In this episode of Getting Colour, hosts Jeff and Conor sit down with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jeff Leen to discuss his acclaimed biography The Queen of the Ring: Sex, Muscles, Diamonds, and the Making of an American Legend. The book tells the riveting story of Mildred Burke, a trailblazing figure in professional wrestling who rose from Depression-era obscurity to become the longest-reigning women’s champion in history.

Leen shares the years of investigative work that went into uncovering Burke’s remarkable life—her rise through the carnival circuit, her clashes with male promoters, and her lasting impact on women’s sports and wrestling’s golden era. The conversation also explores Burke’s legacy in light of contemporary wrestling and the forthcoming film adaptation of her story.

Tune in for a deep dive into grit, glamour, and the forgotten queen who fought for her place in the ring.

We're back each and every month for another deep dive into the world of shorts and spandex. Check us out on Twitter/X @GettingColour or email us at [email protected]

Yours in Wrestling,
Conor & Jeff