The USA Women’s 400m Is So Crowded, but Bailey Lear Is Looking to Breakthrough

Bailey Lear of the United States, is a rising star and one of the most consistent 400m sprinters in the country right now. She was a multiple time All-American in the 400m and 4x400 while at USC, and after completing her NCAA career in 2023, she went on to represent the United States at multiple championships. She won medals as part of the 4x400 at the 2024, 2025 and 2026 World Indoor Championships, as well as the 2024 and 2025 World Athletics Relays.In our conversation, we discuss Bailey’s transition from the NCAA into the pro world including signing with Nike in 2025. Bailey shares her experiences competing for the United States at multiple global championships over the years, and also breaks down how she has been learning to attack the 400m as a race. We also discuss Write on Track, Bailey’s new business and how she’s balancing being an athlete and entrepreneur.-------------------------------------------📱Twitter: https://x.com/EmeroleAnderson🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinalLeg📱Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/atkoeme/🎧⁠Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts⁠-------------------------------------------Chapters:00:00 Intro01:05 Kicking off 2026 Outdoor Season01:48 Competing at World Indoor Championships04:46 Competing in the NCAA at USC07:21 Transition from NCAA to Pro14:00 Consistency on the track15:32 Racing the 400m21:39 Starting Write on Track27:27 Goals for 2026