About this episode
Survivor 49 Preseason Interview: Sophi Balerdi Mike Bloom ( @AMikeBloomType ) is here to chat to the cast of Survivor 49! Join us to learn a bit about the 18 new castaways to be tested on the islands of Fiji. Mike Bloom interviews Survivor 49 contestant Sophi Balerdi in this preseason deep dive. Sophi, a 27-year-old cell phone repair business owner from Miami, shares her unique connection to Survivor through her late grandmother, who learned English by watching the show. Sophi reveals her strategy to align with the “biggest dude” on her tribe, likening herself to a remora fish attaching to a shark for protection. She plans to play an emotionally unattached game while weaponizing emotions to her advantage. Sophi discusses her approach to advantages, stating she won’t actively seek them out but will capitalize if opportunities arise. Mike and Sophi discuss: – Sophi’s grandmother learned English through Jeff Probst’s Survivor catchphrases – Plans to be a “remora fish” to a bigger player for protection – Intends to play emotionally unattached while weaponizing others’ emotions – Hot take: Whoever wins Survivor deserves it, regardless of fan perception As Sophi prepares to enter the game, she grapples with balancing her emotional connection to Survivor with her desire to play a cutthroat game. Will Sophi’s strategic mindset and unique background set her up for success in Survivor 49? Chapters: 0:00 Sophi’s Survivor Journey Begins 4:02 Grandmother’s Survivor Legacy 6:24 Sophi’s Survivor Inspirations 8:46 Duke Experience Shapes Strategy 10:41 Sophi’s Strength and Weakness 13:19 Potential Alliances and Targets 15:34 Balancing Old and New Era 17:26 Sophi’s Hottest Survivor Take 19:38 Emotional Strategy in the Game 21:29 Nicki Minaj as Loved One 22:42 Pre-Game Emotions and Excitement Never miss a minute of RHAP’s extensive Survivor coverage! LISTEN: Subscribe to the Survivor podcast feed WATCH: Watch and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube SUPPORT: Become a RHAP Patron for bonus content, access to Facebook and Discord groups plus more great perks!