Explore every episode of the podcast Getting Colour

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

This week on Getting Colour, Conor and Jeff dive deep into the squared circle’s untold history with wrestling historian John Cosper, author of “The Great and Inimitable June Byers.” (Available to purchase here.)

Was June Byers the rightful heir to the women's wrestling throne—or the product of backstage politicking and promotional betrayal? Cosper walks us through the rise of Byers from a Texas upstart to the woman who dared to challenge Mildred Burke, topple the Wolfe-Burke empire, and claim her place in wrestling lore. We break down the infamous 1954 title match, the murky alliances behind the curtain, and why Byers’ legacy has too often been pinned to the mat of history.

This one’s got drama, dirt, and dropkicks—so lace up, because we’re giving color to one of wrestling’s fiercest (and most misunderstood) champions.

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Jeff and Conor dive into the electric world of wrestling commentary. They break down what makes a legendary voice behind the desk, from Jim Ross's iconic "BAH GAWD" calls to Bobby "The Brain" Heenan's quick-witted heel work. The hosts debate their Mount Rushmore of wrestling commentators, share their favorite calls of all time, and discuss how the right voice can elevate even the most ordinary match into an unforgettable moment. Whether you're a longtime wrestling fan or new to the squared circle, this passionate conversation captures why these voices become as beloved as the superstars themselves

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Join Conor and Jeff as we step into the flamboyant world of Gorgeous George, the original wrestling showman whose charisma and theatrics laid the groundwork for the modern spectacle of professional wrestling. Discover how he transformed into Gorgeous George, captivating audiences with his luxurious robes, golden curls, and imperious attitude. We'll dive deep into his career highlights, his influence on pop culture and the wrestling industry, and how he changed the game with his theatricality and flair. Join us as we unravel the story of a man who was not only ahead of his time but also shaped the persona of the sports entertainment we know and love today. Don't miss this riveting look back at the man who dared to be different and in doing so, became an icon.

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Join Conor and Jeff this week as they delve into the World of Sport, the World of British Professional Wrestling. Many people are unaware of the world of 1970s and 1980s wrestling in Britain. This was a time of innovation, of big men and even bigger egos, completely divorced from the WWF and American wrestling. Learn all about this forgotten world! 

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Andrew Calvert is the expert on Toronto territorial wrestling. Author of 'From Nanjo to The Sheik: Tales from Toronto wrestling', AC also runs the highly successful, and informative, website https://mapleleafwrestling.blogspot.com/.

This episode Conor and Jeff sit down with Andrew to discuss the highs and lows of one of the most successful territories in wrestling history 

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

What did it mean to be a Memphis wrestler? How did the East Coast companies run differently to the Canadian or West Coast ones? Was the territorial system more exciting for fans? Or was the WWE-ification of wrestling a better model? 

Join Conor and Jeff for another fascinating episode on how wrestling ran prior to the 1980s. 

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

This week we Patrea Patrick about her critically acclaimed 2019 Bruno Sammartino Movie. Patrea's movie captured the majesty and skill of Bruno's career, as well as his unshakeable moral integrity. We sit down with Patrea for an awesome chat about wrestling, Bruno and life. Enjoy.  

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Join Conor and Jeff this week as they discuss Bruno's time in the WWE. What were the main rivalries, the main matches and, the behind the scenes stories of one of wrestling's most successful ever grapplers!

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Join Jeff and Conor this week as they discuss the early life and career of the legendary WWWF Champion Bruno Sammartino. Learn about his upbringing first in Italy under Nazi occupation, and then as an immigrant in the US. We next discuss his raw strength and athleticism which saw him excel first in strength sports and then in the political world of pro-wrestling

This episode covers Bruno's career right up to his signing with the WWWF in 1963.

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Join Conor and Jeff this week as they discuss the strongest ever wrestlers. Does 'gym strength' count the most or is wrestling strength a separate category? We begin with legendary figures like George Hackenschmidt in the late 1800s and move all the way to the present with names like Cena, Henry and Strowman. Let us know what you think - who is the strongest wrestler ever? 

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

One month on from WWE's marquee event, Conor and Jeff reflect on the Wreslemania experience this year, but as fan and attendee. We also focus on the enduring legacy of ECW, what next for Cody Rhodes and where AEW can focus on in the coming months. Don't forget to join in by sending us YOUR questions

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Dive headfirst into the hardcore, revolutionary world of Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) with Jeff and Conor on this electrifying episode of Getting Color. Explore the gritty, raw, and real impact ECW had on the wrestling landscape, from pioneering hardcore matches to influencing storytelling and character development in ways still felt today. Discover the legends who bled for ECW, the innovation behind the violence, and how ECW's spirit lives on in chants that still echo in arenas around the globe. Join us as we pay tribute to the underdog promotion that proved passion, creativity, and a strong community could change the world of wrestling forever. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the lore of ECW, this episode is a testament to the extreme passion that still captivates the hearts of wrestling fans worldwide.

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

In this episode, Conor and Jeff dive into the vibrant world of Indian wrestling, tracing its ancient origins to its current status as a revered sport. They unravel the rich history, cultural significance, and evolution of wrestling  over centuries. From the sacred soil of the akharas to the international arenas, they explore how Indian wrestlers have made their mark globally.  

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Join Jeff and Conor this week as the discuss the Cody Rhodes/Roman Reigns drama and Wrestlemania storyline... and the return of The Rock in the midst of it. Looking at the history of pro wrestling we discuss the greatest storylines of all time, what makes someone a 'star' within the industry and how this storyline could/should evolve

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

In this captivating episode of Getting Colour, Jeff and Conor dive deep into the world of professional wrestling to explore the unsung heroes of the ring: the managers. These charismatic individuals often stay in the shadows, but their impact on the sport is undeniable. Jeff and Conor take you on a journey to understand what makes a great wrestling manager.

From the essential skills of mic work to the art of storytelling and in-ring psychology, we break down the crucial components that set apart the good from the great. Our hosts analyze famous managers like Jimmy Hart, Paul Heyman, and Paul Hart, dissecting their techniques, their unique styles, and the indelible marks they left on the industry.

But who is the best of all time? Jeff and Conor debate this, bringing their insights and personal experiences to the table. Expect lively discussions, behind-the-scenes stories, and a deep dive into the psychology and charisma that make these figures so compelling.

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

In this gripping and grappling episode we dive into the legendary world of the Von Erich wrestling dynasty and the iconic World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW) territory. Join us as we explore the upcoming Zac Efron movie Iron Claw, the Von Erich's own tragedies and, in a point often under-discussed, just how inventive and innovative Texas wrestling was from the 1960s to 1980s.

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Released in 1985, I Like to Hurt People offered wrestling fans a rare insight into the world of Ed Farhet (The Sheik!) and the world of Detroit Wrestling in the 1970s. In this episode we sit down with Bryan Greenberg, a man deeply involved in the Documentary's creation and preservation, about 70s wrestling and the legends he saw.

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Was he a villain by nature or by design? How did this shrewd businessman and master showman change the face of wrestling forever? From his brutal matches to his lasting influence on sports entertainment, we unravel the mystique of The Sheik. 

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

The man behind Hulkamania? 

We're back each and every month for another deep dive into the world of shorts and spandex.  Check us out on Twitter too @GettingColour

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Join Conor and Jeff as they discuss the life and legacy of one of professional wrestlings most important characters 

We're back each and every month for another deep dive into the world of shorts and spandex.  Check us out on Twitter too @GettingColour

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff

Join Conor and Jeff for our inaugural episode on why professional wrestling matters. Today we discuss how we came to wrestling, how it has shaped our lives and careers and, more importantly,  what wrestling teaches us about the world.

We're back each and every month for another deep dive into the world of shorts and spandex. 

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 gettingcolour@gmail.com

Yours in Wrestling,

Conor & Jeff