RAANAP: Live from RHAPCon

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Rob Cesternino (@robcesternino) and Akiva Wienerkur (@keev26) need a podcast and every week, Rob and Akiva spin a wheel of listener-submitted podcast ideas, and whatever the wheel lands on is what they podcast about next. This week, Rob and Akiva are LIVE at RHAPCon in Milwaukee.

RAANAP goes live from Milwaukee as Rob and Akiva bring RAANAP Live 2026 to the stage. This interactive episode blends reality TV banter with live games, audience confessions, and unexpected matchmaking?all powered by community participation and a dash of musical flair.

Rob, Akiva, and a cast of live participants set the tone with stories of mysterious magician invitations and reflections on how the fandom has changed since their last live show. Audience energy drives the episode as secrets are submitted anonymously and lighthearted debates arise over Coke Zero, the ethics of finding one?s cousin attractive, and the perils of favorite song requests for piano players.

The episode spotlights several in-room challenges: listeners step forward to have their ages, marital histories, and salaries guessed through a series of on-the-fly social games. The sorting games produce clever questions and colorful stories, from first dates to boycott-worthy mayonnaise preferences. Highlighting the night is a matchmaking segment, where ?RAANAPchelor? Alex questions three potential matches without seeing them, leading to a memorable pick and the promise of a Chili?s date, courtesy of Akiva.

Anonymous audience secrets range from the embarrassing (destroyed clarinets, ?hoe phases? in one?s 40s) to the criminally mischievous Social deduction games as Rob, Akiva, and guests try to order participants by age, number of marriages, and annual salary Anthony?s honest take on synthetic sodas and musical pet peeves adds humor and candor Community love stories emerge, including a couple whose relationship is woven through RAANAP live events, podcasts, and road trips A matchmaking game brings together Alex and ?VIP nanny? Lindsay, with a future podcast check-in already on the horizon

The episode closes with hopes for more live events, potential onstage weddings, and gratitude for the RAANAP community?s stories and participation. Will the podcast?s matchmaking finally get Akiva ?into heaven? by making a real couple? Join in for fan stories, live energy, reality-inspired antics, and a testament to the power of community.

Listen now for candid confessions, social games, and the kind of reality fandom fun you can only get at a RAANAP live show!

Chapters:
00:00 RAANAP Live begins
06:01 Listener Secrets and Hot Cousins
10:32 Recruiting a New Fan Live
13:36 Guessing Listener Ages Game
20:23 Salary Sorting: Who Earns Most?
26:21 Sorting Marriage Histories Blind
33:00 Wedding Proposals and Engagements Shared
38:30 The Renaptular Dating Challenge
47:00 Lindsay Chosen for Renaptular Date
54:00 Listener Secrets Revealed Live
01:03:00 Clarinet Confession and Emotional End

For the link to the spreadsheet that Rob and Akiva use to compile ideas, check it all out here: Rob and Akiva Need a Spreadsheet (compiled by the great Will from America).

To submit an idea for a future episode of ?Rob and Akiva Need a Podcast? to be discussed on the mailbag, submit it on this form: Rob and Akiva?s Mailbag Form.

Past Episodes of Rob & Akiva Need a Podcast

BB28 Week 7 Exit Interview

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Big Brother 28 fans, buckle up for a revealing exit interview with host Taran Armstrong and evicted houseguest Mallory. The fallout from Mallory?s eviction has left the house reflecting on loyalty, backstabbing, and whether being an ?Icon Junior? is a smart way to play. Mallory shares her side of a week full of strategizing, shifting loyalties, and unexpected betrayals.

This episode digs into Mallory?s experience leading up to eviction and her reaction to learning about the secret moves that shaped her fate. Taran asks why Mallory didn?t win the crucial HoH, to which she admits nerves got the best of her, rather than a strategic throw. They break down Barrett and Drew?s gameplay?how they relayed information to the veteran houseguests, calling themselves ?Bear Rats? and even leaking alliance names like FAP. Mallory discusses the impact of the tight alliance between Drew, Barrett, and Devens, the so-called ?father-sons? dynamic, and how Devens made everyone feel special to keep control. She also reacts to news of Dee?s safety deal with Yash and the implications for the next HoH. Taran highlights Mallory?s passionate presence in the house and her ?Pipe Queen? nickname, as well as the audience?s reaction to Drew?s vote against her. Mallory shares what it meant to be cheered on by her favorite alumni after eviction.

Mallory reveals she panicked during the HoH competition, rather than throwing it intentionally, and didn?t know who she would have nominated Taran points out Barrett and Drew?s season-long pattern of feeding the veterans house information, which led to Mallory’s distrust Mallory argues that playing for the vets?as Barrett and Drew did?makes it impossible to win, since no one would award them the final vote Taran explains Dee?s bribe to Yash, which not only secured Dee?s safety but also Devens? and Angela?s, shifting future eviction plans Mallory reflects emotionally on her eviction, the highs of being named ?Pipe Queen,? and the bittersweet support from alumni and fans

With the veterans running the show and alliances growing tighter, will the remaining players take a stand?or will loyalty to the Icons cost them the game? Listen in for the full conversation and every behind-the-scenes moment from Mallory?s exit.

Chapters:
00:00 Eviction Experience and Big Brother Impact
00:39 HOH Competition Pressures and Decisions
01:54 Drew and Barrett?s Game Betrayals
03:06 Trust and Alliances with Devens
03:55 Bribe, Safety, and HOH Fallout
04:36 Pipe Queen Nickname in the House
05:48 Passion for Big Brother Journey
07:37 Iconic Exit and Alumni Cheers

Never miss a minute of RHAP?s extensive Big Brother coverage!
LISTEN: Subscribe to the Big Brother podcast feed
WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube
SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

BB28 1000th Episode Thursday Eviction Recap LIVE at RHAPCon, Week 7

Also available on YouTube.

Big Brother 28 enters a pivotal stage as the house divides and a contentious twist throws everyone off balance. Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong lead this live recap from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, joined by a rotating panel of analysts, all reacting to the fallout from the historic 1,000th episode eviction and the uncertainty around the game-altering twist.

The episode kicks off with excitement from a live crowd as Rob and Taran reflect on the show’s legacy and the emotions stirred by the 1,000th episode. Houseguests and viewers alike are rattled when the show removes the usual staples, HoH, Veto, nominations, and, most controversially, suspends the live feeds for three days. Taran speculates the “Dire Fest meets Hamster Wheel of Death” event could put icons at risk, while Rob points out the move deflates the celebratory energy. The group discusses Drew surviving by luck in the Blockbuster comp, which ultimately seals Mallory?s fate as the season?s memorable “1,000th episode boot.” Barrett’s late-game activation becomes a key focus, with panelists debating his loyalty, the cross-alliances, and whether his emotional Diary Room voting marks a turning point.

Taran Armstrong questions production?s decision to celebrate 1,000 episodes by undercutting core Big Brother gameplay with a new, unexplained twist. Rob Cesternino highlights how Drew?s lucky Blockbuster win derails a flip and unintentionally sends Mallory home, despite nearly throwing the comp for Mallory?s safety. Panelists discuss Barrett?s switch from playing it safe with the vets to finally trying to make a move, noting both support and frustration from fans. The crowd reacts to the Cookout alliance winning best alliance and debates Janelle?s and Dan?s wins in the awards segment. A playful segment with an Etsy Witch (and a special homage to Rachel) helps everyone process the episode?s chaotic vibes.

As the house splits and the twist looms, the battle lines between icons, vets, and floaters blur. One big question remains: will the twist hand power to the right alliance, or lead to another unfair blindside?

Tune in for all the tense strategy, fan reactions, and post-eviction dynamics in this milestone Big Brother 28 celebration.

00:00 Celebrating 1,000 Big Brother Episodes
04:45 Live Feeds Pulled, Fans React
07:05 Sunday?s Big Brother Twist Speculation
10:23 Barrett?s Vote and Fallout
13:43 Drew Survives Blockbuster Twist
16:06 Panel Discusses Barrett and Mallory
20:07 Lessons from Mallory?s Eviction
23:32 The Cookout Honored on Big Brother
28:00 Winners and Awards Highlight Show
39:09 Survivor vs. Big Brother Dynamics
44:53 Blockbuster Montage and Biggest Moments
53:45 Vibes, Etsy Witch Changes Mood

Never miss a minute of RHAP?s extensive Big Brother coverage!
LISTEN: Subscribe to the Big Brother podcast feed
WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube
SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Matt Hoffman on Summer of Stein Big Brother 28 Week 7

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Big Brother 28?s house is a mess of shifting loyalties as the Summer of Stein series rolls on, with Eric Stein hosting this recap episode joined by guest Matt Hoffman. The Icons?especially HoH Dee?call the shots this week, pushing the house into new turmoil as alliances fracture and the newbies consider whether to challenge the status quo or stick with the power players.

Dee takes control as HoH and surprises everyone by nominating her own allies, creating confusion and making the newbies even more nervous. She throws out plans to target Drew and Mallory, and uses a bribe to get Yash?s future protection, tying his hands for the next round. The rest of the house, like Barrett and Mallory, seem unable to capitalize on opportunities, even throwing the HoH comp rather than seizing power themselves. The infamous ?Booty Scooty 1000? brings comic relief, and dramatic house meetings see Lala and the rest doubling down on far-fetched stories. Pop-in guests from past seasons drop by, sharing stories and adding to the chaos and nostalgia.

Matt points out that throwing HoH comps to the Icons is a fatal rookie mistake and questions why the newbies keep empowering the vets. Eric critiques Dee?s choice to attack her own numbers, suggesting she?s more interested in having fun than playing strict strategy now that she?s already a reality TV winner. The hosts highlight Mallory’s emotional diary room blowup as one of the rawest moments of the season. The ?Booty Scooty 1000? comp gets laughs, with both hosts noting how far houseguests will go for airtime?and how weirdly the show mixes kid sponsors with not-so-family-friendly comps.

Can the newbies rally to actually take a shot at the Icons, or will they keep playing it safe until they?re picked off? Listen to the full episode for all the breakdowns and surprises.

Chapters:
00:00 Big Brother Summer of Stein begins
03:21 BB28 cast shakeups and water drama
06:40 Kamu?s exit changes the game
09:34 Dee?s dominance drives week?s chaos
14:30 House flips and alliance turmoil
20:11 For the American People alliance drama
26:05 Yash faces Dee?s bribe dilemma
31:14 Wild house fights shake BB28
36:32 BB28?s infamous Booty Scooty comp
41:11 Cast reflects on showmances, fame
47:54 Legacy, casting, and BB28 1,000th episode
54:01 Surprise BB alumni crash Summer of Stein
01:07:06 Love-hate for Big Brother?s legacy
01:13:39 Real diary room emotions return

Never miss a minute of RHAP?s extensive Big Brother coverage!
LISTEN: Subscribe to the Big Brother podcast feed
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SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

BB28 Wednesday Veto Ep Recap LIVE at RHAPCon, Week 7

Also available on YouTube.

Big Brother 28 is full of tension as alliances crack and trust breaks down in the house, with the “Icons” in power and the rest scrambling to survive. This recap hosted by Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong, live from RHAPcon, with a lively panel of recurring guests and fellow podcasters chiming in. The crew follows wild Diary Room sessions, shifting loyalties, and a pivotal Head of Household reign as players weigh turning on each other or coming together against the veteran houseguests.

The main events this week cover Dee’s HoH, the dramatic nomination ceremony, the chaos around the Veto competition, and the fallout as players like Barrett, Mallory, and Melody react in real time. The “Icons” (Angela, Devens, Dee) continue to control the narrative, while Drew and Barrett face tough choices about loyalty. The Mosh Pit alliance falters after several throw the HoH, leaving Mallory exposed and regretful. Lala shocks everyone by winning a physically demanding Veto comp, and the house erupts with passionate reactions in the Diary Room. Meanwhile, spoilers point to shifting vote math, as Barrett reveals secrets to Mallory and Melody, threatening Drew’s game and giving the outsiders a possible path to strike back at the Icons.

Rob points out similarities between the intense nomination ceremony and a classic ?Traitors Roundtable.? Several guests highlight how Mallory and Melody’s explosive Diary Room rants reflect the game’s emotional toll. Taran notes Barrett’s late-game awakening as he considers flipping on the Icons, potentially changing the house dynamic. Lala’s Veto win, despite her underdog status, makes her a bigger competition threat in the eyes of the house. Detailed discussions cover alliance math, if Mallory wins the Blockbuster, the numbers could flip against Drew, depending on Melody, Yash, Lala, and Barrett.

With the Icons’ grip on power loosening and players waking up to new possibilities, will the outsiders finally rally and take their shot, or will the veterans tighten control for another week? Tune in for the full recap as Rob, Taran, and friends break down every messy move and emotional outburst from the Big Brother 28 house.

00:00 Live From RHAPcon: Big Brother Wednesday Night
06:03 Nomination Ceremony Sparks Big Brother Feud
12:03 Angela Eyes Endgame Without Icons
18:01 Mallory?s HOH Regret and Reactions
23:33 Power Shifts: Barrett and Drew?s Dilemma
29:01 Icons Manipulate House Dynamics
34:34 Diary Rooms Bring Big Brother Drama
40:43 Barrett Flips, Targets Against Icons
46:06 Twist Predictions for Big Brother 1000
52:06 Lala?s Veto Win Shakes House
57:01 Endgame Chaos and Alumni Draft

Never miss a minute of RHAP?s extensive Big Brother coverage!
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SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Survivor 51 Cast Reveal First Reactions

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Survivor 51 explodes into the ?open era? as Rob Cesternino and guest Mike Bloom come to you live from RHAPCon in Milwaukee with a special Survivor 51 cast release episode. The hosts give their instant reactions to the largest cast ever at 21 players, a new unpredictable game format, and a tribal council set decked out with actual whale bones. RHAPCon is the backdrop as Rob and Mike tackle all the latest twists and turns delivered in a surprise 30-minute Survivor 51 cast video, laying out everything fans can expect ahead of the September 23 premiere.

This episode dives deep into the brand-new concept of the ?open era,? where any past advantage, idol, or twist could be resurrected at any time?making the game more random and unpredictable than ever. Rob and Mike discuss CBS?s shake-up of preseason coverage, including the first-ever cast without standard press interviews, leaving superfans searching for info on a wildly varied group that features three farmers, a Grey?s Anatomy actor, a voiceover artist from The Boys, and even a sex shop owner. The hosts also tee up their plans for weekly cast previews, hunting down cast tidbits to try and get the inside scoop fans crave.

? Rob and Mike?s thoughts on the chaotic ?open era? and unpredictable game mechanics

? First reactions to the 21-member cast: chefs, mental health counselors, wrestlers, and chaos-seekers

? How CBS shut down preseason interviews, shifting the way superfans learn about contestants

? Tribes, buffs, and Survivor survivalists: more blue-collar representation than in recent years

? On-set laughs about bras full of rocks, Survivor contract wedding clauses, and whether anyone can really plan for this season

As the preseason launches live from RHAPCon, Rob and Mike wonder whether true superfans and gamebreakers can keep pace with the season?s breakneck twists and shifting rules. Will this new era create legendary moments or just chaos at Tribal Council?

Don?t miss this jam-packed Survivor 51 opener?tune in for all the ?open era? surprises and cast insights direct from RHAPCon!

To order Rob’s book, The Tribe and I Have Spoken, visit www.robhasabook.com

Chapters:
0:00 Survivor 51 Cast Drop Reactions
1:11 Open Era Format Changes Explained
2:05 New Twists and Unpredictability Talk
5:09 Survivor 51?s Historic Cast Size
8:04 No Preseason Interviews This Year
10:19 Previewing the 21-Person Cast
14:16 Whale Bones at Tribal Council
15:21 Meet Aaliyah the Survivor Chef
19:16 Ana Sani?s Acting and Voice Work
22:20 WWE?s Brady Booker Joins Survivor
25:21 Farmers Take Center Stage This Season
31:37 Superfan Kilby Joins the Game
36:01 Mental Health Pro Eric
40:01 Jenna and Her Survivor Dream Clause
42:51 Kristin: RHAP Patron to Player
46:18 Lewis Kelly: Irish Farmer?s Chaos Approach
50:01 Maggie: First Contestant from West Virginia
54:09 Yankees Exec Mike Pinsky Enters Survivor
56:11 Ori’s Football Background
57:00 Pat: Prosecutor and Navy Attorney Story
1:00:39 Sharonda: OB-GYN Playing for Herself
1:01:51 Thien An Nguyen: Med Student?s Survival Skills
1:03:34 Upcoming Podcasts and Preseason Plans

Never miss a minute of RHAP?s extensive Survivor coverage!
LISTEN: Subscribe to the Survivor podcast feed
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SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Rob and Mike Talk The Christy Blindside | Survivor Time Trip

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Survivor time travel meets old-school strategy as Rob Cesternino and Mike Bloom reunite for a deep dive into Survivor: The Amazon on a special Time Trip episode. In this candid conversation, Rob and Mike break down one of the most game-changing moves from Survivor?s sixth season?the flip that cemented Rob?s reputation as reality TV?s original swing vote. As they revisit the dramatic family visit episode, the discussion swings between nostalgia, regret, and the wild evolution of Survivor gameplay.

From the fallout of Rob?s betrayal at final seven to his infamous ?lone wolf? confessional, Rob walks Mike through his mindset, misreads, and behind-the-scenes stories?including why nobody wanted to end up in the Amazon?s dangerous waters and how that iconic Speedo came to be. Listeners get a firsthand account of the shifting alliances and last-minute deals, the struggle for social capital after blowing up alliances, and what it took to survive when everyone is mad at you. Plus, the pair reflect on Christy?s groundbreaking?but under-edited?journey as Survivor?s first deaf contestant, and debate what would happen if Rob had made a different move at the final six.

? Rob?s pivotal flip at final seven and the fallout with Jenna, Heidi, and Alex

? How the wine-fueled family visit changed camp dynamics and future plans

? Christy?s unique Survivor experience and the challenge of navigating alliances as a social outsider

? The strategic calculus behind blindsides and managing emotions at Tribal Council

? Rob?s reflections on innovation and risk-taking in Survivor?s early years

This episode unpacks whether Survivor?s early chaos really set the tone for the fluid, cutthroat gameplay of modern seasons. Does flipping back and forth break your game or make you a legend? Will history remember Rob?s move as a teaching moment?or simply as old-school chaos? Tune in for confessions, regrets, and Survivor lore straight from the source!

Chapters:
0:00 Survivor: The Amazon Time Trip Begins
1:02 Revisiting Alex?s Blindside and Fallout
4:18 Breaking Down the Final Six Shift
10:11 Becoming a Survivor Lone Wolf
12:12 The Crazy Flipping Plan Revealed
18:37 Christy’s Underrated Survivor Story
22:05 The Iconic Family Visit Challenge
29:13 Rob?s Mom Headlines Loved Ones Visit
39:29 The Night of Survivor Wine Party
44:12 Attempting to Reconcile with Jenna, Heidi
51:07 How the Christy Boot Plan Formed
56:06 Orchestrating Last-Minute Tribal Council Shift
1:00:46 Pioneering Fluid Gameplay on Survivor
1:03:43 Jenna Gives Immunity Necklace to Heidi
1:09:52 Christy’s Shocking Jury Vote Explained
1:15:04 Rob?s Perspective on Innovative Moves

To order Rob’s book, The Tribe and I Have Spoken, visit www.robhasabook.com

Never miss a minute of RHAP?s extensive Survivor coverage!
LISTEN: Subscribe to the Survivor podcast feed
WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube
SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Plastic Waste Turned into Food is News AF – August 25, 2026

Rob Cesternino, Tyson Apostol, and Danny Bryson are back with another entertaining episode of News AF, where they dive into the week’s most peculiar and amusing stories.

Today, Rob, Tyson, and Danny talk through the week’s most newsworthy stories.

To order Rob’s book, The Tribe and I Have Spoken, visit www.robhasabook.com

Be sure to subscribe to our new YouTube channel!

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BB28 Sunday Nominations and Unlocked Ep Recap, Week 7

Also available on YouTube.

Big Brother 28 is all about shifting alliances and missed chances as the vets tighten their grip on the house. Taran Armstrong leads this recap episode with Kirsten MacInnis and Chappell, tackling a week packed with a supersized double-episode, dealmaking, and strategy fails. From Dee?s HoH win to a messy veto plan, players are scrambling to survive as the power shifts yet again.

The podcast kicks off with a review of the jam-packed Unlocked and main episode, featuring Dee?s balance beam HoH win, although much of the house intentionally throws the comp, turning a shot at safety into Dee?s game to play. Tension rises as Dee uses her Big Brother bribe to strike a deal with Yash, locking in safety for herself, Devens, and Angela for Yash?s next potential HoH. The house is buzzing with doubts, especially as Barrett, Mallory, and Melody all choose to either throw or underperform in competitions, and then act shocked or upset when they lose control. Meanwhile, Yash uses the diary room to confess to lying and spinning the blame, ramping up drama between Drew and the vets and setting the stage for a split.

Kirsten questions Mallory and Melody’s strategy of throwing comps after struggling all season, but not owning up to it. Taran spotlights Dee?s bribe deal with Yash and debates if the vague contract terms could be twisted in future weeks. Dee quickly turns on Drew as her HoH target after being convinced by Yash?s pitch about his supposed disloyalty. Barrett gets called out for not protecting his top ally Drew and for going along with the plan even though it may not help his own game. Chatter reveals that Lala, Taylor, and Drew are in the line of fire, with house relationships growing tense and the possibility of a backdoor swirling.

With the vets locking down power and deals tying up Yash, will the underdogs finally seize the moment, or have they missed their chance by playing it safe? Catch the episode for the full breakdown on strategy, shifting loyalties, and what could happen next in the Big Brother 28 house. (301 words)

00:00 Big Brother Nominations and Unlocked Recap Kicks Off
05:24 Family Visits and BB Bonds
10:06 Rome and Lyric Relationship Spotlight
14:30 Diary Room and Missing Moments
19:42 OTEV Competition: Behind the Scenes
24:47 HOH Competition?Power Moves Missed
31:31 Dee?s Big Brother Bribe Deal
39:03 Yash?s Lies Shape Big Brother Game
42:22 Drew?s Nomination and New Target
50:47 Nomination Altercation and Spoilers
56:33 Mallory Blindsided by Veto Plan

Never miss a minute of RHAP?s extensive Big Brother coverage!

LISTEN: Subscribe to the Big Brother podcast feed
WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube
SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Talking with T-Bird: Sue Hawk

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The time has come for the return of ?Talking with T-Bird.? Each episode, Rob Cesternino (@robcesternino) and Survivor: Africa?s Teresa ?T-Bird? Cooper (@tbirdcooper) will catch up with a former Survivor player and talk about anything and take listener questions.

Just when you think you know Survivor 50, the legends themselves return to shake things up. Host Rob Cesternino teams up with T-Bird Cooper for a memorable “Talking with T-Bird” deep dive, retracing the roots of Survivor history and connecting it with the unpredictable energy of the current season. This episode stands out as T-Bird finally tracks down the elusive Sue Hawk, whose raw, unfiltered perspective on Survivor Borneo still sets the standard for honest gameplay and legendary jury speeches.

Survivor 50 is back in the spotlight as Rob and T-Bird relive Sue?s iconic story, all while comparing early Survivor?s ?wild west? style to the fast-paced idol hunts, immunity twists, and softer conditions of the modern game. Sue doesn?t hold back, critiquing how much easier conditions seem now?from 26-day seasons to the abundance of clothes and comforts?and reflecting on the real threats and alliances that shaped Borneo. She breaks down the truth behind those first alliances, the sting of betrayal, and why every move on Survivor comes with lasting consequences, both in the game and back in the real world.

Key discussion points include:

? Sue?s behind-the-scenes journey from “off the grid” legend to Survivor All-Star, and how she finally agreed to talk after years of letters and texts with T-Bird

? Insights into Survivor Borneo?s original alliances and Sue?s ?snake and rat? speech that rocked reality TV

? Raw comparisons between old-school survival?sand fleas, rain, boredom, and bush medicine?versus Survivor 50?s so-called ?softball? era

? How modern twists (idols, shortened seasons) impact the intensity and credibility of winning

? Reflections on loyalty, trust, and what it really means to survive?on the island and beyond

As Rob and T-Bird revisit Sue?s legacy, they question whether today?s players could endure old-school hardships or if strategic complexity now outweighs environmental grit. Can emotional honesty still change the game, or has the new era made it all about flash and fleeting power?

Dive into this episode for Survivor storytelling that bridges generations, reveals hard truths, and keeps your torch burning for what?s coming next. Listen now to see Survivor 50 through the eyes of legends?and decide for yourself if the game will ever be the same.

Chapters:
0:00 T-Bird?s Epic Sue Hawk Journey
2:47 Landing the Elusive Sue Hawk Interview
6:07 Borneo Origins: Sue?s Survivor Backstory
14:25 Survivor Softballs: New Era Critique
19:17 Creating the Gilligan?s Island Audition
24:56 The Wild Survivor Casting Process
32:59 Crafting the Legendary Final Speech
39:03 Growing Up Tough in Wisconsin
45:56 Adventures Hunting Bears in Russia
1:14:21 Losing Out on Survivor Endorsements
1:26:20 The Missed All-Girls Alliance Opportunity
1:35:38 From Horses to Trucking Life
1:45:09 Playing With Sue: Rob Reflects
1:55:04 Hero or Villain: Sue?s Survivor Legacy
2:21:40 T-Bird?s Toast to Sue Hawk

Never miss a minute of RHAP?s extensive Survivor coverage!
LISTEN: Subscribe to the Survivor podcast feed
WATCH:  Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube
SUPPORT:  Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

This week, Rob and Akiva talk through strange superstitions!

Big Brother 28 throws another curveball as Kamu sits down with hosts Rob Cesternino and Taran for an exit interview after his shocking backdoor eviction. The fallout from the Diamond Power of Veto and shifting alliance lines are front and center, with Kamu reflecting on how quick moves and changing loyalties flipped his game upside down.

Big Brother 28?s latest eviction night delivers a major shake-up as the house stands at a crossroads, with shifting alliances and unpredictable gameplay driving the action. Hosted by Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong, this episode features strategy breakdowns with guests including Captain Will and Maggie Morgan, as they react to Angela?s surprising competition win and Kamu?s exit.

Big Brother 28?s latest Summer of Stein episode finds the house in chaos after Rick Devens uses the Diamond Power of Veto, changing up Angela?s nominations and threatening to flip the game. Hosted by Rob and joined by guest Eric Stein, this lively live recap dives deep into all the strategic drama, strained alliances, and never-ending maneuvering as eviction looms.

Big Brother 28 brings the tension as the Diamond Power of Veto shakes up the house?s plans. In this recap episode, Rob Cesternino, Mary, and Pooya discuss Devens? big decision and the fallout from Kamu?s surprise nomination, dissecting the shifting alliances and what this means for the next eviction.

Big Brother 28 is full of tension as Rick Devens makes a game-changing move with the diamond power of veto, putting alliances and loyalties to the test. Host Rob Cesternino is joined by guest Christian Hubicki for a strategy deep dive, unpacking the risks, rewards, and shifting dynamics after Devens uses his power to save Dee and target Kamu.

Today, Rob, Tyson, and Danny talk through the week's most newsworthy stories.

BB28 Sunday Nominations Ep Recap, Week 6 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 throws the house into chaos as the battle lines get sharper, and alliances face big tests after a shocking HoH win. Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong welcome Mari Forth and Matt Scott for this busy recap, breaking down how Yash?s HoH [?]

Jonathan Penner Rewatches The Mutiny | Survivor Time Trip Also available on Youtube. Survivor Time Trip is back as Rob Cesternino and Mike Bloom sit down with legendary Survivor alum Jonathan Penner to revisit one of Survivor?s boldest turning points: Survivor Cook Islands, Episode 9 ?The Mutiny.? As the trio marks nearly 20 years since [?]

Rob Cesternino (@robcesternino) and Akiva Wienerkur (@keev26) need a podcast and every week, Rob and Akiva spin a wheel of listener-submitted podcast ideas, and whatever the wheel lands on is what they podcast about next. This week, Rob and Akiva appreciate the listeners!

BB28 Week 5 Exit Interview Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 just sent another houseguest packing, and the cracks in the big alliances are starting to show. Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong sit down for an exit interview with the latest evictee, who shares their side of the story after a blindside that left [?]

BB28 Thursday Eviction Ep Recap, Week 5 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 reaches a turning point as the house decides whether keeping Haley in the game is smart strategy or sets up bigger drama. Taran Armstrong welcomes Big Brother royalty Rachel Reilly and Brendon Villegas for a recap of this eviction episode and [?]

Summer of Stein Big Brother 28 Week 5 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 keeps the drama alive as evictions and blindsides shake up trust in the house. This Summer of Stein with Rob Cesternino and Eric Stein dives into the fallout after the house flips and major alliances scramble to control the vote. [?]

BB28 Wednesday Veto Ep Recap, Week 5 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 keeps fans glued to the feeds as alliances fracture and tempers flare over betrayal, loyalty, and shifting power. In this week?s Veto recap episode, Rob Cesternino is joined by guests Pooya, Jacob Jones, and Jenny Autumn to unpack a wild stretch [?]

BB28 Wednesday Live Feed Update August 12, 2026 Also on YouTube. Big Brother 28 keeps the house on edge as alliances shift and targets remain unsettled. Taran Armstrong is joined by Big Brother 25?s Cory Wurtenberger for today?s Live Feed Update, breaking down the latest strategic moves, house dynamics, and everything happening inside the BB28 [?]

Bran Flakezz talks BB28 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 hits a tense stretch, as cracks form between the house?s ?icons? and the increasingly desperate newcomers. Rob Cesternino is joined by Bran Flakezz to dive into this week?s wild shifts, with eviction speculation, shifting alliances, and Diary Room drama all in play. This episode [?]

BB28 Sunday Nominations Ep Recap, Week 5 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 is reeling from a power shift as alliances scramble and new cracks emerge after a dramatic HoH wall comp win. Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong are joined by Aysha Welch and Brian Scally for a lively recap episode, unpacking the chaos [?]

This week, Rob and T-Bird talk to Survivor Guatemala's Amy O'Hara.

Survivor Time Trip is back as Rob Cesternino and Mike Bloom team up with Survivor Africa winner Ethan Zohn to revisit the dramatic first-ever tribe swap in Survivor history. This episode dives headfirst into Survivor Africa (season 3), a pivotal season where alliances are shattered and the game as we know it is turned upside down. Rob and Mike press Ethan for the inside scoop on what it was really like to experience Survivor?s earliest?and wildest?twist, while also catching up with Ethan?s new soccer and cannabis adventure, Kicking Back.

BB28 Unlocked Week 5 Recap Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 hits a wild turning point as the house questions loyalties and scrambled alliances after a shocking blindside vote. Chappell, Mike Bloom, and Sasha Joseph recap the latest drama, with plenty of laughs, live feed scoops, and sharp strategy takes in this BB28 Unlocked [?]

Big Brother 28 hits a crossroads after a massive blindside eviction shakes up the house, with alliances and trust tested on all sides. In this Exit Interview episode, Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong sit down with recently evicted houseguest Lyric to break down everything that led to her sudden departure just after a last-minute flip. Lyric opens up about house relationships, the impact of the HOH competition, and the challenges of balancing strategy with genuine bonds.

BB28 Thursday Eviction Ep Recap, Week 4 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 brings a wild eviction night with shifting alliances and a blindsided house. Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong are joined by Survivor?s Omar Zaheer and Lovina Pavel to break down the latest chaos, where a surprise vote flip leaves the house scrambling and [?]

Big Brother 28 is deep into the game, and the tension in the house centers on Haley?s turbulent HoH reign and the aftershocks of shifting targets and social divides. This recap episode is hosted by Rob Cesternino and Eric Stein, with guest Paulie Calafiore joining for insight and stories from his Big Brother experience. The conversation dives into Haley?s chaotic leadership, unpredictable nominations, and the house?s growing frustration with both gameplay and personalities.

BB28 Wednesday Veto Ep Recap, Week 4 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 brings on another unpredictable week as alliances question their loyalties and power in the house is up for grabs. Rob Cesternino is joined by Chappell and Mary Kwiatkowski for a dynamic Veto Wednesday recap, featuring a special visit from tonight?s Big [?]

Rob Chats BB28 Week 4 with Heavy Crown Network Watch this podcast on Heavy Crown Network?s YouTube channel! Big Brother 28 is all about shifting alliances and houseguests plotting their next big move. In this Recap episode, host Rob Cesternino joins the Heavy Crown Network to chat with Derek, Claire, Tiffany, and Chaddha, digging into [?]

BB28 Sunday Nominations Ep Recap, Week 4 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 sees the house split as alliances battle for control and trust becomes more fragile than ever. Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong recap all the action and drama from a messy HOH reign, joined by Sasha Joseph for insight and fresh takes. [?]

The Survivor Time Trip takes a nostalgic turn as Rob Cesternino and Mike Bloom team up for a special trip back to the iconic Survivor: Pearl Islands premiere. Joined by the legendary Sandra Diaz-Twine and fellow Survivor alum Troyzan, this episode dives straight into the unforgettable launch of Season 7. As Sandra revisits her first taste of Survivor glory?watching the episode again for the first time in 23 years?the panel breaks down every wild twist, from the shocking marooning with only the clothes on their backs to Rupert?s notorious shoe heist.

Big Brother 28 fans won?t want to miss this episode, where exit interview hosts Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong catch up with the third evicted houseguest, Jason. With the Icons versus the newcomers as the season?s big showdown, Jason?also known by his drag persona Selena Estitties?reflects on life in the house, the tough choices he faced, and his own star power amid a cast of reality show veterans.

BB28 Thursday Eviction Ep Recap, Week 3 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 has the house on edge as tensions spike following a tough eviction night and growing controversy around certain players? social media history. Rob Cesternino, Taran Armstrong, Mike Bloom, and Kirsten MacInnis, guide listeners through this week?s eviction fallout, eviction number 3, [?]

Big Brother 28 ramps up the drama as alliances and rivalries shape eviction week 3 in the house. Host Rob Cesternino welcomes guest Eric Stein for a Summer of Stein packed with analysis, funny moments, and a look at the shifting power structure after a week of surprising moves and classic Big Brother chaos.

Hannah Chaddha Talks the BB28 Tea Party Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 faces a brewing showdown as the split house struggles to secure votes for an upcoming eviction. Rob Cesternino leads this recap episode with guests BB23?s Hannah Chaddha and Maggie Morgan, diving into the fallout from Kamu?s dramatic ?tea party? callout and [?]

This week, Rob and T-Bird talk to Survivor Africa and Survivor All Star's Big Tom Buchanan.

BB28 Sunday Nominations Ep Recap, Week 3 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 delivers a tense week as the house navigates shifting alliances and strategic nominations. Taran Armstrong recaps the latest nomination episode alongside Grace Leeder and Pooya, breaking down Kamu?s HoH reign and how it sets the stage for a showdown between power [?]

Survivor Cambodia: Second Chance takes center stage as host Rob Cesternino and co-host Mike Bloom welcome special guest Kelley Wentworth to kick off the ?Survivor Time Trip? series. This episode takes listeners on a journey back to Season 31, Episode 8?home to Kelley?s unforgettable hidden immunity idol play and one of the most stunning blindsides in Survivor history.

Big Brother 28 sees alliances shift as trust is tested and houseguests scramble for control. This episode features an exit interview hosted by Rob Cesternino and Taran, who sit down with Rome Seymour after his eviction. Rome looks back at his game, revealing how key relationships and warnings shaped his path and what surprised him about the other players? perceptions.

Morgan Pope Recaps Big Brother 28 Week 2 Eviction Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 faces a crossroads as alliances shift and trust breaks under the surface. Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong, joined by Mari Forth and BB27?s Morgan Pope, cover the second eviction night in a live recap, digging into the strategies and [?]

Big Brother 28 goes full mayhem inside and outside the house as Summer of Stein returns, hosted by Rob with guest Eric Stein for an all-access recap. The house sits on edge after a unanimous 14-0 vote sends Ashley home, only for Rick Devens to win HoH and deliver what might be the wildest nomination ceremony yet. While the house blows up on the live feeds, the alumni start their own battles online, creating non-stop drama for fans and former houseguests alike.

BB28 Wednesday Veto Ep Recap, Week 2 Also available on YouTube. Big Brother 28 is full of fireworks as the fallout from a wild nomination ceremony spills into every corner of the house. Rob Cesternino leads this episode recap with Kirsten MacInnis and Jason Reed, breaking down Angela?s strategic moves and the chaos surrounding the [?]

Big Brother 28 is deep into strategy as family and game collide inside the house. Hosts Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong sit down with Becca Devens, wife of current Head of Household Devens, for a candid interview about what?s happening in and out of the game this week.

Big Brother 28 is deep into chaos as alliances shift and eviction targets wobble, with the house fixated on the fallout from the HoH?s big move and the relentless push-pull over who stays and who goes. Hosts Rob Cesternino and Taran Armstrong are joined by special guest Aubry Bracco for a recap and strategy deep dive, unpacking the current shakeups and social maneuvering as the game?s pace tests even the most seasoned reality veterans.