Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a textWhen runners talk about “bucket-list marathons,” the conversation almost always begins — and ends — with the Abbott World Marathon Majors: Boston, New York, Chicago, Berlin, London, Tokyo, and Sydney. But here’s the truth: some of the fastest, most historic, and most enjoyable marathons in the world aren’t Majors at all.In this episode, I’m joined by my older brother, Kevin Beatty — a 2:21 marathoner & cross country coach at Loyalist College — to shine a light on excellent marathons beyond the Majors that deserve your attention.Kevin brings both historical perspective and recent experience, having run between 2:35–2:40 at races like Houston, CIM, and Grandma’s in his late 40s. Together we cover:✨ How the World Marathon Majors came to be — and why “Major” doesn’t always mean fastest or most prestigious✨ The hidden challenges of racing the Majors (logistics, late start times, athlete area waits)✨ International marathons worth traveling for — from historic courses like Athens and Fukuoka to PR factories like Valencia and Seville✨ U.S. “shadow majors” such as CIM, Grandma’s, Houston, and Honolulu✨ Canadian favorites region by region, plus hidden gems like Petit Train and Georgina✨ Why boutique marathons like Erie, PA or Queen City can give runners double BQ opportunities✨ New models like The Marathon Project and McKirdy Micro MarathonIf you’ve ever felt like the World Majors were the only marathons that mattered, this conversation might just expand your horizons — and your race calendar.Kevin's previous episodes on Inspired Soles:Ep 3 | Treating Running Like a Sport Ep 78 | Pacer for Carolyn’s Las Vegas 10k Win Ep 176 | US Olympic Marathon Trials RecapConnect with Carolyn & Inspired Soles:Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffinBrowse 250+ episodes in the archivesSubscribe, rate & review to support the showYou can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.