit of your goals
✅ The importance of resilience and adaptability in business
✅ Lessons on leadership, legacy, and building something that lasts

Gary’s story is raw, inspiring, and a reminder that success doesn’t come overnight—it’s earned through consistency, sacrifice, and a relentless belief in yourself.

#BecomingUncommon #Gary Cablayan #Entrepreneurship #BusinessJourney #Leadership #Resilience #UncommonSuccess

Lessons From a Legend: Tony Veney’s Winning Mindset | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with Tony Veney—veteran coach, educator, and mentor whose influence spans over five decades in track and field. Tony’s journey goes far beyond coaching; it’s a story about leadership, purpose, and the lifelong impact of guiding others.

From mentoring Olympians to shaping generations of athletes and coaches, Tony shares invaluable lessons on discipline, patience, and what it really means to build a legacy that lasts. We explore his time learning from legendary mentors, his philosophy on developing people over performances, and his approach to sustaining excellence while staying true to yourself.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ The mindset that separates good coaches from great ones
✅ Lessons in leadership and mentorship that apply far beyond sports
✅ How to sustain purpose and passion across decades of impact
✅ The importance of humility, consistency, and service in success

Tony’s wisdom reaches far beyond the track—this episode is a masterclass in growth, gratitude, and becoming the best version of yourself.

#BecomingUncommon #TonyVeney #Leadership #Mentorship #TrackAndField #CoachingLegacy #PersonalGrowth #Discipline

Inaugural Falcon Alumni Gala

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

Brain storming session and introduction to the Inaugural Falcon Alumni Gala. This is our Track and Field/Cross-Country Hall of Fame and Alumni Networking event to celebrate Falcon Greatness through the generations.

From Olympic Medals to Entrepreneurial Empire: Jeremy Fischer’s Story | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with my friend and mentor, Jeremy Fischer—Olympic coach, entrepreneur, and father. Jeremy’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

From a record-breaking high jumper to coaching athletes who’ve earned nearly 20 Olympic and World Championship medals, Jeremy has lived at the highest levels of sport. But his journey didn’t stop there—he walked away from a secure coaching career to build his own platform, MBA Services, creating opportunities for athletes and coaches worldwide.

We dive into his early days chasing Olympic dreams, the challenges of building programs from scratch, and the lessons he’s learned about belief, leadership, and legacy along the way.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ The mindset required to excel at the highest level of sport
✅ How to reinvent yourself when the path shifts unexpectedly
✅ The importance of mentorship, community, and giving back
✅ Why belief in yourself is the foundation for uncommon success

Jeremy’s story is proof that greatness isn’t linear—it’s built through resilience, adaptability, and passion for making an impact.

Follow Jeremy on Instagram: @jeremyfhj

#BecomingUncommon #JeremyFischer #OlympicCoach #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #AthleteDevelopment #UncommonJourney

From Elite Athlete to Life Coach: Tiffeny Parker’s Uncommon Journey | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with Tiffeny Parker—former heptathlete, Team USA competitor, and now performance and life coach—to explore her journey of resilience, transformation, and impact.

Tiffeny opens up about the sacrifices and challenges of training at the Olympic level, her battles with identity and self-worth after athletics, and how she discovered her true calling: helping others unlock their potential. From the track to coaching leaders and athletes, she’s learned that real strength comes from perseverance, authenticity, and service.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ The mental toughness it takes to compete at the highest level
✅ How to reinvent yourself after walking away from your first dream
✅ The power of self-awareness and personal growth
✅ Why coaching and mentorship can change lives beyond the sport

Tiffeny’s story is raw, inspiring, and filled with lessons for anyone chasing big goals, facing transition, or striving to live with purpose.

#BecomingUncommon #TiffenyParker #teamusa #LifeCoach #PerformanceCoaching #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #AthleteMindset

She Broke the Barrier: How Crystal Irving Made Track & Field History | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with Crystal Irving, head coach and athletic director at Long Beach Poly, one of the most renowned high school track and field programs in the nation.

Krystal shares her incredible journey from being a standout sprinter at Poly and UNLV to becoming the first woman to lead Poly’s men’s and women’s programs—and winning multiple CIF and state championships along the way.

We talk about her path as an athlete, her 28+ years of coaching, and the challenges she’s faced breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. From proving doubters wrong, to developing athletes who’ve gone on to earn millions in scholarships, to balancing discipline with love, Crystal embodies what it means to lead with purpose and consistency.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ Lessons from a lifetime in track and field
✅ How to lead with both toughness and compassion
✅ The power of resilience in the face of doubt
✅ Why community and mentorship are crucial for young athletes

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or leader in any field, Crystal’s story is one of perseverance, impact, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

#BecomingUncommon #CrystalIrving #LongBeachPoly #TrackAndField #Leadership #BreakingBarriers #CoachingExcellence

Overcoming Introversion: My Social Superpower Revealed!

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 21:00:00 -0800

As a coach, introvert, and someone who grew up with dyslexia, social situations were never easy for me. From recruiting athletes to presenting in front of thousands, I’ve had to push far outside my comfort zone—and over time, I discovered what I now call my superpower.

In this video, I share my journey from struggling in special education classes to learning how to thrive on stage, in meetings, and in the toughest rooms. From giving best man speeches without notes to leading banquets, teaching certifications, and recruiting athletes at Cerritos College, I’ve learned the importance of preparation, active listening, and speaking from the heart.

What you’ll take away from this video:
✅ How to prepare for high-pressure social situations
✅ Why having a “script” can help you conquer any room
✅ Lessons from turning weaknesses into strengths
✅ The importance of finding your own authentic voice

If I can do it—a dyslexic introvert who once struggled to read and write—you can too. Your story, your voice, and your message matter. The key is learning how to share it with the world.

#ChrisRichardson #Superpower #OvercomingDyslexia #IntrovertStrength #CommunicationSkills #Motivation #PersonalGrowth

From Sink to C-Suite: How Isias Built a $30M Empire | Becoming Uncommon

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 21:00:00 -0800

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with Isaias Hernandez, the co-founder of Smoke & Fire Social Eatery, to uncover his journey from humble beginnings to building a thriving, family-centered restaurant empire.

Isaias shares how he turned a simple idea written on a bar napkin into a brand that’s not only loved for its incredible food but also for its deep community impact. From working his first job washing dishes at 15, navigating the challenges of opening during a pandemic, to creating a business rooted in family and resilience, Isaias gives us an inside look at what it takes to turn passion into success.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ How to turn setbacks into opportunities
✅ The importance of family and community in business
✅ Lessons from starting small and thinking big
✅ Secrets to building a brand that lasts

If you’re an entrepreneur, foodie, or someone looking for inspiration to pursue your dreams, this episode is packed with actionable insights and motivation.

#BecomingUncommon #IsaiasHernandez #SmokeAndFire #Entrepreneurship #RestaurantSuccess #FromDishwasherToMogul #BusinessInspiration #FamilyBusiness

From Track to Triumph: How Richard O’Riley Shapes Champions On and Off the Field | Becoming Uncommon with Coach Rich feat Richard O’Riley

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 18:00:00 -0700

In this episode of Becoming Uncommon, I sit down with Richard O’Riley, affectionately known as Coach O, the founder of NY Metro Elite Track Club. Richard has dedicated his life to mentoring sprinters, hurdlers, and jumpers throughout the northeast region and beyond, guiding multiple All-American, state champion, and nationally ranked athletes who have gone on to compete in conferences like the ACC, Big 10, Big East, Ivy League, and more.

We dive into his journey as a coach, mentor, and leader—exploring how he builds athletes not just for competition, but for life. Richard also serves on the Board of Directors of 12th Rock Sports Center in Middletown, NY, further cementing his commitment to developing the next generation of talent and character.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ The mindset required to perform at the highest levels
✅ How to mentor athletes for both success and resilience
✅ Lessons on leadership, discipline, and legacy
✅ Why community and service are vital in personal growth

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or someone striving for excellence in any field, this conversation is packed with lessons and inspiration to help you unlock your full potential.

#BecomingUncommon #RichardORiley #CoachO #TrackAndField #AthleteMentorship #Leadership #Discipline #SuccessMindset

The Cheat Code to Converting Failure to Success | Becoming Uncommon with Coach Rich feat Hassan Ilyas

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 18:00:00 -0700

Welcome to the very first episode of Becoming Uncommon!

For our debut, I’m sitting down with someone who means a lot to me — my former athlete and lifelong friend, Hassan Ilyas. From the track to business and everything in between, Hassan’s journey is full of resilience, risk-taking, and lessons learned the hard way.

We talk about his path from being one of my athletes at Compton College, following me to Cerritos, and then competing at Central Missouri. Along the way, we dive into the highs and lows — from chasing big athletic dreams, dealing with major injuries, finding his “why,” building a business, and embracing an uncommon path in life.

If you’ve ever faced setbacks, questioned your next move, or wondered how to take big risks while staying true to yourself, this episode is packed with insight and real stories you won’t forget.

Hit Subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes, and join me as we explore what it really takes to become uncommon.

From Sink to C-Suite: How Isias Built a $30M Empire | Becoming Uncommon with Coach Rich feat. Isaias Hernandez,

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 18:00:00 -0700