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Feb. 13, 2025

Ep. 74: Deonna Purrazzo - The First Lady of Stratus

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In this episode of "Passing the Torch," the host interviews Deonna Purrazzo, a professional wrestler currently signed with All Elite Wrestling. 

The conversation explores how Purrazzo's experiences of being told "no" have fueled her resilience and determination to prove herself. They discuss her inspirations and the three historical women she would combine to create the ultimate female wrestler. 

Other topics include misconceptions about female wrestlers, the importance of using one's platform for good, and her involvement in charitable endeavors like Tunnel to Towers. 

The episode also touches on Purrazzo's personal life, her support system, and her ongoing pursuit of education, highlighting her as a multifaceted individual beyond her wrestling career. 

Martin and Purrazzo engage in thoughtful discussions about striving for perfection, authenticity, and advice for the next generation. 

This episode features both serious reflections and light-hearted moments, illustrating Purrazzo's personality and candidness.

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

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Chapters

01:34 - Why life is great right now

02:58 - Paying off mortgages for First Responders and Military

04:23 - Importance of big voice, big platform

06:31 - What drives her to continuously strive for greatness, and how she balances perfection with the natural imperfections of growth

12:42 - Story behind Virtuosa

14:05 - How being told no helps build resilience and shapes personal growth even though it might be discouraging

16:58 - Being prepared to meet opportunities

19:24 - Reflecting back, rough time periods she now considers blessings in disguise

21:40 - Tips to not only survive criticism, but grow from it

27:24 - How a stubborn Jersey Girl marries a stubborn Marine

28:27 - Honing Ability

33:14 - Historical figure she most identifies with

34:43 - Three Women she would combine into one ULTIMATE Female Wrestler

40:00 - Name Game

42:02 - Cashing in a Money In The Bank life contract other than a Championship, what would it be

43:29 - Who is crazier, Steve Maclin or Chelsea Green

44:18 - Common misconceptions about female wrestlers

47:21 - Managing an Abercrombie store and who from wrestling world she would hire

49:14 - Something people would be surprised to learn about her

51:35 - Billboard message for everyone to see and read

53:01 - One piece of wisdom she would pass on to the next generation of people, to help them light their own torch and carry it forward

Transcript

In this episode of "Passing the Torch," the host interviews Deonna Purrazzo, a professional wrestler currently signed with All Elite Wrestling. 

The conversation explores how Purrazzo's experiences of being told "no" have fueled her resilience and determination to prove herself. They discuss her inspirations and the three historical women she would combine to create the ultimate female wrestler. 

Other topics include misconceptions about female wrestlers, the importance of using one's platform for good, and her involvement in charitable endeavors like Tunnel to Towers. 

The episode also touches on Purrazzo's personal life, her support system, and her ongoing pursuit of education, highlighting her as a multifaceted individual beyond her wrestling career. 

Martin and Purrazzo engage in thoughtful discussions about striving for perfection, authenticity, and advice for the next generation. 

This episode features both serious reflections and light-hearted moments, illustrating Purrazzo's personality and candidness.

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🌟 Episode Highlights 🌟
Leading from the Front:
➡︎ How self-care and leading by example trump old paradigms

🌟 A few highlights from the episode 🌟

➡︎ The Power of No: Deonna shares how hearing "no" throughout her career has been a catalyst for growth. She discusses the importance of taking control of what you can and letting resilience guide personal and professional development.

➡︎ Championing Others: In a world that's not always kind, Deonna's message is clear—supporting and uplifting those around you does not detract from your own success. Her advocacy extends beyond the wrestling world into personal ventures, such as her work with Tunnel to Towers and support for teachers through projects like Amazon’s #Clearthelist.

➡︎ Passion Beyond Wrestling: Deonna is a lifelong learner who's currently working on her master’s degree in Political Science. Her commitment to education and personal growth is truly inspiring.

➡︎ Authenticity is Key: Deonna emphasizes the strength that comes from being true to oneself. "I am me, and I own every bit of me," she passionately states. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and integrity.

➡︎ Looking Towards the Future: While she’s accomplished so much already, Deonna is also planning her journey beyond wrestling. Whether it’s a passion for politics or envisioning a family, her eyes are set on future goals, continuing to embody the motto: "If you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life."

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🔥 Deonna's Links
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➡︎ IG: https://www.instagram.com/deonnapurrazzo/ 

➡︎ X: https://x.com/deonnapurrazzo?lang=en 

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Mentioned:
Tunnel to Towers Foundation

Chris Van Vliet

AEW

TNA

Jackie Onassis Kennedy

Mickie James

Eleanor Roosevelt

Trish Stratus 

Chelsea Green

Jordynne Grace

Steve Maclin

Madison Rayne

Bon Jovi

Bruce Springsteen 

Wendy Choo

Tasha Steelz

Fandango

Matt Cardona

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Episode Quotes:

“Clapping for others does not take away from your own success.” - Chris Van Vliet

“Be so confident that no one could ever shake that from you.” - Deonna Purrazzo

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My Links
Podcast: https://www.passingthetorchpod.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC04suOPTX3ny_M0aDxmBAXQ
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pttorch
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torchmartin/

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Feb. 13, 2025

Ep. 74: Deonna Purrazzo - The First Lady of Stratus

Send us a text In this episode of "Passing the Torch," the host interviews Deonna Purrazzo, a professional wrestler currently signed with All Elite Wrestling. The conversation explores how Purrazzo's experiences of being told...

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