Matt Reveals Why He Left Six Feet Under with Mark Calaway

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Maven sits down with Matt Laida, the original co-host of *Six Feet Under with Mark Callaway*, to discuss the podcast's origins, creative process, and evolution under WWE ownership. Matt shares how his friendship with Mark Callaway (The Undertaker) sparked the show, inspired by Maven’s YouTube channel, and emphasizes the value of storytelling and behind-the-scenes wrestling anecdotes. He reflects on the challenges of corporate transition, the enduring bond with Mark, and the uniqueness of authentic content. Matt also highlights his current ventures, celebrating both past achievements and future opportunities in wrestling media.

Takeaways

• 😀 Maven Huffman and Matt Laida discuss their experiences co-hosting the podcast 'Six Feet Under with Mark Callaway.'
• 😀 Matt clarifies he is still co-hosting the podcast, just not the version associated with the Undertaker persona.
• 😀 Maven and Mark Callaway first connected around 2017–2018 through a social media mention, leading to lunch meetings and friendship.
• 😀 The podcast concept originated with Maven suggesting Mark share stories from his wrestling career, engaging fans without being in the ring.
• 😀 The name 'Six Feet Under' was suggested by Mark, reflecting his personal ideas and interests.
• 😀 Maven emphasizes the importance of co-host chemistry and capturing Mark’s authentic personality and storytelling.
• 😀 Matt learns that WWE would take over the podcast, which was initially a shock but did not affect his friendship with Mark.
• 😀 WWE’s involvement brings star power and resources, though some raw, personal storytelling may be lost.
• 😀 Both Maven and Matt stress the uniqueness of Mark Callaway’s personal stories, which are central to the show’s appeal.
• 😀 The bond between Maven, Matt, and Mark highlights the significance of personal relationships over business, including emotional support and shared hunting trips.
• 😀 Despite changes, there is optimism about the podcast’s future under WWE, with potential for new talent and diverse guest appearances.
• 😀 Maven promotes current projects like social media platforms, 'White Trash with Money' podcast, and Nline Apparel.

Q & A

How did Matt Laida first meet Mark Callaway (The Undertaker)?

Matt Laida first met Mark Callaway around late 2017 or early 2018 when he was called to his office after someone spotted Callaway wearing a company shirt online. Matt left a voicemail, Callaway returned the call, and they ended up talking for 45 minutes about personal interests like hunting, fishing, and the military.

What inspired the creation of the 'Six Feet Under with Mark Callaway' podcast?

The podcast idea originated when Matt suggested that Mark tell stories about his wrestling career on camera without performing in the ring, providing fans a way to connect with him. Maven Huffman’s YouTube channel served as a model and inspiration for the format.

Why was the podcast named 'Six Feet Under'?

While the initial working title was 'Calling the Match,' Mark Callaway himself suggested 'Six Feet Under' as a name, which stuck and became the official title.

What role did Maven Huffman play in the development of the podcast?

Maven Huffman served as co-host, collaborator, and motivator. His YouTube channel inspired the format, and he helped bring out Mark Callaway's personality, humor, and storytelling ability.

How did Maven find out he was no longer going to be a co-host of the show?

Maven learned after filming a batch of episodes that WWE would take over the podcast. Mark Callaway informed him that the podcast would be managed by WWE and that Maven’s co-hosting role was ending.

How did Maven describe his feelings after learning he would no longer co-host?

He compared it to a breakup or being fired, feeling upset that he would no longer be able to do what he loved while maintaining a strong friendship with Mark.

What changes did WWE ownership bring to the podcast?

WWE provided greater access to talent, star power, and resources, but some personal, raw storytelling moments might be lost. Maven emphasized that the unique charm of Mark Callaway’s stories should be preserved.

What does Maven consider the most valuable aspect of the original podcast?

Maven believes the most valuable aspect was Mark Callaway’s personal storytelling, including behind-the-scenes experiences and candid, unscripted conversations with friends.

How does Maven view the transition of the podcast to WWE?

Maven sees it positively in terms of production and reach but is cautious about potential restrictions. He hopes the essence of Callaway's storytelling remains intact, while acknowledging WWE can provide resources that Matt and Maven couldn’t.

What is the nature of Maven’s relationship with Mark Callaway outside the podcast?

They share a deep friendship built on mutual respect and trust, including personal conversations during difficult times. They hunt together annually and consider each other like family.

What projects is Matt Laida currently working on?

Matt Laida currently hosts the 'White Trash with Money' podcast and runs Nline Apparel, which includes products like tactical clothing that he encourages fans to support.

What advice does Maven give to fans regarding the podcast under WWE?

Maven encourages fans not to be upset about the transition, emphasizing that the podcast’s legacy remains and that WWE’s involvement could enhance the show with greater resources and guest access.