Pod Friends

50+ Stories About How Survivor’s Changed Lives | Pod Friends

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

50+ Stories About How Survivor’s Changed Lives | Pod Friends

In celebration of Survivor 50, Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) set an audacious goal: collect 50 stories from Survivor community members answering one simple question: How has Survivor changed your life for the better?

This special season finale features 50+ powerful, funny, and deeply human stories from across the Survivor universe, from superfans and RHAP patrons to journalists, podcasters, live reality game creators, and former reality TV players.

This episode includes stories from:

Nick Iadanza (Australian Survivor, Talking Tribal)
Dwight Moore, Teeny Chirichillo, Brice Izyah, and Owen Knight (Survivor)
Hannah Riggs (Beast Games)
August Schroeder and Eric Eldridge (Squid Game: The Challenge Season 2)
Dru Tevis (Food Network Holiday Baking Champion)
Annabel Fidler (The Traitors Australia Season 2)
Dalton Ross (Entertainment Weekly)
Terry Terrones (The Hollywood Reporter)
RHAP podcasters Gia Worthy and Chappell

Across these stories, you’ll hear about grief, sobriety, weight loss, cancer, divorce, identity, chosen family, creative breakthroughs, career pivots, live reality games, and literal survival. You’ll hear about watch parties that turned into lifelong friendships and fandom that became purpose.

Matt also reflects on discovering RHAP in 2017 during one of the hardest times of his life, joining the Class of 2020 to diversify Survivor coverage, and building Pod Friends into a space that shines a light on the humanity behind the fandom.

This episode is about more than a television show. It’s about moving from parasocial to deeply social. It’s about why community matters, especially now.

Get your Pod Friends shirt now on the Rob Has A Podcast store: https://rhap-shop.fourthwall.com/en-aud/products/pod-friends

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom
Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends
Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com
Follow on social media:
Twitter: @HeyPodFriends & @MattScottGW
Instagram: @MattScottGW
Bluesky: MattScottGW.bsky.social

Never miss an episode of Pod Friends:
LISTEN: Subscribe to the Pod Friends podcast feed
WATCH: Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube
SUPPORT: Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Peih-Gee Law (Survivor): The Game of Life | Pod Friends

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 19:38:00 -0000

Peih-Gee Law (Survivor): The Game of Life | Pod Friends

This week on Pod Friends, Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) is joined by Peih-Gee Law, co-host of Reality Escape Pod and host of PG’s Playhouse, for a thoughtful and energizing conversation about reality TV, resilience, games, and building a life filled with curiosity and joy.
Peih-Gee reflects on her experiences in the Survivor world, what reality television taught her about herself, and how those lessons have shaped the way she approaches life, creativity, and community today. From strategy and game theory to escape rooms and immersive experiences, Peih-Gee shares why play isn’t frivolous — it’s essential — especially during challenging moments in life.
Matt and Peih-Gee also talk about pushing forward through setbacks, defining success on your own terms, cultivating happiness through curiosity and creativity, and the surprising ways games can teach us about resilience, connection, and purpose. Along the way, they explore Survivor fandom, puzzle-solving, wordplay, and even the possibility of Survivor 50.
If you’ve ever wondered what games can teach us about life — or how to keep moving forward while staying playful — this episode is for you.

Big news! Pod Friends now has t-shirts!
Get your Pod Friends shirt now on the Rob Has A Podcast store: https://rhap-shop.fourthwall.com/en-aud/products/pod-friends

Be part of Pod Friends!
Share the story of how Survivor and the Survivor community have changed your life for the better — and be part of the Pod Friends season finale. Submit your video or audio here:
bit.ly/survivor50stories

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andy Rueda: A Love Letter to RHAP | Pod Friends

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Andy Rueda: A Love Letter to RHAP | Pod Friends

This week on Pod Friends, Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) is joined by Survivor 47’s Andy Rueda (@andydrueda) for a thoughtful and funny conversation about fandom, anxiety, identity, and what it means to go from RHAP listener to Survivor player.
Andy reflects on growing up in Buffalo, building a life in Brooklyn, and spending years in the Survivor community before finally playing the game himself. He shares what the casting journey was like, how his Survivor experience changed him, and what it has meant to hear from fans who connected with his vulnerability on the show.
Matt and Andy also talk about mental health, representation, friendships formed through Survivor, the “Baby Andy” origin story, Survivor 50, and Andy’s description of his life as a “rocket ship” — a journey that may be bumpy and nonlinear, but always finds its way upward.
If you’ve ever dreamed of playing Survivor, struggled with anxiety, or found belonging in the RHAP community, this episode is for you.
Big news! Pod Friends now has t-shirts!
Get your Pod Friends shirt now on the Rob Has A Podcast store: https://rhap-shop.fourthwall.com/en-aud/products/pod-friends
Be part of Pod Friends!
Share the story of how Survivor and the Survivor community have changed your life for the better — and be part of the Pod Friends season finale. Submit your video or audio here:
bit.ly/survivor50stories

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Omar Zaheer (Survivor, Traitors Canada): Let It Suck | Pod Friends

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:57:00 -0000

Omar Zaheer (Survivor, Traitors Canada): Let It Suck | Pod Friends

This week on Pod Friends, Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) sits down with Omar Zaheer (Survivor 42, The Traitors Canada) for an honest conversation about identity, belonging, grief, and the subtle ways we learn to make ourselves smaller just to feel safe.
Omar reflects on growing up Muslim and Indian, becoming a chronic people-pleaser, and finding community through Survivor and RHAP long before stepping into the spotlight himself. He opens up about heartbreak, losing his father, professional burnout as a veterinarian, and what it took to stop waiting for something external to save him and begin healing on his own terms.
Together, Matt and Omar unpack the reality-TV experience — the edit, backlash, panic attacks, and standing up for a friend even when it came at a cost — before closing with reflections on community, integrity, and choosing to take up space.
If you’ve ever felt pressure to shrink or disappear to belong, this episode is a reminder that healing isn’t linear — and you don’t have to disappear to be worthy.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark Levy: Stories Squid Game Should’ve Shown | Pod Friends

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Mark Levy: Stories Squid Game Should’ve Shown | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends featured guest is Mark Levy (@MarkLevy85 on Instagram), best known as Player 100 from Squid Game: The Challenge season 2. Joining Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), Mark opens up about resilience after bullying, growing up feeling different, and what it means to move through the world as someone who’s always been “weird” — and learning not just to survive, but to fully love who you are.

Mark takes us through his journey of self-acceptance, passion, fandom, and community, including his decade-long love for the RHAP world and how reality TV became both an escape and a place of belonging. He reflects on how embracing his emotions, vulnerability, and enthusiasm helped shape his confidence, identity, and voice.
The conversation also dives deep into Mark’s Squid Game: The Challenge experience — from the story of his relationship with his fiancée and their now-iconic Star Wars wedding dream, to how sharing that dream nearly got him eliminated without him ever knowing. Along the way, we unpack tears, vulnerability, the edit, and the surreal experience of watching deeply personal moments play out on a global stage.

In a Pod Friends first, Mark also brings on LeAnn Plutnicki (@leannwplutnicki on Instagram) from Season 1 and Manfred Joa (aka Messy Manfred – @Manfred.Joa on Instagram) from Season 2 to pass the mic and spotlight voices he believes deserve to be heard. Together, they explore representation of older women, queer and Asian identity, moments that didn’t make the edit, and the complicated realities of telling your story through reality television. The group also reflects on the power of community, especially within RHAP, and what it means to define yourself rather than let an edit — or the internet — do it for you.

If you’ve ever felt unseen, misunderstood, or reduced to a storyline, this episode is a powerful reminder that your story belongs to you — and that reclaiming it can be both healing and transformative.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sai Hughley: "Villain", Vision, & Staying Ready | Pod Friends

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Sai Hughley: "Villain", Vision, & Staying Ready | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends guest is Sai Hughley (@BeyonSai_ on Instagram), one of the most dynamic and debated personalities from Survivor 48. Joining Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), Sai opens up about navigating life in the public eye, being labeled a “villain,” and what it really means to own your story when the internet has already decided who you are.

Sai takes us through her journey from journalism and digital content creation to entertainment marketing with NBC, sharing how her career behind the scenes prepared her for the spotlight in front of the camera. She talks about the power of vision boarding and scrapbooking, manifesting big dreams, staying ready for opportunities, and learning to play big even when others try to shrink you.

The conversation also dives deep into representation and inspiration, as Sai reflects on the Black women who have shaped her perspective, the importance of tenacity, and the mindset it takes to go after the life you want. Plus, Matt and Sai have some fun breaking down dream picks for the Survivor 50 cast and debating which reality TV players would be perfect for The Traitors.

If you’ve ever been misunderstood, underestimated, or turned into a character instead of a person, Sai’s story is a powerful reminder that perception doesn’t define you — your confidence does.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Derek Stusynski: From Weird Kid to Community Builder | Pod Friends

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Derek Stusynski: From Weird Kid to Community Builder | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends guest is Derek Stusynski @DerekStusynski), a force behind the Rob Has a Podcast Patreon community and one of the quietly impactful people making RHAP possible. Joining Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), Derek shares how growing up feeling weird and out of place became the very thing that taught him how to build belonging for others.

Derek takes us from a farm in rural Minnesota to chasing his creative dreams through improv, web series, and independent films, even winning an episode of Wipeout, before landing behind the scenes at RHAP, where he now helps thousands of fans feel seen, welcomed, and connected. He also opens up about his work as a writer, actor, and filmmaker, including his upcoming film Snatched, starring drag icons like RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Nina West.

This special episode also features messages from members of the RHAP community — Grace, Alyssa, Laura, Kelly, Michael, Tommy Guam, Kim and Tim, Lisa, Mike, and Chantele — who share what Derek and the Patreon experience have meant to them, celebrating the power of chosen family and the magic that happens when people truly show up for one another.

If you have ever felt different, awkward, or alone, Derek’s story is a reminder that those very things can become your greatest strength.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shannon & Peter Guss: Pregnancy, Podcasting, & What’s Next | Pod Friends

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Shannon & Peter Guss: Pregnancy, Podcasting, & What’s Next | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends season premiere guests are Shannon Guss (@shannongaitz) and her husband Peter Guss, the hosts of Gussin’ Around, joining Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) live in San Francisco to talk about love, self-worth, community, and the biggest chapter of their lives yet: becoming parents.

Shannon, host of Survivor Global and a familiar voice from Talking Tribal and behind the scenes of Survivor South Africa, and Peter, a longtime sports podcaster in his own right, open up about navigating doubt and joy while growing a family in the public eye. From pregnancy and partnership to fandom, vulnerability, and the RHAP community that helped shape them, this conversation is about what it really takes to believe in your story while everything is changing.

If you have ever wondered whether you are ready for what comes next, this episode is for you.

If you’re curious, check out Shannon’s first appearance on Pod Friends: https://robhasawebsite.com/pod-friends-shannon-guss-defining-her-religious-identity-navigating-ocd-singing-rapping-her-way-into-your-hearts-survivor/

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends
Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com
Follow on social media:
Twitter: @HeyPodFriends & @MattScottGW
Instagram: @MattScottGW
Bluesky: MattScottGW.bsky.social

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dash Katz & YOU: Listeners Join the Show | Pod Friends

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 19:01:07 -0000

Dash Katz & YOU: Listeners Join the Show | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends guest is Dash Katz (@dashkatz)—actor, model, host, and reality TV superfan. Best known from Netflix’s Squid Game: The Challenge, Dash steps beyond the game to share their journey of resilience, identity, and community. In this heartfelt and fiery conversation with Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), Dash opens up about navigating grief, the reality TV experience beyond the edit, and the power of queer representation. They share their passion for uplifting LGBTQ+ voices and what it means to rise like a phoenix from life’s toughest moments.

But this season finale is also about YOU! Featuring listener voicemails, this episode is a celebration of connection, appreciation, and the incredible Pod Friends community.

4:20 - Rob Cesternino

6:25 - James

8:20 - Stefan

10:35 - Tommy

11:10 - Interview with Dash Katz begins

38:10 - Laura

40:15 - Stacie

43:00 - Joy

1:07:25 - Greg

1:08:55 - Nathan

1:10:55 - Hartley

1:13:30 - Kurt Whether you’re here for the laughs, deep conversations, or unfiltered tea, this episode is all about resilience, joy, and embracing your truth—unapologetically.

Watch on YouTube: robhasawebsite.com/youtube

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social media:

Twitter: @HeyPodFriends & @MattScottGW

Instagram: @MattScottGW

Bluesky: MattScottGW.bsky.social

Never miss an episode of Pod Friends:

LISTEN: Subscribe to the Pod Friends podcast feed

WATCH: Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube

SUPPORT: Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Wigler: A Wiggle Through Time | Pod Friends

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Josh Wigler: A Wiggle Through Time | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends guest is the legendary Josh Wigler (@roundhoward)—journalist, podcaster, and RHAP’s executive editor. In this heartfelt and hilarious conversation with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), Josh gets real about his journey through the highs and lows of life, podcasting, and personal growth.

Listen as Josh opens up about vulnerability, boundaries, and where he is in life now. He reflects on his Survivor coverage, his sobriety journey, and what it means to face the hard things—twice. With musical theater memories, stories of mistaken fame, and a surprise song from Wanda Shirk, this episode is a rollercoaster of laughter, heart, and authenticity.

Whether you know Josh from Post Show Recaps, the Evolution of Strategy, or his iconic Survivor coverage, this conversation is a masterclass in self-reflection, grace, and embracing every part of your story—even the cringey moments.

Don’t forget to visit RHAP on Patreon to listen to Fifteen Minutes with Friends, where we get a little bit more into Carolyn’s mind, including encouragement if you’re going through the Survivor casting process.

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social media:

Twitter: @HeyPodFriends & @MattScottGW

Instagram: @MattScottGW

Bluesky: MattScottGW.bsky.social

Never miss an episode of Pod Friends:

LISTEN: Subscribe to the Pod Friends podcast feed

WATCH: Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube

SUPPORT: Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Jones: Survivor, Life, & Playing To Win | Pod Friends

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 19:42:00 -0000

James Jones: Survivor, Life, & Playing To Win | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends guest is the one and only James Jones (@J2daJones), the ‘Godfather’ of Survivor 43, but there’s so much more to his story than the game. In this conversation with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), James reveals sides of himself you might not expect—his work in maternal health, his journey through ADHD and anxiety, and how personal loss shaped his passion for building community and creating impact.

Listen as James shares how working in maternity care opened his eyes to racial disparities in healthcare, how hosting events became his way of bringing people together after his mother’s cancer diagnosis, and what really happened the day he pretended he had never heard of Survivor in a group of Survivor superfans… despite just filming the show a few weeks prior. James doesn’t hold back. Whether you’re a Survivor fan, a strategist at heart, or just love hearing inspiring and unexpected life stories, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social media:

Twitter: @HeyPodFriends & @MattScottGW

Instagram: @MattScottGW

Bluesky: MattScottGW.bsky.social

Never miss an episode of Pod Friends:

LISTEN: Subscribe to the Pod Friends podcast feed

WATCH: Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube

SUPPORT: Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sharon Tharp: The Reality of Entertainment Journalism | Pod Friends

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Sharon Tharp: The Reality of Entertainment Journalism | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends guest is the talented Sharon Tharp (@SharonTharp), a leading entertainment journalist and host of The Exclusive podcast. In this insightful conversation with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), Sharon shares her journey covering reality TV for nearly 20 years, from writing for top magazines to navigating the ever-changing digital media landscape.

Listen as Sharon dives into the behind-the-scenes world of entertainment reporting, including the challenges of maintaining journalistic integrity, handling exit interviews, and balancing personal connections with objective storytelling. She opens up about the evolution of media, the impact of social media on celebrity coverage, and how she brings empathy into her interviews. Whether you’re a media enthusiast or a reality TV superfan, this episode offers a fascinating look at the art of entertainment journalism and the power of adaptability in an ever-changing industry.

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social media:

Twitter: @HeyPodFriends & @MattScottGW

Instagram: @MattScottGW

Bluesky: MattScottGW.bsky.social

Never miss an episode of Pod Friends:

LISTEN: Subscribe to the Pod Friends podcast feed

WATCH: Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube

SUPPORT: Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carolyn Wiger: Bird Set Free | Pod Friends

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Carolyn Wiger: Bird Set Free | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends guest is the iconic Carolyn Wiger (@car0lynr0se), fan-favorite from Survivor 44, The Traitors 3, and co-host of the Let’s Get Tribal podcast. In this deeply heartfelt conversation with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), Carolyn opens up about her incredible journey as a single mother, drug counselor, and life coach, and how she’s navigating her “freedom era.” Known for her raw authenticity and emotional depth, Carolyn reflects on her experiences with sobriety, motherhood, and the importance of embracing imperfections.

Listen as Carolyn shares touching stories about raising her son, building open communication, and finding beauty in struggle. Learn how she transformed personal challenges—addiction, ADHD, and abusive relationships—into opportunities for growth and connection. Whether you’re a Survivor fan or inspired by her resilience and honesty, this episode is a masterclass in self-compassion, empathy, and the power of staying true to yourself.

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social media:

Twitter: @HeyPodFriends & @MattScottGW

Instagram: @MattScottGW

Bluesky: MattScottGW.bsky.social

Never miss an episode of Pod Friends:

LISTEN: Subscribe to the Pod Friends podcast feed

WATCH: Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube

SUPPORT: Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pooya: Securing Insecurity | Pod Friends

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Pooya: Securing Insecurity | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends guest is the incomparable Pooya (@Pooyaism), a cornerstone of the RHAP community and a beloved podcaster known for his insightful takes on shows like 90 Day Fiancé, The Masked Singer, The Traitors, and more. In this candid conversation with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), Pooya opens up about his journey to becoming one of RHAP’s most recognizable voices, sharing how he’s transformed his insecurities into strengths and built a thriving career in content creation.

Hear Pooya’s reflections on his growth as a podcaster and streamer, his path to “securing insecurity,” and how he channels his experiences into creating communities that resonate. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering him for the first time, this episode is packed with heartfelt insights, advice for aspiring creators, and a celebration of community. Don’t miss it!

Check out Pooya’s previous Taran Show interview here: https://robhasawebsite.com/taran-show-33-pooya/

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social media:

Twitter: @HeyPodFriends & @MattScottGW

Instagram: @MattScottGW

Bluesky: MattScottGW.bsky.social

Never miss an episode of Pod Friends:

LISTEN: Subscribe to the Pod Friends podcast feed

WATCH: Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube

SUPPORT: Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sam More: Behind the Scenes | Pod Friends

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 15:41:00 -0000

Sam More: Behind the Scenes | Pod Friends

This week’s Pod Friends guest is part of the glue that holds RHAP together! You may not often hear his voice on podcasts, but you’ve undoubtedly seen his impact across RHAP’s live events, community initiatives, and behind-the-scenes operations. In this interview with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), Sam More (@SamMoreRHAP) gives a rare glimpse into his journey to RHAP, his love of live TV production, and the work it takes to make RHAP a vibrant and growing community.

Hear Sam reflect on his time working in talent management, how joining the RHAP community changed his path, and what it’s like collaborating with Rob Cesternino to shape the RHAP experience. From anecdotes about the early days of RHAP live shows to managing a global community during the pandemic to RHAP’s Class of 2020, Sam shares how he balances creativity, logistics, and fun to make it all work. Plus, don’t miss a surprise call to Rob himself!

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social media:

Twitter: @HeyPodFriends & @MattScottGW

Instagram: @MattScottGW

Bluesky: MattScottGW.bsky.social

Never miss an episode of Pod Friends:

LISTEN: Subscribe to the Pod Friends podcast feed

WATCH: Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube

SUPPORT: Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kellyn Bechtold: Do It Scared | Pod Friends

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 16:34:00 -0000

Kellyn Bechtold: Do It Scared | Pod Friends

This week on Pod Friends, Kellyn Bechtold (@thekellynb) shares her journey of resilience, transformation, and connection. You may know Kellyn from Survivor: Ghost Island, but in this heartfelt interview with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), you’ll discover so much more about her path to self-discovery and career reinvention.

Hear Kellyn open up about her experiences on Survivor, growing up on a chicken farm in Indiana, and taking courageous leaps—from moving 38 times to launching her Road to Reality podcast. Learn about her philosophy of “doing it scared” and how she’s creating spaces for connection, storytelling, and career transformation through the Career Coven.

Kellyn’s insights on returning to yourself, embracing curiosity, and reimagining success will inspire anyone seeking a more authentic and fulfilling life. And, there’s even a very special guest cameo from Survivor: Ghost Island winner and Extreme Makeover: Home Edition host Wendell Holland in this episode. Don’t miss this empowering conversation!

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social media:

Twitter: @HeyPodFriends & @MattScottGW

Instagram: @MattScottGW

Bluesky: MattScottGW.bsky.social

Never miss an episode of Pod Friends:

LISTEN: Subscribe to the Pod Friends podcast feed

WATCH: Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube

SUPPORT: Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Dwight Moore Jr: Taking A Chance

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 14:22:26 -0000

This week’s Pod Friends season finale guest has interviewed President Jimmy Carter, Cory Booker, Madeleine Albright, Colin Powell, Condoleeza Rice, Usher, Soledad O’Brien and so many others – and most of that was before the age of 13! You know Dwight Moore Jr. (@DwightMoore_Jr) from the mark he left on Survivor 43, but in this interview with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) you’ll get to know Dwight as an interviewer and as a person. Hear how Dwight has become so “fearless” in his life and career. Hear him reflect on starting his interviewing career at 5 years old with someone many would dream of meeting. Hear about his family history and all of the thing Matt and Dwight unexpectedly have in common. Enjoy this week’s episode of Pod Friends!

Watch on YouTube at robhasawebsite.com/youtube

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron and be in community with our phenomenal guests: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social: @HeyPodFriends

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Frannie Marin: Untangling (Queerness, Careers, & Soup)

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 17:39:17 -0000

Frannie Marin (@HailTheVail) and Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) sat down for a conversation to, in Frannie’s words, untangle the threads of her life. You probably know Frannie from Survivor 44 and her role as a challenge beast and fan favorite, but did you know Frannie is also a queer person in STEM and in a hetero-presenting relationship, a mindfulness researcher, a former nail salon employee, a cook, a lover of travel and the outdoors, and a person on a journey to find her path. Leave a voicemail reacting to this podcast episode, to a past Pod Friends episode, or to Pod Friends overall at speakpipe.com/podfriends.

Watch on YouTube at robhasawebsite.com/youtube

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron and be in community with our phenomenal guests: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social: @HeyPodFriends

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Jacob Jones (aka Heir): Caught Up In U

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 17:42:01 -0000

You might know RHAP podcaster Jacob Jones, but do you know Heir (@heir_sounds)? Watch as Jacob joins Matt Scott on Pod Friends to discuss his new career in music (including the song Caught Up In U), how he decided to “go for it”, the lessons that others can learn about just getting started, and a very wacky, empowered, zany, motivational, ASMR-heavy, nasty, nonstop conversation. If you don’t stream Heir’s music after this, what are you doing? Go to https://linktr.ee/heir_music for links to Heir on Spotify, SoundCloud, YouTube, Tidal, and Apple Music.

Watch on YouTube at robhasawebsite.com/youtube

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron and be in community with our phenomenal guests: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social: @HeyPodFriends

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Owen Knight: Excited To Be Here

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 18:25:25 -0000

Owen Knight (@TheYoungKnight) is a Survivor 43 favorite, a lover of the outdoors, a champion of New Orleans, a trans-racial adoptee, a former Orange Theory coach, and someone who has described his existence as “Charlie Brown” having the football pulled away. Watch this real-life conversation with Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) about all of that and more on this week’s episode of Pod Friends.

Watch on YouTube at robhasawebsite.com/youtube.

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron and be in community with our phenomenal guests: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social: @HeyPodFriends

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Dr. Amanda Rabinowitz: Brains, Baking & Becoming

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 21:13:39 -0000

Dr. Amanda Rabinowitz (@DrAmandaR) has been part of the Rob Has A Podcast and Post Show Recaps communities as they’ve evolved, as a listener, as a podcaster, and as a cheerleader for all this community is. Amanda studies brains and brain injuries but is also a mom, a cook, and someone who WILL beat you in an eating contest. Hear her lively conversation on Pod Friends with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) to get to know Amanda and learn from her experience about how to navigate the game on the show Survivor, how growing up Jewish in Catholic school left an impression on her, and what this community and adjacent communities – Brice and Wen Present, Survivor Philadelphia, etc. – mean to her.

Watch on YouTube at robhasawebsite.com/youtube.

Introduction: 2:30

Interview begins: 7:00

How brain studies relate to reality TV and Survivor: 20:55

Survivor quits from a brain perspective: 25:15

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron and be in community with our phenomenal guests: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social: @HeyPodFriends

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Mary Kwiatkowski: Tripping & Falling

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 16:51:11 -0000

Frail Mary is everything. She’s a podcaster (on RHAP and on Kowskicast), a marathon runner, a live reality game player, a software developer, a Craig Benzine fan, a writer of fan fiction, a rec sports league athlete, the subject of a song called Spelling with Mary, and so much more. Mary Kwiatskowski is a long-time RHAP mainstay with an incredible history and even brighter future ahead, and this conversation with Pod Friends host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) is the perfect encapsulation of the humor, wit, brilliance, passion, tenacity, and relatability that you get anytime you hear from Mary. Enjoy the conversation – including the world premiere of Spelling with Mary – and get to know yet another pod friends.

Watch on YouTube at robhasawebsite.com/youtube.

Introduction: 1:30

Interview begins: 6:37

Special segment: Listening to “Spelling with Mary”: 1:10:08

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron and be in community with our phenomenal guests: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social: @HeyPodFriends

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Brice Izyah: I Am Worthy

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 22:18:00 -0000

Pod Friends | Brice Izyah: I Am Worthy

For the season premiere of Pod Friends (@HeyPodFriends), Brice Izyah (@BriceIzyah) joins host Matt Scott(@MattScottGW) for a powerful conversation between two people you’re bound to see at Survivor watch parties, and two young Black queer podcasters on the RHAP network. Brice is the cofounder of Brice and Wen Present (with past Pod Friends guest Wendell Holland), the creator of the Purple Pants Podcast, a Survivor fan favorite, a Survivor Philly LRG finalist, and an RHAP legend. Brice is also a proud Black, gay man, someone who has had countless careers in his life, a son, a brother, and a phenomenal friend, a musician, and so much more.

Watch on YouTube at robhasawebsite.com/youtube.

Introduction: 1:40

Cameo from Mike Bloom (@AMikeBloomType): 12:12

Interview begins: 17:55

Special segment: Purpify! 1:32:00

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron and be in community with our phenomenal guests: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social: @HeyPodFriends

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Nick Iadanza: Go Find Out For Yourself

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 02:35:52 -0000

Pod Friends | Nick Iadanza: Go Find Out For Yourself

Nick Iadanza (@NickIadanza) is a Survivor legend, known for his performances on Survivor Australia and Talking Tribal, but did you know he’s a dad to 3 (including 1 on the way), a high school teacher, a book lover, an adventurer, a griever, and a filmmaker, celebrating his family’s legacy in The Life They Made documentary? Sit down with Pod Friends host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) and Nick for a heartfelt, vulnerable conversation about all of these things and more, including masculinity, vulnerability, grief, and creating things that help you celebrate where you’ve been and where you’re going.

Interview starts around 7:30 in.

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron and be in community with our phenomenal guests: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social: @HeyPodFriends

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Akiva Wienerkur: Plenty of Kids, Podcasts, & Money

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 04:14:00 -0000

Pod Friends | Akiva Wienerkur: Plenty of Kids, Podcasts, & Money

This week's Pod Friends guest is a renaissance man, a storyteller, a sportsman, an educator, a music connoisseur, a husband, a father, a friend to you and me. You know Akiva Wienerkur (@Keev26) from Rob And Akiva Need A Podcast (RAANAP); New Girl, Old Guy (NGOG); 32 Fans, etc. Get to know him more as he takes you, the listeners of Pod Friends, and host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) on a ride through his journey – from growing up in New York and finding a career and community he loves, to moving to Israel and navigating life wearing many hats. In this conversation, Akiva talks about "plenty of money" and covers plenty of ground, including: growing up, being a sports fan, Modern Orthodox Judaism and representation in media, his career in teaching, music, and not taking yourself too seriously.

Interview starts around 6:30 in.

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron and be in community with our phenomenal guests: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social: @HeyPodFriends

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | AJ Mass: Yes, It's Hot in Here

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 07:12:20 -0000

Do you know AJ Mass (@AJMass)? He's an ESPN fantasy writer, a New Yorker, the former New York Mets mascot, a two-time author, the son of a mother who battled with manic depressive bipolar schitzophrenia, a father of a son going off to college, and the self-described elder statesman of RHAP. Hear his conversation with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) on this week's episode of Pod Friends.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Kevin Jacobs (Big Brother Canada): Reading Between the Lines

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 06:43:44 -0000

From RHAP listener to the latest champ of Big Brother Canada. From sales engineer to now helping make virtual therapy better for kids. From someone who faked a marriage to now being engaged to the love of his life. From a self-described “villain” to someone who’s more than meets the eye. Listen to this week’s Pod Friends with host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) to learn about Kevin Jacobs (@KevinTedJacobs) beyond the screen, and how and why it’s so important to “read between the lines”.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Jessica Liese: Reclaiming "Scatterbrain"

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 03:00:08 -0000

Pod Friends | Jessica Liese: Reclaiming "Scatterbrain"

A prolific podcaster, a former boxer, a mom, an epic traveler (but admittedly not fit for the Amazing Race; talking to you, Phil Keoghan!), a person with ADHD, a writer, a former game show contestant who gained valuable perspective through the experience, and someone who has learned to embrace the label of “scatterbrain”. Get to know Jessica Liese (@HaymakerHattie) on this week’s Pod Friends with Matt Scott (@MattScottGW).

Interview starts around the 7 minute mark

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Suggest a future guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnom

Leave a voicemail: speakpipe.com/podfriends

Become an RHAP patron and be in community with our phenomenal guests: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Email: podfriends@robhasawebsite.com

Follow on social: @HeyPodFriends

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Evvie Jagoda: YAY to Being Queer & Being Me

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 00:15:00 -0000

This week on Pod Friends, host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) is joined by Evvie Jagoda (they/them) of Survivor 41 to talk about science – specifically DNA and genes, being queer in science and in general, Evvie's experience on Survivor, and Evvie's love and appreciation for this community. Get to know what Evvie's been up to more than a year since their Survivor season, and months and months after hosting The Pride Has Spoken on RHAP.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Mike Bloom: An Open Door & Open Mind

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 06:02:46 -0000

Pod Friends | Mike Bloom: An Open Door & Open Mind

This week on Pod Friends, lets go “full bloom” together, for a raw conversation with RHAP’s own Mike Bloom (@AMikeBloomType). Mike and host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) have a casual, unhinged, heart-warming, vulnerable chat about parenting, interviewing reality TV stars, Mike’s proudest moments as an interviewer, his relationship with feedback, mental health and the real struggle, self-care, new hobbies, and just a few of the people who have supported him along the way.

Interview starts around the 10 minute mark.

Trigger warning as this episode does include frank conversation about mental health and suicide. Take time to pause and take care of yourself along the way, and reach out to a crisis line near you. One option — offering both text chat and live call support to folks — is 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (formerly the National Suicide Prevention Hotline) which you can find at https://988lifeline.org or by calling 988 in the US.

Subscribe to the podcast: robhasawebsite.com/podfriendsfeed

Leave a voicemail with your reactions (and it may be played on the podcast): speakpipe.com/podfriends

Suggest a guest: bit.ly/podfriendsnomBecome an RHAP network patron and join the community... and tell Rob we sent you: robhasawebsite.com/patreon

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Maryanne Oketch: Survivor Winner & Chaotic Force for Justice

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 02:18:36 -0000

When it comes to Maryanne Oketch (@MaryanneOketch), you think you know but you have NO idea! You've seen her on Survivor 42 and made your own conclusions, but here's a chance to hear host Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) talk with Maryanne about Maryanne's perspective of Maryanne. She's a Survivor winner, a first generation immigrant, a lover of food, a lover of travel, passionate about identity, her faith, science communication and health promotion in underrepresented communities, a lover of video games and comfort (specifically of blankets), and a new bean bag chair owner. This is Pod Friends (@HeyPodFriends)!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Stephen Fishbach: Survivor, Writing, & Self-Perception

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 21:10:00 -0000

You know Stephen Fishbach from Survivor, and you know he’s a Know-It-All with Rob Cesternino, but do you want to know more of him? On this week’s Pod Friends season finale podcast, hear a conversation from fellow creators Stephen and Matt Scott about writing, creativity, games, and the power of perception in succeeding at whatever you want. Go where we have yet to go with Stephen, and hear stories about his experience writing speeches for Stevie Wonder, selling a social media startup to Lionsgate, working at MTV, starting the Paraphrase podcast, and podcasting alongside the one and only Rob Cesternino. Interview starts at 7:25 in. Also, in this episode, listen to voicemails from the listeners, Mark, Josh, Ryan, Holly and Dan.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Jordan Kalish: Seeds, Shabbat, & Survivor

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 04:42:13 -0000

Are you excited for Survivor 43? We know Jordan Kalish (@JordanKalish) is! This week, Kalish takes a break from talking Survivor trivia to instead talk with MattScott (@MattScottGW) about his life — as a coach, a teacher, a host and player of mafia, a sports lover, a Jewish person, a seed lover, and so much more.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Isaiah “8-Ball” Goins: Bet On Yourself

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 21:04:25 -0000

Isaiah Goins (@8BallBangers) is an RHAP podcaster and Silent Podcasts founder, but did you know he is a 24 year old rapper, artist, current Survivor: Philadelphia (@SurvivorPhilly) player, former hospital worker in the pandemic, and all around amazing person?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Azah Awasum: The Wonderful World of Az

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 00:38:25 -0000

You know Azah Awasum (@azah_awasum) from Big Brother 23's iconic Cookout alliance, and from the Challenge USA, where she conquered a fear of heights and of water. Now, in this Pod Friends interview, get to know her like never before, beyond the shows she's been on! Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) talks with Azah all about her House Chops community cooking events, strict upbringing, her polygamist grandfather and 300 cousins, her pastor father and going to Messianic Jewish school growing up, and how she went on a journey to live her best life. In this conversation, we break down Azah's action-packed appearance on The Price is Right, her uncanny connection with Taylor Hale from Big Brother 24, the role of bullying and colorism in her journey, and so, so much more.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Stan Sy: Wrestling with Representation

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 06:17:28 -0000

Stan Sy (@_StanSy) is a Philippines-based podcaster and radio DJ, TV and events host, WWE Tagalog announcer, frequent @WrestlingRHAPUP guest, and RHAP fan whose voice is going global. From being silenced as a kid to finding his voice, if you don’t know Stan, you should. In this conversation with Matt Scott (@MattScottGW), hear the incredible journey of how this Chinoy media personality is finding and living his dream, despite pressure to live someone else’s.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Aman Adwin: Renaissance, Growth, & Realness

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 03:51:52 -0000

You know Aman Adwin (@AmanAdwin) as deliberately exaggerative, whether talking about Big Brother, Rupaul’s Drag Race, GLEE, or life on the Casual Tea on the Purple Pants Podcast. Join Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) as he and we all get to know Aman better. Catch up on Aman’s journey – his childhood, Pittsburgh and Philly, podcasting, Disney and Japanese creators, Big Brother rumors, creator life, mental health, and what’s ahead.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Gia Worthy: Survivor, Diversity, & Sexuality

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:06:20 -0000

Gia Worthy (@ClassicallyGia) is a podcaster with RHAP and Silent Podcasts, a writer for Inside Survivor (@RedmondSurvivor), and part of the Survivor Diversity Campaign (@SurvDiversity). Now, she's sitting down with Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) to share the story of writing a 20-page paper on Survivor, finding her identity as a black, biracial, bisexual person, working for HIV prevention and healthy relationships, and finding happiness by living in the moment and enjoying life.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Chantele Francis: Tarot, Manifestation, & Coincidences

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 07:57:19 -0000

You know Chantele Francis (@Chan__Fran) from covering #BB24, and now Matt Scott (@MattScottGW) uncovers HER story on this week’s Pod Friends (@HeyPodFriends)! Chantele is a hypnotherapist, a tarot reading life coach, a flight attendant, an actor, an award-winning ballerina, and has had an epic journey to rival anything you’ve seen or heard on reality TV. Watch or listen this week to get to know her and, in the process, find your own path.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Greg Dunlap: Pinball, Punk, & Sobriety

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 07:31:42 -0000

Greg Dunlap (@gregddunlap) turned to the RHAP community at the start of the pandemic, and it's no surprise because community has helped him overcome some big challenges. Greg shares his journey as a recovering alcoholic, computer developer, pinball enthusiast, punk rocker, RAANAP superfan, and so much more. Listen to this week's Pod Friends (@HeyPodFriends) to get to know Greg.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | LaTonya Starks

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 20:30:03 -0000

You know LaTonya Starks (@lkstarks) as a podcaster on Post Show Recaps and RHAP, but do you really know her? Listen to this week's Pod Friends to get to know LaTonya and her experiences defending herself growing up, embracing debate and fine arts, navigating chronic illness, and finding power in this podcasting community.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pod Friends | Shannon Guss: Defining Her Religious Identity, Navigating OCD, Singing & Rapping Her Way Into Your Hearts, & Survivor

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 03:23:38 -0000

Shannon Guss (@ShannonGaitz) is literally world-renowned for her Survivor Global coverage and role in the international Survivor community. But do you know HER life and story? Watch or listen to this week's Pod Friends for a conversation between Shannon and Matt to hear about the role Judaism has played in her life, her gratitude for her husband Peter, her thoughts on playing actual Survivor, her love for a couple of songs from Hamilton, and so much more. Interview starts at 7:30.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices