The People Who Made the Marathon Cool
From Marathon Training Academy by Angie and Trevor
May 10, 2026 · 54 min
About this episode
The episode features an interview with bestselling author Martin Dugard discussing the influential figures who popularized marathon running.
In this episode we speak with bestselling author Martin Dugard about the inspiring people who made running mainstream. The first NYC Marathon only had 127 runners (only 1 woman). Now it draws over 50,000 runners (half of whom are women) and over 2 million spectators. Martin Dugard explains how we got here. Hear about Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, Bill Rogers, Jim Ryun, and others. Links Mentioned in this Episode Run Coaching . Work with an expert MTA Running Coach. Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10 for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra. AG1 Next Gen has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2. Lagoon Sleep -With Lagoon pillows, you’ll fall asleep faster because you’re matched with the pillow that will be most comfortable for your sleep position and body type. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase. Martin Dugard is the author of a dozens #1 NYT bestsellers. He is a Fellow of Great Britain’s…
People in this episode
Hosts: Angie, Trevor
Guest: Martin Dugard
Topics covered
- marathon history
- running culture
- inspiring athletes
- women in sports
- NYC Marathon
Keywords
- marathon
- running
- Steve Prefontaine
- Frank Shorter
- Joan Benoit
- Grete Waitz
- Bill Rogers
- Jim Ryun
Sponsors
Altra Running, AG1 Next Gen, Lagoon Sleep
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: USA Track and Field Foundation
Books & works: The Long Run: Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, and the Decade That Made the Marathon Cool
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