The Challenge Historian

Six months ago the monumental 40th season of The Challenge kicked off. Now, a few weeks after it has ended, and as we watch a new All Stars season commence, we take one final look back at how things shook out for Battle of the Eras.Before getting to the season recap and awards, I dive into The State of The Challenge (or kind of the state of my fandom and all Challenge fandom really) and cover why the show is where it is and a bit of how it can get back on track. If that doesn't sound interesting, then use the timestamps to skip to the season recap.Then I start the season recap with a list of things I loved, liked, thought worked out, thought didn't work out, and things that just flat out didn't work or they got wrong. Following that we've got the awards (quote, moment, elimination, etc) and of course hand out the coveted season MVP. Finally, the season grade and where it stacks up all time. Thanks as always for tuning in. Subscribe, comment, rate, review and all that good stuff. DMs are open on Instagram @ChallengeHistorian.Chapters:Intro & Agenda (00:00)State of The Challenge (04:32)Liked, Worked, Would Have Changed (28:37)Best Quote & Dan Renzi Award (41:23)Best Moment (45:42)Best Elimination (51:19)MVP of the Season (54:09)Season Grade (01:03:32)#TheChallenge #BattleoftheEras #TheChallenge40 #TheChallengeBattleoftheEras #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTVRecap #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengePodcast #TheChallengeRecaps

The Challenge is SO BACK! Plus: TJ has a sick bike, Ashley gets leading lady honors, Frank is trying very hard to remain chill, Turbo eats berries and doesn’t speak, Dario is very much considering life as a step dad, and oh so many actual juicy real raw rivalries and emotions are at play and this season is going to rule!! It’s The Challenge All Stars 5: Rivals, premiere episode recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:45)Open, Ashley Spotlight, Pumped Up (04:34)House, Jonna & Beth, Nany & Turbo (12:40)Daily, Stars Twist, Early Winners (25:30)Devroy, Frank, Ashley & Dario, Stealing (29:54)Best Quote, Moment, MVP (38:49)Power Rankings & Predictions (41:45)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStarsRivals #TheChallengeRivals #Rivals #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTVRecap #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengePodcast #TheChallengeRecaps 

One week out from the first ever MTV version of All Stars, the first ever themed version of All Stars, the return of the GOAT Challenge format - Rivals, the return of legends Ashley and Frank, a true mix of OGs to downright newbies, and hopefully - fingers crossed - the return of an over the top dramatic and chaotic Challenge season because this thing has a lot of potential! We are power ranking, we are predicting, we are previewing in all it’s hopeful glory The Challenge All Stars 5 Rivals, LET’S GO!Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:50)Power Rankings Intro (06:12)Jonna & Beth (07:05)Veronica & Katie (09:59)Melissa & Nicole (12:17)Ashley & Aneesa (14:59)Da’Vonne & Shane (18:49)Adam & Steve (20:48)Nany & Turbo (23:12)Ashley & Dario (25:16)Big T & Corey (27:20)KellyAnne & Sylvia (31:00)Leroy & Devin (32:32)Sam & Frank (35:51)Amber & Faysal (38:43)Location, Format, Trailer (41:53)Predictions (50:15)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStarsRivals #TheChallengeRivals #Rivals #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTVRecap #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengePodcast #TheChallengeRecaps 

Three Champions are crowned (yes, three) as The Challenge 40 Battle of the Eras comes to a close. The Karma Vote plays a major role, Jordan dominates from start to finish, Jenny mostly does as well, Derek and Michele shine in second, Rachel moves all the way up, Bananas gets some solo R&R on the beach, Tori gets some solo singing time, and a whole bunch more in the second part of the final. It’s The Challenge 40 Battle of the Eras Episode 19 aka the finale recap, topics include:00:00 Cold Open00:51 Intro & Agenda04:48 Overnight Checkpoint10:00 Submerging Terror Checkpoint12:53 Sandbar Checkpoint18:47 Champions Cove Checkpoint20:11 Jordan Wins 26:37 Derek, Bananas, Kyland 31:32 Karma Vote Creates Two Female Winners50:36 Outro#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

Swimming, swimming, and then some more swimming! Plus: gorgeous sunsets, a white whale sighting, simple puzzles but the details matter, some more swimming - not sure if I mentioned that - and the karma points twist partially revealed and it’s as bad as we thought it might be! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 18, yes 18, recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:35)Karma Points Suck (04:34)Too Much Swimming (13:25)Checkpoint 1 (19:33)Checkpoint 2 (23:53)Checkpoint 3 (27:13)Checkpoint 4 (29:50)Finale Preview (33:45)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

We’ve got plankton eating people, Jordan solidifying his favorite to win status, Michele confirming her puzzle queen status, a short but significant location change, last second birthday parties, new friends, old foes, and one long night in the water for two legends of the game battling for that final finals spot! It’s the Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 17 Recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Update & Agenda (00:37)Episode 15 & 16 Notes (08:40)Location Change (13:45)Daily Challenge (17:38)Cara Birthday (23:57)Elimination (26:51)Final Preview (34:32)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

All time daily challenge showdown! Plus: Team Young Buck trio makes an appearance, Rachel continues to dominate, Johnny says sorry, Karl and Dave are besties now, and Cory gets his dream elimination leaving poor Josh absolutely no shot. It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 14 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:34)Off Show Beefs (02:42)Opening House Segment (12:14)Daily Challenge (15:48)House/Club Segment (23:27)Elimination (34:43)Episode Awards (41:09)Targets & Predictions (42:58)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

I did not sign up for this much foot content, ok? Plus: group meditations, new alliances, best friends facing off, Rachel takes over the Angels, Josh finally picks a side, and Bananas keeps doing what Bananas knows best, stirring the pot! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 13 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:33)Feet Come Into Focus (02:12)Daily Challenge (05:37)Bus & Club (10:23)Elimination (15:52)Awards (21:06)Power Rankings & Predictions (22:50)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

One minute they put you on Mount Rushmore the next minute you’re quitting because it’s too hot, how embarrassing! Plus: ice baths, GOAT talk, mini finals, purge, angels going down, devils rising up, toenails clipped, threat levels confirmed, and TJ brings a bit of Vegas to Vietnam! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 12 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:38)GOAT Talk (02:06)Daily Challenge (11:24)Antics & Shenanigans (25:20)Elimination (27:10)Awards (35:20)Power Rankings & Predictions (37:55)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

Please open a theme park where I can play the daily challenges already! Plus: Tori fights back, those in the shadows get a light shone on them, the ladies of leisure put in some hard labor, Kyland adds another win, Rachel adds another secret number, and for the second week in a row, the tour de force known as classic pot stirring shit talking all eyes on me or else Johnny Bananas is here to burn it all to the ground! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 11 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:46)Bananas vs Michele (02:20)Daily Challenge (07:18)Bananas Puts on a Show (12:50)Alliances & Elimination (21:29)Awards (25:45)Targets Predictions Power Rankings (27:31)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

Johnny Bananas aka Captain Save-a-Show reports for duty! Plus: Devin is still here (kinda), the ladies of leisure have a rough day in the sun, Ryan gets last but in an impressive way, and the game has changed and the smart and savvy players have quickly picked up on the new way to play! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 10 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:37)Daily Challenge (02:33)New Game New Strategy (08:18)Bananas Classic (12:58)Tori Chose Wrong (18:14)Awards (22:30)Predictions & Power Rankings (24:55)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

Down goes the vacation alliance and Challenge fans everyone - ok mostly everywhere - rejoice! Plus: one of the best players ever is better off playing by themselves - who saw that coming, Laurel has never gotten a math question wrong in her life, Josh’s close friends don’t seem to treat him as well as his peripheral friends, and is Kyland that fast or did Devin just perform like ass? It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 9 Recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:41)Daily Challenge (02:49)Rachel’s Decision (06:58)Josh Catching Heat (11:00)Elimination (14:20)Episode Awards (18:57)New Format & Targets (21:36)Power Rankings (30:00)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

The greatest Warrior in Challenge history puts on a show! Plus: Kaycee finally speaks and couldn’t be more wrong, Gladiator promo goes crazy, no adjustments made for Era 1 to have any chance, Cory gets heated, Theo averts the blame, Rachel has a nasty right hook, and I honestly can’t believe they didn’t sneak in any more uses of Are You Not Entertained! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 8 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:40)Kaycee Super Wrong (03:30)Daily Challenge (08:49)Nominations (18:45)Eliminations (24:28)Targets & Predictions (30:07)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

I’ve said it before I’ll say it again, ain’t no party like a true Challenge house party! Plus: Teck is OG of the week, Devin is truly smitten and firing from the hip because of it, they finally get to jump off that tall building they kept showing us, a lot of deal making in the shadows, and the collapse of Era 1 continues in every conceivable way! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 7 Recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:38)Devin’s Birthday Party (03:38)Daily Challenge (08:08)Tina & Michele Backstory (14:18)Nominations & Alliances (19:06)Eliminations (28:51)Awards (34:34)Targets & Predictions (37:47)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

(Note: Sorry about the audio quality, your boy accidentally had it set to the wrong microphone, whoops) Bananas the pot stirring villain is officially back! Plus: a vacation alliance handshake, the biggest strangest balloons I’ve ever seen, Derrick maybe breaks his leg, Devin and Michele face their first relationship hurdle, Laurel somehow is just skating by, Cory and Rachel get big elimination wins, and Josh has way too many friends and way too many IOUs and no idea how to handle this situation! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 6 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:42)Strategy Sessions Galore (03:28)Daily Challenge (08:23)Villain Bananas, Josh Blows It (16:06)Eliminations (29:39)Awards (34:56)Targets & Predictions (37:18)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

The newest chapter of reality tv’s longest running toxic relationship! Plus: Devin and Michele boo up, Emily desperately searches for positive energy anywhere in the house, Josh gets called out and steps up, Jonna tries to duck, Era 1 remains a complete mess, Nehemiah gets caught deal making then takes out a GOAT, and Tina Tool Time Barta has been to Home Depot way too many times NOT to dominate this elimination! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras, Episode 5 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:42)Cara & Laurel (05:14)Josh Owns Up (21:37)BarBQ & Vacation Alliance (24:25)Daily Challenge (27:47)Nominations (32:07)Eliminations (35:14)Awards (40:42)Targets & Predictions (42:50)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

Challenge trivia jeopardy style? What is this Christmas? Plus: CT goes down hard, Jordan is being shifty, Josh bails on his word, date night for Brad and Emily, Laurel is going to do what Laurel wants to do and Johnny is going to go along with it, Aneesa with the near upset over my winner pick Jenny, and Derrick slays another elimination beast in controversial fashion! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 4 Recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:39)Opening House Segment (04:15)Daily Challenge Recap (06:55)Era 1 Is A Mess (13:49)Jordan and Laurel’s Deal (16:44)Elimination Controversy (24:43)Best Quote, Moment, MVP (34:51)Targets & Predictions (38:44)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

Tony what the hell are you doing?!? Plus: a great team daily, Era 1 is all over the place, Nia is living her best life, Averey is kicking some ass, Darrell hopefully didn’t actually throw his back, Devin proves his brain bonafides, Josh breaks up with Tori, and cue the old school montage because there is a TOGA PARTYYY!!! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 3 Recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:38)Romance Afloat (03:00)Daily Challenge Recap (05:40)Toga Party, Josh Breaks Up with Tori (12:18)Avery’s Winning Argument (18:14)Elimination Recaps (24:22)Best Quote, Moment, MVP (30:04)Targets & Predictions (33:58)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

Balls In has been ruined, Tori bests Amanda again, Godfather vs Pitbull, Katie the MMA star, Olivia and Nurys don’t hate each other, Cara and Laurel definitely do hate each other, eight eliminations in 70 minutes is a LOT to breeze through, and Theo rocks Paulie's world and then some! It’s The Challenge Battle of the Eras Episode 2 Recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:34)High Level Thoughts on Eras Invite (03:23)Era 3 Balls In (08:21)Era 1 Pole Wrestle (16:28)Era 2 Take Shelter (22:51)Era 4 Hall Brawl (28:42)Karma Points Twist (35:11)Awards (37:49)Predictions (40:32)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

CT is the first to cry, even before me! Plus: an awesome opening challenge, Cara vs Laurel is the rivalry that’ll never end, CT Pro Tips, a simple puzzle stumps a lot of people, Cory on the verge of wasting his power, Era 1 realizes their all best friends and this sucks, and Era 4 sets the stage for a Paulie Theo showdown. It’s The Challenge, Battle of the Eras, Episode 1 Recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:40)Opening Montage & TJ Intro (03:29)Daily Challenge Recap (08:49)Era 1 Dynamics (16:29)Era 2 Dynamics (22:49)Era 3 Dynamics (27:30)Era 4 Dynamics (33:49)Best Quote, Moment, MVP (38:35)Predicting All Eight Eliminations (44:32)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

The Battle of the Eras Launch Special was AWESOME! And well worth a recap, so I did one. Covering some high level thoughts about the launch special, a handful of specific moments and what they mean for the season, ideas for season promo in the future, and then finally a break down of the super trailer and my final (I swear these are the them) predictions for the season and it's winners. Intro & Agenda (00:00)Launch Special Recap (04:26)Super Trailer Breakdown (26:42)Final Season Predictions (36:16)#TheChallenge40 #TheChallenge #TheChallengeHistorian #WeWantOGs #TheChallengePodcast

Battle of the Eras kicks off with the Launch Special tonight (8/7) and then for real next week on Wednesday (8/14). To get prepared your Challenge Historian breaks down the trailer, what we know about the opening Eras Invitational, and gives out 40 wishes or predictions for this monumental 40th season!Intro & Agenda (00:00)Trailer Breakdown (06:06)Eras Invitational Predictions (22:38)Forty Wishes and Predictions (33:17)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #WeWantOGs #RoadRules #TheChallengeHistory #TheChallengeHistorian #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

While in Vegas last weekend, I had the absolute pleasure of meeting up with the legend himself, TJ Lavin, for some coffee and a quick conversation about his Challenge career. It was so much fun getting to speak with TJ, and I hope you enjoy listening to the conversation as much as I enjoyed having it. Introduction (00:00)Battle of the Eras Podcast Schedule (03:04)TJ Interview (06:54)-- -- -- -- --Be sure to follow and subscribe to not miss an episode!Follow Challenge Historian on Instagram.Watch and subscribe on YouTube.#TheChallenge #TheChallengeHistorian #WeWantOGs #TheChallenge40 #RealityTV #RealityTVHistory

I've been recapping every season of The Challenge one by one over on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and today I bundle and bring you my recaps of seasons 14 - 25! They started to get a tad bit longer, so this podcast is therefore a little longer. There will be one or two more batches of these released in podcast form during the lead up to Battle of the Eras, but if you want to watch/listen daily, head on over to the YouTube channel!Intro & Agenda (00:00)Inferno 3 (04:09)Gauntlet 3 (07:30)The Island (15:51)The Duel 2 (23:58)The Ruins (30:25)Fresh Meat 2 (39:30)Cutthroat (46:52)Rivals (54:50)Battle of the Exes (01:01:38)Battle of the Seasons (01:10:44)Rivals 2 (01:20:38)Free Agents (01:27:55)#TheChallenge #WeWantOGs #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #TheChallengeHistorian

The Challenge 39 Seasons in 39 Days Franchise Recap has been humming along over on Instagram and YouTube, and today, for you audio only listeners delight, I'm bundling up the first 13 seasons worth of recaps into one podcast episode. Each season has been getting a 60 second or less recap on IG, and a 3 to 5 minute recap on YouTube. What you will hear today are those 3 to 5 minute versions all smushed together, with a little intro by yours truly.I'll be covering every season - yes, all 39 of them - in the coming days and weeks leading up to Battle of the Eras premiering. There will be two more pods bunching them together, but if you want to watch/listen daily, head on over to the YouTube channel!Chapters:Intro & Agenda (00:00)Road Rules All Stars (06:02)Real World vs Road Rules Challenge (10:06)Challenge 2000 (13:52)Extreme Challenge (18:15)Battle of the Seasons (23:18)Battle of the Sexes (28:47)The Gauntlet (31:50)The Inferno (37:34)Battle of the Sexes 2 (41:57)The Inferno 2 (46:22)The Gauntlet 2 (52:25)Fresh Meat (57:44)The Duel (01:02:46)#TheChallenge #TheChallenge40 #TheChallengeRecap #TheChallengePodcast #TheChallengeHistorian #WeWantOGs

All Stars 4 may have ended last week but the record books still need to be finalized! Your Challenge Historian is back one final time covering this season in all it's mess and glory. The biggest storylines, did the change in direction for the franchise work, who do I want back, who won all the awards, and what grade do I give the season overall? All will be answered, tap in!Intro & Agenda (00:00)Carnival Games Transition (05:04)Things I Didn’t Love (11:29)Things I Did Love (19:10)Would I Like to See Them Again (23:20)Awards for Best Quote, Confessional Queen, Strategy, Moment, MVP (27:18)Final Season Grade (40:20)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

The All Stars 4 Carnival - er, excuse me, final - comes to a close! Major advantages are given, the group is whittled down, TJ goes full Ron Burgundy, Steve makes an all time mental mistake, and Laurel vs Cara is decided once and for all! It’s The Challenge All Stars 4 Episode 12 aka the finale recap coming up right now!Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:36)Zero Athletic Skill Required (02:59)Star Advantage Too Heavy Handed (10:24)Day 1 Checkpoints & Results (13:30)Final Race, Steve Mistake, Laurel Wins (25:46)Episode Awards & Outro (36:38)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

I finally got a prediction right... sort of! Plus: one last challenge means one last chance for a star, the RV makes a major comeback, TJ is putting together his Emmy reel, maybe the most fun looking checkpoint in challenge finals history followed by one of the more unpleasant ones in finals history, and a cliffhanger with two contenders lives in the game hanging in the balance… It’s the Challenge All Stars 4 Episode 11 recap, coming up right now!Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:44)Having Fun is Fun, Flora Quits (02:52)Derek and Laurel Get Final Stars (10:07)Final Format, Cara vs Laurel Narrative (16:02)First Two Checkpoints of Final (23:36)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (32:24)Power Ranking and Winner Prediction (36:27)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

One ocelot plays scared while the other goes for the throat! Plus: Ace is having the best worst time, Veronica and Flora are beginning to really waste space, Leroy is feeling some deja vu brewing, the levels of schtick continue to increase, Adam gets super heated, and Starmaster Steve continues his winning ways! It’s the Challenge All Stars 4 Episode 10 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:35)Bunch of Story Threads to Pull (02:34)Daily Challenge Results (06:12)Ryan Says No, Steve Gets Screwed (12:32)Jay Says Yes, Steve Takes Adams Star (19:02)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (27:08)Power Rankings & Predictions (31:45)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

They've officially begun filming All Stars 5 which means we've got the final* cast list and this Historian is here to break it all down.The return of Ashley Millionaire Mitchell (praise the lord).The return of Frank freaking Sweeney (I could cry).And a healthy mix of vets and (double checks the list) borderline newbies to the franchise? There's some home runs and some head scratchers, and oh yeah, did we mention there are twice as many women as there are men!?!? So many thoughts and so much to break down in this instant casting reactions pod, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:33)Full Cast List (04:09)Cast Reactions (09:00)Potential Theme, Format, Teams (36:26)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars5 #AllStars5 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

Only one week later and Cara Maria is back on top! Plus: a genuine pool party, TJ clearly loves Kam, part 2 of Laurel’s master plan is enacted, and then she doesn’t go through with it and leaves Kam out to dry! It’s The Challenge All Stars 4 Episode 9 recap!Disclaimer & Apology: I forgot to plug in my mic (lol) so sorry that the audio isn't as pristine as it normally would be.Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:35)Pool Party, Cara vs Nicole Again (03:22)Daily Challenge (11:47)Laurel & Nicole Blow The Easy Decision (16:52)Laurel Says No, Cara Beats Kam (19:56)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (26:22)Power Rankings & Predictions (30:38)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

Jacob and Tony are back one final time to wrap up Survivor 46! Full finale recap, followed by our full season awards. Thanks for tuning in all season long!Intro, PSA, Agenda (00:00)Finale Recap (10:24)Confessional King or Queen of the Season (01:21:20)Moment of the Season (01:26:58)Best Strategic Move of the Season (01:33:22)Worst Strategic Move of the Season (01:37:43)Whose on the DVD (01:43:32)Who We Want to Return (01:47:33)MVP of the Season (01:54:56)Listener Questions & S47 Trailer (01:57:07)-- -- -- -- --Be sure to follow and subscribe to not miss an episode!Follow Challenge Historian on Instagram.Watch and subscribe on YouTube.Follow Tony on Instagram, and make sure to check out all things Challenge Fandom Podcast!#Survivor #Survivor46 #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengeHistorian #SurvivorHistorian #SurvivorPodcast 

What did she do? I know y’all are scared of her in a final, but this is next level! Plus: the zoom monitor is still tiny, boat day happens I guess, a master plan unfolds with a helpful daily to make it work, and some fun things maybe happen in the house but we see none of it because Laurel and Nicole are too busy yelling at Cara Maria every chance they get! It’s The Challenge All Stars 4 Episode 8 recap, topics include: Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:45)Cara vs Laurel and Nicole Round 1 (03:29)Kim Masterminds the Daily (09:29)Cara vs Laurel and Nicole Round 2 (16:23)Averey Says No, Kam Gets Her Star (21:22)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (24:55)Power Rankings & Predictions (27:38)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

Tony and Jacob are back with two amazing episodes (and sad exits) to cover as they dive into episodes 11 and 12 on this week's recap! Maria's villain turn and Venus' ultimate downfall are covered from episode 11, then all things Charlie vs Maria, Ben's accidental vote, Q's downfall, Liz's poop, and more covered from episode 12.Intro, US vs AUS, Agenda (00:00)Episode 11 Recap (06:55)Episode 12 Recap (23:18)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (55:31)Finale Scenarios & Predictions (01:06:22)-- -- -- -- --Be sure to follow and subscribe to not miss an episode!Follow Challenge Historian on Instagram.Watch and subscribe on YouTube.Follow Tony on Instagram, and make sure to check out all things Challenge Fandom Podcast!#Survivor #Survivor46 #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengeHistorian #SurvivorHistorian #SurvivorPodcast 

Trivia time baby! Plus: can’t they just fling them into water normal style, Ryan’s journey to sobriety, Cara continues playing defense, way too many people are not concerned about needing a star, Leroy gets his mojo back, and Ace may be Adam’s Knight in shining armor, but to Brad he is whatever the opposite of that is! It’s The Challenge All Stars 4 Episode 7 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro, Survivor Recap, Agenda (00:35)Ryan’s Sobriety (03:02)Trivia Was a Letdown (08:43)Ace’s Story, Nominations (13:45)Adam’s Confidence, Brad’s Exit (19:24)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (24:00)Power Rankings & Predictions (26:31)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

Pour one out for Confessional Queen Jasmine because she just got robbed! Plus: Nicole and Laurel is so back on, Brad walks around naked, Steve is building workout equipment because the gym they are given isn’t good enough, Ace sleeps in weird places, we play an insane game of musical chairs, Cara strong arms, Kam offers herself up, and a double elimination leads to some shifting of stars! It’s The Challenge All Stars 4 Episode 6 Recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:47)Cara vs Everyone (03:03)Ryan in Middle & Fresh Meat 2 Vibes (06:07)Pairs, Musical Chairs, Performances (09:46)Kam’s Strategy, Cara Strong Arms (16:17)Nicole Changes Her Mind, Bye Bye Kefla Jasmine (22:24)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (29:38)Power Rankings & Predictions (33:08)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

Liz proves her marketing genius by providing Applebees with the greatest sponsored content moment of all time! Plus: Q is still playing, Maria reaches master levels of strategy, Charlie wins another showdown, Tiff leaves with an idol, and did we mention Liz didn't get to eat Applebees?!?! It's the Survivor 46 Episode 10 recap with Tony and Jacob, topics include:Intro & Agenda (00:00)Liz Fumes & Maria Plots (04:00)Liz Does Not Get Applebees (12:07)Sanctuary Strategy (25:20)Charlie Wins Again (32:31)Kenzie Bails, Maria Schemes, Tiff Goes Home (41:54)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (53:55)Q Can Win & Other Predictions (01:01:51)-- -- -- -- --Be sure to follow and subscribe to not miss an episode!Follow Challenge Historian on Instagram.Watch and subscribe on YouTube.Follow Tony on Instagram, and make sure to check out all things Challenge Fandom Podcast!#Survivor #Survivor46 #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengeHistorian #SurvivorHistorian #SurvivorPodcast 

Revenge comes quick when Cara Maria is dishing it out! Plus: haircuts, life chats, oversized bobbleheads, Brad going too fast, Brandon’s Wakandan work trip, the Nicole Laurel rollercoaster goes up and down, and TJ’s two "my guys" of the house face off in elimination! It’s the Challenge All Stars 4 Episode 5 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:36)Cara vs Kam / Brandon (02:34)Laurel Nicole Ups and Downs (08:35)Daily Challenge (16:09)Nominations & Elimination (20:29)Best Quote, Moment, MVP (24:30)Power Rankings & Predictions (30:12)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

Jacob and Tony are back to break down episode 9 of Survivor 46. How bad was Hunter's gameplay, what did we think of Tiff going off on Q, why will no one recognize our queen Liz, a whole bunch more topics, plus awards and a game of "Can they win (and how)?"Intro & Agenda (00:00)Q Fallout, Liz Overshadowed (04:32)Picking Teams, Twitter Troll Jeff, Charlie Beats Hunter (12:56)Blindside Opportunity Creates Scramble (27:35)Hunter Makes All the Mistakes (40:56)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (50:15)Can They Win, and How (01:02:18)-- -- -- -- --Be sure to follow and subscribe to not miss an episode!Follow Challenge Historian on Instagram.Watch and subscribe on YouTube.Follow Tony on Instagram, and make sure to check out all things Challenge Fandom Podcast!#Survivor #Survivor46 #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengeHistorian #SurvivorHistorian #SurvivorPodcast 

Well, we can finally say for certain that THEY DO NOT RIG THE ELIMINATIONS! Plus: group jumping photos, daily challenge call backs, Jasmine the quote machine, Brandon semi backstabs, Kam has one mission, Laurel flirts, and we get an all time matchup and they are made to throw star thingies! It’s The Challenge All Stars 4, Episode 4 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro, Reminders, Agenda (00:40)They Don’t Rig Eliminations (02:36)Trio Really a Duo, Kam Planning (05:44)Daily Challenge Reloaded (09:02)Cara Gets Backstabbed (13:52)Elimination Game, Goodbye Rachel (21:28)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (25:14)Power Rankings & Predictions (30:45)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast

Well THAT was something, huh? Venus continues to get her name slandered (leave my queen alone now please and thanks), everyone wants credit for everything, the group plays a very revealing game of hide and seek, Hunter wins with a dash of showboating, "the six" never gets off the ground, Q tries to quit, and Liz masterminds her way through it all to get Tevin out! It's the Survivor 46 Episode 8 recap with Jacob and Tony, topics include:Intro & Agenda (00:00)Walk Through the Episode (04:40)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (01:04:20)Predictions & Power Rankings (01:15:58)-- -- -- -- --Be sure to follow and subscribe to not miss an episode!Follow Challenge Historian on Instagram.Watch and subscribe on YouTube.Follow Tony on Instagram, and make sure to check out all things Challenge Fandom Podcast!#Survivor #Survivor46 #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengeHistorian #SurvivorHistorian #SurvivorPodcast

Lord Father God let the truth come out, cause this house has no idea who or what to believe! Plus: Kam and Leroy have a cell phone, everyone picks a partner, Tony sadly leaves the game, Laurel and Nicole talk, Rachel rides for Ayanna, Cara rides for Rachel, Kam just wants the truth, and Jasmine goes full bride of chuckie in a true throwback moment! It’s The Challenge All Stars 4 episode 3 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro, Reminders, Agenda (00:41)Kam Has a Phone, Tony Goes Home (02:26)Who Picked Who, Who Performed Well (08:01)Ayanna vs Everyone (16:57)Kam’s Playing Hard (22:30)Kefla & Rachel Win and Steal Stars (25:46)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (31:30)Power Rankings & Predictions (37:52)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

Jacob and Tony are back to cover not one, but two episodes of Survivor 46! Episodes 6 and 7 have seen the merge limbo play out and there is a lot to discuss. Tribe lines holding firm, Venus making waves and moves, Q mostly just making waves, Charlie breaking the fourth wall, Hunter skating through, Mo, Tim, and Soda all sent packing, and a whole bunch more. Plus awards and power rankings after walking through both episodes!Intro & Agenda (00:00)Episode 6 Storylines (03:56)Episode 7 Storylines (33:05)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (01:23:43)Predictions, Power Rankings, Listener Questions (01:38:28)-- -- -- -- --Be sure to follow and subscribe to not miss an episode!Follow Challenge Historian on Instagram.Watch and subscribe on YouTube.Follow Tony on Instagram, and make sure to check out all things Challenge Fandom Podcast!#Survivor #Survivor46 #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengeHistorian #SurvivorHistorian #SurvivorPodcast 

The idle pot always gets stirred! Plus: Ayanna is out for Janelle (for no reason?!?), the Mean Girls are fully back, Brad begins to separate himself, Leroy learned math, some others did not learn math, a winnebago sighting, Nicole and Laurel finally speak, everyone goes to the club, and Leroy walks out on Ayanna’s possibly hour long nominations speech that had zero impact on the game! It’s The Challenge All Stars 4 Episode 2 recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro, Reminders, Agenda (00:42)Ayanna Stirs & Janelle Quits (03:53)Daily Challenge & Who Can Do Math (14:53)Mean Girls are Back (20:14)Tina Gets a Star (24:03)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (27:31)Power Rankings & Predictions (32:40)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast

It actually happened! At long last, a year and a half later, we finally get to watch All Stars 4! Cara Maria’s true return, Rachel’s back and better than ever, so many people who’ve been sorely missed back in a Challenge house and competing for a not nearly big enough sum of money! Everyone gets their 60 second where are they now, everyone gets to run up and down a hill on a hot summer day, everyone gets to try and avoid talking to or about Nicole and Laurel, and everyone gets to be confused by the format and alliances to open the game! It’s The Challenge All Stars 4 episode 1 (and only episode 1) recap, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro, Reminders, Agenda (00:55)Need More House Time (03:52)Laurel Nicole Storyline Begins (07:32)Star Twist & Format Questions (11:15)Daily & Differing First Impressions (21:17)Nominations & Elimination (26:28)Best Quote, Moment, Strategy, MVP (32:47)Power Rankings (40:18)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

It’s finally here! We’ve waited damn near a year and a half to watch it and finally on Wednesday April 10th it will be here, All Stars 4! Cara Maria is back, Laurel is back, Leroy and Kam are back together, Jay - yes that Jay - is back, the mean girls trio of Veronica, Rachel and Tina are back together, for god’s sake Tony Time is back! SO MANY PEOPLE ARE BACK WHICH MEANS THE CHALLENGE MAY OFFICIALLY BE BACK! Nine days out from what seems destined to be an iconic season unfolding and we’ve got a lot to discuss. The cast (duh), the trailer (but not a shot by shot slow mo look for spoilers type thing), the Star Twist, the known romances and rivalries, and everything else we can think of to talk about or have an opinion on! It’s The Challenge All Stars 4 Season Preview, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro, Reminders, Agenda (01:09)Full Cast List (06:47)Format & Star Twist (17:50)Ten Things I’m Excited About (28:29)Power Rankings & Predictions (50:09)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeAllStars #TheChallengeAllStars4 #AllStars4 #WeWantOGs #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast 

Jacob and Tony are back after a one week break to discuss all things Survivor 46 Episode 5 (plus some retroactive episode 4 discussion). Jem's big prank and acting skills, Hunter and Venus getting cagey, Tim's dream brochachos alliance coming to fruition, Moriah the narrator, Maria the decision maker, Vanu finally doesn't get last, and more!Intro & Agenda (00:00)Siga: Jem’s Prank & Acting (07:41)Nami: Hunter & Venus Idol Hunt (14:39)Challenge: Vanu Finally Wins (21:29)Journey: Bros Alliance (27:12)Siga Scramble: Maria & Charlie In Charge (35:28)Tribal Council: Jem and Her Idol Go (48:24)Best Quote, Moment, Gameplay, MVP (53:22)Merge Questions & Predictions (01:05:48)-- -- -- -- --Be sure to follow and subscribe to not miss an episode!Follow Challenge Historian on Instagram.Watch and subscribe on YouTube.Follow Tony on Instagram, and make sure to check out all things Challenge Fandom Podcast!#Survivor #Survivor46 #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengeHistorian #SurvivorHistorian #SurvivorPodcast 

Nami goes four for four winning, Yanu goes four for four losing, Hunter makes a bed, Bhanu hits rock bottom, Jem finds an advantage (four days ago), Jeff is not your guru, and Randen gets all time unlucky and is medically removed from the game. It’s the Survivor 46 Episode 3 recap with Tony and Jacob, topics include:Intro & Agenda (00:00)Yanu Night 5 / Day 6 (05:35)Siga Day 2 (15:29)Nami Day 6 (19:00)Immunity Challenge (24:36)Journey (33:00)Randen is Sent Home (43:45)Vanu Escapes Tribal (52:12)Awards Best Quote, Moment, Gameplay, MVP (58:12)Predictions, Questions, Power Rankings (01:16:40)-- -- -- -- --Be sure to follow and subscribe to not miss an episode!Follow Challenge Historian on Instagram.Watch and subscribe on YouTube.Follow Tony on Instagram, and make sure to check out all things Challenge Fandom Podcast!#Survivor #Survivor45 #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengeHistorian #SurvivorHistorian #SurvivorPodcast 

The 40th season of MTVs The Challenge has officially commenced filming which means our good spoiler friends have provided the official cast list of all FORTY players, plus alternates, who will be gracing our screens later this year for this monumental season. It’s stacked, that is for sure, but how stacked exactly? Who did they get right, who did they get wrong, who did they have no business calling and who got the completely unexpected cold shoulder from production? That’s what we are here to discuss today, these are your instant reactions to the cast of The Challenge Season 40, topics include:Cold Open (00:00)Intro & Agenda (00:50)Era 1 Cast Members (06:25)Era 2 Cast Members (12:55)Era 3 Cast Members (18:25)Era 4 Cast Members (24:40)Format Possibilities (32:15)Best Women’s Cast Ever? (40:18)Way Too Early Power Rankings & Winner Picks (47:21)#TheChallenge #TheChallengeHistorian #TheChallenge40 #BattleoftheEras #TheChallengePodcast #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast #JacobHollabaugh 

Episode 2 of Survivor 46 had A LOT going on. We've got the most dominant tribe having the most divisions, one tribe so chill and bored they are doing Taylor Swift vs Metallica Versuz battles, and for the third season in a row one tribe that can't stop losing and completely falling to shambles. Tony and Jacob are back to cover every bit of the action, as well as hand out their awards for the episode, make some predictions for what's to come, and answer your questions!Intro & Agenda (00:00)Yanu Tribe (04:58)Nami Tribe (15:56)Siga Tribe (31:28)Immunity Challenge (40:35)Yanu Scramble (56:56)Tribal Council (01:07:16)Best Quote, Moment, Gameplay, MVP (01:15:15)Predictions and Listener Q’s (01:25:27)-- -- -- -- --Be sure to follow and subscribe to not miss an episode!Follow Challenge Historian on Instagram.Watch and subscribe on YouTube.Follow Tony on Instagram, and make sure to check out all things Challenge Fandom Podcast!#Survivor #Survivor45 #RealityTV #RealityTVPodcast #TheChallengeHistorian #SurvivorHistorian #SurvivorPodcast