Mark Pattison is a former NFL Player, philanthropist, podcaster, and successful entrepreneur. He is currently an executive at Sports Illustrated seeking to become the 1st NFL player to ever climb the Seven Summits. Mark is the host of the podcast called Finding Your Summit which provides powerful conversations with celebrities, sports legends, and others about overcoming their adversity and finding their way.
Where did you grow up and what was your childhood like? Did you have any particular experiences/stories that shaped your adult life?
I grew up in Seattle, Washington. I had very supportive parents. My dad threw the ball at me all the time while we spent time camping and hiking. Very active youth which has shaped me today.
What is something you wish you would’ve realized earlier in your life?
Complete dedication. It hit me when I was 19 years old. It has certainly shaped my life. I also learned at 50 that being more vulnerable has had huge returns.
What are bad recommendations you hear in your profession or area of expertise?
People putting limitations on what you can achieve. I consider it noise.
Tell me about one of the darker periods you’ve experienced in life. How you came out of it and what you learned from it?
Two periods.
1) coming out of the NFL. I didn’t know what to do or who to turn to. I found that action creates a reaction that has helped me out in life.
2) When I got divorced. I never wanted it to happen but sometimes you have to let go. I’m in a great place now…
What is one thing that you do that you feel has been the biggest contributor to your success so far?
Following the pyramid of success. Making sure I’m clear on my goal, be fully committed to it and then the most important step, love what you do…
What is your morning routine?
Wake up at 6:15 am and go do Crossfit for 1 hour. After Crossfit, I make my 7 summit smoothie which really energizes me. Then I start on my workday which includes Sports Illustrated.
What habit or behavior that you have pursued for a few years has most improved your life?
Be true to yourself and be completely dedicated to many things I do. Philanthropy, Work, Physical Fitness, kids, etc…
What are your strategies for being productive and using your time most efficiently?
Learning to multitask. Having a very clear sense of what I can do can’t do. Find people that won’t let you down and are dependable to make your life work.
What book(s) have influenced your life the most? Why?
Good to Great by Jim Collins. Fantastic book on how good companies became great while others failed. Study took place over 10 years. Apple soared while companies like Comp USA failed.
Do you have any quotes you live by or think of often?
Every day I tell my kids: It takes a little more to make a champion.
