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‘Survivor: Caramoan’ Fave Dawn: ‘I’m Going to Have to Take Control’

January 28, 2013

Dawn Meehan (CBS)

I had a chance to sit down with all twenty of the “Fans vs. Favorites” competitors the day before they left for the Caramoan Islands. I’ll be posting exclusive interviews with each contestant every weekday until we get through all of them. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for tons of updates.

Name: Dawn Meehan
Age: 42
Hometown: South Jordan, Utah
Occupation: English Professor
Previous Finish: Dawn came in 10th place in “Survivor: South Pacific”
Memorable Moment: Dawn won an immunity challenge for the Savaii tribe by outlasting Stacey Powell in an impressive weight-holding challenge.

Fun Fact: Dawn is the most dominant Power Ranker in XFINITY TV history, having defeated myself, Jim Rice, Sophie Clarke, Christine Shields-Markoski, and a “Survivor” Hall of Fame Coffee Mug.

Note: The “Survivor: Caramoan” pre-game interviews are unlike the pre-game interviews we’ve done in the past. Usually, the interviews take place on location, this time they took place in Los Angeles before the players flew out. At this point, all the “Favorties” know is that they’re flying out in the next few days. They have seen each other, but haven’t seen the new players.  They don’t know for sure where they’re going, and they don’t know any of the season’s twists.

Gordon Holmes: OK, I know we don’t have a friendly past, but I’d appreciate you keeping your language clean, this is a family site.
Dawn Meehan: (Laughs) When I get mad I do swear like a sailor.
Holmes: Like every other word. It’s uncomfortable.
Meehan: It’s true.
Holmes: I was a little surprised to see your name on the cast list.
Meehan: So was I! (Laughs)
Holmes: It doesn’t make sense, but it does makes sense. You weren’t like this big, flashy (expletive deleted), but you can only have so many of those. You had a great story with how you turned things around during your time in Samoa. Either way, I was excited.
Meehan: Aww…thank you.

Holmes: You are the most dominant XFINITY TV Power Ranker of all time. Now, you didn’t play a full season, but every round you played, you won. And you nailed the “One World” final five exactly.
Meehan: I know.
Holmes: Do you think that exercise will help you in the coming game?
Meehan: I really enjoyed doing the Power Rankings because I felt like I wasn’t emotionally attached and I could really understand personalities. Like, who was fishing together and who was sleeping next to each other. I just watched those things and went with what I thought based on what I saw. I think when you’re inside the game sometimes you become too emotionally attached and you don’t use logic. You just use emotion and you make decisions that aren’t necessarily rational. And I thought about it each time I’ve done rankings and though, “If I could just play like this,” which I know I can. It kind of gave me confidence realizing I can do this. My perception is right.
Holmes: So, if you pull this off…
Meehan: If I pull this off I think that the Power Rankings will be the best PSAT course ever for “Survivor.”
Holmes: You’re so going to owe me.
Meehan: For a million dollars? I’ll get you a new mug.
Holmes: Oh sweet. Man, you hate that mug.
Meehan: I hate muggsy.
Holmes: I don’t want to get you too excited, but Coach got to the finals of your season after being a Power Ranker.
Meehan: (Laughs) That’s right!
Holmes: Before the Power Rankings, he was like the ninth guy out.
Meehan: I know.
Holmes: After the Power Rankings, final three.
Meehan: That’s right.
Holmes: Final two, actually. He got some votes.
Meehan: True.
Holmes: Bad news though, the mug was cast too. And it holds a grudge.
Meehan: (Laughs) I’ve beaten that mug before.

Holmes: Alright, I hate to besmirch your character, but is it true that you’ve been bribing people with bread?
Meehan: Yes, I will always bribe people with bread. In fact, I don’t even know if I’d call that a bribe, it’s just me. I like bread, a lot of it. I make it every day to eat. I can’t imagine not giving it to people. My arms are all burned from the baking.
Holmes: That’s terrible. How does that happen?
Meehan: When you take it out I always hit a heating element. So, if I win the million, new oven.
Holmes: If you win the million, instead of oven mitts, we will get you full oven sleeves.
Meehan: I could get longer sleeves, I could take Panera on.
Holmes: Someone on Twitter called you “Dawn of the Bread” and I was jealous that I didn’t think of it first.
Meehan: The bread sounds so cliché, but I love carbs.

Holmes: One of the things I remember about our interview before “South Pacific” was that you were very wary of being deceptive in the game. Now that you’ve got some experience under your belt, has your attitude changed?
Meehan: I totally get that it’s a game. I wasn’t easily offended in the game. It didn’t bother me to blindside Elyse. That’s what the game is about. I don’t like harming people in the game. So, decisions that affect the outcome of the game? No problem. Things that you say in the game or decisions you make that are going to damage someone’s credibility in real life? That bothers me. So, I don’t like to be super negative or criticize people’s behavior. I don’t like to cut people down.
Holmes: There’s a line with that kind of stuff. Lie to get ahead.
Meehan: Right.
Holmes: But don’t do things just to do them or to make people feel bad.
Meehan: Right.
Holmes: (Laughs) Maybe that’s a terrible attitude. I’ll lie to you, but only if it benefits me.
Meehan: I think I’m stronger emotionally this time. There is a tiny bit of me that’s probably the Sally Field, “You like me, you really like me” because I’ve been invited back. That was really humbling. I think I’ll have a little more confidence this time.
Holmes: I had to pull some strings to make it happen.
Meehan: (Laughs) I so appreciate it. I’ll thank you in my large-check acceptance speech.
Holmes: That leads right into this…why do you think you were brought back?
Meehan: I think because I was a competitor. I was tough in challenges. I did have some moments where I was able to stand out. I think I had some moments where people were able to see themselves. I’m just an average person that got to do something extraordinary.
Holmes: I’m a fan of whenever someone gets to have a defined character arc in a season. You got to have that where you went from crying to Ozzy on day three to being a challenge bad ass.
Meehan: I think this season will be a continuation. I felt like there was so much game left in me when I was voted out. I was just kind of getting it. It was finally happening. So for me, this is more act two than it is a different version. I think it’s a more confident Dawn, who’s still able to do well in the challenges, but maybe more strategic than I was.

Holmes: What’ve you been up to since we saw you last?
Meehan: I’ve been tweeting. (Laughs)
Holmes: That is true.
Meehan: I love Twitter. I’m teaching back at BYU. I’ve been speaking at a lot of universities and a lot of high schools, talking about the experience of “Survivor.” There are so many fans of the show who want to know how did you prepare for it, was it as a hard as you thought, that kind of thing. I told my husband, “I can’t believe they’re having me back.” And he says, “Every time I go hear you speak I think they’re going to have you back because people love to hear about it and you’re a regular person.”
Holmes: Do your kids know what Mom’s up to?
Meehan: My kids do know, they have to sign the releases.
Holmes: Are they psyched?
Meehan: Yeah! They sent me with all of these cards and pictures. It was harder for them this time. We had just adopted our last two kids three months before I left last time. So, this time they’ve been with me over a year. So, I think it was more emotional for them.
Holmes: So you just bring in new kids and are like, “See ya.”
Meehan: (Laughs) Totally.
Holmes: Your husband is a saint.
Meehan: My husband is a saint. I missed our anniversary last year, anniversary this year, the daughter that we just adopted her birthday last year, her birthday this year. I said to her, “I’ve been your mom for two years and I’ve missed both birthdays.” So, we did her birthday before I left.
Holmes: Think of how you can spoil her for her next birthday with a million dollars.
Meehan: They reminded me. I always say that, “Your wealth is in your family.” And the kids said, “Do you know much good can come from a million dollars?”
Holmes: That’s a lot of bread…no pun intended.
Meehan: (Laughs) So they say, “Think of all the kids you could adopt.”
Holmes: So, after you win, six more?
Meehan: Sixty more! Why not?
Holmes: Sixty six kids? You’ll get your own reality show, you won’t need “Survivor.”
Meehan: (Laughs)
Holmes: “Just the Sixty Eight of Us.” I’m going to go grab that url.
Meehan: “Sixty Eight Is Enough!”
Holmes: Damnit, that’s way better.

Holmes: You played with returnees. You played with Ozzy and Coach. What did you learn from watching them?
Meehan: Well, I learned that as a newbie you’re not super thrilled to play with someone who is returning. And, you want them out. That’s something that I’m a little bit nervous about. You do come in with a target on your back. I think in my case, I’m hoping that the way I played will still keep people thinking, “She’s a good person to keep around. She’ll be good pre-merge, she’ll be good in challenges, you can trust her, she went down with her sinking ship.” Maybe that way I’ll be seen as someone who can be aligned with.
Holmes: As someone who has a reputation for being a nice person, does that give you the opportunity to be more devious?
Meehan: Yeah. I think I was that way in the game before. I was willing to take Ozzy out. I really was willing to make the big moves. I’m going to have to take control if I want that to happen instead of just following.
Holmes: And you’re prepared to do that?
Meehan: Yeah, for sure. The Power Rankings made me realize that.
Holmes: I know!
Meehan: I’m not kidding. Because when I’d be right on I’d think, “I knew it! I saw it the week before!”
Holmes: You’re going to be a rich lady.
Meehan: I hope so.

Holmes: You’re going to love this.
Meehan: Oh no.
Holmes: Between “South Pacific” and “One World” we’ve seen people who are on the bottom of their alliances who either don’t realizing they’re on the bottom, or aren’t willing to do anything to get on top until it’s too late. Why do you think that happens?
Meehan: I think the person that’s in control of the decision making has persuaded them to the point that they don’t believe…Kat did not believe Troyzan. It’s not that Brandon was OK being sixth or seventh, he thought he was going to be top four or top three. He believed that. It’s not being accepting of this mediocrity or just “Hey, I wanted to stay until the family visit.” Someone’s been persuasive enough that you don’t believe the other person. So, I think hats off to Coach for giving four other people the sense that they were in the top three.
Holmes: So, the Coachs, Sophies, Kims, should be commended more than the others should be given grief?
Meehan: Yeah. Edna didn’t believe for a minute that she was the bottom, even with Jim laying it out at Tribal Council. It didn’t matter. She still believed it. I think people all thought that Kim was taking them to the final three. Coach and Kim were very similar, people trusted them.

Holmes: What are your first impressions of the cast members you see running around here?
Meehan: OK, nervous about Corinne. We have a different approach (Laughs) to the game. I’m nervous about her, not because I’m afraid of her, but she’s definitely tough. I’m excited about Francesca. I loved her. I was sad to see her go. I don’t know her, so I’m excited to get to know her. I think she’s someone I could trust. Not sure what’s going to happen with having two other players from my season who both voted me out. To me, Brandon and Cochran developed a really strong bond. That’s what I saw in the game, almost a brotherhood.
Holmes: Well, when you share a sweater vest…
Meehan: I expected Brandon to name a child after John.
Holmes: Give him time.
Meehan: It was only them in a bubble for a lot of hours every day. They’ll be strongly aligned and Cochran will probably need someone like that quickly. I don’t know where I’ll fit in with them.
Holmes: Is there anyone in particular that you want to align with?
Meehan: Well, I love Erik, just from a fan standpoint. I love the way he played. I just think he’s so authentic. I’m looking toward Francesca, Andrea, the two from my season, and Erik. I’m nervous about Phillip because I just don’t know Phillip well enough from outside of what I’ve seen in the game. Is he crazy like a fox or just crazy? I saw the feather today.
Holmes: He brought a feather?
Meehan: The mug and the feather are doing their own junket.

Don’t miss the two-hour premiere of “Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs. Favorites,” Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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‘Survivor: Caramoan’ Fan Allie Pohevitz: ‘People Trust Me Right Away’

January 25, 2013

Allie Pohevitz (CBS)

I had a chance to sit down with all twenty of the “Fans vs. Favorites” competitors the day before they left for the Caramoan Islands. I’ll be posting exclusive interviews with each contestant every weekday until we get through all of them. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for tons of updates.

Name: Alexandra “Allie” Pohevitz
Age: 25
Hometown: Oceanside, NY
Occupation: Bartender/Nanny

Note: The “Survivor: Caramoan” pre-game interviews are unlike the pre-game interviews we’ve done in the past. Usually, the interviews take place on location, this time they took place in Los Angeles before the players flew out. At this point, all the “Fans” know is that they’re flying out in the next few days. They have seen each other, but haven’t seen the returning players.  They don’t know for sure where they’re going, and they don’t know any of the season’s twists.

Gordon Holmes: I feel like bartending is a good job to prepare you for “Survivor.” You have to able to listen, you deal with a wide variety of people, you have to know how to get people to like you…
Allie Pohevitz: It’s definitely a good match. You have to deal with all types of people. People come in on their best days when they’re so excited and they want to do shots, and then people come in when they’re crying because somebody just broke up with them.
Holmes: So either way, still doing shots.
Pohevitz: Yeah, still doing shots.
Holmes: Is that going to be rough for you when you don’t have shots to pour out?
Pohevitz: (Laughs) Yeah. It’s going to be rough because when people get out of hand I just call the bouncer and he sends them away. Here, I still have to be nice to them and kiss their ass.
Holmes: Or they’ll send you away.
Pohevitz: Exactly.

Holmes: You were the Editor-in-Chief for your school magazine “The Pioneer.”
Pohevitz: I was.
Holmes: First of all, writers are all (expletive deleted).
Pohevitz: (Laughs) Yes, I agree.
Holmes: As you’re going to relearn over the course of this interview. In that role, you must’ve had to have dealt with a lot of people with various personalities over something that they care very deeply about. That experience seems like another “Survivor” plus.
Pohevitz: Yeah, I had to deal with the sports people and the entertainment people, the theater people. It was never one specific genre. And as a student magazine people didn’t take you seriously. Trying to get interviews, people looked at you and thought, “We don’t owe you anything.” So you still have to press them to get the information, but you don’t want to be overbearing so they hate you and don’t help you out.

Holmes: You hate dirty people.
Pohevitz: Yes. (Laughs) Which doesn’t bode well for this show.
Holmes: Best case scenario, you’ve got 39 days in front of you with dirty people.
Pohevitz: There’s a difference between living on an island, we’re going to be dirty, we’re going to have (expletive deleted) under our nails. We’re not going to look cute. There’s a difference between that and being disgusting in public. People sneezing all over other people. Not washing your hands after using the bathroom. If you leave eighty dishes in the sink, you’re just lazy. Take care of it. I’m not worried about people being dirty on the island.
Holmes: I think there has to be a switch that goes off when you’re out there that we’re all dirty, and that’s just how it is and I don’t care. Things just smell.
Pohevitz: I always wonder when I see the people cuddling or doing romantic things, I’m just thinking, that’s disgusting. You haven’t brushed your teeth in weeks.
Holmes: You talk so fast.
Pohevitz: I know. I’m sorry.
Holmes: No worries, we’re recording.

Holmes: I’m about to give you some grief.
Pohevitz: Oh, great.
Holmes: The three things you would take on an island would be…
Pohevitz: No, I had wanted to apply forever and ever and I came home from the gym one night and it was January 10th and I looked online and said “Deadline: Midnight, January 10th.” So, I’m thinking, “Oh (expletive deleted). Let me bring eye liner and Crest white strips.” I’m so hilarious. So, those are not my real answers.
Holmes: You’re going to be the prettiest, starving person out there.
Pohevitz: Exactly.
Holmes: Alright, here’s your mulligan, what three things would you take with you for real?
Pohevitz: I would bring things that would keep me entertained. Like Scattegories, you could write on the back, you could keep a journal. I would bring something that would help us on the island. Like a huge wall hanging, like a blanket that reminds me of home, but isn’t like a picture of my cat. Actually, that would be my third thing, my cat, he’s my best friend.
Holmes: And his name is?
Pohevitz: Wolf, he’s eighteen years old, I’ve had him since I was six. He’s my best buddy.
Holmes: I get a kick out of people who name their pets after other animals. My friend Pam has a dog named Rooster.
Pohevitz: (Laughs) I was six! And technically his name is Wolfgang, we call him Wolf for short.

Holmes: You think that anyone who says they aren’t playing “Survivor” for the money is either a liar or brain dead. People go on this show for a variety of reasons.
Pohevitz: Yes, but they’re always thinking of money in the background.
Holmes: I think a million dollars is awesome. But I would be more interested in the title of sole Survivor. Would you think I was trying to con you if we were playing together?
Pohevitz: People who go in and say “I’m just playing for the experience,” and then throw in that they have $50,000 in student loans are lying. You’re trying to get sympathy. But, you’re clearly a liar. I’d much rather give the money in the end to someone who’s not sitting up there saying,  “I’m going to give $900,000 of this to charity.” No, you’re not. You’re lying to me. You’re going to buy a car and pay your bills and go on vacation. Then maybe you will give some to charity.

Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Pohevitz: Like you said, I talk fast. I can come up with things quickly. I’m a bartender, I can deal with a bunch of different people. I make a good first impression. People trust me right away. I can tell you half the names of the people here because people say them in private, then they say, “Oh, you didn’t hear that from me.” Even people that are supposed to be keeping secrets from me are telling me more than I should know.
Holmes: Do you mean the contestant wranglers?
Pohevitz: Yeah.
Holmes: I didn’t let anything slip yet, did I?
Pohevitz: Just Rooster.
Holmes: I don’t think he’ll be out there. But there tend to be twists so you never know.
Pohevitz: Maybe I’ll eat him.
Holmes: You’re a terrible person.
Pohevitz: (Laughs) I wouldn’t eat a dog.

Holmes: Do you have a line you won’t cross as far as lying in this game?
Pohevitz: Nope. It depends if you’re lying in relation to the game. I didn’t get why people say they’re five years older or younger. That’s a pointless lie and you’re just lying to amuse yourself. As far as lies in the game go, you have to lie. If you swear on your kids? That’s for you to deal with. I don’t care.
Holmes: If I was a doctor or someone who made a ton of money I would lie.
Pohevitz: Oh yeah, something like that. Absolutely. If you’re a millionaire plastic surgeon say you work at CVS.

Holmes: You’re a lovely young woman.
Pohevitz: Thank you. But…?
Holmes: But you talk too fast! No, that was just an observation. What I was getting at was, do you have any moral problems using your looks to get ahead?
Pohevitz: I don’t see why I wouldn’t, I just don’t think that will be my first approach to things. I think a lot of people see me and think, “She’s cute, she must be an idiot. She’s going to be following everybody.” If you think that, I’m not going to go out of my way to disprove you. But, I’m also not going to be flirty. I want people to see me for the smart person I am. It depends on the person too. If I like you, I’m naturally flirty with you. Men, women, it doesn’t matter. I’m just a happy, nice person in general.
Holmes: It’s not an overt flirting.
Pohevitz: Yeah, it’s just who I am.

Holmes: Recently people on the bottom of alliances haven’t making moves until it’s too late. Why do you think that’s a trend?
Pohevitz: I think people become complacent with where they are. People say, “My whole family said I was going to be the first person voted out, so if I’m still here the third week that’s great.”
Holmes: Did your family say that?
Pohevitz: No, my family thinks I’m going to come back a millionaire. Like Christina this past season (“One World”), I had no problem with her, I like her. But, the whole cast is saying nasty things about her, like she didn’t belong there. And she was just proving them right. So many of us people have wanted to be on this show forever. I’m going to do everything I possibly can to advance myself in the game. And she just let it go. I don’t get it. It’s hard to watch as a fan.

Holmes: Do you have any experience roughing it?
Pohevitz: Nope! Not a day in my life.
Holmes: You’re so screwed.
Pohevitz: I’m really competitive. I think I’ll be fine with the elements. I’ve never camped outside, but I adapt very well to things. And I’m not someone to cry and give up.

Holmes: What are your first impressions of the cast?
Pohevitz: Everyone but one of us was at finals together. So, I had preformed opinions on everyone coming in. Everyone I didn’t like in the finals, is not here. So, CBS agreed with me on that.
Holmes: When you’re done winning this season, you should apply for a casting job.
Pohevitz: Yeah! Everybody seems alright, but it’s hard when you can’t make eye contact. But, I don’t want to form opinions so soon.  There are a few that I like. I like the girl with the long blonde hair, her name is Laura Alexander.
Holmes: You know who you’re like? I watched this show about a high-security prison and they talked about how guards would cover their mouths when they talked because the inmates could read their lips and learn about the guard’s wives and families and use that information against them.
Pohevitz: (Laughs) I’m definitely nosy.

Holmes: If there’s a twist, what do you think it will be?
Pohevitz: Fans vs. Favorites. Definitely.
Holmes: OK.
Pohevitz: I think everybody here put down “Super Fan” on their application. There’s only ten of us here, so if it was Fans vs. Favorites I could see them bringing in ten returning players.
Holmes: If there are any returning players, is there anyone in particular you’d like to see?
Pohevitz: The problem with that is; the people I’d want to see would be the people I really liked, but I wouldn’t want to play against them because I’m going to want to be friends with them and keep them around, which would be stupid. It’d have to be someone along the lines of a Colton or an Alicia that you’d be OK getting rid of.
Holmes: So you’re hoping for more of a Fans vs. People You Don’t Like.
Pohevitz: (Laughs) Fans vs. (expletive deleted).
Holmes: I don’t think CBS would go for that subtitle.

Don’t miss the two-hour premiere of “Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs. Favorites,” Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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‘Survivor: Caramoan’ Fave Malcolm: ‘Girls Are More Terrifying Than Guys’

January 23, 2013

Malcolm Freberg (CBS)

I had a chance to sit down with all twenty of the “Fans vs. Favorites” competitors the day before they left for the Caramoan Islands. I’ll be posting exclusive interviews with each contestant every weekday until we get through all of them. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for tons of updates.

Name: Malcolm Freberg
Age: 25
Hometown: Hermosa Beach, CA
Occupation: Bartender
Previous Finish: Malcolm came in 4th place in “Survivor: Philippines”
Memorable Moment: Malcolm allowed Lisa Whelchel’s brother to visit the tribe’s camp. Lisa’s brother promptly told her to vote Malcolm out.

Note: The “Survivor: Caramoan” pre-game interviews are unlike the pre-game interviews we’ve done in the past. Usually, the interviews take place on location, this time they took place in Los Angeles before the players flew out. At this point, all the “Favorties” know is that they’re flying out in the next few days. They have seen each other, but haven’t seen the new players.  They don’t know for sure where they’re going, and they don’t know any of the season’s twists.

Another Note: Since “Survivor: Philippines” hadn’t aired yet, I knew nothing about how Malcolm had performed.

Gordon Holmes: Whenever we go to “Survivor,” me, the press, Probst, we all sit down and we talk about who we like. I liked me some Malcolm.
Malcolm Freberg: My man. Appreciate that.
Holmes: So, you can’t tell me a thing about what happened in the Philippines, which is fine… and don’t do it. I need to stay pure and unspoiled for the Power Rankings.
Freberg: I won’t.
Holmes: When I left the Philippines you were in bad shape. Zane was voted out. You were on a tribe that seemed like it was destined for destruction.
Freberg: (Laughs)
Holmes: So…when I saw your name in the bios, I was super psyched. But, then that elation was followed by immediate depression.
Freberg: Depression?
Holmes: Because seeing your quick return made me think you didn’t win. Also, I’m thinking the reason you were brought back is because you did something super evil or super stupid.
Freberg: (Laughs) You’ll just have to wait and see.

Holmes: You are basically the new Russell Hantz in the sense that you’re going back into the game and nobody knows a thing about you. Is that a benefit or a detriment?
Freberg: I’m the new Russell…plus a foot. I just walked by Brandon Hantz in the hall and he barely scrapes my nipple.
Holmes: (Laughs) We just started and you’re already taking us way off track.
Freberg: (Laughs) It’s a double-edged sword. Because of Russell it’s a detriment because of how notorious he was. Everyone felt more duped because they didn’t have a chance to see him play first. That’s not necessarily the way I’m going to play it, but there’s a stigma that I have an advantage because nobody has seen me play. But, at the same time I’m a complete wild card. There are people out there who have negative stigmas already attached to them for what they did on their seasons. So, when it comes to going with someone you know is going to be a liability versus someone you don’t know anything about. Maybe you go with the wild card in that instance.
Holmes: But sometimes people will take the devil they know over the devil they don’t know. If I’m playing, here’s this kid I’ve never seen play before, and he had to do something to be brought back so quickly.
Freberg: The story I’m going with is I’m coming back because of the wonderful bounce in my hair.
Holmes: No sane person could debate that fact.
Freberg: Now that I have a look at who’s back, I’m not as worried about being shunned. Just because of aspects of the game that are important early in the game. Looking at some of the guys here, not to name names, but they’re not big physical competitors.
Holmes: You can name names, I can’t.
Freberg: OK, maybe you can give Brandon and Erik a little credit, but there are no other big guys. If someone’s going to try to take a hold of this game, they’re going to need to keep me at least a little while. It gives me time to show that I’m not this crazy, egomaniacal, kill-all, destruction strategist like Russell.

Holmes: You’re a huge “Survivor” fan.
Freberg: I am.
Holmes: What do you think the twist is, if there is one other than bringing back guys with amazing bounce in their hair?
Freberg: So, there’s ten favorites back, five guys, five girls. I’d imagine that we haven’t seen another ten. They’re probably not returnees. So, a repeat of season sixteen, Fans vs. Favorites. If that’s the case, more power to me. There were returning players in my season and I know what it’s like for the new people to see people they’ve seen on TV and have to play with them. The aura that’s around them, people get timid around that. People aren’t going to be as aggressive or as confident around people that they’ve seen on TV. You’re just the rookie on the baseball team. It’s your first at bat and you’re having to go against Mariano Rivera. You might be the best stud batter out of college, but you’re going to be nervous going against the veteran.

Holmes: Based on who you’ve seen, is there anyone you want to align with, anyone who scares you?
Freberg: Scares me? Nobody scares me, Gordon.
Holmes: I’m an idiot. Terrible choice of words.
Freberg: Phillip Sheppard and his underwear keep me up at night.
Holmes: See, you’re not a machine, you’re a human being.
Freberg: If he wears those things again…he’s already walking around with a feather. (Laughs) I was hoping maybe he’s a sane guy and we could have a rational conversation, but then I saw that.
Holmes: If that dude doesn’t finish the season with a full headdress I’m going to be so disappointed.
Freberg: I’m going to give him a new feather every day.
Holmes: Off track again!
Freberg: Allies… Strategically, the girls are more terrifying than the guys.
Holmes: Like who?
Freberg: Brenda, Andrea’s pretty smart, Corinne’s terrifying…but she didn’t really do anything strategically, but at the same time, they’re very Type-A girls. Wait, is that a thing?
Holmes: Yeah, you’re thinking of alpha males, but there are Type-A girls.
Freberg: They’re super Type-A girls where it seems like the guys didn’t come out of the gates as dominant on their first season.
Holmes: Knowing that, are you more likely to follow or work with a Type-A girl or lead around some of these guys?
Freberg: I don’t do critical thinking well around pretty girls. I learned that about myself the first time around. So, probably can’t do the girls just because my brain gets befuddled when pheromones start running. So, I’m naturally drawn to go with the guys, but Cochran will turn on you in a second, Brandon…I can’t even discuss Brandon, and Phillip’s crazy. And, Erik…I guess maybe I should align with Erik.
Holmes: What does all of this say about you?
Freberg: I know. (Laughs) What did I do that was so bad?

Holmes: This interview sucks.
Freberg: (Laughs)
Holmes: Seriously, this is really hard to do without knowing what happened in the Philippines.
Freberg: I’m thinking about my answers too, which is much less fun.
Holmes: OK, without getting spoilery, why do you think you were brought back?
Freberg: It can’t just be your looks. It can’t just be because I’m funny.
Holmes: Yes, but that combination can’t be denied.
Freberg: (Laughs) But there needs to be more!
Holmes: As the first Survivor to kill a man during the game, they had no choice but to bring you back.
Freberg: Being the first Survivor to take off his ice skate and stab somebody.

Holmes: Did you learn anything your first time around? Will you do things differently?
Freberg: You have to learn. When you play a football game, you go back and watch the tape. Having done it once, I know I can do certain things well in the game of “Survivor.” There are things I’m not great at. Now there’s no learning curve, especially having just done it. I’m going to hit the beach on day one and know exactly what I’m supposed to start doing.

Holmes: Playing back-to-back seasons took a big toll on Russell. Are you worried that you might not be physically up to it?
Freberg: I’m definitely not where I was the first time I went in, just muscle-mass wise. I only had a few weeks in the States in between seasons. I haven’t been eating healthy at all. It’s basically ice cream and beer. (Laughs)
Holmes: That’s pretty much my diet. I’ve been putting on sympathy weight for you.
Freberg: Appreciate it. But I’ve got cake batter on one love handle and chocolate chip cookie dough on the other and then beer in the middle. So, physically I am not in the same space that I was. But, I’m still in the upper tier as far as physical strength goes. But, part of the game is turning your strengths into weaknesses. At some point being strong is a weakness. If I can get really broken down for a few weeks, maybe that’s a move I pull out of my belt. Maybe it’s a feint I use a couple of weeks into the game

Holmes: I’m going to say something that’s probably going to break your heart.
Freberg: Oh no…
Holmes: Which is a shame.
Freberg: Because I have a fragile heart where you’re concerned.
Holmes: I’m aware. You’re human. When we spoke in the Philippines I said to myself, “If Malcolm does well out there, I’d love to have him do the Power Rankings for Season 26.” And then you went and got yourself cast on Season 26.
Freberg: (Laughs)
Holmes: How does it feel to miss out on the chance of a lifetime?
Freberg: I love the Power Rankings. Dawn just won.
Holmes: Dawn cleaned house.
Freberg: I guess I’m going to have to walk out of this interview. A chance at a million dollars is nice, but the chance of winning the Power Rankings… Wait, what do you win if you win the Power Rankings?
Holmes: One year it was a Jeff Probst bobblehead that was painted gold.
Freberg: Tell you what, you promise me a three-foot-tall, gold Jeff Probst statue with a snuffer, I’ll walk out right now. Oh, now she (the CBS Representative) looks nervous.
Holmes: You don’t have back-ups ready if he bolts?
CBS Representative: (Laughs) We’ve got nothing.
Holmes: The lure of the Power Rankings is too strong.
Freberg: It’s like I’m engaged to one girl now, but you’re so much prettier.
CBS Representative: Can’t he do it after this one?
Holmes: I guess.
Freberg: Maybe the magic will be gone.
Holmes: He’s going to be all changed after he’s been featured on national television.
Freberg: It’ll be like your high school girlfriend. She’ll always be your first love, but you’re not the same people anymore.
CBS Representative: But he hasn’t changed.
Holmes and Freberg: Not yet.
Holmes: Come talk to this guy in December when he’s a (expletive deleted).

Don’t miss the two-hour premiere of “Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs. Favorites,” Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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‘Survivor: Caramoan’ Fan Shamar Thomas: ‘I Fall in Love with Women Quickly’

January 22, 2013

Shamar Thomas (CBS)

I had a chance to sit down with all twenty of the “Fans vs. Favorites” competitors the day before they left for the Caramoan Islands. I’ll be posting exclusive interviews with each contestant every weekday until we get through all of them. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for tons of updates.

Name: Shamar Thomas
Age: 27
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Occupation: Iraq War Veteran

Note: The “Survivor: Caramoan” pre-game interviews are unlike the pre-game interviews we’ve done in the past. Usually, the interviews take place on location, this time they took place in Los Angeles before the players flew out. At this point, all the “Fans” know is that they’re flying out in the next few days. They have seen each other, but haven’t seen the returning players.  They don’t know for sure where they’re going, and they don’t know any of the season’s twists.

Gordon Holmes: You have a very impressive military background. How do you think that’s going to help you in the game?
Shamar Thomas: I know it’s going to help me because I’m prepared. I did two tours in Iraq. My first tour in 2004 I was 18 years old and I was a part of the Battle of Fallujah. My mission was mobile security so that convoys can get back and forth to resupply. So we literally, myself and four other Marines, were on a hill with no shelter, no vehicle, a few jugs of water, and a few boxes of food for twelve days. So, to actually get on the plane twice and go through that scenario? “Survivor” is actually less challenging because you get stimulating competitions and the people you’re going to meet are a little bit different. This is like a vacation for me. (Laughs) I’m glad to give up my phone and email.
Holmes: I was going to say, “Survivor” has its share of high-stress situations, but nothing quite to that level.
Thomas: Exactly.
Holmes: Now, your mother was in Iraq with you?
Thomas: My mother did twenty years in the Army. We both went to Iraq in 2004. She got a bronze star, she retired a Sergeant First Class.
Holmes: Your whole family is bad ass.
Thomas: (Laughs)
Holmes: You’re a Sergeant.
Thomas: Yes.
Holmes: So, you’re a leader.
Thomas: Yes.
Holmes: Leaders don’t always fare well in this game. Have you planned for that?
Thomas: I’ve been in the civilian world for five years, so I’ve adapted to civilian life and dealing with civilians. My leadership has been toned down. My leadership is inspiration now. I try to inspire people to do the right thing instead of telling them or forcing them.

Holmes: One of your hobbies is activism. Which causes are you active in?
Thomas: I’m widely known for my video, “One Marine vs. Thirty Cops.” I protected Occupy Wall Street protesters from police brutality. I’m over eight million views now. So, that’s what I’m known for.
Holmes: How did that video happen?
Thomas: On my first tour in Iraq I was involved in a rock riot where the Iraqi populace threw rocks at us because they didn’t like the new mayor that was in place. And, one of the Marines got hit in the face with a rock and had to go in the ambulance and get stitches. We couldn’t respond with violence because the mission at the time was to win the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people. The leadership felt that if we go hurt these people that we might get blown up when we come back to the town. So, to come back to New York City and see people that my brothers had fought and died to protect, they’re not trying to win our hearts and minds. Why aren’t the police trying to win our hearts and minds? Why don’t they worry about us? So, I basically said there is no honor in beating unarmed protest civilians.

Holmes: Are you a big “Survivor” fan?
Thomas: Big “Survivor” fan, since 2001.
Holmes: Since almost day one.
Thomas: Yes.
Holmes: I’ve been asking this question, but I’m pretty sure in your case I know the answer; why do you think you were cast?
Thomas: I was cast because my video touched a lot of people. It inspired a lot of people. I feel like my personality showed in the video. That’s the kind of person that you want to see in a social game. What level will I go to as far as undermining my integrity? I’m here to play an honorable game. I just want to make the living conditions horrible to live in.
Holmes: Wait, you want to make the living conditions horrible?
Thomas: Yeah, I want people to quit. I want people to be tired and to miss their kids. I want them to hate life.
Holmes: You want to be honorable, but have you ruled out lying if it will help your game?
Thomas: I don’t consider it lying. I won’t give people information that they don’t need to hear. I’ll leave everything up to mystery other than outright lying.
Holmes: If you and I are playing this game together, I might think twice about going to the finals with a war hero. Is there anything about your home life or your career that you’re going to keep a secret? Although, with those tattoos it might be tough.
Thomas: (Laughs) Yeah. I think I can downplay a lot of things, like my puzzle abilities. Through the challenges people can feel like they can beat me in the end. He’s not going to have more stamina than me. They’ll see weaknesses in my game.
Holmes: But you’re a Marine.
Thomas: (Laughs)
Holmes: I wouldn’t fall for it. I think I could hold onto a pole longer than you.  But, I know enough Marines to know that it’s not wise to mess with them.
Thomas: (Laughs) It’s a game. My personality will have to disarm people. Once they know who I am they’ll be like, “I like him!” And then because I’m a Marine and because of my video they’ll know that I play with honor.

Holmes: Are you prepared to flirt your way to a win? You’re a handsome fellow and I’m sure there are some ladies that wouldn’t mind cuddling with you at night like a big teddy bear.
Thomas: (Laughs) As the situation dictates. I’m not opposed to it. Everyone thinks I fall in love with women quickly.
Holmes: Is that your thing?
Thomas: That’s my thing. I love Alicia from “Survivor: One World.” She asked for fire in the beginning and I told everyone I would have given her ass some fire.
Holmes: (Laughs)
Thomas: You know what I mean?
Holmes: So, you could be in some trouble.
Thomas: I could be in trouble.
Holmes: That’s bad news.
Thomas: (Laughs)

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it will be?
Thomas: I have…no clue. I’ve looked at the cast, I know there aren’t that many African Americans besides myself. They had the men and women, and the races, I have no clue how they’d set that up based on the people. My whole game is how the situation dictates.
Holmes: You’ve been with these people a day?
Thomas: Yeah, a day.
Holmes: What’re your first impressions?
Thomas: Lunch meat. (Laughs) I was sitting next to one of the contestants and I heard her stomach growling and it made my day. I was like, “Yeah, you’re hungry, aren’t you? You’re going to be a lot more hungry when I start eating your food.” (Laughs)
Holmes: (Laughs) That will get you in trouble. I’ve seen enough “Survivor” in my day to know that can buy you a ticket out of there.
Thomas: Depends on who you are.
Holmes: That’s also true.

Holmes: You’re a big fan, it seems like lately people are finding themselves on the bottom of these alliances and aren’t making moves to get to the top. Why does that happen?
Thomas: With me, I feel like that could never happen to me. I can’t even try to whisper. I can’t hold my tongue. I went against one of the biggest gangs in America, the NYPD. They kill over three black men a year. All of that, falling to the bottom and getting steamrolled, that won’t happen to me. My personality won’t allow it. I know I can’t hide, so I need to be out there.

Holmes: So, you’re going to win, right?
Thomas: Yes.
Holmes: What’re you going to do with all of that money?
Thomas: There are only two black-owned businesses in my neighborhood and they’re both liquor stores. What I want to do is open up ten businesses in my neighborhood and inspire the kids to want to be business owners and be a part of their community instead of actors, entertainers, and stuff like that. I’m a big gang activist. I joined a gang when I was fifteen years old.  I joined the Marines when I was seventeen years old and learned to be a man. I try to pass on the things I learned in the Marine Corps to the kids in the gangs. I was a good kid, but I didn’t have direction. I didn’t know how to stand up for myself. So, I’m trying to save the kids who are just like me. They’re good kids who are from broken homes and bad situations. I’m trying to find another passion for them outside of sports and entertainment. All of my businesses are going to have two teenagers working there. I don’t care if it’s a deli or a barbershop. Whatever it is, there are going to be kids working there. Once I can get people involved in the community, that’s when I’m successful.

Don’t miss the two-hour premiere of “Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs. Favorites,” Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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‘Survivor: Caramoan’ Fave Brenda Lowe: ‘There is Good Brenda and Bad Brenda’

January 21, 2013

Brenda Lowe (CBS)

I had a chance to sit down with all twenty of the “Fans vs. Favorites” competitors the day before they left for the Caramoan Islands. I’ll be posting exclusive interviews with each contestant every weekday until we get through all of them. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for tons of updates.

Name: Brenda Lowe
Age: 30
Hometown: Miami, FL
Occupation: Paddleboard Company Owner
Previous Finish: Brenda came in 10th place in “Survivor: Nicaragua”
Memorable Moment: Brenda was the very first person to wield the awesome responsibility of the Medallion of Power.

Note: The “Survivor: Caramoan” pre-game interviews are unlike the pre-game interviews we’ve done in the past. Usually, the interviews take place on location, this time they took place in Los Angeles before the players flew out. At this point, all the “Favorties” know is that they’re flying out in the next few days. They have seen each other, but haven’t seen the new players.  They don’t know for sure where they’re going, and they don’t know any of the season’s twists.

Gordon Holmes: I remember leaving Nicaragua and being like, “Brenda’s my girl.”
Brenda Lowe: How many girls are you saying that to?
Holmes: Probably a bunch.
Lowe: (Laughs)
Holmes: No, you were a ton of fun in our interview, very smart. And then I get home and the season starts and you’re like this bad ass, cool cucumber.
Lowe: Wait, are you telling everyone else that you like me?
Holmes: No, I can’t talk about you with anyone else. They’re welcome to say whatever they want, but I have to stay quiet.
Lowe: OK, good.
Holmes: So, was the stone cold serious thing part of your plan going in?
Lowe: I think in context you’re not going to be all happy-go-lucky or people are going to vote you out first. But, there were fun parts you probably didn’t see because it didn’t go with the story.
Holmes: What were the fun parts?
Lowe: You know, joking around with Kelly Purple. Or, tripping out Sash. We did have our moments.
Holmes: I remember La Flor did a dance on the way to that first immunity challenge.
Lowe: Oh yeah, that was my idea.
Holmes: Did you choreograph that?
Lowe: Hell yeah.
Holmes: And yet, here you are getting no kind choreography credit.
Lowe: Nope, and people couldn’t even do it right! But I thought it was cool, Jeff was rolling his eyes.
Holmes: I don’t know if “cool” is the adjective I’d be using to describe that dance.
Lowe: We’re the young tribe! We’re cool.
Holmes: When your friends and family saw how stone cold you were, what was their reaction?
Lowe: They know I can be like that.
Holmes: Oh, so there is that side to you?
Lowe: Yeah.
Holmes: So, I should try not to piss you off.
Lowe: (Laughs) Yeah, there is good Brenda and bad Brenda.
Holmes: That’s why I said all of that nice stuff about you earlier. I don’t want to come face-to-face with bad Brenda.
Lowe: (Laughs) That’s smart.

Holmes: I’ve been doing this a while, and every time in the bios they ask the contestants, “Which Survivor are you most like?” Nine out of ten times the women say they’re like Parvati Shallow. However, the name Brenda Lowe has been showing up more and more often.
Lowe: I didn’t know that, that’s pretty cool.
Holmes: What do you think it was about your game that inspired so many future players?
Lowe: I think they say that because I did my own strategy. I was my own little leader out there. I knew what I wanted and I tried to get it myself. Everything I was thinking of happened, until I got voted off.

Holmes: What have you been up to since Nicaragua?
Lowe: Since you saw me last, I’ve still been paddleboarding. When you saw me I was single, now I’m super not single.
Holmes: Super not single.
Lowe: Yes, super in love.
Holmes: Engaged…?
Lowe: No.
Holmes: Soon to be engaged…?
Lowe: Yes! Soon to be. Still living in Miami, and I’m living a good life.
Holmes: OK, so this is a change for you. In the first episode of your season, you said you were single like a dozen times.
Lowe: (Laughs) Yeah.
Holmes: Does that cut off the avenue of being able to flirt to get ahead?
Lowe: Well, I never really flirted before…well, not too much.
Holmes: But does it take away a potential weapon in your arsenal?
Lowe: I think flirting is more building a rapport. If I’m talking to a guy and he likes it, does that count as flirting or building a rapport? But, I have a boyfriend who I’m not going to disrespect.

Holmes: Why do you think you were brought back?
Lowe: I think I was brought back because I did stuff on the show. I tried to make it interesting and I tried to make big moves. I tried to get far, I was fighting hard. I did get through that first Shannon fiasco. I don’t think you see a young girl being at the top of her alliance.
Holmes: What was your reaction when you got the call to come back?
Lowe: Oh, first I was like holy (expletive deleted). (Laughs) Because it sucks to be out there. You’re not eating and you’re miserable. But, I didn’t want to get my hopes up in case it didn’t happen. But, I was super excited at the chance to go out there.
Holmes: Because you’re going to tear that business up.
Lowe: Hell yeah. I made some mistakes, I learned from my mistakes, and now that I have a second chance it’s going to go much better for me.

Holmes: What’s the reaction you get from fans on the street?
Lowe: They’re super excited. They always want to know what it’s really like.
Holmes: It’s amazing after all these years, some people still think you guys stay in hotels.
Lowe: Yeah, it’s real.

Holmes: OK, it’s day one and I see that I’m playing this game against Brenda Lowe. What do you think I remember about you?
Lowe: I think people are going to watch out for me, which sucks. I’m going to be as nice as I can to everybody. I don’t think anyone’s going to be like, “Aww…she’s so sweet, let’s align with her.” I’m going to fight my hardest to change that preconception.
Holmes: I’m using Coach as my example of someone who used the TV aspect of the show to his advantage. He was able to convince people that the goofy Coach you saw on TV was just a character.
Lowe: Oh yeah, yeah, yeah…I’m going to totally play up that. “You didn’t see the real me, it was editing.” But, the truth is, I was good with my alliance and I had one alliance. But this time, I’ll have several.
Holmes: Probst gave you some grief for not scrambling when it looked like your time was up. I thought it was unique that you said that scrambling might cause your alliance members to not trust you.
Lowe: Yeah.
Holmes: On one hand, it didn’t work out for you, but on the other, it seems like there’s some merit to that strategy. What did you learn from that?
Lowe: One thing, it’s hard to scramble when you only have one alliance and that one alliance is telling you they’re going to vote you out. At the same time, my key partner Sash had the immunity idol. People wanted me out because they thought I was shady and couldn’t be trusted. So, if people saw me talking to Jane or whoever, then they’re like, “She’s definitely not with us, we need to get rid of her.” So, that was my angle and it didn’t work.

Holmes: Are you worried that there might not be a Medallion of Power this time around?
Lowe: (Laughs) Me and the Medallion of Power got along pretty well.
Holmes: I try not to hang onto regrets in my life. But, my biggest regret is not bidding on the Medallion of Power when they put it up on eBay after the season.
Lowe: (Laughs) You’re such a liar.
Holmes: I would’ve worn it here like a Flava Flav clock.
Lowe: Use it like a Christmas ornament.

Holmes: If there’s a twist, what do you think it will be?
Lowe: I think it’s half returning people, half new people. Then they’re going to mix things up.

Holmes: What do you think of this cast?
Lowe: I want to get to know them, one on one. I want to talk to them and see what they’re like out there. Do I like you? Can I stand you? Can I trust you? I’m going to pretend to like everybody.
Holmes: Did you recognize everybody?
Lowe: Yeah, I know everybody here except for one guy I don’t know.
Holmes: Is there anyone you immediately think you want to align with or watch out for?
Lowe: I definitely want to align with Cochran for sure and Corinne. I’m going to align with everybody, but those two are who I’m going to go with.
Holmes: That’s a sweet deal when you can align with everybody.
Lowe: (Laughs)
Holmes: Who do you think will improve this time around?
Lowe: Well, I think Francesca will improve because she was the first boot last time.
Holmes: She doesn’t have much of a choice.
Lowe: That’s not going to happen again.

Don’t miss the two-hour premiere of “Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs. Favorites,” Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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‘Survivor: Caramoan’ Fan Hope Driskill: ‘I’m Not the Best Liar’

January 18, 2013

Hope Driskill (CBS)

I had a chance to sit down with all twenty of the “Fans vs. Favorites” competitors the day before they left for the Caramoan Islands. I’ll be posting exclusive interviews with each contestant every weekday until we get through all of them. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for tons of updates.

Name: Hope Driskill
Age: 23
Hometown: Jefferson City, MO
Occupation: Recent Graduate of the University of Missouri

Note: The “Survivor: Caramoan” pre-game interviews are unlike the pre-game interviews we’ve done in the past. Usually, the interviews take place on location, this time they took place in Los Angeles before the players flew out. At this point, all the “Fans” know is that they’re flying out in the next few days. They have seen each other, but haven’t seen the returning players.  They don’t know for sure where they’re going, and they don’t know any of the season’s twists.

Gordon Holmes: Let’s get the most important question out of the way; are you a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals?
Hope Driskill: That is very important, and yes I am a Cards fan. Can I ask you a question?
Holmes: That’s unorthodox, but maybe just this once.
Driskill: Were you upset when Albert (Pujols) left us?
Holmes: I was sorry to see him go, but I think it’s best for the team that we didn’t pay him what he wanted.
Driskill: St. Louis was so devastated.
Holmes: As was I. There’s a Pujols Christmas ornament that isn’t going on my tree this year.

Holmes: Alright, let’s move on to less important things like “Survivor.”
Driskill: (Laughs) Yes, “Survivor”…go.
Holmes: It says here that you don’t like complainers. I’m willing to make a pre-game bet that you’re going to run into those kinds of people over the next 39 days.
Driskill: It does irritate me when people complain a lot. And it’s not to say that I don’t complain about things, because I do. I just don’t think it does any good to sit around and complain about things.
Holmes: What happens on Day 27 when you’re sitting around the fire and someone starts complaining?
Driskill: You know what? At that point if I’m hungry and tired, I’m just going to let them complain.

Holmes: Why do you think you were cast?
Driskill: I think it’s because they saw that I’ve had an interesting array of accomplishments. I think they thought I’d be a good competitor and a good addition to the cast.

Holmes: Do you have any issues lying in the game?
Driskill: Honestly, I’m not the best liar. I’m not that good at it. But, I am good with working with people.
Holmes: So you’re OK with lying, you’re just not good at it?
Driskill: I think to some degree it’s OK, but I’m no good at it.
Holmes: Alright, give me two truths and a lie.
Driskill: I competed in Miss USA, I’ve been skydiving, and I studied abroad in Europe.
Holmes: You never studied abroad.
Driskill: (Laughs) I have! I’ve never been skydiving.
Holmes: See, you can lie.
Driskill: This is getting me excited!
Holmes: That’s my goal in this interview.
Driskill: To get me pumped.
Holmes: We need more Missouri-based “Survivor” champions. Fabio is not enough.

Holmes: OK, you’re a lovely young woman.
Driskill: Aww…thank you.
Holmes: Keep your head in the game.
Driskill: (Laughs)
Holmes: Some people use flirting to get ahead. Is this a strategy you might use?
Driskill: I mean…yes. But I wouldn’t think, “I’m going to go flirt with this person to get ahead.” I’m a friendly person, I’m from the Midwest.
Holmes: Yes, we’re all delightful.
Driskill: Right, we’re friendly and that might come off as flirty. But no, I have no intentions of flirting to get ahead.

Holmes: You and the other players can’t talk to each other yet, what kind of first impression do you think they’re getting of you?
Driskill: I think people…especially since I’m wearing five-inch wedges.
Holmes: Wow, those are impressive. Those are some earrings too.
Driskill: (Laughs) Thank you, I love them. I think that people will underestimate me, but I think that’s to my advantage because I will prove them wrong.
Holmes: What are your first impressions of the cast so far?
Driskill: It seems like a younger group. I’ve honestly gotten a good, friendly vibe from everyone. So, I’m excited. I think we’re going to have fun.

Holmes: Are you a “Survivor” fan?
Driskill: Yes.
Holmes: How big of a fan?
Driskill: I think on a scale of one to ten, I’m an eight. I don’t watch much TV. I’ve been really busy.
Holmes: Doing what? Boring stuff like learning?
Driskill: Yes, but I’m done!
Holmes: Good, now you’ll have more time for TV. Now, as a “Survivor” fan, what are some mistakes you’ve seen that you’re hoping to avoid?
Driskill: Well, I think one of the biggest mistakes is being naïve and not being aware of your surroundings and that everyone is there to win. So, you have to make sure you’re respectful and get to know everyone.
Holmes: Did you watch “South Pacific” and “One World”?
Driskill: I did.
Holmes: We saw a lot of people on the bottom of alliances who weren’t willing or able to improve their place in the game. Why do you think that happens?
Driskill: I honestly don’t know. I think that being on the bottom you’re intimidated and you have to be competent and bold to step up and make a big move.

Holmes: When you win the million, what’re you going to do with the money? I mean, besides law school.
Driskill: Seeing as how I just got through four years of school, I’ve racked up some educational expenses and there’s more to come.
Holmes: What kind of law?
Driskill: I worked in the attorney general’s office for a few years and I also worked in the governor’s office. So, with my experiences there, I’m thinking more civil. But, we’ll see. I’m keeping my options open.
Holmes: Is law school something you’re going to keep a secret out there? Because when you’re facing the jury, you’ll be able to go all Perry Mason on them.
Driskill: I don’t think I’ll keep it a secret.
Holmes: Is there anything you’ll keep a secret?
Driskill: No, I’m pretty proud of everything I’ve done.

Holmes: Are you anticipating any twists this season?
Driskill: Yes.
Holmes: If there are any twists, what do you think they will be?
Driskill: Lord knows. I have no idea. I just know that when I flew out yesterday, the last report I read had Jeff saying he was a little let down with this past season with how Kim (Spradlin) dominated every aspect of the game. So, I think they’re going to throw in something. But, I have no idea what that’s going to be.
Holmes: So, Jeff Probst is not to be trusted.
Driskill: (Laughs) He seems like a trustworthy guy. But he’s going to throw in something exciting.

Don’t miss the two-hour premiere of “Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs. Favorites,” Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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‘Survivor: Caramoan’ Fave Brandon Hantz: ‘I’m Not a Punk, I’m a Beast’

January 17, 2013

Brandon Hantz (CBS)

I had a chance to sit down with all twenty of the “Fans vs. Favorites” competitors the day before they left for the Caramoan Islands. I’ll be posting exclusive interviews with each contestant every weekday until we get through all of them. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for tons of updates.

Name: Brandon Hantz
Age: 21
Hometown: Katy, Texas
Occupation: Chemical Disposal
Previous Finish: Brandon came in 6th place in “Survivor: South Pacific”
Memorable Moment: Brandon was voted out immediately after giving his immunity idol to Albert Destrade.

Note: The “Survivor: Caramoan” pre-game interviews are unlike the pre-game interviews we’ve done in the past. Usually, the interviews take place on location, this time they took place in Los Angeles before the players flew out. At this point, all the “Favorties” know is that they’re flying out in the next few days. They have seen each other, but haven’t seen the new players.  They don’t know for sure where they’re going, and they don’t know any of the season’s twists.

Gordon Holmes: Mr. Hantz, what’ve you been up to since we saw you last?
Brandon Hantz: I’ve been up to great stuff. I’ve been taking care of my family. I’ve been chilling with my kids, my little boy. Teaching him how to swim, that’s been fun.
Holmes: How old is he?
Hantz: Two years old. I’m kind of doing it like my dad did it, just throwing him in there and then go get him after a couple of seconds. (Laughs)
Holmes: The second part of that method is very important.
Hantz: (Laughs) I spend time with my wife. We had a little rough spot there after the show. But, it helped us in the end. We’re actually stronger now than we were before. It’s actually excellent. Everything’s going great. Got some money.
Holmes: Was the rough spot because of the show?
Hantz: It was self-inflicted. I let it get to my head this whole TV thing. I said to myself, “I wouldn’t do that.” I hate people that get too big for their britches. And I did it. I got too big for my britches. So, I got some knew britches.
Holmes: Perfectly fitting, tailored, new britches.
Hantz: Keep the (expletive deleted) nice and tight.
Holmes: That might be more information than we needed.
CBS Representative: (Laughs)
Holmes: That’s how these interviews tend to go, in case you were wondering.

Holmes: The last time we saw you was at the “South Pacific” reunion show. And, on the broadcast, you didn’t strike me as someone who would be psyched to come back and play again. And yet, here you are. What happened?
Hantz: I’ve got a new attitude like that song. (Sings ala Patti LaBelle) I’ve got a new attitude.
Holmes: New britches, new attitude.
Hantz: New me, man. I’m happy with myself. I’m going to get better. But, in the process I’m going to enjoy life. I started off as a little tadpole, and then whatever is after a tadpole, now I’m a shark. I don’t know where it goes from there.
Holmes: …does a tadpole become a shark?
Hantz: It just depends.
CBS Representative: It’s all evolution.
Holmes: There ya go.
Hantz: Have you ever heard of Darwin?

Holmes: It’s great to see you having fun.
Hantz: Thank you.
Holmes: Because people would say, “Why is Russell’s nephew on ‘Survivor’?” They wouldn’t say “Brandon,” they’d say “Russell’s nephew.” And when we met in Samoa I thought, here’s this good-natured, almost innocent guy, he doesn’t seem like Russell at all. But then, it seemed like the game got the best of you and you were having a hard time coming to terms with everything.
Hantz: I allowed my past convictions to stop me from playing the game. I don’t know what I was thinking. I play chess all the time. I smash people in chess. It gets violent when I’m on a chess table.
Holmes: You don’t hear that often.
Hantz: No! That’s how competitive I am. Then to come out and play that game and look like a little punk? I’m not a punk. I’m a beast.
Holmes: You’re a shark.
Hantz: I’m a shark.

Holmes: So, in your time in the game you were someone who wasn’t comfortable lying. Does that change?
Hantz: I’m still not a liar. If you and I are walking down the street I’m not going to lie to you. If you ask, “How man, how do these look,” I’m going to say, “These look terrible. I still love ya, but you look terrible.”
Holmes: You think I look terrible?
Hantz: (Laughs) Don’t put me on the spot. I’m just kidding, you look great.
Holmes: Appreciate that. But in a game for a million dollars, does that change things?
Hantz: You play poker?
Holmes: Yes, poorly.
Hantz: I’ll be like, “Guess what, guys? You think I’m bluffing? It’s about to get all crazy up in this (expletive deleted). All in.”

Holmes: Last time you had some issues with Mikayla Wingle...
Hantz: Really? Who brings this up? Did you write these questions?
Holmes: I wrote these questions.
Hantz: What’s up?
Holmes: We’re talking about what went on in your season and how it will affect your gameplay going forward.
Hantz: Well, I’m going to be honest with you from here on out.
Holmes: I appreciate all honesty. What I’m asking is, if you find yourself in another situation with a young lovely…
Hantz: A young lovely? Well, that’s a hard question. If I find myself with a young lovely, then I’m in a room with a young lovely. I don’t understand the question.
Holmes: You felt like Mikayla was flirting with you and that was a reason to target her.
Hantz: I’m pretty sure that’s not how it went.
Holmes: Then how did it go?
Hantz: I’m pretty sure you just saw the edit.
Holmes: I did see the edit. But no matter what happened, she was targeted.
Hantz: This was the deal, Mikayla and I were aligned. The cameraman asked me the question, “Do you think that’s she intimidating because she’s pretty?” and I elaborated. But, people are stupid to the fact that, “This guy is sexist, he’s afraid of beautiful women.” Dude, I see beautiful women all the time. I’m a human being, I have to see pretty women. I have a job, I have a regular life. I’m not scared of a hot woman. My wife happens to be really hot, very young and robust.
Holmes: (Laughs) That’s a wonderful adjective.
Hantz: (Laughs) So, I’m not afraid of a beautiful woman. Actually, I have an idea. Ready to hear it?
Holmes: Absolutely.
Hantz: If a young woman wants to align with me, then I will do so.
Holmes: You’ve got to keep all doors open in this game.
Hantz: All the doors are open! I’m not going to allow my past convictions to interrupt the game. I know who I am. I love Jesus Christ. That doesn’t change. But, I’m a fun guy. I’m funny. I like to joke around. I like to be friends with everybody. And I shouldn’t feel bad for doing those things. And I was making myself feel bad for those things. I’m going to have fun. And I’m going to win a million dollars.

Holmes: It’s the first day in the game, I look across the beach and see Brandon Hantz. What do you think I remember about you?
Hantz: He’s no threat. He’s a crybaby. And, he’s very trustworthy. A girl might be worried like, “Oh my gosh, I’m pretty.” And I’d be, “Oh my gosh, don’t flatter yourself.”

Holmes: With Coach Wade and Ozzy Lusth, you got to see firsthand what it’s like for someone playing the game a second time. Did you learn anything about that from them?
Hantz: They’re smarter. You’re such a smarter person. I hope we have ten new people that we’re playing with…which I’m thinking we might. There’s always a twist. That’s why I’m here.

Holmes: What do you think of the cast members you’ve seen so far?
Hantz: I like them. Everybody starts off happy go lucky. I’m very open-minded. The person you guess you’re going to hate is normally the person you end up being best friends with. I could be best friends with a very pretty girl or a very ugly guy. You never know.
Holmes: Anyone you’re comfortable working with?
Hantz: I’ve played with Dawn and Cochran. So, that’s a comfort zone. But sometimes you need to get out of your comfort zone to make things happen. And I’m here to make things happen. It’s not the same Brandon. (Sings) I’ve got a new attitude.
Holmes: Why do you think you were brought back?
Hantz: I think I was brought back, sir…because I made good TV. Whether it was positive or negative, people wanted to watch.

Holmes: Before “South Pacific” people said, “This kid is only around because he’s Russell Hantz’s nephew.” I would have agreed…
Hantz: Until you watched the season! This interview means nothing…you know why? Because I don’t even know what I’m going to do out there.
Holmes: Well, the game’s so fluid, it’s impossible to know. That’s why I try to ask broader questions.
Hantz: You know what I’ve learned about myself? Is that I might be like this now, but in a couple of minutes I might not be like this. You might walk up on me and I might be like, “Dude, get out of my face!”
Holmes: So, I should not step to you?
Hantz: Don’t step to me.
Holmes: I had no intention of doing that.
Hantz: It’s about to happen!
Holmes: I want to go on record…and we’re recording this…I have no intention of stepping to you.
Hantz: (Laughs)
Holmes: There’s a tattoo that says, “Loco.” I appreciate that that’s a guy you don’t want to step to. I don’t think that’s a tattoo you’d get all willy nilly.
Hantz: (Laughs) Oh my God, I love it.

Holmes: You’ve been a featured player on a nationally televised reality show. What’s the reaction you get from people on the street?
Hantz: I’ve had a lot of reactions. Most of them are little punks who don’t want to tell me their true feelings so they say, “Hey, it’s really nice to meet you. I was your fan.” Blah blah blah. And I’m like, “No dude, you were probably screaming at me the whole time I was out there.” I don’t buy it. I’m very polite and I’m like, “Yes maam, thank you very much.” But I don’t take that stuff to heart.
Holmes: Can’t some of these people mean what they’re saying?
Hantz: Yes, people I know. Have you ever had anyone give you an apology that you didn’t think was an honest apology?
Holmes: Yes.
Hantz: You could see that same thing in someone’s face when they say, “I was your biggest fan.” They won’t even look you in the eye. They want to smack me in the face.
Holmes: Interesting.
Hantz: Don’t call me your favorite, smack me in my face and see if this sweet little old guy will turn the other cheek.
Holmes: Do a lot of people try to smack you in the face?
Hantz: Metaphorically, yes.
Holmes: Ah…well done.

Holmes: It’s blowing my mind how much it seems like you’ve changed from when we met before “South Pacific.” It seems like you’ve been though a lot.
Hantz: Dude…
Holmes: I guess what I’m getting at here is, you didn’t seem happy during the reunion and I hope you’re happy now.
Hantz: I appreciate that. It’s building from here. I had to tear down that whole house that was built and rebuild it. My Bible says, David’s son Solomon was talking about how wise people get their wisdom from pain. A lot of wisdom comes from suffering.
Don’t miss the two-hour premiere of “Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs. Favorites,” Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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‘Survivor: Caramoan’ Fan Reynold Toepfer: ‘You Have to Be Cutthroat’

January 16, 2013

Reynold Toepfer (CBS)

I had a chance to sit down with all twenty of the “Fans vs. Favorites” competitors the day before they left for the Caramoan Islands. I’ll be posting exclusive interviews with each contestant every weekday until we get through all of them. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for tons of updates.

Name: Reynold Toepfer
Age: 30
Hometown: San Francisco, CA
Occupation: Sales

Note: The “Survivor: Caramoan” pre-game interviews are unlike the pre-game interviews we’ve done in the past. Usually, the interviews take place on location, this time they took place in Los Angeles before the players flew out. At this point, all the “Fans” know is that they’re flying out in the next few days. They have seen each other, but haven’t seen the returning players.  They don’t know for sure where they’re going, and they don’t know any of the season’s twists.

Gordon Holmes: Alright, how does a guy who lives in San Francisco become a Tom Brady fan?
Reynold Toepfer: My first job posting was in Boston and I grew up in Ohio with losing teams, the Bengals in particular. And then I went there and worked with all Pats fans and drank the Kool-Aid. And, I have a respect for the game, I played. And I think he brings out the best in everyone around him. So many different rosters and he keeps winning.
Holmes: What level did you play up to?
Toepfer: High school, and I played rugby in college.
Holmes: Rugby? That’s a tough sport.
Toepfer: Yeah, I was good in Ohio, but then I played overseas in Australia and got my ass kicked.
Holmes: When did you live in Australia?
Toepfer: Let’s see…I’ve been back in the States for two years. So like 2007 to 2010.
Holmes: They have giant spiders there, right?
Toepfer: Yeah, but they don’t bite you. The huntsman spider, it’s big, it’s hairy, it’s the size of my hand.
Holmes: Screw that.
Toepfer: It’s the little ones that will kill you. The little brown and black ones.

Holmes: Why do you think they picked you to play?
Toepfer: I’ve always been told that I have an energy about me. I was recruited, Lynne found me on the street. I’m a big believer in fate and destiny and things like that. I was watching Season 2 when I was in high school, I was too young to send in a video. And, I was watching Colby Donaldson and I was like, “God, I could be that guy.” And I really could feel this connection. I was like, “That’s going to be me one day, but not yet.” I lived my life, I went to Boston, I went overseas, I traveled Europe, and I lived my life very happily and very fully. And I got spotted in LA.
Holmes: Just off the street?
Toepfer: Just off the street. It was one of those LA stories.
Holmes: For someone like yourself who believes in fate, that’s exactly how it would happen.
Toepfer: It was kind of magical, you know? It was meant to be. So I feel very comfortable.

Holmes: Let’s talk about your gameplay. How comfortable are you lying to people?
Toepfer: I’m not that comfortable lying. But, I have a slew of ex-girlfriends that would tell you otherwise. So, maybe I’m in denial about it. I come from a Midwestern Ohio upbringing. My dad is very big on honesty. So, it was funny talking to them about the game. My dad was like, “Be honest, no lies!” And my mom was like (whispering), “You’ve got to do whatever you’ve got to do.”
Holmes: (Laughs) So you have the cartoon angel on one shoulder and the devil on the other.
Toepfer: (Laughs) Yeah, and I’m really a hybrid of the two of them. My mother is a little more cutthroat and my father is a little more old fashioned.
Holmes: How do you feel about being lied to?
Toepfer: It’s a game. I think some people have made it personal, which I’m not cool with. Colton (Cumbie) was making personal attacks and there’s no need to go there. I will never go there. That’s where I draw the line. But as far as lying to play the game and win the game? I’m OK with that. That’s what we all signed up for.
Holmes: The only time lying bothers me in the game is when it doesn’t serve a strategic purpose. I think of “Heroes vs. Villains” where it seemed like Russell Hantz was riling people up without a real purpose behind it.
Toepfer: Saying, “We’re going to be the final two” to people that didn’t even fit his strategy. It was like this shotgun approach of just saying it to everybody. And a huge difference between he and I is that I would only do it for purpose and I’d get no enjoyment out of it. I’m not the “he he he, I really got you” type. I’m going to be more conflicted. I’ve formed a relationship with this person, but this is what I’ve got to do.
Holmes: Is there anything about your personal life that you feel you need to conceal?
Toepfer: No, I’m in sales and I’ve found that in sales people can smell honesty. So, even if I say, “I don’t have the best product, but here’s where I can help you.” People like that better. They like real. And I think the real me is a character that I would create to win this game.

Holmes: You’re a handsome gentleman, if you don’t mind me saying.
Toepfer: Thank you. But, I’ll be on TV looking my worst. (Laughs)
Holmes: Hey, some people get on that show and look better.
Toepfer: I know!
Holmes: Like Christina (Cha)? On day 30-whatever she was looking good.
Toepfer: I know. Chelsea (Meissner) was looking good too.
Holmes: We’re way off track here. My question was, are you OK flirting to get ahead?
Toepfer: Yeah, and I’ve been accused of being a flirt. It’s just my nature. And I do it playfully, usually in regular life without seeking anything. It’s fun.
Holmes: Is there a girlfriend or wife at home?
Toepfer: No wife. No girlfriend…well…it’s complicated.
Holmes: Is there anyone who’s going to be pissed off if they see you flirting?
Toepfer: Probably. But…not really. I don’t know. It’s not enough to stop me. She’d be all about me winning the game.

Holmes: You lived in Australia for three years. Did you take the opportunity to camp out, rough it a little?
Toepfer: Yes, but not to the extent of what I’m about to experience.
Holmes: Few people do.
Toepfer: (Laughs) Yeah.

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it will be?
Toepfer: You’re thinking, one world, one camp, boys vs. girls, heroes vs. villains… I don’t know. All I know is that they’re wildly unpredictable. And within your strategy, you need to be planning for them to turn it on its head. Anytime you think you have the game under your control, they’re going to do something. I have no idea what it is, and I’m not going to try to guess because it will only screw me up.
Holmes: That’s a good attitude to have. One day you’re perfectly comfortable and the next Jeff is handing you a new buff. The person you were a jerk to could be part of the new dominant alliance.
Toepfer: Absolutely. So, it’s a juggle. Alliances are a necessary part of the game, but you’ve got to do your groundwork with the people who aren’t in your alliance.
Holmes: But, you can’t be too obvious about it or your alliance won’t trust you.
Toepfer: Yeah, I know.
Holmes: The game has gotten so complicated.
Toepfer: But a good defense there is, “We’ve got to play the game, we’ve got to keep up appearances. You should be doing it too.”
Holmes: Seems like you’ve been mentally preparing for this.
Toepfer: My biggest fear is being voted out first because they want to blindside someone who looks like a strong character.
Holmes: I don’t know, I feel like it’s tough to be voted out first. Now watch, you’ll be voted out first.
Toepfer: Yeah, thanks!
Holmes:  There’s almost always an obvious first person to target. Either they’re annoying or a big challenge liability. You’re a young guy in good shape, that’s very valuable to a tribe.
Toepfer: I feel like it’s a bit of an insurance policy until the merge. And then by then, I hope I have enough of a social game to carry me. It’s a fascinating game. It’s not like with Colby where you can be honorable. You have to be cutthroat and keep your head on a swivel.

Holmes: What are your first impressions of your castmates?
Toepfer: I like them. I like people. I like different types of people. I think they threw out some grenades in the form of beautiful women that I’m going to have to be careful around. But, I’m excited to meet them. I think that’s part of the fun of the game.
Holmes: What do you think their first impressions of you be?
Toepfer: I think I have my work cut out for me. I’m a bit over the top. I’m a big guy, I create a lot of presence. Like in the finals week in LA I was an embellished version of myself.
Holmes: What were you doing?
Toepfer: I was showing off in the pool a bit.

Holmes: What’re you going to do with that phat million-dollar check?
Toepfer: Being completely honest, I’m a minimalist. It doesn’t take much to make me happy. I live in San Francisco and that’s expensive. So, this will help alleviate some of that pressure. But, the most important thing to me would be to spoil my parents.
Holmes: Especially if you had to lie and upset your father.
Toepfer: Exactly. (Laughs) He’ll change his mind when he’s on a boat on the Mediterranean drinking some nice wine.

Don’t miss the two-hour premiere of “Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs. Favorites,” Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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‘Survivor: Caramoan’ Favorite Francesca: ‘I’m Not Thrilled to See Phillip’

January 15, 2013

Francesca Hogi (CBS)

I had a chance to sit down with all twenty of the “Fans vs. Favorites” competitors the day before they left for the Caramoan Islands. I’ll be posting exclusive interviews with each contestant every weekday until we get through all of them. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for tons of updates.

Name: Francesca Hogi
Age: 38
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Occupation: Attorney
Previous Finish: Francesca came in 18th place in “Survivor: Redemption Island”
Memorable Moment: Francesca’s opening-scene comment that the returning players were “sizing us up like prey” may have led to her early elimination

Note: The “Survivor: Caramoan” pre-game interviews are unlike the pre-game interviews we’ve done in the past. Usually, the interviews take place on location, this time they took place in Los Angeles before the players flew out. At this point, all the “Favorties” know is that they’re flying out in the next few days. They have seen each other, but haven’t seen the new players.  They don’t know for sure where they’re going, and they don’t know any of the season’s twists.

Gordon Holmes:  You are the first person to ever return to the game after being voted out first.
Francesca Hogi: Yes. “Survivor” history, baby.
Holmes: Indeed it is.
Hogi: This is my second bit of “Survivor” history. The first is I was the first person to go to Redemption Island.
Holmes: Oh…and the first person to get…eliminated from Redemption Island…
Hogi: I wasn’t going to throw that in there. (Laughs)
Holmes: So, that’s three firsts. And I’m just going to keep my mouth shut.
Hogi: (Laughs)
Holmes: But I’m not good at that, so let’s continue. Why do you think you were invited back?
Hogi: I have no idea. I find this all very surprising. I didn’t believe it was going to happen until yesterday when I got on the plane I thought, “I guess this is really happening.” I guess people in production felt like I got screwed. I guess some people liked watching me on the show. It’s very flattering.
Holmes: I remember thinking it was too soon. You and Kristina Kell.
Hogi: Thank you.
Holmes: It seemed like you were both very smart and had a lot to offer as far as gameplay. And, you were a very good narrator.
Hogi: Thank you. It’s great, I was extremely surprised by people’s reactions to me.
Holmes: You could be the first person to be voted out first, then come back and win the whole deal.
Hogi: That’s the plan.
Holmes: Right, I meant you’re going to be that person.
Hogi: That’s right. That’s what’s happening.
Holmes: Well great, then this whole thing is going to be anti-climatic.
Hogi: It’s like Dalton Ross said, “Worst to first.”
Holmes: You talked to Dalton Ross?
Hogi: I did.
Holmes: I hate that guy.
Hogi: (Laughs)

Holmes: What’ve you been up to since we saw you last?
Hogi: Plotting, scheming, working, playing, traveling.
Holmes: And it’s all going to pay off.
Hogi: Oh yeah.
Holmes: So there’s a basement somewhere with pictures of Jeff Probst and candles…
Hogi: It might be alarming for the outside person to see it, but it’s harmless. I’m not going to kill anyone, I’m just going to win “Survivor.”

Holmes: You have played with returnees before, I’m referring of course to “Survivor” Hall of Famer “Boston” Rob Mariano.
Hogi: “Boston” Rob.
Holmes: And now you are a returnee yourself. What did you learn from watching his approach to returning to the game that you can utilize?
Hogi: Well, if I’m on a tribe with new people, I’m going to employ my own version of the “Boston” Rob, “Who me?” Because “Boston” Rob said to us on the first day, “I know I have no shot of winning this game. I’m not here to win. I just love this game and I want to help you guys win.” And everyone was like, “Oh my God, he’s so nice.”
Holmes: You guys bought that?
Hogi: Yeah, he doesn’t mean that. He’s going to win this game if you let him. I thought, this tribe is going to give “Boston” Rob a million dollars because they want him to like them. Which is exactly what happened. It was like that from day one.
Holmes: Well, he is quite charming.
Hogi: Yeah, but I remember when he was saying it, I was thinking, “Nobody’s going to buy this.” And I looked around and everyone bought it. I think that I could more plausibly do that because I’m not “Boston” Rob.  I’m far from it. I’m the least successful returning player ever.
Holmes: Right now.
Hogi: (Laughs) Right now. So, no one should perceive me as a threat. I’m bad at “Survivor.” Or, I used to be. I’m going to say I just want to get a little bit farther because anything is an improvement from where I’ve been.

Holmes: You march out on the beach on day one, what do you think the other players remember about you?
Hogi: I guess they’ll remember that I have a big mouth. I don’t think there’s anything else to remember. You could probably answer that question better than I could.
Holmes: As a “Survivor” fan I remember you being smart and going home early because you were a threat. Didn’t you say something early on like, “They’re eyeing us like sharks?”
Hogi: Something like that, or “They’re eyeing us like prey.”

Holmes: If there is a twist, what do you think it is?
Hogi: What I’m expecting, so it’s probably the opposite of what will happen, is that we’ll be returning players and new players all mixed together. I think people are thinking this will be like a Fans vs. Favorites 2 situation. I don’t think that’s what it’ll be. I think there will be mixing. But, I’d rather it be all returning players on one side.

Holmes: I feel like “Survivor” is very much influenced by the last season a cast sees before they play the game. In this case, with “South Pacific” and “One World,” people on the bottom of alliance have been content with their places and have been bounced one by one.
Hogi: It’s driving me crazy. I think not everybody plays “Survivor” to win. I think some people play to get as far as they can. It’s all the cliché stuff. You are out of your element. You are hungry, you aren’t sleeping well. Whatever it takes to get to the next day. It takes a lot to make a big move and not everybody has that drive. People get complacent.

Holmes: Everybody here has been asking themselves “What if” since they were voted out. Is there anything in there you can use? Mistakes they’ve made and if they’re likely to make them again?
Hogi: I’m going to assume that everyone is going to be smarter. You really learn so much from being out there. I assume everyone will be smarter. Whether or not they are, remains to be seen. But I’m not going to rely too much on my preconceived notions of people.

Holmes: You’ve been with the cast for a little bit today. What are your first impressions of the group?
Hogi: So far it’s been pretty good. Well, I’m not thrilled to see Phillip. But, I’m not surprised to see Phillip.
Holmes: Is that still a thing?
Hogi: You know, it’s not a thing for me. I have no relationship with him. I don’t think I’ve had one conversation since that Tribal Council. I’ve seen him and we’ve said, “Hello” and that’s it. I don’t like him. I don’t find him to be a likable person. I’m not looking forward to living with him. I’m trying to really go in very open-minded. Well, not open-minded like I’m going to align with Phillip. I’m not insane. (Laughs) But, I’m not like, “OK, Phillip’s got to be the first one to go.” I’m not thinking that way. I know he could be gunning for me.  I wouldn’t be surprised at all.
Holmes: Anyone else stick out to you?
Hogi: Other than Phillip I think it’s a pretty good group for me. I don’t know Corinne at all. I’ve never even met her. I met Brenda once. I definitely see Brenda as a big threat in the game, but that doesn’t mean I wouldn’t want to align with her, because I will try to. Corinne has a bad reputation for being really bitchy, but she was really loyal to her alliance. I have no problem with that. Smart, bitchy, loyal? Sign me up. (Laughs)  Let’s do it. Brandon makes me a little wary because I think he’s a little bit of a loose cannon. It’ll be interesting to see the people who learned from their mistakes the first time versus people who can’t help themselves and will play the same way. Is Phillip going to do what Coach did and go from being a complete raving lunatic his first season to being an eccentric his second season to a normal person his third season?
Holmes: I think Coach did it right. For Coach to have that crazy reputation, then be able to play against that and say, “What you saw on TV isn’t the real me. This is the real me.” That probably makes people feel closer because they’re seeing a side of him that most people haven’t seen.
Hogi: Yeah, is Phillip going to be Phillip 2.0? A toned-down…well…actually, I saw him today holding a feather, so it’s not looking good. (Laughs)
Holmes: I’ve heard about that. I’m not going to lie, I’m very excited to see it.
Hogi: (Laughs) I don’t see Phillip as being the kind of person who realizes how lucky he was the first season in that everybody was driven crazy by him on day one, but “Boston” Rob saw in him that potential to keep him around as someone he wanted to go to the end with. It took a lot of discipline to keep Phillip around because he’s not an easy person to live with. The rest of the tribe had a big problem with that. I don’t think Phillip appreciates that. I think he might give himself a lot more credit than he deserves for how far he went in the game. So, I don’t know if he’ll play differently.
Holmes: If he pronounces your name correctly, is that a step in the right direction? Will that help mend fences?
Hogi: The last time I saw him he came up to me and put his hand on my shoulder and said, “How are you doing, Francesca?”
Holmes: Oh! See, there’s hope.
Hogi: He was practicing. We’re going to be best friends. I love him. No…I don’t love him.

Don’t miss the two-hour premiere of “Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs. Favorites,” Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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‘Survivor: Caramoan’ Fan Sherri Biethman: Flirting Is ‘Part of My Arsenal’

January 14, 2013

Sherri Biethman (CBS)

I had a chance to sit down with all twenty of the “Fans vs. Favorites” competitors the day before they left for the Caramoan Islands. I’ll be posting exclusive interviews with each contestant every weekday until we get through all of them. Be sure to follow me on Twitter (@gordonholmes) for tons of updates.

Name: Sherri Biethman
Age: 41
Hometown: Boise, ID
Occupation: Fast Food Franchisee

Note: The “Survivor: Caramoan” pre-game interviews are unlike the pre-game interviews we’ve done in the past. Usually, the interviews take place on location, this time they took place in Los Angeles before the players flew out. At this point, all the “Fans” know is that they’re flying out in the next few days. They have seen each other, but haven’t seen the returning players.  They don’t know for sure where they’re going, and they don’t know any of the season’s twists.

Gordon Holmes: It says here that you’re a franchisee? What businesses do you own?
Sherri Biethman: I own six different franchises.
Holmes: Such as?
Biethman: I own a Wetzel’s Pretzels.
Holmes: (Laughs) I’ve never heard of that. I don’t know if we have Wetzel’s Pretzels in Philadelphia.
Biethman: They’re huge in California. We have two of those. You have Auntie Anne’s right?
Holmes: Yes, so good. Do you guys have the cinnamon pretzels?
Biethman: Oh yeah.
Holmes: What are your other franchises?
Biethman: We have a Cinnabon and a Haagen Dazs and two Jimmy Johns.

Holmes: You’re a big huge “Survivor” fan.
Biethman: Huge, since day one.
Holmes: And you named your son after Colby Donaldson?
Biethman: Yes. Season two I was eight months pregnant and it was coming to the end, and I fell in love with the way he played. He was just so sincere. I didn’t have a name for my boy at the time and Colby fit.
Holmes: It was that or Kentucky Joe?
Biethman: (Laughs) Or Chicken George.

Holmes: Your claim to fame is finding the right diagnosis for your autistic son. I’m unfamiliar with that process, isn’t that a doctor’s responsibility?
Biethman: He was diagnosed…autism is like a huge umbrella. We got a diagnosis that he’s PDD, pervasive development disorder. Which helps to isolate, he wasn’t like Rain Man where you could drop stuff on the floor, his was social. So, to find the right doctors, to find the right person to work with, that was the diagnosis…
Holmes: And that’s your responsibility to figure that out?
Biethman: Because they kept putting him under the big umbrella.
Holmes: OK, so you worked with him to find exactly what he needed.
Biethman: Right, he’s autistic, so they’d just put him in occupational therapy to work with his hands or how to grasp things.
Holmes: But he already knew that.
Biethman: Right, it was social. Answering questions, making conversation. He can talk, we can talk about anything, but you have to ask questions.
Holmes: What does he think of mom’s big adventure?
Biethman: I think he’s going to miss me. But he’s very excited to see me out there. On the finale when they showed the Philippines and they showed the sharks and the snakes at the very end, he was freaking out.
Holmes: Oh, so you think you’re going to the Philippines.
Biethman: I think so. It’s common sense. Do you know?
Holmes: I do know, but my lips are sealed.
Biethman: I think we’re going to the Philippines.
Holmes: Well, you’re welcome to think that.
Biethman: Oh, come on!

Holmes: One of your pet peeves is that you don’t like liars. Then, why did you sign up for “Survivor”?
Biethman: I’m talking about my real life. That’s my pet peeve in real life. Everybody’s going to lie. I’m going to lie.
Holmes: Some people have a line for how far they’re willing to go when it comes to deception. Do you?
Biethman: I won’t know until I’m out there. My gut tells me no. I’m going to lie.
Holmes: “Boston” Rob had a great point where he said you can’t put boundaries on yourself.
Biethman: You just don’t know until you’re out there. People ask me what my strategy will be and I don’t know. I won’t know until I hear people talking and making alliances.
Holmes: I learned to stop asking that question. Any gameplan you come up with today could be long gone once you meet up with Probst on the beach.
Biethman: Definitely.
Holmes: I also hear you hate laziness…
Biethman: That’s going to be hard for me. Hopefully I’ll be surrounded by hard workers.
Holmes: So, you’re spending your day tending the fire, or cutting fire wood, or plucking berries or whatever there is to do out there and someone is kicking back and getting some sun. Can you be diplomatic?
Biethman: I’ll be able to hold it in, but I will talk crap about them.

Holmes: When I don’t eat I become much more miserable than I normally am. Is that something that will affect you?
Biethman: I don’t think eating, I think sleeping is going to be hard for me. I get really grumpy when I don’t sleep. Heat won’t bother me, I don’t want it to be pouring rain.

Holmes: Are you married?
Biethman: Yeah, eighteen years. I’m going to be missing my anniversary because I’ll be on the island.
Holmes: One of the words you used to describe yourself was “sexy.” And, you are lovely.
Biethman: Thank you.
Holmes: You’re welcome. Are you prepared to flirt at all?
Biethman: Yes. That’s part of my arsenal.
Holmes: Is your husband cool with this?
Biethman: He asked me about spooning, who was going to be in the front and who was going to be in the back. (Laughs)
Holmes: (Laughs) I’m told that’s how you know who’s in an alliance.
Biethman: Spooning or sleeping by that person. The flip side is, now that everybody knows that it could get you in trouble. But, we have talked about it. I’m a huge flirt, but there’s a never been a question of infidelity. I think he’s OK as long as it’s respectful.

Holmes: Have you seen all of “South Pacific” and all of “One World”?
Biethman: I have, and they were all on the same island, right.
Holmes: Yes, those were both in Samoa.
Biethman: Oh…so you can say that. (Laughs)
Holmes: I’m just stating a previously documented fact.
Biethman: (Laughs)
Holmes: I feel like you’re trouble.
Biethman: (Laughs) I know. I am.
Holmes: Anywho, it seems like a lot of people get on the bottom of an alliance, and then don’t do anything as long as their name isn’t up next. And by the time they make a move, it’s too late. Why do you think people keep making that mistake?
Biethman: I think they’re scared that if they make too big of a move it’ll put a target on their back. I was talking with my husband and he made the comment that he’d rather me go out number five or six making a really bold move than to float to number three.
Holmes: That’s what I liked about Jim Rice from “South Pacific.” It seemed like he was fine going out when he did as long as he was doing everything he could to win. It wasn’t enough to get to stay around another three days.
Biethman: Yeah, I liked him too.

Holmes: Is there anything in your personal life that you will keep a secret?
Biethman: I’m actually forty. So, I was thinking of saying I’m thirty seven, because for some reason that sounds much younger because you’re still in your thirties. I see all of these young people and I don’t want to be viewed as motherly. I’m not the motherly type…or old. But then I have to back up everything because I have a seventeen-year-old son, and I’m not great at math.
Holmes: A thirty-seven-year-old can have a seventeen year old son. You just had him when you were twenty.
Biethman: Yeah, that’s true. I’ve been married eighteen years. I think I can do that.

Holmes: Any plans for the million?
Biethman: Invest in more businesses.
Holmes: More Wetzel’s Pretzels?
Biethman: More Jimmy Johns.
Holmes: Bring Auntie Anne’s to the west coast.
Biethman: There are some, but I don’t want one in my mall. They’re competition.
Holmes: Are you well off financially?
Biethman: Yeah.
Holmes: Is that something you’re going to keep secret?
Biethman: Oh yeah. I’m going to totally downplay that. We do fine, but I’m going to say we only own one business and that my husband is an accountant. It sounds boring. We were going to say a banker, but people would think we had money.

Holmes: Do you have any experience roughing it?
Biethman: No.
Holmes: Does that concern you?
Biethman: I don’t like camping, I know that. I’ve been camping and I don’t like it. I like to RV.
Holmes: That doesn’t count.
Biethman: Why not?
Holmes: You have walls and electricity.
Biethman: But you can walk outside and sit.
Holmes: You can do that in your house.
Biethman: You’re right.

Holmes: How are you feeling about the cast?
Biethman: They all seem pretty. A lot of pretty people. But, you’re thinking of some not-so-pretty people, aren’t you?
Holmes: I’m not thinking of anyone in particular.
Biethman: They all seem very polite. No one seems to want to step on anyone’s toes.
Holmes: What do you think their first impression of you is?
Biethman: Going by what I’m told? A strong personality.
Holmes: What you’re told?
Biethman: People always tell me I have a strong personality.

Holmes: If there is a twist, what is your best guess as to what that twist will be?
Biethman: Fans and favorites.
Holmes: If it’s fans and favorites, who would you want to see?
Biethman: I want to see Russell Hantz. (Laughs) Am I insane to want to see him? I don’t care if they bring back Colton (Cumbie). I thought they might do that for drama.
Holmes: Interesting.
Biethman: I feel like I’m on “Lost.” I’m in this weird world where everything is fake. And you guys are like the Dharma group because you know everything about us and we know nothing about you guys.
Holmes: (Laughs)
Biethman: You’re taking us to a (expletive deleted) island and you’re dropping us off.
Holmes: Namaste.
Biethman: We’re going on all of these flights. I said if I have to get on a submarine, I’m (expletive deleted) gone. I’m done.

Don’t miss the two-hour premiere of “Survivor: Caramoan – Fans vs. Favorites,” Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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