Podcast Summary: The Nikki & Brie Show - Episode featuring Emily Bett Rickards: "Queen of the Ring"

Release Date: March 27, 2025

Introduction

In this heartfelt and engaging episode of The Nikki & Brie Show, hosts Nikki and Brie Bella welcome special guest Emily Bett Rickards to discuss her captivating role in the film "Queen of the Ring." The conversation delves deep into Emily's portrayal of Mildred, the challenges of bringing a historical figure to life, and the profound impact of the character both on and off the screen.

1. Welcoming Emily Bett Rickards and Introduction to "Queen of the Ring"

Nikki Bella introduces Emily Bett Rickards enthusiastically, highlighting the excitement surrounding her role in the recent film:

• [03:03] "Emily, we are so excited."
• [03:12] Nikki shares their previous buzz about the movie, emphasizing its significance.

2. Emily’s Connection to the Character Mildred

Emily discusses her profound connection to Mildred, the film's protagonist, and the inspiration behind her portrayal:

• [04:00] "Mildred was an incredible woman. I really do owe so much of that to her because it was really finding out who she was in her story."
• She expresses admiration for Mildred's legacy and her fight for women's rights.

3. Casting and Preparation for the Role

The conversation shifts to how Emily was cast and her initial reactions:

• [04:36] Emily recounts receiving the script and her immediate fascination with Mildred's character.
• [05:46] Nikki relates to Emily's experience as a single mom balancing career and family, finding common ground in their stories.

4. Physical and Psychological Preparation

Emily details the rigorous training and psychological preparation required to embody Mildred:

• [07:02] "It was challenging because Mildred believed she could be both a single mother and a wrestler, making each version of herself stronger."
• She outlines her training regimen, including working with trainers and nutritionists to achieve the necessary physical transformation.
• [09:14] Learning wrestling techniques under professionals like Al Snow and Dougie Basham, Emily shares her journey from novice to performing in the ring.

5. Filming Intense and Emotional Scenes

Emily shares anecdotes about filming some of the movie’s most intense scenes:

• [09:55] Recounting her first wrestling match scene, Emily describes the physical and emotional demands.
• [14:12] The toughest scenes included fighting with co-star Toni Storm and a pivotal moment during a storm scene, which Emily captured in a single tense take.

6. Balancing Indie Filmmaking and Authentic Storytelling

Emily discusses the nuances of working on an indie film and staying true to Mildred’s legacy:

• [16:56] Emphasizes the importance of independent funding and creative freedom in portraying Mildred accurately.
• [17:48] Emily and Nikki reflect on the film's PG-13 rating, balancing the portrayal of Mildred's struggles with making the film accessible to a broader audience.

7. Emotional Impact and Personal Growth

The role significantly impacted Emily, leading to personal growth and introspection:

• [22:13] Transitioning out of the character was challenging, highlighting the deep emotional investment required.
• [23:39] Emily shares how portraying Mildred influenced her approach to self-care and understanding her own resilience.

8. The Importance of Legacy and Empowerment

Emily and the hosts discuss Mildred's enduring legacy and her role in empowering future generations:

• [20:44] Nikki highlights a poignant scene where Mildred chooses not to be defined by her traumas, aligning with her real-life strength.
• [22:03] Emily underscores the significance of leaving a lasting, positive legacy through storytelling.

9. Light-Hearted Interaction and Game Segment

The episode lightens as the trio engages in a fun game called "Bet on It," revealing personal tidbits:

• [31:36] Emily reveals her matcha company, Paradise Matcha, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.
• [36:35] The game reveals quirky habits and preferences, adding a playful dynamic to the conversation.

10. Inspirational Messages and Final Thoughts

As the episode concludes, Emily shares an empowering message about self-kindness and resilience:

• [43:31] "Kindness as a form of self-care… being kinder to yourself empowers people around us."
• Both Emily and the hosts emphasize the importance of self-compassion in a world filled with social pressures and competition.

Notable Quotes:

• Emily Bett Rickards [04:00]: "Mildred was an incredible woman. I really do owe so much of that to her because it was really finding out who she was in her story."
• Emily Bett Rickards [07:02]: "Mildred believed she could be both a single mother and a wrestler, making each version of herself stronger."
• Emily Bett Rickards [22:13]: "It's a system or routine…but now I would say that maybe for the next character...there was something to Mildred."

Conclusions and Reflections

This episode offers listeners an intimate look into Emily Bett Rickards' dedication to her role in "Queen of the Ring," highlighting the intersection of personal growth, historical storytelling, and empowerment. Through candid discussions and shared experiences, Emily, Nikki, and Brie provide valuable insights into balancing professional endeavors with personal life, the importance of legacy, and the power of self-kindness.

For fans of Emily Bett Rickards and those intrigued by the rigorous process of bringing complex characters to life, this episode is a must-listen. It not only celebrates Mildred's story but also inspires listeners to find strength and kindness within themselves.

Where to Watch: If you haven't seen "Queen of the Ring," you can catch it at select theaters. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the official movie website.

Connect with Emily Bett Rickards:

• Instagram & TikTok: [@EmilyBet]
• Matcha Company: Paradise Matcha

Stay Tuned: Join Nikki and Brie every Monday and Wednesday for more insightful conversations, fun games, and inspiring stories!