Larger-than-life characters, thickening plots, fan engagement, vivid characters, clear messages, emotionality, overcoming adversity… This week we’re talking about pro wrestling and the power of narrative.

This is The Furious Curious podcast, where we explore culture to inspire creatives. I’m joined by recurring guest Matt Keck. Matt is the stand-up comedian behind the infamous and viral “I’m a Snake” video. He’s also one of the brilliant marketers behind the award-winning Wendy's Twitter account.

On the surface, pro wrestling may seem ham-fisted, undisciplined, or even low IQ — none of that is true. If that’s all you see, you may need to open your mind a bit or check your own IQ.

In this episode, we talk about how pro wrestlers are masters of narrative and branding, and what we can learn from these unassuming characters in the ring.

MUSIC:

"Gold-Lust" Goldust 4th Theme Song" (WWE), "Out of Touch" (Daryl Hall & John Oates).

SOURCES:

https://medium.com/@etthebrain/pro-wrestlings-perfect-prototype-for-social-media-storytelling-9912cab6bfb2

https://sayfun.medium.com/wrestling-with-stories-what-sweaty-people-in-tights-can-teach-us-about-storytelling-and-life-b396332fcf24#:~:text=Behind%20the%20camp%20and%20dumb,principles%20of%20storytelling%20remain%20universal.

https://www.reddit.com/r/WWE/comments/vxfrvt/unpopular_opinion_storytelling_is_more_important/

https://existentialcafe.blog/2020/09/01/professional-wrestling-and-identity-how-the-popularity-of-stone-cold-steve-austin-revealed-our-hidden-desires/