Getting Sponsored While Pregnant: What’s Changing in Pro Running with Grayson Murphy
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In this episode of For The Long Run, host Jonathan Levitt sits down with professional runner Grayson Murphy to explore the evolving landscape of women's professional running, particularly around pregnancy and sponsorship. Grayson shares her personal journey of balancing elite athletic performance with motherhood, including signing a major sponsorship deal with Solomon while pregnant—a milestone that reflects a growing shift in industry norms. She discusses the emotional challenges of slowing down during pregnancy, the importance of community support among pro moms, and the power of authenticity in storytelling. Grayson also reflects on her diverse running career, her entrepreneurial venture with Wildstrides Paper Company, and the increasing role of non-endemic brands in athlete sponsorship. The conversation highlights how brands are now recognizing the value of relatable, human athletes—especially those navigating life transitions—while also underscoring the need for systemic change in how female athletes are supported during and after pregnancy.
Pregnancy should not be a career-ending event for female athletes—sponsors like Solomon are proving it's possible to maintain and grow partnerships during this time.
Authentic storytelling, including sharing struggles like Crohn’s disease and imperfect pregnancies, builds deeper connection and relatability with fans.
Non-endemic sponsors (like dairy, meat delivery, and lifestyle brands) are becoming vital for athlete sustainability and can offer more stability than traditional running brands.
The rise of athlete-led ventures (like Wildstrides Paper Company) shows how runners are diversifying their influence beyond race results.
Community support among pro moms—through group chats and shared experiences—is essential for navigating pregnancy and postpartum transitions.
The New Normal: Pregnancy and Pro Running
“It shouldn't be lucky that a woman doesn't lose her job because she got pregnant. Like dads aren't being told, oh you're so lucky you got signed.”
Grayson's Journey: From Track to Motherhood
Grayson reflects on her running evolution, her emotional experience of slowing down during pregnancy, and the mental toll of comparing herself to other runners still training.
Breaking Barriers: The Solomon Sponsorship
“We don't devalue you just because you're pregnant right now. Like that doesn't erase what you did before and what we think you can do in the future.”
The Power of Authenticity and Community
“I've had so many women reach out and say it's so cool to see someone like you have like not a perfect pregnancy because I didn't either.”
Beyond the Track: Entrepreneurship and Storytelling
Grayson dives into her business, Wildstrides Paper Company, and how her entrepreneurial spirit evolved from childhood ventures into a full-fledged brand.
“It shouldn't be lucky that a woman doesn't lose her job because she got pregnant. Like dads aren't being told, oh you're so lucky you got signed.”
“We don't devalue you just because you're pregnant right now. Like that doesn't erase what you did before and what we think you can do in the future.”
“I've had so many women reach out and say it's so cool to see someone like you have like not a perfect pregnancy because I didn't either.”
Host
Guest
Grayson Murphy
person
Jonathan Levitt
person
Solomon
brand
Wildstrides Paper Company
brand
Good Ranchers
brand
Precision Fuel and Hydration
brand
Boulder
place
Pioneer Pastures
brand
Tifosi Optics
brand
Crohn's Disease
other
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