On Fire: The Official Survivor Podcast

Jeff Probst joins "CBS Mornings" to reveal the iconic returning players competing in "Survivor's" 50th season, featuring legends from across the show's two-decade history. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The explosive finale of Survivor 48 is here, and you can't truly finish off the season without the season finale of On Fire! Jeff, Jay and Rachel are here to break down all the big moments and bigger moves. First up, Jeff shares his emotional mix of exhaustion, pride, and gratitude as a season comes to a close. Then, into the finale we go, starting with the immense final 5 immunity challenge. Jay questions how difficult a puzzle really can be after Jeff brings it up at the challenge. And Rachel shares her insight into what the vote at 5 really boils down to when it comes to jury management.  Later, Kyle and Kamilla's decision on how to approach the final 5 vote shakes up the entire game. Then, Simmotion is back. Jeff explains how his timing on this challenge comes down to vibes. And later, another windy firemaking challenge leads to some surprising sportsmanship and a wild ending. Last up, the team give their thoughts on each member of the Final 3 and the final vote and look ahead at what comes next for On Fire.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The days are dwindling but the fire is heating up. The final six begin with the highest stakes reward challenge of the season and unfortunately for Shauhin, it is not leg day. First up, Jay asks Jeff about the making of a great endurance challenge.  One thing is for sure, it's made all the more dramatic by the pouring rain. Jeff details what it takes for the Survivor crew to be prepared for any and all elements, including a massive rainstorm in the middle of the ocean. Then, the aftermath - how important is getting to the Sanctuary one final time, and what's it like for those who don't make the cut? And what happens to all of those other letters from home? Rachel remembers her experience on the beach while other lucky tribemates got that final fuel and theorizes about how winning the biggest reward of the season can also come with a cost. Later, Joe's impactful moment remembering his sister. Jeff gives his thoughts on watching it back. And the big move that took everyone by surprise. Plus, your questions, including what Rachel crammed before her time on the island that was ultimately completely useless.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are bonds meant to be broken? Kyle has a shot on the table, but he can't keep himself from tears when he considers his options. Jeff, Rachel and Jay discuss the depth of a Survivor bond and how in a zero sum game, someone's gotta be the first to make a move. Then, coconut etiquette. Rachel explains the rules at camp when it comes to sharing, and how Mary's appetite may get the best of her. Later, a journey challenge description sounds like a mad lib. Jeff admits he never believed it would work until he saw it and realized - it does! The gang also discusses underwater photography and how Survivor is like a nature documentary - you don't tell the lion when to walk in! Plus, is there an out-loyaled? And your questions, including what Jeff keeps in all those shirt pockets. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We don't have 300-pound biceps, but we've got spirit! Star starts off this week's episode with some motivation, before Jeff, Jay and Rachel dive into the trials of the final 8. First up, Kyle and Kamilla's secret alliance stays secret. Rachel schools us as to why what they have accomplished so far is so unprecedented. Then, fried chicken and waffles, an incredible reward, gets a musical treatment! Jeff details how and why this hot new tune was born. Then, the name of the game is paranoia. As the rewards become more precious, the feeling of being left back at camp can fester. Rachel explains how that anxiety never really goes away, and for good reason! Later, the rice negotiation... More like a negation. Jeff dives into what it means that the players are refusing rice this season and what it might mean for the seasons ahead. Plus, your questions, including whether the stools at tribal council are a luxury when all you have to sit on is the ground!  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're down to the final nine, which means things are getting tense. First up, wombats! Or rather, Shauhin, in the middle of the night, creeping up on Joe to let him know that Eva snuck off. Jay asks Rachel if this sort of midnight wake up is ever ok. Then, the immunity challenge brings us an epic rematch. Jeff digs into how he approached the aftermath of what ended up being a serious letdown and a major turning point. Later, the making of a blindside. The gang looks at this seed planting approach and analyzes how long an expert finishing move can take. Plus, how does Jeff's view of an episode change from being there to watching it back? And, your questions, including what would happen if everyone played their Shot in the Dark.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shauhin just wants to paint the tribe flag, Jeff! But in the new era... the game does not stop. Jeff, Jay and Rachel start by analyzing the pace of the new era and why exactly it moves so fast. Then, the power of two prevails. Jay asks Jeff his favorite part of challenges that require pairs. And Rachel provides insight into why duos are so dangerous as the number of castaways dwindles. Later, it's time to Get a Grip. Jeff talks about the evolution of the iconic Survivor challenge and why those footholds continue to shrink. Plus, how do you deal with a tribemate with an agenda? And Jeff harkens back to the Survivor season where he decided to wear sunglasses.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sometimes all you have to do is hang on. Jeff, Jay and Rachel start with a small, but important wrinkle in the game: penmanship. Did Sai's secret vote throw Cedrek into tailspin? Then, the immunity challenge asked castaways to hold 25% of their pre-game body weight and the previous record is shattered. Jay asks Jeff if that means it's time to make it tougher. Later, with two tribal councils, the gang analyzes the strategic power the first group has in eliminating a potential jury member. Plus, should you ever accept being the decoy vote? And, your questions, including whether Jeff would ever consider bringing back head-to-head physical challenges.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One will be safe... Twelve will not. The treemail heard round the world kicks off this episode of On Fire, when the castaways find out it's time to earn the merge. First, Jay asks Jeff about the philosophy behind the new era merge and its evolution over the past several seasons. And the merge advantage - Say's snipe right out from under Charity's nose. Jeff dives into exactly what it takes to happen to capture such an iconic moment. Then, the merge challenge - why is it so damn hard? Rachel dives into how it feels to be "tarred and feathered" with mud and wood chips. And what was up with that vote read? Rachel and Jay question the order of the votes that took both of them by surprise. Plus, your questions, including how hard would it be to win Survivor if you get extremely hangry?  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First up, trash talk. Sai thinks Mary needs more tact when she gloats in her reward victory. Is she just trying to get under her skin? Next, what is the difference when the challenge team approaches a reward challenge vs. an immunity? And can the players take their foot off the gas?    After Kamilla and Shauhin discuss the hardships their parents endured, Jeff reveals how players' backstory is always up to them, and how the Survivor team approaches framing a story if and when they do share. Later, Eva's extremely powerful and brave moment after her challenge win. And Jeff digs into the historic moment when he cried for the first time ever on Survivor.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Three words can change the entire game on Survivor, and this week they did. Jeff, Jay and Rachel dive into the switch that mixed up Civa, Vula and Lagi in ways no one could anticipate. First up, everybody, drop your Buffs®! The gang analyzes the switch and what it really feels like to lose your tribe after 8 days, a Survivor eternity. Later, after Vula unsuccessfully called their shot, the game was afoot. Rachel discusses why searching Kyle's bag might have seemed taboo, but really, wasn't enough! Finally, your questions, including why people love pretending they aren't lawyers!  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The game never rests... Especially if you're Mary and Sai! This week, Jeff, Jay and Rachel discuss Survivor's ultimate odd couple and if they can ever just work it out. Then, the castaways take on the infamous Survivor blindfold challenge. Jeff dives into its history as well as how they keep players on their toes with each new edition. And Rachel adds her two cents as to who, if anyone, she'd trust to keep her from all of those bruises. Later, the journey's dice game was the ultimate test of Survivor luck, a critical Survivor game design element. Jay presses Rachel on if it's wise for Kamilla to share the advantage she won with the full Civa tribe. And finally, they break down that unprecedented tribal council, where a deadlock meant Cedrek was the last man standing, literally. Plus, your questions, including asking Jeff whatever happened to that cowboy hat?! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After just four days, the castaways are craving the comforts of home, so why not install some wifi right into a tree? On an all new On Fire, Jeff, Jay and Rachel get fired up about the new main title sequence. Then, it's time to stay humble. The crew reveals their humble traits, and they are oddly, quite similar. Later, Jeff reveals the intention behind the latest beware advantage. And BOATS! At the heart of Survivor is an unsung hero unit that makes everything go, including the first journey of the season. Finally, at tribal, was Jeff spicier than usual? He gets into how sometimes it really is group therapy. Plus, your questions including a throwback to Survivor Palau's Schoolyard Pick tribe selection. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Come on in! On Fire is back to bring you every juicy detail behind Survivor 48. First up, Jeff and Jay welcome new co-host, winner of Survivor 47, Rachel LaMont. Then, any great season of Survivor begins with the players. Jeff details the casting process, answering exactly how you become one of 18 very lucky castaways. Next, they dive into the mud headfirst, and why a medical moment with Kevin didn't make the final edit. After one tribe emerges victorious in the marooning challenge, the other two are left with a "Fight for Supplies." Jeff details how they approach this opening twist, while Rachel analyzes just how much of a difference sending one person off can be. Later, it's the first tribal council of the season, but someone's got to have their torch snuffed. Was it a case of sitting on their hands? Plus, Jeff's special announcement on Survivor 50. Voting is now open! Cast your vote in each of our first four categories for Survivor 50 on CBS: https://www.survivor50cbs.votenow.tv/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Grab your torches, it's time to hit the beach — On Fire, the only official Survivor podcast will return to accompany Survivor 48! Listen in as Jeff takes you through what big twists to expect this season. He also reveals who will join the podcast as the player co-host! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's the finale of Survivor 47 and Jeff, Jay and Charlie are joined by the Winner of Survivor 47 to unpack the epic ending. But first, Jeff looks back 47 finales later, and explains how it has evolved over the years. Then, they dive into the final immunity challenge and why the castaways returned to the mud one more time. Later, they explore the Final 4 Firemaking challenge and how the wind not blowing your way can change everything. Finally, they are joined by Survivor 47's winner to discuss their game, how one vote changed their entire journey, and how life completely changed for them when they got back home. Plus, an exciting revelation about Charlie's relationship with the Survivor 47 winner that will certainly surprise you.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the Survivor finale, but this season... it's two parts! Jeff, Jay and Charlie begin by diving into what motivated the new finale format and how the Survivor team approached having more time to spend with the final 6. Then, they examine that iconic walking shot of Jeff at the beginning of the episode and what it takes to pull off that moment. Later, Jay asks Charlie about jury management and how to handle walking on eggshells as players circle who they want to sit next to at the end. Then, Rachel's gameplay motivates a question about the return of the spy-shack, and Jeff dives into what it really takes to shoot - and stay concealed - in the dark. Plus, they examine Genivieve and Rachel's challenge performance and how it resembled Wendell and Dom back in Survivor:Ghost Island. And, Jeff reveals why he no longer says an iconic and beloved Survivor line.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Operation: Italy in play, Jeff, Jay and Charlie have a ton to dissect about how to approach a heist movie happening inside an episode of Survivor! They begin with the Italian reward and how Jeff's method of describing the reward makes it all the more appetizing. Then, knots! Jeff explains how and why this small part of a Survivor challenge can be its most critical. Later, talk of a women's alliance causes Jay to wonder why we haven't seen a successful gender-themed alliance since the Black Widow Brigade. And finally, an in depth look at Operation: Italy and how the producers behind this built this iconic Survivor sequence from the beaches to the edit bays.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the days tick by, the castaways have begun to search within themselves for the capacity not just to survive, but to thrive. Jeff, Jay and Charlie begin by discussing Caroline's realization that it's time to play the game on her terms as she has wanted to since she was just 5 years old. Jeff reflects on how watching young Survivor fans become players has been one of his favorite parts of the experience. Then, Rachel heads on a journey to a floating barge to complete a timed puzzle that will soon be dragged to the bottom of the ocean. They dissect each element of the brand new, high stakes game, and Jeff details how Team FLINT not only came up with such an awesome idea, but how they turned something so farfetched into a reality. Later, Sue and Andy's self-reflections spark the question: does outlast also mean outlasting yourself? And Jeff reveals why he decided to speak to the latest castaway joining the jury after their torch was snuffed.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's getting emotional at camp and for good reason. As the number of castaways dwindles, the real bonds and relationships that have formed are more fraught than ever, leading Genevieve and Teeny to question everything. Jeff, Jay and Charlie examine the insecurities that any Survivor relationship has and how the high pressure can lead to magnificent personal growth. Then, they dive into how a rice negotiation turned into a wild trade for Shots in the Dark, and what it meant for players like Sam, who are playing from the bottom. Jeff also answers why he made the choice to accept the trade, and whether or not he thinks it will come back to haunt the gameplay or the players. Later, the rain pours down at Tribal and Jeff reveals why he loves it, who keeps all the fires going, and whether or not they've ever postponed Tribal due to weather. And finally, Charlie gets into the strategy behind jury management, as another castaway is sent to the jury bench to decide who becomes Sole Survivor.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes an episode gets batty - literally! Jeff, Jay and Charlie dive into the big moments of episode nine, beginning with a tale as old as time ... Treemail! Jeff harkens back to Season 1, when he first introduced Treemail to the Survivor audience and how it still has a major role today. Then, a twist where 40% of the vote is possibly gone- Jeff answers if that number could increase moving forward. Plus, they dig into Andy and Sam's setback on the challenge, how the Challenge Department is always prepared for a malfunction, and why in this case, Jeff knew it was not his problem! And later they discuss walking into a tribal that's already live, how Jeff handles it if people want to ignore his questions, and why chaos is in the eye of the beholder.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready to get happy, it's the Survivor Auction! Jay, Jeff and Charlie dive into this packed episode, beginning with the SSA's, "Sol's Secret Agents," and whether all castaways need to come prepared with alliance names. Then, they dive into all of the drama of the auction, including how the producers prepare for such an audacious challenge, where they get those delicious grubs, and why Jeff decided to break out into some Shakespeare in the Park. Later, they discuss the big moves by Rachel - sneaking an idol from a tarp and how her new usage of the Shot in the Dark may change the game for years to come. Last up, Charlie talks about grip strength - again. And Jeff answers a fan question about how player interviews are executed and scheduled to ensure all players have equal time to talk behind each other's back Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What begins with writing in the sand, wondering about your life in the game ends with a vicious blindside that no one saw coming. Join Jeff, Charlie and Jay as they dive into how Survivor's storytelling is attempting to bring viewers inside players' minds in all new ways. Later, Charlie describes what it's like when you no longer have tribe challenges, and how the morning of a challenge changes completely in the later stage of the game. Then, they discuss the split tribal council and whether or not the "Take Your Pick" advantage was always in the plans. Plus, how does the immunity necklace get made? Jeff sheds light on how every detail of Survivor is built on autonomy and trust. And have you ever wondered how exactly Jeff "tallies the votes?" He reveals his secrets on this all new episode.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everybody drop your Buffs®, it's time to earn the merge! Only this time... it's harder than ever. Jeff, Jay, and Charlie dive into the new twist that left only one player safe. Jeff explains the producer's mentality behind the shift between the group and individual stages of the game. Plus the chaos of when all the crews hit the same beach and suddenly there are 13 simultaneous stories to cover. Then, Charlie analyzes how to approach a two-stage challenge when you have nothing left in the tank. And, Jeff and Charlie debate the pros and cons of a large vs. small tribal council - and whether there is truly nowhere to hide on Survivor. Lastly, Jeff reveals how the entire episode was framed from Rome's POV and how starting on the beach and ending in the edit bays, the team was able to bring you inside his mind as he went to what he referred to as a "Michael Jordan vs. Kirk Hinrich" tribal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It begins with only two lanes... and a first ever Survivor twist. Jeff, Jay and Charlie discuss the premiere of The Survivor Social, where it came from, what Jeff was hoping for, and how players hungry for intel now have an opportunity like never before. And, Jeff details the true story of how the Sanctuary... where good things happen... was birthed. Later, Jay asks Jeff about his approach when a tribe decides to bargain... like when Gata tried to trade their chickens for eggs. And, Charlie gives his take on what the right choice really was. Plus, Jeff details where his color commentary was born and Charlie fondly remembers a moment where Jeff got in his head. Last up, is Andy becoming the Talented Mr. Ripley? Jeff details how the storytelling of a Survivor murder mystery gets built... and Jay and Charlie discuss the potential fallout at Gata moving forward.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff, Jay and Charlie begin with Teeny's decision to tell Sol that her vote on him was emotional, not strategic - and how vulnerability plays a part in building alliances. Then, the chickens are back! Jeff details how egg-laying hens are so uniquely Survivor and Charlie reveals his take on how to make the most of it. A bucket of red paint falls on Sue when she finds a beware advantage. Jay suggests an evolution to the advantage that may take Survivor 50 by storm. Then - a puzzle that ended the way it started, as if nothing ever happened. Jeff discusses whether gameplay ever bugs him, and how Rome's strategy on the puzzle was so... puzzling. Last up, Jeff answers a question about eliminating one of his famous catchphrases - and which one he would choose!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Twenty six nights sleeping on bamboo can't be good on your back - and Gata is already feeling the pain. Jeff, Jay and Charlie discuss what adjusting to camp life is really like and whether or not Jeff's ever spent the night in a shelter. Then, it's Rome's Island, and we're all just living on it. Does selectively sharing fish work in your favor? And is he the Godson to Boston Rob? Maybe! Later, they dig into the importance of player interviews and how small decisions from the Survivor camera teams can make a huge difference. And Jay asks Jeff if seeing the players strategize before the challenge was borne out of a moment from On Fire Season 3. Later - Aysha was feeling like she was out of the group chat at tribal council. They dig into this feeling and discuss how vulnerability is a crucial part of the experience. Last up, Jeff answers how many fires can you have at a tribe camp? The answer might surprise you!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There aren't many rules in Survivor, but rice theft is one of them! Jeff, Jay, and Charlie consider Rachel's sneaky attempt to pocket some rice, what it says about her character, and why letting her get away with it would influence the integrity of the game. Personality traits, for better or worse, are starting to show and friction among players is building. Charlie explains how much harder it becomes to hide your feelings about a tribemate when you're under-fed, under-slept, and under pressure. Then, Jeff shares how the challenge department evolved the three-person table maze. Charlie, a master at the game, shares his advice for keeping cool through its twists and turns. Lastly, Jeff weighs in on a listener question about bringing personal items to the beach. The season is just beginning, but according to Rome, he's got the On Fire gig booked for next season.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the premiere of Survivor 47, and 24 years in, the goosebumps still come when Jeff says “The game is on!” Fresh off of Survivor 46, Jeff and Jay are joined by new co-host Charlie Davis, who shares his advice for keeping cool in the opening moments of the game. Then, Jeff explains how the tradition of diving face-first into a pit of mud is not just transformative, it's also a lot easier said than done! Jeff shares behind-the-scenes details about what went into the evolution of earning tribe supplies, as well as the newest iteration of the Beware Advantage, and how the “nesting doll” could impact gameplay. Then, Jeff, Jay and Charlie discuss this season's epic first Immunity Challenge, and the post-challenge aftermath when Andy airs his dirty laundry and throws Jon under the bus. Lastly, Jeff answers a listener's question on the best way to binge Survivor. So dive into the mudpit, because that's how you do it on Survivor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You want more Survivor? You got it! Showrunner Jeff Probst and executive producer Jay Wolff return to provide their insight into each and every major moment of Survivor 47. And, a new perspective joins the mix: a former player beloved by fans. Here are a few hints: they had highly strategic gameplay, incredible grip strength, and they missed becoming the Sole Survivor by just one very controversial vote. “On Fire” remains the ultimate Survivor companion podcast — revealing HOW the show is made and WHY they do the things they do. You'll get it all, from the host, fan, AND the player's POV. There's no other podcast like it.  Watch the latest episode of Survivor every Wednesday starting September 18th on CBS and Paramount+ then catch all-new episodes of “On Fire” every Wednesday right after the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Survivor 46 Finale night is here and with it a very close vote that leaves the audience — and jury — on the edge of their seat. Before the drama of Final Tribal, Jeff, Jay and Dee unpack the all-new challenge twist that caused two castaways to team up to send another one packing. They also talk about the Final 4 challenge design, and the choice to send someone to fire — and whether, hypothetically, it's worth sacrificing your seat in the Final 3 for a shot at beating them. Later, they're joined for the very first interview with each member of the Final 3, as they share their best moves, how they attempted to sway the jury, and the moments they'll never forget from their time in Fiji. Plus, Jeff shares his thoughts on what's to come in Survivor 50 and what to expect in On Fire: Season 4. That's a wrap of this season of On Fire! Survivor 47 premieres in the fall on CBS and Paramount+. Until then you can stream past seasons of Survivor on Paramount+. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The million-dollar prize may be the lure, but it's the "Survivor" experience that's the real prize! Jeff, Jay and Dee consider how the island brings people (who likely wouldn't have met otherwise) together, even while they're betraying one another. As we head into the final days, Dee shares how letters from loved ones give players an emotional push to make it to the end. Jeff explains how the art and challenge departments handle creating new puzzles and retiring old ones, and how they prepare for the very real possibility that “Survivor” hopefuls have practiced with replica puzzles. After another castaway gets sent packing with an idol in their pocket, Jeff answers a listener's question about how long the players get to strategize when the tides turn last minute at Tribal Council.  Sponsor - RocketMoney.com/SURVIVOR Stop wasting money on things you don't use. Choose RocketMoney to cancel your unwanted subscriptions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Forget a friendly game of hide and seek, now the castaways are all about idol hunting. Jeff explains how production re-evaluated how they show the idol hunt, while Dee shares the reality of a days-long search in the dense jungle. “Survivor” is all about taking calculated risks — from picking reward companions to betraying allies — any decision can change the course of the game. Then, Jeff breaks down why the final week is crucial and tackles a listener's question on the not-so-beloved Rites of Passage ritual. Jeff might need more snacks as tribal council chaos continues!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you take your number one to the end or try to blindside them before they come for you? Dee advises on how to properly execute a blindside but organizing one might not always be a winning strategy. Jeff, Jay and Dee revisit Liz's emotional reaction to not being chosen to join in the reward. Jeff shares how they got a chef all the way to Fiji while reminiscing on his favorite brand sponsorships over the years. The physical challenges on "Survivor" stay demanding and Dee reveals the intense endurance training she underwent to prepare. Then, Jeff and Dee answer a listener's question about what traits make a player a threat.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a messy Tribal Council, the bottom might be the perfect place to be on “Survivor” right now. Jeff, Jay, and Dee discuss the opportunity the castaways have to start over. The three-stage challenge leads to a debate between Jeff and Dee on the merits (or lack thereof) of throwing a challenge. Jeff explains how production and the Dream Team test the pain threshold of endurance challenges. Meanwhile, Dee speaks to the mental toughness the Survivors need to focus on anything but how much they're hurting in these moments. Then, Jeff answers questions about how players, like Liz, deal with food restrictions on the island and if he knows if and when a castaway will play an idol. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Q's world and we're all just living in it. Jeff, Jay, and Dee unpack his command of the game, from engineering a strategic (or not so strategic) round of hide and seek to dropping a bomb that led to a heated live Tribal Council. With Q running the show this week, Jeff shares how the editors balance the castaways' airtime. Dee gives her hot take on Maria and Charlie, the dynamic duo playing a tight game, and whether the Six Alliance can make it. As the winner of Season 46's Get a Grip challenge (remember those toes?), she reveals what's running through the players' heads as they hold on for dear life.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The stakes on Survivor are high, but at the end of the day, humanity outlasts the competition. From Kenzie comforting Ben during his panic attack to Venus struggling to form bonds, we're reminded that the castaways are people, not just players. Jeff, Jay, and Dee discuss how the game balances pushing players to their mental and physical limits while prioritizing their safety. The castaways are reeling from their first individual Tribal Council and Dee reminisces on the thick tension in the air on the way back to camp after a torch is snuffed. With so many moving parts all season, a listener question sheds light on how the show is pieced together so viewers can “play” along. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everybody, drop your Buffs®! Jeff explains how they used Tree Mail to capitalize on the moment of limbo between learning about the Merge and the Earn the Merge Challenge. Jeff, Dee, and Jay break down the Merge Challenge from the rock draw that determines your fate to the strategically placed safety sawdust. The winners get to feast on the Merge meal, but proceed with caution — Dee spills about what happened off-camera the time she overindulged in a reward… Meanwhile, the losers head to the largest Tribal Council of the season. Jeff breaks down how they approach production and Dee shares how nerve-wracking it is from the player's POV. Then, during listener questions, Dee talks about how players can't forget they're in the game, even when they're sleeping! Sponsor - RocketMoney.com/SURVIVOR Stop wasting money on things you don't use. Choose RocketMoney to cancel your unwanted subscriptions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everything in Survivor is strategic, even salsa dancing! Jeff explains why it is important to show camp life and Dee shares why it is important to play along with something, like dancing or tai chi, even if it's the last thing you want to do! After 11 days without flint, Yanu broke the record for the longest stretch without fire. Jeff addresses the importance of these penalties in the New Era and whether or not he'd ever reconsider the flint rule.  As Yanu dwindles, Jeff reveals how and when they decide to do a tribe swap, and Dee shares how you plan for the moment as a player. Jeff, Jay, and Dee also break down the decision to include Survivor trivia in Hunter's Journey and Jem's machete strategy. Plus, Jeff answers listener questions including one about exit interviews, which inspires Dee to share her exit interview - something she never had to do!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you go from being complete strangers to sitting on a beach singing to each other? Hunger! While food deprivation inspired Soda (“Queen Morale”) and Tevin to create an original song, Dee warns that it can also dangerously cloud your judgment and ruin your perception of another player if you let it get the best of you. She advises future players to practice their emotions before they go on Survivor to know how and when to show them. Jeff, Jay, and Dee continue the conversation about managing emotions as Tevin unlocks a memory, Maria deals with defeat, and Bhanu accepts his fate in the game. Jeff also shares how he may test the castaways and present obstacles, but he will never lie. The castaways must trust the game and know it is fair, but that doesn't mean they can't introduce a few twists…Assume nothing! Then, Jeff breaks down the logistical struggles of building and filming challenges in the water. Plus, he answers listener questions about how long players get to strategize before a challenge starts.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Send me home” are three words you never expect a player to utter, but the New Era is intentionally designed to push the castaways further than ever before. If players can endure this new reality, their truth will be revealed, bringing them one step closer to the million-dollar prize. Jeff, Jay, and Dee talk about the editorial decisions made behind the scenes to help the audience experience what the players are feeling, like the whimsical music that simulates Bhanu's paranoia and the sound effects that transport you to Q's devastating football fumble. There's a unique story behind each player and another critical part of Survivor storytelling that Jeff reveals is telling the audience only what they need to know when they need to know. He talks about how and when they decide to weave the castaway's backstories into episodes, like revealing Hunter's impressive puzzle-building background right before the challenge. Jeff, Jay, and Dee also discuss Randen's unexpected exit and what happens if a player is pulled from the game and has an idol or advantage they want to hand off. Plus, Jeff and Dee answer a popular listener question about the origin of the iconic Survivor Buff®.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New era, same emotions. The players are already feeling the emotional impact of no food, sleepless nights, and physical exhaustion. From small tribes to minimal supplies, Jeff shares how the game design is all about earning your keep and digging into your reserves to prove just how badly you want it. Jeff and Dee talk about the importance of being vulnerable and finding ways to bond with tribemates, whether it's through a Metallica-Taylor Swift song-off at camp or poking fun at Jeff. Jeff also breaks down how they created the new and bigger version of the archway puzzle featured in this week's challenge. Dee talks about how you must push your limits during every challenge, even when there's nothing left in the tank because your tribemates are depending on you. Then, Jeff answers some fan questions about why they phased out schoolyard picks, how castaways handle their jobs if they're selected for Survivor, and more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices