Podcast Summary: Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh Episode: Cody Rhodes on Roman Reigns “Beef”, Finishing Fathers Legacy, & Vince McMahon Story
Release Date: October 30, 2024

1. Introduction and Early Wrestling Moments

Cody Rhodes kicks off the conversation by reminiscing about one of his most magical wrestling experiences involving The Undertaker:
“[00:00] Cody Rhodes: One of the most magical things I've ever seen is the Undertaker showing up to chokeslam the Rock...”

This moment highlights the blend of realism and spectacle that defines professional wrestling, setting the tone for the episode's deep dive into Cody's wrestling journey.

2. Vince McMahon’s Pitch and Financial Decisions

Andrew Schulz probes into Vince McMahon's methods of recruiting talent, specifically asking if Vince personally pitches contracts:
“[00:25] Andrew Schulz: Is it true that Vince flies to your house to pitch you on coming to WWE?”
Cody Rhodes confirms and describes the lucrative offer he received:
“[00:35] Cody Rhodes: 15 times more than what I had been making. I always say, like, it's a peck well spent.”

Cody reflects on the financial stability WWE provided versus his later risks when leaving the company.

3. Navigating the Babyface Role

The discussion shifts to the concept of a Babyface (a heroic character in wrestling). Mark Gagnon clarifies the term, and Cody Rhodes elaborates on his experience as a Babyface:
“[03:43] Cody Rhodes: Babyface, I mean, Babyface is a good guy..."
Cody explains how maintaining this role required connecting authentically with diverse fan demographics, contrasting it with his time portraying the Stardust character.

4. Departure from WWE and Independent Circuit Ventures

Cody details his challenging departure from WWE, driven by personal decisions and financial pressures:
“[22:57] Cody Rhodes: I needed the idea that I may never come back. I needed the idea that I may never come back.”

He outlines his transition to the independent circuit, emphasizing the creation of "The List" to challenge fellow indie wrestlers and mobilize fans:
“[28:00] Cody Rhodes: The List was I'd found when people got fired a lot.”

5. The Formation and Success of All In

Cody Rhodes narrates the inception of All In, a groundbreaking independent wrestling event:
“[35:33] Cody Rhodes: All In is the craziest. The original All In was an independent show.”
He shares anecdotes about selling out large venues rapidly, encountering unexpected challenges, and the emotional high of collaborating with wrestling legends like Rey Mysterio.

6. Collaboration with Tony Khan and the Rise of AEW

The episode explores how All In led to interactions with Tony Khan, founder of All Elite Wrestling (AEW):
“[46:14] Andrew Schulz: And Tony's a big wrestling fan.”
Cody discusses pitching their vision and how it aligned with Tony Khan's plans, contributing to AEW's emergence as a major wrestling promotion.

7. Wrestling Storytelling: Blending Reality and Performance

A significant portion delves into the art of wrestling storytelling, where real emotions intersect with scripted events:
“[85:40] Andrew Schulz: But what is the move where he puts on his shoulders?”
Cody Rhodes emphasizes the importance of authentic fan connections and how moments like WrestleMania main events create lasting impressions by blurring the lines between reality and performance.

8. Interactions with Wrestling Legends and Personal Growth

Cody shares heartfelt interactions with legends like The Rock and Randy Orton, highlighting mutual respect and professional camaraderie:
“[98:55] Andrew Schulz: Explain what happens when the Rock comes in. I can't believe we've jumped over getting...”
These moments illustrate Cody’s growth from a WWE talent to an influential figure in the wrestling world, balancing legacy and personal ambition.

9. Reflections on Wrestling’s Evolution and Future Prospects

In closing, Cody Rhodes reflects on wrestling's evolution, the importance of physicality balanced with storytelling, and his aspirations for continuing to shape the industry's future:
“[162:56] Cody Rhodes: I think I went to a place in my mind and maybe I was feeling really positive...”

He underscores the significance of family support and personal responsibility in sustaining a successful wrestling career, aiming to inspire the next generation of wrestlers.

Notable Quotes:

• Cody Rhodes on Vince's offer:
  “[00:35] Cody Rhodes: 15 times more than what I had been making. I always say, like, it's a peck well spent.”

• Cody Rhodes on being a Babyface:
  “[03:43] Cody Rhodes: Babyface, I mean, Babyface is a good guy.”

• Cody Rhodes on creating "The List":
  “[28:00] Cody Rhodes: The List was I'd found when people got fired a lot.”

• Cody Rhodes on All In success:
  “[35:33] Cody Rhodes: All In is the craziest. The original All In was an independent show.”

• Cody Rhodes reflecting on WrestleMania moments:
  “[85:40] Cody Rhodes: And that was a really beautiful conversation I had...”

• Cody Rhodes on family support:
  “[125:11] Cody Rhodes: I think I would tell her because I remember I went to Waffle House with my dad when I finally told him...”

Conclusion

This episode of Flagrant offers an in-depth exploration of Cody Rhodes’ wrestling career, from his foundational experiences in WWE to his pivotal role in establishing All In and influencing the broader wrestling landscape through AEW. Through candid conversations and personal anecdotes, listeners gain valuable insights into the complexities of professional wrestling, the balance between legacy and innovation, and the enduring impact of authentic storytelling.