reSee.it Podcast Summary
The episode opens with Theo Von announcing new merch: tie-dye Be Good To Yourself tees in aqua, creamsicle, and indigo at theovanstore.com, and new tour dates: Lincoln, California September 15; Las Vegas October 27–28; Toronto August 31; Milwaukee September 8. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, July 26 with code Rat King.
Today's guest, Hulk Hogan, a Tampa native and one of the most recognizable figures in the world, headlined eight WrestleManias and has been an entertainer, an athlete, and a movie star. He reflects on his career, the evolution of wrestling, and the people who shaped it. He recalls Ric Flair’s hard-partying lifestyle, a serious health crisis, and the moment when Flair asked for a six-pack after waking from surgery. He discusses Flair’s ego and the dynamic between them, notes Hogan’s own consistency and drawing power, and explains the shift from Southern territory dominance to international markets.
Hogan describes his own path, including early training in Japan with Matsuda and Blassie, and how Japanese crowds treated wrestlers like royalty. He explains developing the Hulkamania character, moving into television and merchandising, and learning to lead matches with trusted partners. He notes that sometimes he would not talk in a match, letting the crowd decide, while other partners required direction. He recalls learning from Dusty Rhodes and Superstar Billy Graham and finding a balance between athleticism and showmanship.
The discussion covers Hogan’s national and international experiences, including his time in Minnesota, his return to New York, and the way the crowd’s reaction could dictate a match. He explains owning the Hulkamania name and trademarks, and recounts the Marvel licensing dispute that led to a settlement and his eventual reclaiming of the rights, including a payout structure that favored him when Marvel granted a short extension. He also mentions a vibrating Hulk Hogan action figure.
Health and lifestyle topics follow: Hogan describes 25 surgeries in the last decade, ongoing back issues, and plans for another procedure. He emphasizes sobriety—14 months clean— and his relationship with his partner Skye. He discusses his new wellness venture with CBD and Delta eight products, formed with Sunburn in Florida, launching August 1, and frames it as a step toward healthier alternatives for pain management.
The conversation also touches Hogan’s faith, family life, and friendships with figures such as Randy Savage and Hawk, the importance of friends and mentors like Mean Gene Okerlund, and his intent to slow down while staying productive in business and entertainment.