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I savored my time on top of the podium by watching the American flag rise up out of the crowd as the anthem played, thinking about how every single second of training I've done was for this minute and how many people played a role in my achievement.

With athletics, you put all that training in for only two major championships a year and the Olympics every four years. So when you get on top of the podium, it is relief and excitement and... Oh! it has all been worthwhile... the hard work, the sacrifices.

It's exciting to sing in the place where you pay your taxes.

I have myself been on the other side of the table being a participant of a singing talent hunt. Hence, it is weird but awesome at the same time to judge a pool of talent that our nation has.

I love being able to sing for my job. I am blessed beyond words and I hope my fans can feel that while I'm on stage!

I love singing, so I want to see how far I can take it. I love the challenge, and I won't be happy until I have a wall full of gold discs and seven huge world tours under my belt.

The goal for me is the Olympics. It's Sochi and doing my best there. And, you know, my best has the potential to be on the podium.

You've got to sing like you don't need the money.

I sing the 'Star Spangled Banner,' so I can get into football, basketball and baseball games for free.