I only cut the leaves back if the plant starts to look dessicated from not cutting them. Lots of people say you should cut them, lots say you don't need to. Personally, since the leaves produce IAA/IBA ("rooting hormone"), it seems counterintuitive to cut them unless its absolutely necessary, and even then, cutting no more than needed. I'd cut off the flower.
I don't think pot type really matters, as long as it's not a shallow pan or something, and has drainage holes. Cuttings are most successful in the brightest light possible. I root them (and the Ludwig Method as well calls for) VERY bright, and VERY wet.