I have a mild interest in speedrunning the game. but I feel like I should play it normally first, how would I do this? I own no Nintendo product, so wouldn't I need an emulator? and if so. what one? and after that, is there anything else I need?

How about starting by downloading any emulator that can run pokemon red/blue and then find a ROM for whichever one you choose. Then just play through the game. Or just watch other people's play through of the game.

what emulator and ROM should I use though? any links?

Look at the side bar, "Guides" "Resources"

chillmagic, sorry if im being dumb, but I need an step by step process...

Wtf is this thread even

Get a Gameboy to enjoy it like everybody did on their first playthrough