Podcast Summary: "What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes" – Episode Featuring Brandi Rhodes
Episode Information
- Title: What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes
- Guest: Brandi Rhodes
- Release Date: May 28, 2025
1. Welcome and Introduction [00:00 – 01:31]
Cody Rhodes opens the episode aboard his tour bus, affectionately introducing Brandi Rhodes as his guest. He highlights Brandi’s numerous achievements, including being the first African American female announcer full-time for WWE and the first black executive in a North American wrestling company. Cody emphasizes her role as the mother of his child and his favorite person, setting a heartfelt tone for the conversation.
Cody Rhodes [00:35]: "The first woman who was involved in a match at New Japan's Wrestle Kingdom... my Wonder Wall, my muse, my favorite person, and of course, my baby mama."
2. Early Wrestling Memories and Characters [01:24 – 03:23]
The conversation shifts to wrestling history, discussing lesser-remembered characters like Akeem (formerly known as The One Man Gang). Cody recounts a memorable Royal Rumble moment involving Dusty Rhodes and Roddy Piper, highlighting the emotional impact it had on his father.
Cody Rhodes [02:39]: "Roddy Piper just runs across and starts pummeling Dusty and ruins the moment."
3. Personal Anecdotes and Daily Life [03:23 – 07:30]
Brandi shares a humorous exchange about making waffles for their child, Libby, while Cody reflects on their relationship dynamics. They joke about aging together and discuss the quirks of daily life, including dealing with Cody’s dog, Buck.
Brandi Rhodes [05:14]: "I can still drink on an upset stomach... because in this classic era of aging, there are a lot of reasons to need a drink at the end of a day where my stomach hurts."
4. Managing Daily Challenges and Parenting [07:30 – 21:00]
The couple delves into the challenges of parenting, including managing their daughter Libby’s behavior and the impact of Cody’s dog Buck on their daily routine. Brandi expresses her frustrations with Buck’s antics, while Cody humorously defends his dog.
Brandi Rhodes [09:00]: "I nearly tore my ACL instantly because there were eyes looking at me from the backseat... it was a damn deer head in the backseat."
5. Professional Ventures and Personal Projects [21:00 – 35:00]
Brandi discusses her business, Naked Mind Yoga and Pilates, and the efforts involved in organizing family heirlooms. She emphasizes the importance of hiring professionals for tasks she’s not skilled in, contrasting it with Cody’s hands-on approach.
Brandi Rhodes [12:46]: "If you don't know how to organize, hire somebody that does know how. Don't play games with that."
6. Wrestling Experiences and Special Moments [35:00 – 51:20]
Brandi reminisces about significant moments in her wrestling career, including her interactions with WWE Superstars like Stardust. Cody shares his excitement and emotions surrounding WrestleMania 40, detailing the unforgettable moments and audience reactions.
Brandi Rhodes [26:16]: "One of my favorite moments ever was getting to play Jay Lethal's faux Elizabeth classic in a match when he was..."
7. Reflections on Wrestling’s Impact and Personal Growth [51:20 – 66:00]
Both Brandi and Cody reflect on what they miss about pro wrestling, such as the performance aspect and the sense of occasion at events. They discuss the toll of the wrestling lifestyle on personal health and the importance of maintaining personal projects outside the ring.
Brandi Rhodes [51:20]: "I miss the performance element... and I miss being with you. Of course, that's probably the top thing."
8. Closing Remarks and Future Plans [66:00 – End]
In their final segment, Brandi and Cody exchange heartfelt compliments, discussing their mutual support and admiration. They end the episode with light-hearted banter, reinforcing their strong personal and professional bond.
Cody Rhodes [68:10]: "You are winning at this game and I'm lucky to be on the ride. So thank you for joining us. Thank you for actually being a big time Wheatley drinker. I think this is a good way to end an episode with you, to tell you you're my favorite and I love you."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Cody Rhodes [00:35]: "The first woman who was involved in a match at New Japan's Wrestle Kingdom... my Wonder Wall, my muse, my favorite person, and of course, my baby mama."
- Brandi Rhodes [12:46]: "If you don't know how to organize, hire somebody that does know how. Don't play games with that."
- Brandi Rhodes [51:20]: "I miss the performance element... and I miss being with you. Of course, that's probably the top thing."
- Cody Rhodes [68:10]: "You are winning at this game and I'm lucky to be on the ride. So thank you for joining us. Thank you for actually being a big time Wheatley drinker. I think this is a good way to end an episode with you, to tell you you're my favorite and I love you."
Key Insights and Conclusions
- Deep Personal Connection: The episode underscores the strong personal bond between Cody and Brandi Rhodes, highlighting their mutual support and affection.
- Wrestling Legacy: Brandi’s contributions to WWE and her pioneering roles are celebrated, providing listeners with an intimate look into her professional journey.
- Balancing Personal and Professional Life: Both Brandi and Cody discuss the challenges of balancing their demanding careers in wrestling with their family life, offering relatable insights for listeners.
- Business Ventures Beyond Wrestling: Brandi’s endeavor with Naked Mind Yoga and Pilates showcases her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to personal growth outside the wrestling arena.
- Nostalgia and Reflection: The discussion includes fond memories of past wrestling events, emphasizing the enduring impact of key moments like WrestleMania 40 on their lives.
This episode provides a rich and engaging dialogue between Cody and Brandi Rhodes, blending personal anecdotes with professional insights, making it a compelling listen for fans and newcomers alike.