The Birth of the Jogging Movement

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In 1970, Blue Ribbon is now doing over half a million dollars in annual sales. They're selling out of the Cortez's literally as fast as they can get them off the boats from Japan. On Itzuka renews Blue Ribbon's distribution agreement in 1970 for three more years to run through 1973. And this happens, Phil then goes to the bankers in Oregon and asks for, Hey, you know, great. The Cortez is selling out great fitness is this new thing. We've got a three year ironclad deal with our manufacturer.

Nike — it’s perhaps the most iconic and most prolific brand of the modern era. On any given day, swooshes adorn the feet of more people on earth than any other footwear company — by a long shot.

If you read Shoe Dog or watched Air, you may think you know its history. But Shoe Dog ends in 1980, and Air… well let’s just say it’s an enjoyable piece of fiction. And it turns out (as always) that the real story is filled with far more drama, twists and business lessons than either of those works.

We’ve been wanting to cover Nike for a long time, and thanks to our LPs who voted to choose this episode it’s finally here. So lace up your Vaporflys, Air Maxes, Dunks or Jordans (or your Monarchs, hey we don’t judge), head out for a long run or walk and enjoy!

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Marc Andreessen on Lex Fridman and on Ben Thompson
Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)

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