Why Average Athletes Inspire Us | Beyond The Finish Line Guest: Mary Pittman
In the latest episode of Beyond The Finish Line, host Joe Hardin interviews Mary Pittman, the founder of Team Average Athlete, and together they discuss the inspirational story of how the brand got started. Beyond that, they unravel what it truly means to belong in the endurance sports world. Especially if you’re not chasing podiums or PRs.
Mary’s story is a heartfelt reminder that athleticism isn’t reserved for the elite. From running city streets in Chile to swimming from Alcatraz despite her fear of open water, her story is full of adventure, grit, and above all, joy. This episode isn’t just about running. The duo touches on identity, community, and rewriting the narrative that only the “fastest” or “fittest” deserve a seat at the table.
A Brand Born in Humor and Purpose
Team Average Athlete started as a playful joke after a ski day in San Francisco. Mary imagined a world where we celebrated average athletes. You know, those who show up, even when no one’s watching. What began with a few trucker hats quickly turned into a movement. Why? Because so many athletes saw themselves in that label.
From working out alongside nuns in Uganda during her time in public health to fielding questions from strangers about what “Average Athlete” really means, Mary’s journey reveals the power of embracing imperfection. The hats caught fire, the message resonated, and a brand was born.
Facing Judgment and Finding Confidence
While Mary’s husband received compliments for wearing the brand, Mary encountered something else: criticism. Comments like “Don’t bring yourself down” hinted at how uncomfortable people are with self-deprecation or, more likely, with someone refusing to strive for perfection.
That discomfort pushed Mary into a period of reflection. It wasn’t until she became a mother that she fully embraced her brand’s message. Being an athlete isn’t about being the best. It’s about being in motion, being present, and being you. That message now defines both her identity and her growing business.
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Building a Space for Belonging
Mary’s vision goes far beyond apparel. She envisions “The Gym”. She describes it as a social space for endurance athletes of all levels. Part bar, part café, and part community center, this dream spot will be the physical home of Team Average Athlete as well as the space where inspirational stories are told.
In addition to her dream brick-and-mortar space, Mary is exploring the launch of an Average Athlete Film Festival, designed to showcase stories of runners, cyclists, swimmers, and triathletes whose athleticism might never make headlines yet make an impact all the same.
She’s also building presence at major endurance events like the Indie Mini Expo and RAGBRAI, helping average athletes feel seen and supported, no matter the sport.
Why This Episode Will Motivate You
Joe and Mary’s conversation is a welcome reprieve from a world obsessed with pace charts and finish lines. It’s an invitation to simply enjoy the movement, to laugh at ourselves, and to remember why we started. Whether you’re coming back from a break, navigating self-doubt, or just looking for your people in sport this episode is for you.
More than that, it’s a rallying cry: community is greater than competition. Perfection is overrated. And showing up as you are is enough.
Watch Or Listen Then Join the Movement
Don’t miss this episode of Beyond The Finish Line. It’s more than a podcast. This is a growing movement of athletes who are flipping the script on what it means to “belong” in endurance sports.
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