Beyond the Torch

Todd and Leslie are absolutely thrilled to welcome their tribe-mate and friend, Courtney Yates to the podcast today! This one is PACKED with tons of Survivor Tea, behind the scenes stories and a lot of fun updates on Courtney's life today! If you were a fan of her on Survivor China or Heroes Vs. Villains, you'll love her even more after you hear this podcast! 

Bullet Points of Interest:

• Courtney Yates recounts being scouted for Survivor at her restaurant job and initially refusing the offer.
• Behind-the-scenes casting stories, including the role of casting director Lynn Spillman.
• Reflections on Survivor: China, including alliances, first impressions, and memorable challenges.
• Emotional moments about friendship, loyalty, and the hardships faced during the game.
• Discussion of the "villain" label and how gender influenced perceptions on the show.
• Courtney’s transition from reluctant contestant to finalist and her evolving relationship with the game.
• Insights into life after Survivor, including the lasting impact of public recognition and digital legacy.
• Courtney’s current work as an astrology teacher and her offer to connect with fans through her school.
• The importance of fan engagement and the Survivor community’s ongoing influence.
• Teasers for future episodes and special astrology readings for Survivor alumni.
• Find out more about Courtney's Astrology School at www.astrocollege.com!

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 of "Beyond the Torch," hosts Leslie Nease and Todd Herzog reunite with their fellow Survivor: China castmate, Frosti Zernow, for a heartfelt and lively conversation. The trio reminisces about their time on Survivor, the impact of the show on their lives, and share behind-the-scenes stories, including Frosti's unique journey from parkour athlete to reality TV contestant. The episode also features a touching fan voicemail, reflections on personal growth, and updates on Frosti's adventurous post-Survivor life, including his career, family, and travels.

Bullet Points of Interest:

• Frosti shares how he was cast on Survivor: China as the youngest contestant at the time, and his background in parkour, including performing on a Madonna tour.
• Todd, Leslie & Frosti discuss the deep bonds and "family" feeling formed during Survivor, and how the experience changed their perspectives on life.
• A fan voicemail highlights the positive influence of Survivor cast members, particularly Courtney, on viewers' self-image and confidence.
• Frosti recounts behind-the-scenes stories, such as carrying Leslie’s suitcase up a thousand stairs and his failed attempt at hunting on the island.
• The group reflects on the challenges of Survivor, including hunger, boredom, and the emotional toll of voting out close friends.
• Frosti talks about his post-Survivor adventures: acting in commercials and movies, competing on Ninja Warrior, and working on Emmy-nominated projects.
• Updates on Frosti’s current life: living abroad as a digital nomad, raising a family, and continuing to seek new challenges and creative opportunities.
• The episode ends with a call to action for fans to petition for Frosti’s return to Survivor, and warm expressions of friendship and gratitude among the castmates.

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.

Get ready for a wild ride on "Beyond the Torch" as Leslie and Todd welcome the legendary Sandra Diaz-Twine, two-time winner of the Survivor and truly a Queen both on the show and off! This episode is packed with laughter, heartfelt stories, and behind-the-scenes secrets. From Sandra’s humble beginnings and her journey to Survivor stardom, to hilarious tales of corn mazes shaped like her face and bargain-hunting adventures, you’ll see why Sandra is beloved by fans and castaways alike. The conversation dives deep into friendship, family, and the life-changing power of reality TV, all sprinkled with Sandra’s signature humor and warmth.

Bullet Points of Interest:

• Sandra reveals how she went from military life to Survivor legend—winning twice!
• Heartfelt fan stories about how Survivor helped them through tough times.
• Hilarious recounting of a corn maze in Missouri shaped like Sandra’s face (and getting lost in it!).
• Sandra’s tips for bargain shopping—even after winning $2 million!
• Behind-the-scenes casting secrets and what it’s really like to be labeled a “villain.”
• The importance of Survivor’s fan community and how it’s changed the castaways’ lives.
• Fun facts: Sandra’s love for animals, puzzles, and her “animal sanctuary” at home.
• Honest talk about reality TV fame, family, and why Sandra is still so down-to-earth.

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.

Let's go Beyond the Torch with the memorable and iconic Castaway, Troyzan! Troyzan shares his long and determined journey to finally being cast on Survivor, including years of audition tapes and near-misses. The discussion covers his experiences on the show, the evolution of Survivor over the years, the impact of editing, and the sense of family within the Survivor community. The episode also delves into Troyzan’s personal life, his "new relationship" with another iconic castaway, and the lessons he’s learned about perseverance, authenticity, and embracing change both on and off the island.

Bullet Points of Interest:

• Troyzan’s 11-year journey and relentless persistence to get cast on Survivor.
• Behind-the-scenes stories of Survivor casting, including memorable auditions and interactions with CBS executives.
• Reflections on the evolution of Survivor: from 39-day seasons to the new 26-day format, and the impact of social media and editing.
• The importance of authenticity and being oneself, both in the game and in life.
• The sense of family and camaraderie among Survivor contestants and fans.
• Candid discussion about the challenges and emotional rollercoaster of playing Survivor multiple times.
• Troyzan’s thoughts on the changing tone of the show, from cutthroat competition to a more “kumbaya” atmosphere.
• Insights into Survivor’s storytelling, editing, and the sometimes frustrating lack of recognition for players’ strategic moves.
• Updates about his rumored relationship with another iconic castaway .
• Encouragement for listeners to never give up on their dreams, and to embrace new experiences and connections.

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 of "Beyond the Torch," hosts Todd Herzog and Leslie Nease welcome Debbie Flowers (known as Debbie Beebe when she was a castaway), from Survivor Tocantins, for an open and emotional conversation. Debbie shares how Survivor profoundly changed her life, helping her find the strength to leave an abusive relationship and discover her self-worth. The discussion covers behind-the-scenes stories, the impact of vulnerability on the show, the enduring bonds between cast members, and the powerful ways Survivor connects and transforms both players and fans.

Points of Interest:

• Debbie’s candid account of how Survivor empowered her to escape an abusive marriage.
• Insightful reflections on vulnerability, self-discovery, and the “caretaker” role on Survivor.
• Behind-the-scenes casting stories and memorable moments with fellow castaways like Tyson and Coach.
• The emotional support and lifelong friendships formed through the Survivor experience.
• A listener story about how Survivor has impacted their own life and the importance of community.
• Fun anecdotes about Survivor memorabilia, casting quirks, and life after 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.

Today on Beyond the Torch,  Leslie and Todd sit down with Lynne Spillman, the legendary former head of casting for Survivor and other reality shows. Lynne shares her unconventional journey from a career in sales to becoming a pivotal figure in reality TV, recounting behind-the-scenes stories about casting, the evolution of Survivor, and the impact of authentic storytelling. The conversation delves into the casting process, memorable contestants, the importance of being genuine, and the unique bonds formed through the Survivor experience. Lynne also reflects on her current projects, her entrepreneurial venture with Mahjong, and offers candid advice for aspiring reality TV participants.

Bullet Points of Interest:

• Lynne Spillman discusses her unexpected path from sales and fashion in New York to casting in reality television.
• She shares how she was drawn to casting by her love of real people’s stories and her knack for connecting with interviewees.
• Lynne reveals the early days of Survivor casting, including the challenges of reviewing VHS tapes and the dramatic increase in applicants after the show's initial success.
• She explains her personal approach to casting: reading applications first, looking for authenticity, humor, and strong opinions, and valuing consistency between written and video submissions.
• The episode features stories about memorable casting moments, including the recruitment of standout contestants like Courtney and the importance of “bloopers” in revealing true personalities.
• Lynne describes the process of assembling Survivor tribes, emphasizing the balance of age, strength, and personality, and the collaborative effort with producers and network executives.
• The conversation touches on the psychological impact of Survivor, the growth contestants experience, and the deep community bonds formed among participants.
• Lynne offers advice for aspiring reality TV contestants: be yourself, trust your story, and understand the risks of public exposure.
• She shares funny and insightful anecdotes from casting, including pranks and paranoia among contestants during the selection process.
• Lynne talks about her current work in casting, her preference for short-term projects, and her business selling Mahjong travel sets. You can find out more on her website: https://mahjtogo.com
• The episode closes with gratitude from the hosts for Lynne’s role in changing their lives and a celebration of the enduring Survivor family.

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 open our castaway interviews on Beyond the Torch with Survivor China legend Peih Gee.! The conversation dives deep into Peih Gee’s journey on Survivor: China, exploring the physical and emotional challenges she faced, the strategies and alliances that shaped her game, and the personal growth she experienced both during and after the show. We had the most fun reminiscing about the grueling conditions, memorable cast dynamics, and behind-the-scenes stories, while also reflecting on the impact Survivor had on all of our lives. Peih Gee shares how the experience helped her find confidence, community, and a new sense of purpose, leading to her creative ventures in jewelry design, podcasting, and building connections through games.

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 the premier episode of "Beyond the Torch with Todd and Leslie," Todd Herzog and Leslie Nease introduce their new podcast, welcoming Survivor fans and sharing their excitement about upcoming episodes featuring stories of Survivor contestants and fans. They discuss how the show has impacted their lives and recount the beginning of their friendship and experiences from their time on Survivor: China, including the struggles and triumphs they faced. The episode features a fan call from Matt, a longtime Survivor enthusiast, whose personal story illustrates how the show inspired him to apply for the competition. Todd and Leslie also reflect on their personal journeys, elaborating on Todd's struggle with alcoholism, his journey to sobriety, and Leslie's deconstruction of her religious beliefs. They emphasize the transformative power of their Survivor experiences and extend an invitation to fans to share their own stories on the podcast.

Watch Leslie's Audition Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdNVBo4HSho

Order a POP from Todd's Pop Shop!

Pick up Leslie's book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian on Amazon or Audible!

Find out more about Leslie's Life & Faith Coaching here!

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.

Announcement of Beyond the Torch--a new podcast that features interviews from former Survivors and asks the questions: Where are you now? How did the show change you? Do you have regrets? Did the show change the trajectory of your life? And more! Hosted by Survivor China Castaways Todd Herzog & Leslie Nease, Beyond the Torch will not only feature a new castaway with every episode, but also a segment called "The Fans Have Spoken" where they will share a story of how Survivor has touched or changed the lives of the fans of the show, too! Subscribe now and don't miss an episode when it starts August 26, 2025! And if you have a story about how Survivor changed YOUR life, leave us a voicemail! Here is the 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.