Everyday Athletes Earn Their Flowers

Why I Created Shoutout Nation

I’ll be honest with you: sometimes endurance sports take themselves way too seriously.

Somewhere along this journey, social media convinced us that only podium finishes, six-minute miles, and shirtless finish line photos deserve attention. Meanwhile, the everyday athlete quietly keeps showing up at 5 a.m., juggling work, parenting, relationships, training plans, and the occasional emotional breakdown in a grocery store parking lot because the gels were buy one get one free.

That’s why I created Shoutout Nation presented by RTB Awards.

This show is my chance to celebrate the athletes who remind me that there is a spot at the starting line for everybody and every body.

The Athletes Who Inspired Me

Choosing Health Over Ego

In Episode 8, Krissy Murphy reminded all of us that toughness is not ignoring your body. During the brutal Cleveland Marathon heat, she made the courageous choice to take care of herself instead of chasing social media approval. She slowed down to ensure a healthy finish and the opportunity to chase the next finish line without a visit to the ER

That deserves more applause than a medal sometimes.

ADVERTISEMENT

RUNTRIMAG15 for 15% off all first-time purchases 

Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things

Ashley nominated three athletes who perfectly represent what this community should look like:

• Adonna finishing her first marathon
• Martin completing his first half marathon
• DeeAnna balancing motherhood while becoming a marathoner

No sponsorships. No gatekeeping. Just everyday athletes taking a risk on themselves.

Your Story Matters Too

This episode made me laugh, smile, and reflect on why endurance sports matter so much. We are not just chasing finish lines. Our goals include chasing confidence, connection, and to prove to ourselves that we are capable of more than we think.

🎧 Listen to Episode 8 of Shoutout Nation now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube and nominate an everyday athlete who deserves their flowers.

Listen On Apple Podcast

Listen On Spotify

Watch On YouTube

ADVERTISEMENT