Beast Games S2 Book Club Week 7

Welcome to RHAP’s coverage of MrBeast’s “Beast Games.” Known for his over-the-top challenges and jaw-dropping production value, MrBeast has leveled up with this competitive extravaganza that brings massive stakes, outrageous games, and a cast of unforgettable contestants.

Join Rob Cesternino, Stephen Fishbach, and Taran Armstrong as they discuss week 7 of Beast Games Season 2.

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

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Survivor 50 Issa Look Cast Assessment w/ Brice Izyah

Issa fan-favourite Survivor preview podcast coming your way! Rob Cesternino (@RobCesternino) is joined by Survivor: Cagayan castaway, Purple Pants Podcast host, baby boy Brice Izyah (@BriceIzyah) for the Issa Look cast preview, where Brice gets his very first look at the cast of Survivor 50 and shares his split-second reactions to their cast photos.

Survivor 50 premieres Wednesday, February 25th at 8pmET/5pmPT.

Rob Cesternino is back with Brice Izyah for the much-anticipated return of “Issa Look.” Rob and Brice break down every castaway’s opening moves, style choices, and first impressions, giving fans a deep dive into the strategic and social scene brewing in Fiji. From iconic returns to unexpected alliances, the duo dissects poses, wardrobe choices, and the signals players send sometimes without saying a word.

Kicking things off, Rob and Brice joke about the ultimate status of Survivor 50, then get right into the heart of the game: analyzing each player’s vibe, energy, and subtle strategy as they gear up for the adventure of a lifetime. From Angelina’s now-signature confident stance to Sari’s flawless pose and Coach’s dark, villainous energy, every cast photo gets examined for clues about who’s ready to play hard, who might be over their head, and who’s just here for the spectacle. Along the way, Brice unpacks the meaning behind “no thumbs,” why belts could be a bad omen, and what slip-on shoes say about a competitor’s readiness for the elements. There’s debate on whether newer winners like Dee can survive an uphill battle, and which legendary players still have what it takes.

– Cirie Fields’ pose sends a confident-yet-cautious message, establishing her as a frontrunner in Brice’s eyes

– Brice and Rob debate the “belt curse” and its meaning for potential Survivor 50 winners

– Angelina’s iconic jacket moment and whether her cast photo hints at a season full of gameplay or chaos

– New school versus old school style: how modern players like Dee and Kyle stack up against legends like Coach and Colby

– Hilarious moments from Brice’s personal life, connecting Survivor’s social politics to real-world “parking wars” and neighborhood drama

As Survivor 50 unfolds, Rob and Brice are left questioning: will the cast’s attention to detail pay off, or will flashy choices and old habits get the best of them? Are players like Joe and Sari destined for the top, or will alliances shift in the season’s first true test?

Chapters:
00:00 Intros
06:21 Parking Wars Story Unfolds
12:09 Angelina’s Pose Sparks Debate
18:25 Charlie’s New Game Approach
34:05 Christian’s Strategy Questioned
39:00 Cirie Fields’ Winning Look
48:10 Coach Steps Out of Retirement
59:35 Dee Faces Uphill Battle
01:13:28 Belt Theory for Survivor Winners
01:14:15 Joe Hunter Makes Winner Pick
01:38:39 Mike White’s Surprising Transformation
02:14:38 Issa Look Winner Selections
02:16:39 Survivor 50 Tour Plans Revealed

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Winter Olympic Follies are News AF – February 17, 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 pre-order Rob’s book, The Tribe and I Have Spoken, visit www.robhasabook.com

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Rob’s Reactions to The Traitors Episode 9

Welcome to RHAP’s coverage of ALL the Traitors iterations from around the world, including New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. The Traitors US is a high-stakes reality competition set in a secluded castle, where contestants must work together to complete challenges and earn a prize pot—while rooting out the secret traitors hidden among them.

Today, Rob Cesternino and Pooya break down the twists, strategies, and shifting alliances among the remaining castle players. As friendships are exposed and traitors quietly maneuver, Rob and Pooya revisit pivotal voting blocks, surprise shortlist decisions, and clever gameplay, offering keen analysis on the evolving landscape of this reality competition.

The podcast explores the multifaceted vote that sends Stephen Colletti home, featuring a unique 5-2-2 split and sharp insight into how pairs like Tara and Johnny, and Mark and Kristen, drive the action. Rob and Pooya unpack the mission’s meta-strategy where traitors cleverly channel suspicion, only for the faithful to stumble, sparking confusion and intrigue. The episode also looks at the fresh challenge of the death shortlist, and how self-preservation changes voting behavior, especially for those marked for elimination.

Listeners are treated to candid takes on the growing dynamics, including the faithful’s infighting, Kristen’s direct confrontation with Eric, and Eric’s rookie struggles as a newly recruited traitor. The looming presence of Rob Rausch—a master of subtle manipulation—and the comedic contrast with Eric’s anxious gameplay spark fun debate. The hosts examine murder tactics after the roundtable, shifting suspicions, and what the faithful need to do to mount a comeback.

Key points discussed:

• The strategic vote split and why certain pairs target differing suspects
• How traitors hide in plain sight and influence the roundtable
• The group’s approach to the murder shortlist and its impact on vote strategy
• Kristen’s kitchen confrontation with Eric and its potential fallout
• Rob Rausch’s tactical use of alliances, crediting others for his choices

Can Tara and Johnny’s newfound friendship help them survive, or will the traitors keep dictating the flow until the finale? Unravel the chess moves, personality clashes, and bold calls as the endgame approaches.

Chapters:
00:00 Intros
06:00 Hand-Wringing Over Episode Stakes
12:00 Johnny and Tara Targeted
18:00 Traitors Master Vote Manipulation
24:00 Mission Strategy Breaks the Game
30:00 Faithfuls Create Chaotic Aftermath
36:00 Shortlist Alters Survival Strategy
42:00 Kristen Confronts Eric Directly
48:00 Eric Flounders as New Traitor
54:00 Tara and Johnny’s Alliance Unfolds
01:00:00 Gamers Reshape Traitors Gameplay
01:06:00 Faithful Win Conditions Speculated
01:12:00 Stephen’s Banished: “You Blew It”

Never miss all our Traitors US recaps plus recaps from other versions around the world!
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Mike Bloom and Dalton Ross On Island Survivor 50 Preseason Draft

Today, we go back in time to before Survivor 50 began. Mike Bloom and Dalton Ross sit down in Fiji to do an on-island pre-season draft of the 24 returning players for Survivor 50!

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

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RAANAP: Brandon and Akiva join The Mighty Ducks

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, Brandon Donlon joins Akiva to discuss The Mighty Ducks.

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

Survivor Heroes vs Healers vs Hustlers Encore Episode Recap

Today, Chappell, Kirsten MacInnis, and Matt Liguori get together to discuss the encore episode of Survivor Heroes vs Healers vs Hustlers.

Never miss a minute of RHAP’s extensive Survivor coverage!
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Traitors US S4 Week 6 Exit Interview w/ Banished Player

Welcome to RHAP’s coverage of ALL the Traitors iterations from around the world, including New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. The Traitors US is a high-stakes reality competition set in a secluded castle, where contestants must work together to complete challenges and earn a prize pot—while rooting out the secret traitors hidden among them.

The We Know Traitors podcast welcomes Stephen Colletti, fresh from his recent banishment on The Traitors. Host Pooya sits down with Stephen to dig into the pivotal moments that led to his exit from the castle—including game twists, shifting alliances, and a few frustrating misunderstandings. Stephen sheds light on how one banquet, a roast mix-up, and some questionable gut instincts among the players turned his game upside down.

Stephen breaks down how the infamous tarot card incident becomes his undoing and reflects on missed clues left by Candiace and the tangled alliances with Johnny and Tara. The conversation dives into Stephen’s perspective on Natalie’s influence, unpacking how suspicion shifts and why clear explanations sometimes fall on deaf ears in a high-pressure game. Stephen also opens up about his relationships with allies like Mark and Kristen, the reality of navigating trust and strategy, and how entering the house with and without pre-existing bonds changes everything.

• Stephen reveals frustration over being accused due to misunderstandings around the roast and the tarot cards
• Analysis of Candiace’s strategic vote and how Stephen and Johnny fail to connect the breadcrumbs
• Insights into Natalie’s gut-driven play and how it drives suspicion despite weak evidence
• Discussion of alliance dynamics, especially between Johnny and Tara, and how trust shapes gameplay decisions
• Reflections on the emotional aftermath of reality TV, Stephen’s lessons from Laguna Beach, and his openness to taking on the Traitor role in the future

Did Natalie’s hunch really seal Stephen’s fate, or were there bigger game forces at work in the castle? Explore how shifting alliances and gut instincts can flip the game, and decide for yourself if Stephen’s strategies gave him the best shot.

Chapters:
00:00 Intros
01:00 The Roast, Tarot, and Downfall
02:36 Missed Alliances and Critical Breadcrumbs
03:30 Assigning Blame for Banishment
05:01 Trust and Bonds Tested
06:27 Reality TV Experience Reflected
08:35 Would Stephen Choose Traitor Now?
09:45 Shifting Alliances and Farewell

Never miss all our Traitors US recaps plus recaps from other versions around the world!
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Traitors S4 Ep 9 Recap w/ Sandra Diaz Twine

Welcome to RHAP’s coverage of ALL the Traitors iterations from around the world, including New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. The Traitors US is a high-stakes reality competition set in a secluded castle, where contestants must work together to complete challenges and earn a prize pot—while rooting out the secret traitors hidden among them.

Today, Pooya and special guest, Sandra Diaz Twine, discuss The Traitors US S4 Episode 9.

With Rob at the Traitors Reunion, Pooya recaps The Traitors Season 4, Episode 9 alongside special guest Sandra Diaz-Twine. Together, they break down a deceptively dense episode that reshapes the endgame, beginning with Eric’s decision to accept the traitor ultimatum and officially join Rob in the turret

The discussion focuses on Eric’s adjustment to life as a traitor, including his increased nervousness, shifting behavior, and how those changes begin to draw suspicion from Kristen. Sandra and Pooya debate whether Eric’s visible discomfort could become a liability, or if Rob’s protection and social dominance will be enough to keep him insulated.

They analyze Dorinda’s murder and why her removal made strategic sense, particularly given her connections and lack of heat. The pair also breaks down the music box challenge, explaining why the traitors deliberately fed the faithful misleading information and why they avoided being placed on the final shortlist.

At the round table, attention turns to Johnny and Stephen, with Pooya and Sandra dissecting how circumstantial evidence, such as past advocacy from Candace and Lisa, continues to follow them despite both being faithful. They also discuss Natalie being labeled the most manipulative player, her visible frustration, and how that perception may put her in danger.

The episode closes with a forward-looking assessment of the remaining murder options, weighing Natalie versus Kristen, and why Rob’s position appears nearly untouchable regardless of the outcome. With only two episodes left, Pooya and Sandra frame Episode 9 as a critical setup chapter that solidifies Rob’s control while narrowing the faithful’s already-limited paths to victory.

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Andy Rueda Talks Survivor South Pacific Encore Episode

Today, Brandon Donlon is joined by Survivor 47’s Andy Rueda and his girlfriend Shannon Anderson for an engaging encore episode recap! This week, the crew dives into the intensity and unpredictable gameplay that defines this landmark season, focusing on classic Survivor powerhouses like Coach and Ozzy, the role of hidden alliances, and the impact of tribal identity. Get ready to revisit Redemption Island showdowns, fresh strategic takes, and fan-favorite character arcs.

The conversation kicks off with Andy and Shannon sharing how Survivor brought them together, then pivots to a full breakdown of the South Pacific endgame. They highlight Ozzy’s dominant challenge streak and the tension around his Redemption Island quest, comparing his near-win to recent Survivor heartbreaks. Coach’s evolving strategy and his reputation for “honor and integrity” lead to questions about growth and whether the newest season’s cast will reward old-school or new-school gameplay. Sophie’s path to victory gets dissected  was she truly underrated, or did her game just bypass traditional edit narratives? The panel also digs into how religion, social strategy, and jury bitterness shaped the South Pacific finale, offering fresh context for the moves and mindsets we might see play out in Survivor 50.

– Ozzy’s epic Redemption Island run and its impact on jury sentiment
– Coach’s strategic arc and the limits of playing “honorably”
– The challenge of winning with a subtle, under-edited game like Sophie’s
– Powerful and awkward reunion moments, including Russell Hantz calling out Brandon on stage
– The unique role of alliances built around shared values—and whether that works in Survivor 50

Is it better to stick with tried-and-true alliances or adapt to shifting island dynamics? Who stands poised for the kind of comeback Ozzy almost pulled off? Tune in as Brandon, Andy, and Shannon debate the best paths to the million.

Chapters:
0:00 Intros
6:53 Ozzy’s Redemption Island Journey Highlighted
13:04 Coach’s Game and Future Hopes
19:04 Spiritual Strategy Changes the Game
25:49 Reunion Show Audience Surprises
33:37 Joey King’s Unexpected Audience Appearance
38:49 Sophie’s Edit and Winning Moment
41:10 Closing With Relationship Reflections

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Colby, Coach, and Stephenie Reunite for Survivor Heroes Vs Villains Encore Episode

Today, Rob Cesternino welcomes legends Colby Donaldson, Stephenie LaGrossa Kendrick, and Coach Wade to talk about their time on Survivor Heroes vs Villains. The trio returns to break down their gameplay, epic challenges, and what it’s like stepping back onto the island after sixteen years. Right from the jump, Colby and Coach relive their iconic showdown, sparking nostalgia and fresh excitement for the latest Survivor adventure.

The group dives deep into the Survivor 50 premiere, tackling vivid moments from camp and Tribal Council. Stephenie opens up about her struggles and redemption arc, sharing the thrill of being invited back after a tough Heroes vs. Villains run. Colby recounts the humbling first challenge against Coach, reflecting on rivalry, hero/villain dynamics, and how alliances shift when old-school players unite after so much time. Coach brings humor, describing his “Dragonslayer” mindset and reacting to being labeled a villain once more. All three touch on Survivor’s evolution how physical head-to-heads, wild entrances, and raw competition shape the game now versus back then.

– Colby and Coach revisit their legendary mat challenge, starting the season with classic Survivor grit

– Stephenie shares the emotional journey of a redemption season and forging alliances in a new era

– The group analyzes how Survivor’s gameplay and casting have changed over sixteen years, from idol mechanics to tribe splits

– Funny moments: Coach’s “hero inside” ringtone, helicopter entrance, and banter about Survivor’s shifting culture

– Discussions around wildcards, unknown players, and the strategic challenge of facing unfamiliar faces in monumental seasons

As the stage is set for Survivor 50, the question lingers: Will old-school bonds or new-school strategies triumph as the icons hunt for the title? Whose gameplay will adapt quicker, and how will the tribe dynamics shift when everyone has something to prove?

Chapters:
0:00 Intros
3:33 Reminiscing Epic Mat Challenge Battle
6:00 Coach Reflects on Heroes Beach
9:01 Old School Loyalty and Connections
10:18 Survivor’s Shift: Physical Challenges Gone
13:07 Helicopter Entrance: Unforgettable Survivor Moment
17:16 Meeting Russell, Facing Unknowns
20:16 Amanda Almost Returned for 50
22:14 Who Else Should Have Returned?
24:39 Villains Tribe’s Legendary Survivor Legacy
26:41 Colby and Jerri’s Evolving Relationship
31:19 Survivor 50: Celebration and Gratitude

Never miss a minute of RHAP’s extensive Survivor coverage!
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