Podcast Summary: "Nikki Bella" Episode of What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes

Released on July 23, 2025

Introduction

In this special episode of What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes, WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes welcomes the illustrious Nikki Bella, marking the first Hall of Famer to grace the show. As two-time and longest-reigning Divas Champion, Nikki brings a wealth of experience and personal insights to the conversation. The episode delves deep into their shared history in WWE, personal lives, entrepreneurial endeavors, and Nikki's perspectives on the evolution of women's wrestling.

Backstage Stories and WrestleMania Experiences

Nikki and Cody reminisce about pivotal moments behind the scenes at WrestleMania, highlighting both memorable and challenging experiences.

• Iconic Moments: Nikki recalls a significant backstage photo: “I remember it so well. I feel like I still see it every now and then” (02:28). This image captured Nikki, her sister Brie, and Damien Sandow in a symbolic hug, moments before their match was controversially cut from the broadcast.

• Emotional Impact: Nikki shares the emotional toll of having matches cut for drama purposes, expressing her frustration: “But if they cut it for drama, for TV, that actually pisses me off” (03:31).

• Unexpected Encounters: A humorous yet nerve-wracking anecdote unfolds when Cody accidentally encounters then-President Donald Trump backstage: “I look up, and it is the sitting President of the United States, Donald Trump...I just turned and I'm in full gear” (04:24).

Life Beyond Wrestling: Personal Lives and Parenthood

The conversation shifts to Nikki's life outside the ring, focusing on her role as a mother and her growth as an entrepreneur.

• Balancing Act: Nikki discusses the joys and challenges of motherhood: “I have this needy baby. All I need for life” (25:53). She emphasizes the importance of fostering resilience in her son while maintaining a strong personal identity.

• Entrepreneurial Ventures: Transitioning from wrestling, Nikki highlights her ventures into winemaking and hosting shows, expressing her passion: “I really love hosting. So I've gotten to work with a lot of badass people in the industry” (18:19).

Entrepreneurial Ventures and Hosting Shows

Nikki elaborates on her post-wrestling career, particularly her entrepreneurial efforts and her love for hosting.

• Wine Production: Alongside her sister Brie, Nikki has delved into winemaking, producing wines that reflect their personal tastes and business acumen.

• Television Hosting: Nikki shares her experiences hosting shows like AGT Extreme alongside industry legends such as Simon Cowell and Carson Daly. She praises Carson's support: “Carson was so amazing. I have to say, all the people that I've worked with because I really enjoyed AGT Extreme with Terry Crews, Simon Cowell, and Travis Pastrana all amazing” (20:09).

Advice for Aspiring Female Wrestlers

Nikki offers invaluable advice to young women aspiring to enter the wrestling industry, drawing from her extensive experience.

• Perseverance: “Never take no for an answer. I never did” (70:22). Nikki emphasizes the importance of resilience and turning negatives into positives.

• Character Development: She advises aspiring wrestlers to develop multifaceted characters: “Know your character. Know the layers. Be a standout...They have to have it” (70:33).

• Craftsmanship: Nikki underscores the necessity of honing both in-ring skills and storytelling abilities, stating, “We are a Broadway with body slams” (71:48).

Evolution of WWE Divas to Modern Women's Division

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the transformation from the Divas era to the modern women's division in WWE.

• Empowerment and Strength: Nikki reflects on the Divas era, highlighting the balance between femininity and athleticism: “The Divas is. They had it all. They had empowerment, they had inspiration...they had beauty and they used that as their strength” (57:17).

• Respecting the Past: She expresses appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of the Divas, advocating for their legacy: “But I really loved that era. And also the Divas were kind of like...we had to earn our place” (57:29).

• Modern Perspective: Nikki acknowledges the advancements in the women's division while honoring its roots: “We need them both [storytelling and moves], and that's what makes us so badass and cool” (73:09).

Training and Mentorship in Wrestling

Nikki and Cody discuss the importance of training facilities and mentorship in shaping successful wrestlers.

• The Dungeon 2.0: Nikki praises her training facility, Dungeon 2.0, highlighting the expertise of coaches Natty and TJ: “TJ has the smartest brain in the wrestling industry...He can coach very well” (61:55).

• Mentorship: Both emphasize the role of mentors in their careers, with Nikki stating, “But it's just, we have gone through a lot together...it’s a sisterhood” (67:45).

• Future Generations: Nikki looks forward to mentoring upcoming wrestlers, particularly her nephews who are entering the business: “They're special, and I'd love it if they trained with me” (65:36).

Connection and Storytelling in Wrestling

The duo delves into the essence of wrestling as a storytelling medium, emphasizing the blend of athleticism and narrative.

• Audience Connection: Nikki asserts, “We go and tell a story on that mat with moves. We are sports entertainment. We are not just sports, and we are not just entertainment. We are both” (71:21).

• Promotional Skills: Cody shares his realization of the importance of storytelling in promos: “But here's why we're arguing. We need them both, guys” (71:03).

• Legacy and Influence: They acknowledge how iconic promos and storylines have shaped their careers and the industry at large.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, Nikki and Cody reflect on their enduring friendship, professional collaborations, and the vibrant legacy they continue to build within WWE and beyond.

• Hall of Fame Pride: Nikki beams with pride over her Hall of Fame induction, sharing her excitement: “And you said, you rock yours. And you said, you rock yours” (52:38).

• Enduring Friendship: The conversation underscores the deep bond between Nikki and Cody, forged through years of shared experiences in the wrestling world.

• Looking Forward: Both express optimism for the future, eager to continue contributing to the industry and inspiring the next generation of wrestlers.

Notable Quotes:

1. “Never take no for an answer. I never did.” (70:22)
   — Nikki Bella

2. “We are a Broadway with body slams.” (71:48)
   — Cody Rhodes

3. “The Divas is. They had it all. They had empowerment, they had inspiration...they had beauty and they used that as their strength.” (57:17)
   — Nikki Bella

4. “We need them both [storytelling and moves], and that's what makes us so badass and cool.” (73:09)
   — Cody Rhodes

5. “But I really loved that era. And also the Divas were kind of like...we had to earn our place.” (57:29)
   — Nikki Bella

Final Thoughts

This episode offers an intimate glimpse into Nikki Bella's journey, her unwavering commitment to wrestling, and her evolution into a multifaceted entrepreneur and mother. Cody and Nikki's candid dialogue not only celebrates past achievements but also sets the stage for future endeavors, inspiring listeners with their resilience, passion, and dedication to the art of wrestling.