From the Oakland Gridiron to MLB Coaching: Rod Richard on Grit, Fatherhood, and Career Pivots

I knew how to move in that environment... I developed grit at an early age because I had to. In this episode of Keeping It Real, Jenn Godfrey sits down with Rod Richard, a former coach for the New York Mets and a high-performance fitness expert. Rod shares his raw journey from growing up on the tough streets of the Bay Area to reaching the pinnacle of professional sports coaching, and why he eventually walked away to prioritize what matters most: his family. Rod and Jenn explore the "Left Turn" theory—how life can change in an instant—and the discipline required to maintain a 20-year relationship while chasing elite professional goals. Whether you're a sports fan, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a parent trying to find balance, Rod's story of transition and resilience is a masterclass in staying true to your core values. Key Discussion Points: The Bay Area Roots: Growing up in Oakland and Richmond during the 80s and 90s and how "head on a swivel" survival skills translated into professional success. The Athlete's Hustle: Navigating the scholarship world, the Michigan Tech snow, and the pivotal moments that led from the football field to the MLB. The Reality of Pro Sports: What it's really like coaching for a major organization like the Mets and the hidden sacrifices of the "grind." Fatherhood & Presence: Why having "two dads but not a complete one" fueled Rod's mission to be a physically and emotionally present father.  The Modern Pivot: Transitioning from the corporate suit-and-tie world to running gyms and coaching men to find their own grit. BioPro Plus Tech: Why both Rod and Jenn are passionate about high-level health optimization and natural recovery.  👉 Follow Rod Richard: https://www.4fitfatherhood.com/ 👉 Watch for: https://linktr.ee/RealJennGodfrey #RodRichard #NYMets #KeepingItReal #JennGodfrey #Coaching #Fatherhood #Grit #CareerPivot #FitnessMotivation #BayArea #MensHealth