Beyond the Torch

Today on Beyond the Torch, Chad Crittenden joins Todd & Leslie and shares his incredible story of being diagnosed with synovial sarcoma, a rare and deadly form of cancer, during his ninth year of teaching. After discovering a tumor on his foot that grew from peanut-sized to golf ball-sized, he faced a life-changing decision: undergo a wide excision that would leave him with a permanent limp, or choose amputation below the knee. He chose amputation and, remarkably, auditioned for Survivor during his recovery after watching Season 8 (All-Stars). His unique perspective and Mark Burnett's vision led to him concealing his prosthetic leg with pants, revealing it strategically on the show to explore how preconceived notions affect people's perceptions. Chad discusses the physical and mental challenges of competing, his alliance dynamics, his friendship with Julie and Chris, and his post-Survivor life doing motivational speaking (including a TED Talk and speaking to the royal family in Abu Dhabi). He's now a PE teacher, continuing to inspire children by demonstrating what people with disabilities can achieve.

Watch Chad's TED Talk here!

Key Points of Interest:

• Chad discovered his cancer between Survivor Seasons 8 and 9, had his amputation, and competed on Season 9 all within the same year
• He concealed his prosthetic leg initially to study how people's treatment of him changed before and after the reveal
• The opening ceremony in Vanuatu included drinking kava (a traditional ceremonial drink with muscle-relaxing effects) and a dramatic moment when it started pouring rain the instant Brady touched the idol at the top of a greased pole
• Chad's humor and personality weren't shown much on TV because he was portrayed as the "inspirational guy"
• He got angry at Julie for voting against their alliance, but it wasn't aired because it didn't fit his character arc
• He was expected to be cast for Heroes vs. Villains but wasn't selected for undisclosed reasons
• Chad now teaches PE to elementary students, serving as a living example that disabilities don't limit capability
• He remains close friends with Julie, Chris, and Ethan Zohn, and does work with Grassroots Soccer

Beyond the Torch is hosted by Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease from Survivor China. Produced and edited by Leslie Nease. Artwork by Leslie Nease. To contact them, email [email protected]! 

This podcast is a love letter to Survivor and the people who played it — but just to be clear, we're not connected to CBS or the official Survivor franchise. Just superfans and former castaways telling our stories beyond the torch.

Leave a voicemail for us if you're a Super Fan who wants to share how Survivor changed your life or if you have a question or idea for our show! We love to include the fans!!

Special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Quoircast! They make this podcast possible, along with lots of other interesting podcasts they help bring to life! Check out their platform HERE!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week Leslie & guest-co-host Courtney sit down with the legendary "Boston"Rob Mariano. They dive into Rob's long and memorable Survivor career, his strategies, memorable moments, and behind-the-scenes insights. They talk about what he would say to himself back on that Marquesas beach so many years ago if he got a chance to "mentor" himself back then, and find out what he really thought about those gigantic statues of him and Sandra, and why he won't ever play Survivor again. If you're a Survivor fan, this is a must-listen episode!

Bullet Points of Interest:

• Boston Rob shares his thoughts on the evolution of Survivor strategy.
• Behind-the-scenes stories from Rob's multiple seasons.
• Discussion on the challenges and advantages of returning players.
• Courtney Yates adds her unique perspective and humor.
• Insights into the social dynamics and alliances that shaped the game.
• Reflections on the most memorable moments and twists in Survivor history.

Beyond the Torch is hosted by Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease from Survivor China. Produced and edited by Leslie Nease. Artwork by Leslie Nease. To contact them, email [email protected]! 

This podcast is a love letter to Survivor and the people who played it — but just to be clear, we're not connected to CBS or the official Survivor franchise. Just superfans and former castaways telling our stories beyond the torch.

Leave a voicemail for us if you're a Super Fan who wants to share how Survivor changed your life or if you have a question or idea for our show! We love to include the fans!!

Special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Quoircast! They make this podcast possible, along with lots of other interesting podcasts they help bring to life! Check out their platform HERE!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today, Leslie and guest co-host Courtney Yates welcome Brian Corridan, Survivor: Guatemala alum! We reminisce about our Survivor experiences, the evolution of the show, and the enduring community that has formed around it. We also discuss the challenges of casting, the intensity of the game, and the personal growth (or lack thereof) that comes from playing. How many times did Brian audition? What finally got him cast after making finals 3 times? What is he up to now? Find out this and more on this episode of Beyond the Torch!

Bullet Points of Interest:

• Brian Corridan shares his journey to being cast on Survivor, including multiple audition attempts and his unique “insult theory” that helped him stand out.
• Leslie, Courtney and Brian reflect on the differences between old-school and new-era Survivor, including casting, challenges, and the changing nature of fame.
• A fan voicemail from Delilah illustrates the deep impact Survivor has on its audience and the sense of community it fosters.
• Behind-the-scenes stories about the grueling 11-mile hike in Guatemala, crocodile-infested waters, and the hardships contestants faced.
• Discussion of the Survivor alumni community, the “wine and cheese” group, and the lasting friendships formed through the show.
• Honest talk about the emotional aftermath of being on Survivor, dealing with online criticism, and the importance of self-acceptance.
• Brian offers advice for listeners feeling stripped down by life, emphasizing the value of community and kindness.
• The episode closes with gratitude, laughter, and a reminder that Survivor is more than a game—it’s a lifelong connection for many.

Beyond the Torch is hosted by Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease from Survivor China. Produced and edited by Leslie Nease. Artwork by Leslie Nease. To contact them, email [email protected]! 

This podcast is a love letter to Survivor and the people who played it — but just to be clear, we're not connected to CBS or the official Survivor franchise. Just superfans and former castaways telling our stories beyond the torch.

Leave a voicemail for us if you're a Super Fan who wants to share how Survivor changed your life or if you have a question or idea for our show! We love to include the fans!!

Special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Quoircast! They make this podcast possible, along with lots of other interesting podcasts they help bring to life! Check out their platform HERE!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re back!!! Welcome to Beyond the Torch 2026! We’re kicking things off in the best way possible. Guest host Courtney Yates joins Leslie for a real, raw, and honestly iconic conversation with Tina Wesson, Survivor winner & returnee!

From being cast as an alternate (wild) to becoming a Survivor legend, to returning with her daughter on Survivor: Blood vs. Water, Tina opens up about it all. The wins, the losses, the growth—and yes, she spills some tea.

They dive into how Survivor has changed over the years, what it’s really like playing as a “normal” person (aka not a superfan strategist), and how the show shaped Tina’s life and family in ways she never expected.

Big themes: authenticity, evolving game dynamics, and the kind of lifelong bonds only Survivor can create. It’s heartfelt, fun, and full of moments you’ll be thinking about long after the episode ends.

Trust us—you’re gonna want to listen 🎧✨

Bullet Points of Interest:

• Tina reveals she was initially an alternate and almost didn’t make the cast.
• Insights into the casting process and the types of questions asked.
• Tina’s perspective on being a relatable, “ordinary” winner and the show’s early focus on regular people.
• Reflections on the evolution of Survivor, including changes in gameplay, alliances, and production.
• Stories from playing with her daughter Katie on "Blood vs. Water" and the unique challenges and joys of that experience.
• Discussion of the physical hardships of early Survivor seasons, including extreme starvation and longer durations.
• Tina’s approach to playing with integrity and letting people be themselves.
• The emotional and psychological impact of Survivor, including recurring dreams and the “trauma bond” among castaways.
• Fun behind-the-scenes stories from post-vote-out trips and Ponderosa.
• The hosts and Tina share who they’re rooting for in the upcoming Survivor season and reflect on the legacy of the show.

Beyond the Torch is hosted by Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease from Survivor China. Produced and edited by Leslie Nease. Artwork by Leslie Nease. To contact them, email [email protected]! 

This podcast is a love letter to Survivor and the people who played it — but just to be clear, we're not connected to CBS or the official Survivor franchise. Just superfans and former castaways telling our stories beyond the torch.

Leave a voicemail for us if you're a Super Fan who wants to share how Survivor changed your life or if you have a question or idea for our show! We love to include the fans!!

Special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Quoircast! They make this podcast possible, along with lots of other interesting podcasts they help bring to life! Check out their platform HERE!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this final episode of 2025 of "Beyond the Torch," we welcome Anthony Robinson, a memorable castaway from Survivor: Fiji, for a deep dive into his experiences both on and off the show. The conversation weaves through Anthony’s journey as a self-described "blurred" (Black nerd), his unique path to being cast, the challenges of representation and stereotypes on reality TV, and the emotional impact of Survivor on his life. The episode also touches on the power of fandom, the realities of online interactions, and Anthony’s post-Survivor adventures in immersive theater and gaming. Listeners are treated to candid reflections, humorous anecdotes, and thoughtful discussions about identity, vulnerability, and personal growth. This is our final episode for this year, but we will be back in January with some brand new episodes Beyond the Torch!

Points of Interest:

• Anthony’s reflections on being one of the first openly nerdy Black contestants and the pressures of representation.
• Behind-the-scenes stories about Survivor: Fiji casting, including the unexpected way Anthony was recruited.
• Honest discussion about the emotional toll of reality TV, online trolling, and the importance of self-acceptance.
• Anthony’s friendship with fellow castaway Rocky, including a touching story of reconciliation after the show.
• Insights into the “mask” we wear in different parts of life, and how Survivor magnifies personal growth.
• The impact of Survivor fandom, especially during the pandemic, and the unique ways fans interact with former contestants.
• Anthony’s current involvement in immersive theater and gaming communities, and his ongoing journey of self-discovery.

Beyond the Torch is hosted by Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease from Survivor China. Produced and edited by Leslie Nease. Artwork by Leslie Nease. To contact them, email [email protected]! 

This podcast is a love letter to Survivor and the people who played it — but just to be clear, we're not connected to CBS or the official Survivor franchise. Just superfans and former castaways telling our stories beyond the torch.

Leave a voicemail for us if you're a Super Fan who wants to share how Survivor changed your life or if you have a question or idea for our show! We love to include the fans!!

Special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Quoircast! They make this podcast possible, along with lots of other interesting podcasts they help bring to life! Check out their platform HERE!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode features a lively and heartfelt conversation with Dr. Jill Behm from Survivor: Nicaragua, delving into her unique journey to the show, her experiences as an introvert in a high-stakes social game, and the enduring friendships formed through Survivor. The hosts and Jill reminisce about the early days of Survivor fandom, the evolution of casting, and the challenges of playing in tough locations like Nicaragua. The episode also explores the impact of Survivor on personal growth, the importance of community among contestants, and the quirks of Survivor memorabilia. Listeners are treated to behind-the-scenes stories, reflections on game strategy, and the camaraderie that defines the Survivor family.

Bullet Points of Interest:

• Jill’s unconventional path to being cast on Survivor and the role of distinctive hair color.
• The early Survivor fan community: message boards like Survivor Sucks and Pygmy Island.
• Insights into the casting process and the “menu” approach to building a season’s cast.
• The physical and social challenges of playing Survivor in Nicaragua.
• The importance of alliances and instant connections, especially with fellow contestants like Marty.
• Survivor memorabilia: Jill’s “Survivor room” and stories behind unique keepsakes.
• Reflections on how Survivor changes (or doesn’t change) contestants’ lives.
• The evolution of game strategy, including the impact of hidden immunity idols.
• The supportive Survivor “mom squad” and the value of contestant community.
• Listener engagement: “The Fans Have Spoken” segment and encouragement for fan participation.

Beyond the Torch is hosted by Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease from Survivor China. Produced and edited by Leslie Nease. Artwork by Leslie Nease. To contact them, email [email protected]! 

This podcast is a love letter to Survivor and the people who played it — but just to be clear, we're not connected to CBS or the official Survivor franchise. Just superfans and former castaways telling our stories beyond the torch.

Leave a voicemail for us if you're a Super Fan who wants to share how Survivor changed your life or if you have a question or idea for our show! We love to include the fans!!

Special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Quoircast! They make this podcast possible, along with lots of other interesting podcasts they help bring to life! Check out their platform HERE!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Imagine finally being selected as a Castaway on Survivor after 18 auditions and realizing your experience was nothing like you'd hoped it would be. Gillian Larsen was 61 years old when she was cast on the show and she had a rough time fitting in on her season of Survivor Gabon, but she didn't let that stop her from using the experience to create a fundraising event (Reality Rally) that raised tons of money for Michele's Place, a cancer resource center.  Gillian has had such a beautiful and exciting life (and she shares it in great detail - you'll love it!) and she has learned to take the tough experiences in life and make good from them. We know you'll be inspired today as you hear her journey to, through and beyond the torch!

To see the YouTube video about Jeff wanting to quit, check out this link!

Beyond the Torch is hosted by Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease from Survivor China. Produced and edited by Leslie Nease. Artwork by Leslie Nease. To contact them, email [email protected]! 

This podcast is a love letter to Survivor and the people who played it — but just to be clear, we're not connected to CBS or the official Survivor franchise. Just superfans and former castaways telling our stories beyond the torch.

Leave a voicemail for us if you're a Super Fan who wants to share how Survivor changed your life or if you have a question or idea for our show! We love to include the fans!!

Special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Quoircast! They make this podcast possible, along with lots of other interesting podcasts they help bring to life! Check out their platform HERE!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Beyond the Torch, we welcome Survivor legend Yau-Man Chan for a wide-ranging and insightful conversation. Yau-Man shares stories from his time on Survivor Fiji and Micronesia, revealing his analytical approach to the game, the cultural impact of Survivor, and his personal journey from Borneo to the United States. The discussion covers his unique strategies in challenges, the origins of the fake idol, reflections on social dynamics, and the life lessons he’s drawn from both Survivor and his scientific career. The episode is filled with humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments, as Yau-Man, Todd & Leslie connect over their shared experiences and the enduring legacy of Survivor.

Bullet Points of Interest:

• Yau-Man discusses his upbringing in Borneo and how it influenced his Survivor experience.
• He reveals he never watched Survivor before being cast, except for the first season filmed in his hometown.
• Insight into the casting process and the original plan for Survivor Fiji to be divided by race.
• Yau-Man’s analytical, non-confrontational strategy and how it helped him avoid early elimination.
• Behind-the-scenes stories about challenge strategies, including the physics behind his javelin and maze wins.
• The creation of the first-ever fake immunity idol and its legacy in Survivor history.
• Reflections on returning for a second season and the challenges of being a known player.
• Thoughts on the importance of social connections versus analytical thinking in Survivor.
• Personal anecdotes about family, career, and adapting to life in America.
• Advice for future Survivor contestants: "Learn to swim!"
• Yau-Man’s current goals, including traveling to China and holding a panda bear.
• Heartfelt gratitude for Survivor fans and the lasting impact of the show on his life.

Beyond the Torch is hosted by Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease from Survivor China. Produced and edited by Leslie Nease. Artwork by Leslie Nease. To contact them, email [email protected]! 

This podcast is a love letter to Survivor and the people who played it — but just to be clear, we're not connected to CBS or the official Survivor franchise. Just superfans and former castaways telling our stories beyond the torch.

Leave a voicemail for us if you're a Super Fan who wants to share how Survivor changed your life or if you have a question or idea for our show! We love to include the fans!!

Special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Quoircast! They make this podcast possible, along with lots of other interesting podcasts they help bring to life! Check out their platform HERE!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Todd & Leslie welcome Jay Starrett, known for his appearance on Survivor: Millennials vs. Gen X and MTV’s The Challenge. The conversation dives into Jay’s Survivor journey, his casting experience, memorable moments from the show, and the strong bonds formed with his castmates. Jay shares behind-the-scenes stories, reflects on how reality TV changed his outlook on life, and discusses his entrepreneurial ventures and personal growth. The episode is filled with humor, heartfelt moments, and candid insights into the realities of competing on Survivor and The Challenge.

Points of Interest:

• Jay’s casting story, including being an alternate for Survivor: Kaôh Rōng and his determination to get on the show.
• Reflections on the unique camaraderie of the Millennials vs. Gen X cast and how it differs from The Challenge.
• Jay’s favorite Survivor moments and winners, plus fan questions about iconic show moments.
• Behind-the-scenes stories, like the infamous idol chase and David Wright’s fake idol.
• Jay’s personal growth, including sobriety, gratitude, and how Survivor changed his perspective on life and health.
• Insights into Jay’s daily life, his clothing brand "Stay Loco," and his approach to motivation and authenticity.
• Fun anecdotes about eating challenges, grossest foods, and the realities of survival.
• Jay’s thoughts on returning to Survivor, The Challenge, and his dream of competing on shows like Dancing with the Stars or Alone.
• Heartfelt advice for listeners about pursuing dreams and staying true to oneself.

Beyond the Torch is hosted by Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease from Survivor China. Produced and edited by Leslie Nease. Artwork by Leslie Nease. To contact them, email [email protected]! 

This podcast is a love letter to Survivor and the people who played it — but just to be clear, we're not connected to CBS or the official Survivor franchise. Just superfans and former castaways telling our stories beyond the torch.

Leave a voicemail for us if you're a Super Fan who wants to share how Survivor changed your life or if you have a question or idea for our show! We love to include the fans!!

Special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Quoircast! They make this podcast possible, along with lots of other interesting podcasts they help bring to life! Check out their platform HERE!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today, Todd and Leslie go Beyond the Torch with Survivor Africa Winner, All-Star and Winners at War player, Ethan Zohn! Prepare to laugh a lot, cry a little and find out all sorts of behind the scenes fun facts with Ethan today! He is so transparent and open about his life journey, which includes some pretty harrowing battles with cancer. He's a Survivor in more ways than one, friends! Don't miss our conversation with Ethan, and if you love it, share it with a friend who also loves Survivor!

• Ethan Zohn reflects on his time as a Survivor winner and the impact of Survivor Africa, which aired during 9/11 and spanned two years due to the delayed premiere.
• Leslie, Todd & Ethan share their personal connections to Survivor, including starting a Survivor club in high school and meeting Survivor legends.
• Discussion of how the fan base and casting have evolved, becoming more diverse and inclusive over the years.
• Ethan describes the differences between playing in the early seasons and returning for Season 40, highlighting the faster pace, new game mechanics, and the impact of social media.
• Ethan shares his audition story, from being unemployed and making a video with a friend, to the multi-stage interview process.
• Insights into Ethan’s gameplay: he focused on building loyal, personal relationships and a strong social game, which he credits for his win.
• Reflections on how Survivor changed Todd, Leslie and Ethan personally, teaching self-awareness, empathy, and the value of stepping outside comfort zones.
• Ethan opens up about his cancer diagnosis, the challenges of being a public figure during treatment, and how the Survivor community supported him.
• The story of how Survivor Stand Up to Cancer was created, and how funds raised helped develop the drug that saved Ethan’s life.
• Ethan discusses preparing for his return in Season 40, setting both game and life goals, and the realization that his story would impact his chances in the game.
• The founding and growth of Grassroot Soccer, a charity Ethan started with his Survivor winnings, now operating in 65 countries and helping millions of kids.
• Ethan’s invention of the Crunch Bowl, a cereal bowl designed to keep cereal crunchy, and the journey from idea to product launch.
• The rise of in-person Survivor games and events, and the sense of community among former contestants and fans.
• Reflections on the evolution of Survivor, the appeal of international versions like Australian Survivor, and the enduring impact of the show on participants’ lives.
• The episode closes with gratitude for the Survivor community, encouragement to support Ethan’s causes, and an invitation for fans to connect.

Beyond the Torch is hosted by Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease from Survivor China. Produced and edited by Leslie Nease. Artwork by Leslie Nease. To contact them, email [email protected]! 

This podcast is a love letter to Survivor and the people who played it — but just to be clear, we're not connected to CBS or the official Survivor franchise. Just superfans and former castaways telling our stories beyond the torch.

Leave a voicemail for us if you're a Super Fan who wants to share how Survivor changed your life or if you have a question or idea for our show! We love to include the fans!!

Special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Quoircast! They make this podcast possible, along with lots of other interesting podcasts they help bring to life! Check out their platform HERE!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.