The Bella Twins on Owning Their Story, Healing, and Embracing Change
The Bella Twins—Brie and Nikki Bella—have been household names in the world of WWE, but their journey has extended far beyond the ring. As entrepreneurs, reality TV stars, and now soon-to-be mothers, they have built a brand centered on authenticity and empowerment. In their candid conversation on Better Together with Maria Menounos, the sisters opened up about the challenges they’ve faced, their approach to healing, and how they are redefining success on their own terms.
Owning Their Story and Breaking Free from Victimhood
In their memoir Incomparable, the Bella Twins share deeply personal stories of their childhood, their struggles in WWE, and the hardships they’ve endured. One of the most powerful themes they discussed with Maria was the idea of stepping out of victimhood and reclaiming their narratives.
“There’s power in owning your full story—the good, the bad, and the embarrassing,” Nikki explained. “We wanted people to see that you can go through really tough times, but you don’t have to stay in a place of pain.”
Brie echoed this sentiment, adding that being open about their struggles has allowed them to connect with their fans on a deeper level. “We all go through different battles, but if we keep them bottled up, we don’t allow ourselves to grow.”
The Importance of Healing and Therapy
Healing has been a significant part of the Bellas’ journey. Both sisters emphasized the transformative power of therapy and, more recently, working with a life coach.
“We did therapy as kids, but we didn’t really embrace it,” Brie admitted. “It wasn’t until we were adults that we realized how much we needed it.”
For Nikki, working with a life coach was a game-changer. “Therapy helped me process emotions, but my life coach pushed me to grow. She helped me step into my power, stop people-pleasing, and start trusting my own voice.”
One of the most impactful lessons they learned was the simple act of replacing the word “but” with “and” when communicating. “It changes the way people receive what you’re saying and keeps the conversation more open and constructive,” Brie shared.
Redefining Success and Slowing Down
Like many high achievers, the Bella Twins spent years hustling non-stop. However, the pandemic forced them to reevaluate their priorities.
“For the first time in my life, I actually stopped to breathe,” Nikki said. “I realized I was giving my energy to too many things that weren’t fulfilling me.”
Brie agreed, explaining that she and her husband, WWE star Daniel Bryan, have been having deep conversations about what truly brings them happiness. “We always said, ‘In five years, we’ll slow down.’ But why wait? Why not start now?”
The sisters have also found comfort in small, mindful practices, like using essential oils, meditating with crystals, and prioritizing self-care. “I used to feel guilty taking a bath, like I should be doing something productive. Now, I see it as something necessary for my well-being,” Brie said.
Navigating Pregnancy During a Pandemic
Both Bella sisters are pregnant at the same time, an unexpected twist in their already intertwined lives. While they are thrilled to be experiencing motherhood together, the journey has come with unique challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I feel like I’m missing out on all the fun parts of pregnancy,” Nikki admitted. “No baby showers, no big celebrations—just lots of quarantine. But I’m grateful for the time to slow down and really connect with my baby.”
Brie, who is already a mother to her daughter Birdie, reminded her sister that being home during pregnancy is actually a blessing. “When I was pregnant with Birdie, I was traveling non-stop. This time, I get to relax and be more present.”
Looking Ahead
Despite all the changes in their lives, the Bella Twins remain committed to inspiring others. They continue to run their businesses, host The Bellas Podcast, and explore future projects in TV and entertainment.
As for whether they’ll return to WWE? Brie isn’t ruling it out. “I’d love to wrestle for my child one day, even if it’s just one match.” Nikki agreed, saying that if the timing is right, a comeback could be possible.
For now, they’re focused on embracing their evolving identities and proving that strength comes in many forms—not just in the ring, but in being vulnerable, in healing, and in choosing happiness on their own terms.
To hear the full conversation, check out the Bella Twins’ interview on Heal Squad with Maria Menounos. And for more inspiring conversations with game-changers and healers, subscribe to Heal Squad on Apple Podcasts and YouTube.