Overcoming adversity is a defining trait of champions. In the latest episode of The Home Brew Podcast, Richard Yergin III shares how he turned tragedy into triumph.
From breaking his neck in a car accident to fighting for his future, Richard’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and faith.
His story is one of grit and overcoming obstacles, and it offers powerful insights for anyone facing challenges in their personal or professional life.
Richard’s Early Life and Turning Point: A Journey of Resilience
Richard’s story began in Florida, where he faced the internal struggle of growing up in challenging circumstances while striving for a better life. Surrounded by difficult realities, Richard found hope and purpose in football.
For him, it wasn’t just a game—it was a means of survival. He made a clear decision early on: “I want to be great. No matter what I do, character and all those things, I want to be great.”
Football provided him a path forward, offering discipline and structure in an environment that didn’t always foster such values. The support of his family and mentors fueled his determination to rise above the chaos and create a future for himself.
In June 2017, Richard faced a life-altering car accident that resulted in a broken neck. Despite doctors' bleak prognosis, his resilience became his greatest strength.
“Adversity introduces a man to himself,” he said, reflecting on the moment he realized that he had to redefine who he was and who he would become. Instead of letting the injury define him, he embraced it as an opportunity to prove that his future wasn’t bound by circumstance.
Dealing with Missed Opportunities: Finding Your Own Path to Success
One of the most powerful moments in our conversation came when Richard shared his experience watching his teammates from Clemson get drafted into the NFL. It was a moment that could have easily sent him into a spiral of frustration and self-doubt. After all, he had worked his whole life to make it to the NFL, but the injury had robbed him of that chance.
But instead of giving in to bitterness, Richard made a conscious decision to shift his focus. He stopped comparing himself to others and began to create his own version of success. “Instead of being frustrated at the fact that I can’t do certain things anymore, how can I create my own NFL?” he asked himself.
That mindset shift led to new opportunities, and Richard realized that success isn’t just about achieving a specific goal—it’s about how you respond to adversity and make the best out of the hand you’re dealt.
Brian Piccolo Award and the Legacy of Boston College
Richard’s journey didn’t end with a missed opportunity to join the NFL. After his injury, he transferred to Boston College, where he went on to have a tremendous impact both on and off the field. He earned the Brian Piccolo Award, which is given to a player who exemplifies courage, loyalty, and teamwork—values that Richard holds dear.
Reflecting on his time at Boston College, Richard connected his journey with that of Brian Piccolo, the football legend whose story of perseverance continues to inspire. For Richard, receiving the Piccolo Award wasn’t just about winning an accolade—it was about honoring the legacy of someone who overcame great odds.
A Higher Calling: Mentorship and Impacting the Next Generation
Throughout his career, Richard has always been driven by a higher purpose. Even in the aftermath of his injury, he found himself drawn to helping others. A key moment in his journey was when he spoke at a football camp, just a month after his accident, and shared his testimony with young athletes.
Some of them came to him seeking guidance, and Richard realized that his story wasn’t just about him—it was about inspiring others to overcome their own struggles.
This moment of clarity led Richard to develop Empower Teens, a program designed to help young people build leadership skills, improve literacy, and prepare for their futures. Richard uses his doctorate, personal experiences, and passion for mentoring to guide teens in South Carolina, showing them that despite the challenges they face, they can create a successful future.
Balancing Multiple Roles and Defining Success
One of the things I admire most about Richard is his ability to balance multiple roles. As a husband, father, mentor, and leader, Richard doesn’t just talk the talk—he walks the walk. In our conversation, I asked him how he manages it all. His answer was simple yet profound: “Good, better, best. I never rest.”
Richard understands that success isn’t a one-time achievement—it’s a continuous process. His definition of success is about discipline and dedication. It’s not about external recognition or accolades. Instead, success is about living with purpose and pushing yourself to be better every day.
Richard’s internal motivation has been a driving force in everything he does. From his football days to his current work mentoring youth, he stays grounded in his values and continues to push the limits of what he can achieve.
Mentors and Influences: The Power of Supportive Networks
As Richard shared his journey, it became clear that one of the key factors in his success has been the influence of the people around him. Mentorship has played a major role in shaping who Richard is today.
These mentors have helped him stay grounded and focused. He emphasized the importance of surrounding yourself with people who challenge you, support you, and help you grow. And that’s one of the things I love about Richard’s story—he’s not just receiving mentorship, but he’s also giving it back. He’s passing on the lessons he’s learned to the next generation, helping them navigate their own paths to success.
Having a supportive network is essential in any journey. Whether it’s a podcast concierge service that helps amplify your voice or mentors who guide you through challenges, the right people can make all the difference.
Richard’s life is a testament to the power of community and mentorship, and it’s clear that he’s committed to helping others achieve their own success, just as his mentors did for him.
Embracing the Journey: What Richard’s Story Teaches Us
Talking to Richard has been nothing short of inspiring. His story is a powerful reminder that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from adversity—it’s about using life’s toughest moments to fuel growth and purpose.
Richard didn’t let a tragic accident or missed opportunities define him. Instead, he embraced the challenges and found strength in them, proving that true success comes from within. His journey shows that our decisions in defining moments shape who we become, regardless of our starting point or challenges faced.
Ready to be inspired by more stories of resilience and growth? Tune in to The Home Brew Podcast for more impactful stories from those who’ve overcome adversity and found success on their own terms.
Connect with me and dive deeper into conversations that challenge and motivate you. Let’s learn together and fuel your journey!
