In this episode we talk to WWE pro-wrestler Mercedes Varnado, aka Sasha Banks. 

Mercedes was named Sports Illustrated’'s top Superstar of 2020, and she’s just as impressive outside the ring. Check out the hit Star Wars series The Mandalorian on Disney Plus to see Mercedes making her acting debut as Koska Reeves.

As a child, Mercedes was ‘extremely shy’ with ‘no friends’. We find out what it took for her to harness her fear and become one of WWE’s most confident wrestlers. 

We ask what her mum thinks about her life in the ring, hear how she almost missed the phone call of her career and learn why growing up with an autistic brother taught her to see the world differently.

Whether you’re already into wrestling or not, Mercedes can teach us all a thing or two about following our dreams.

Mercedes' ‘3am Questions’:

Favourite book - The Alchemist by Paul Coelho Favourite song - Alright by Kendrick LamarFavourite film - Oldboy

Mercedes and her husband, WWE costume designer Sarath Ton, support the Soles 4 Souls charity, which aims to provide every homeless child in the USA with a new pair of shoes. You can donate or find out more at:

https://soles4souls.org/

We want to hear from you. If you have a brilliant 'Did You Know?' fact, a question for us, a jingle you’ve written or a voice note you want to share, get in touch! We’ll choose a few messages and include them in the audio version of the podcast every episode. You can tweet us your message using the hashtag #normalnotnormal or email us at [email protected] 

Remember, if you’re sending us a voice note or jingle and you’re under eighteen, please get permission from your parents or guardian.

Follow us on Twitter:@OliverPhelps     @James_Phelps@SashaBanksWWE

Normal Not Normal is a Stabl production.Produced by Alice Homewood.Music 'Not Normal' by Sebastian Forslund and 'Bobby Swing' by The Bladwerk BandLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices