Talking with T-Bird: Shambo Waters
The time has come for the return of “Talking with T-Bird.” Each episode, Rob Cesternino (@robcesternino) and Survivor: Africa‘s Teresa “T-Bird” Cooper (@tbirdcooper) will catch up with a former Survivor player and talk about anything and take listener questions.
Talking with T-Bird welcomes Shannon “Shambo” Waters from Survivor: Samoa in this latest episode. Hosts Rob Cesternino and Teresa “T-Bird” Cooper chat with the memorable contestant from Season 19, who shares stories from her time on the show and life updates.
Shambo recounts her unique audition process, including demanding a smoking room and birthday cake. She discusses her alliance with Russell Hantz and the challenges of playing Survivor, particularly the harsh weather conditions in Samoa. Shambo also reveals she suffered a neck injury during filming that wasn’t shown on TV.
The conversation touches on Shambo’s relationships with other castaways, including Mick Trimming and John Fincher. She expresses continued support for Fincher, who is battling cancer. Shambo also discusses her pre-Survivor career as a chef and her passion for cooking.
Rob and T-Bird note Shambo’s impact on fans, including newer viewers discovering the show through streaming. They praise her as a one-of-a-kind personality that resonates with audiences. Shambo uses the platform to raise awareness for relief efforts in Lahaina, Maui following recent wildfires.
The hosts emphasize Shambo’s uniqueness and storytelling ability, with Rob comparing her to other memorable Survivor personalities like Mad Dog and Jan Gentry. T-Bird highlights Shambo’s kind heart and community involvement since the show.
Chapters:
0:00 Intros
11:46 Shambo’s audition story
19:35 Memorable career moments
30:33 The elevator encounter with Russell Hantz
49:23 Reconnecting with friends
1:00:13 Emulating TV behavior in later Survivor seasons
1:11:29 Monica and Galu’s downfall
1:29:32 Mick at Tribal Council
1:52:01 Childhood memories
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