What transformed marathon running from a fringe obsession into a cultural phenomenon—and why did it happen in the 1970s? In this episode of History Shorts, I'm joined by bestselling author Martin Dugard to explore his latest book, The Long Run, and the remarkable decade that reshaped endurance sports forever.

We dive into the lives and legacies of icons like Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, and Grete Waitz—athletes who didn't just compete, but challenged norms, broke barriers, and helped spark a nationwide running boom. Set against the backdrop of post-Vietnam War disillusionment and the fallout of the Watergate scandal, this conversation reveals how running became something bigger than sport—it became a form of identity, rebellion, and renewal.

From Olympic triumphs to grassroots races, from gender barriers to the commercialization of modern marathons, this episode uncovers the deeper story behind why millions laced up their shoes—and never looked back.

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Conversations: 1970s - The Decade that Made the Marathon Cool