Full Podcast Summary / Notes (Timestamped):
[00:00:00] Introduction & Icebreakers
Charles Wright (The Godfather) opens up about his iconic persona, revealing the Godfather was solely his wife’s idea.
Jonathan Coachman and Charles share jokes and chemistry, setting a candid, upbeat tone.[00:01:02] Life After Wrestling: Retirement & Recovery
Charles describes life post-WWE, focusing on family, business, and the positive changes following knee and hip replacements, including major weight loss.[00:01:55] Birth of The Godfather Gimmick
The origin story: Wright’s transition from Nation of Domination to The Godfather, how his wife masterminded the look, and his resistance to becoming a “pimp” character.
Behind-the-scenes on costume creation and family support.[00:03:03] The Attitude Era’s Success & Impact
How Wright convinced Vince McMahon to let him entertain fans outside of standard wrestling, leading to an unscripted, authentic run.
The freedom superstars had and how edginess made the product explode in popularity.[00:04:10] Would The Godfather Survive Today?
Charles says his character wouldn’t last a minute on today’s TV due to changing cultural norms.
Light-hearted reflection on boundaries then vs. now.[00:04:50] Papa Shango: The Most Impactful Character
Fans’ lasting connection to Papa Shango and stories from meet-and-greets about scaring kids.
Why haunting personas stick with adult fans today.[00:05:33] Backstage Stories: The Girls, Undertaker, and Competition
How “the girls” were cast and managed for The Godfather act—real-life logistics and WWE’s involvement.
Anecdotes featuring The Undertaker, old-school kayfabe, and the importance of staying in character.[00:08:28] Protecting The Gimmick: Modern Wrestling’s Shifts
Coach and Charles critique recent stars breaking kayfabe, emphasizing why protecting the act means better business.
How legends like Undertaker set lasting standards.[00:09:40] Adapting to Retirement: Legends Contracts
Charles explains WWE’s Legends contract: merchandise, royalties, and staying in the business without being on TV.
Why WWE still takes care of him, and what new fans or wrestlers should know about longevity.[00:10:29] Behind-the-Scenes: Putting Victoria Through a Table
Charles recounts the infamous table spot with Lisa Marie (Victoria), his mental state at the time, and Triple H’s reaction.
Openness about personal challenges and wrestling “shoot” moments.[00:11:46] Mentoring and Giving Back
How and why Charles became a go-to for advice and guidance within the locker room, especially for newcomers and Divas.
The grit it takes to learn and succeed backstage.[00:13:06] The Business for New Talent & Rapid Fire Legends Segment
Insights for today’s wrestlers: the advice that transcends eras—listen, learn, watch everything.
One-liner impressions of The Rock, Stone Cold, Undertaker, Mick Foley, and more; if you’re a WWE history buff, don’t miss this![00:16:00] Ron Simmons, Diversity, and Growth in Wrestling
Ron Simmons’ impact, brotherhood in APA, and how representation in the business still matters.
Why Simmons is a “father figure” and beloved on all levels.[00:17:04] Memories of Shawn Michaels & Wrestling Classics
The best technical match Charles ever had (Shawn Michaels, KOTR ’96)—calling matches in the ring and learning from legends.[00:17:58] Monday Night Wars, Competition, Vince Russo, AEW
What WCW’s buyout felt like for talent, Charles’ limited connection with Russo, and why competition like AEW benefits the industry.[00:19:03] Favorite WWE Moments: Action Figures & T-Shirts
Childhood dream moments: getting his Papa Shango Hasbro and iconic Godfather t-shirt.
The surreal experience of seeing fans in his merch.[00:20:22] The Person Behind the Characters
What Charles wants fans to remember most—blurring lines between character and human, being straightforward, positive, and real.[00:20:44] Transitioning to Movies & Acting
Filming an MMA movie together; Charles draws parallels between wrestling and acting, with a nod to The Rock’s success as blueprint.[00:21:49] Final Thoughts & Tease for the Future
Behind the scenes wrap-up, future podcast appearances, and building on the stories that keep wrestling fans hooked.
