Episode 550: Emily Mackay – World Indoor Bronze Medalist, 2024 Olympian, and a new PR of 3:55.90 in the 1500m

I'll Have Another with Lindsey Hein Podcast

In this episode, I’m so excited to have Emily Mackay as my guest! Emily recently competed in the Paris Olympics, representing Team USA in the 1500 meters. It was such a thrill to watch her make the team—what a stacked field! Emily had to run an incredible 3:55 to secure her spot on the Olympic team alongside Nikki Hiltz and Elle Purrier-St.Pierre. It’s wild to think that just a few years ago, in the 2021 trials, Emily’s personal best in the 1500 was 4:17. Fast forward to 2024 she’s run so many PRs, including a 1:57 in the 800m.

In our conversation, we dive into Emily’s incredible progression and what it took to get here. She also opens up about her Olympic experience, how she felt not making the final, and her reflections post-Olympics. Emily runs for Team New Balance Boston, coached by Mark Coogan, and if you haven’t been following them, you’re missing out—they’re one of the most exciting teams right now. And yes, we do talk about that hilarious Instagram video with Laura Green that made us love the team even more!

This episode isn’t all about running, Emily shares what she’s reading, listening to, and her favorite spots in Boston. It’s a fun, well-rounded conversation that I think you’ll really enjoy.

What we talked about:

6:00- Training with Team NB Boston

10:00- Believing in herself to make big jumps in improvement

23:00- Breaking down her race at the Olympics Trials

33:00- The confidence she’s gained from recent PRs

35:00- Her Olympic experience

52:10- End of podcast questions

Show notes:

Emily on Instagram

Book recommendations:

A Court of Thorns and Roses

The Covenant of Water

Connect with Lindsey:

Lindsey on Instagram

Lindsey on Twitter

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