Rob Has a Podcast | Survivor, Traitors & Reality TV - RHAP

Rob Cesternino (@robcesternino) and Akiva Wienerkur (@keev26) need a podcast and every week, Rob and Akiva spin a wheel of listener-submitted podcast ideas, and whatever the wheel lands on is what they podcast about next. This week, Brandon and Akiva talk Jaws.

With Rob in LA, Brandon Donlon hosts alongside Akiva Wienerkur for a special deep dive into the classic 1975 film Jaws, joined by Jaws superfan and collector Ryan. Shifting gears from Survivor to the iconic suspense of Amity Island, the trio unpacks what makes Jaws an enduring masterpiece, shares personal stories about childhood collections, and debates whether shark movies still make an impact today.

The discussion opens with Brandon introducing Ryan, known for his impressive Jaws memorabilia—from VHS tapes and paper plates to signed collectibles. Ryan reveals how his collection began, the sentimental value behind each item, and even his experiences at Jaws-themed events and conventions. The group shares their own stories of buying, and sometimes regretting, fandom merchandise, comparing Power Rangers pillows to rare Jaws artifacts.

Key discussion points include:

As Jaws approaches its 50th anniversary, Brandon, Avika, and Ryan ponder how the film’s legacy compares to modern shark movies, dive into sequel absurdities, and weigh in on whether Jaws still makes viewers avoid the ocean.

Which classic line stuck with Brandon and did the first viewing on a small screen dampen its punch? Get fresh perspectives and plenty of movie lore by listening to the full episode!

For the link to the spreadsheet that Rob and Akiva use to compile ideas, check it all out here: Rob and Akiva Need a Spreadsheet (compiled by the great Will from America).

To submit an idea for a future episode of “Rob and Akiva Need a Podcast” to be discussed on the mailbag, submit it on this form: Rob and Akiva’s Mailbag Form.

Past Episodes of Rob & Akiva Need a Podcast

Survivor fans are in for a treat as Christian Hubicki sits down with Rob Cesternino for a special live interview celebrating Rob’s New York Times bestselling book at a sold-out Barnes & Noble event in Los Angeles. Instead of deconstructing the latest vote or breaking down Tribal Council drama, this episode spotlights Rob’s journey from Survivor castaway to podcast pioneer to acclaimed author, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to be part of the Survivor community for over two decades.

Christian and Rob dig into Rob’s reasons for writing the book, how it blends Survivor history with his own story, and what it was like turning 26 years of experiences into a compelling and often funny narrative. The conversation touches on the evolving role of Survivor heroes and villains, Jeff Probst’s influence both on-screen and behind the scenes, and the challenges of maintaining objectivity in a tight-knit fan and player community. There’s a behind-the-scenes look at Rob’s transition to full-time podcasting, the growth of the RHAP patron community, and the importance of just taking the leap to follow your passions, even if it all starts with a weird idea and a lot of trial and error.

– Rob explains how the book came together in time for Survivor’s 25th anniversary and what it meant to weave his autobiography into the show’s legacy

Jump into this candid conversation to learn what happens when Survivor’s biggest superfan turns his microphone toward his own story, and find out why Rob’s journey connects with superfans and newbies alike.

0:00 Barnes and Noble Live Podcast

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

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