Explore every episode of the podcast RuPaul's Drag Race Recap

Joe and Nathan return from their week off, and apparently nobody got the memo! After a brief detour into a controversial news story, the boys revisit Lauri's Massachusetts lesbian bar drama, discover the emotional dangers of washing dishes, and consider whether Lauri would have sided with Thanos. Nathan recounts his luxurious Disney cruise, including an encounter with some potential romantic interests that goes horribly wrong in a swimming pool. Meanwhile, Joe announces a new addition to the Afterthought family, explains why he traveled to San Francisco with emergency pee bags, and shares a series of increasingly bizarre encounters involving restaurant servers and an unexpected parade. The Rumor Mailbox is overflowing! Shanita has a naming dilemma, Sasha needs Magic Castle fashion advice, Deck calls with a very thorough clarification, Tom Bombs comes clean about his investigation, Chloe brings news from Australia, and Sean from Kentucky raises a troubling question about Afterthought's future. Plus, Queen Kong's appearance on The Traitors Australia, an update on Hello Uglies, and Joe assigns Afterthought personalities to the expensive-tier supporters. And stick around for a special musical finale! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan are back with a story so perfectly chaotic it could only happen on the gay internet. This week, they dive into the increasingly unbelievable saga surrounding The Last Ditch, a progressive lesbian bar in western Massachusetts that found itself at the center of an online firestorm after making masks optional one night a week. There’s a struggling owner, a fractured polycule, clown school, angry Zoom meetings, “white they/them tears,” a GoFundMe for one of the owner’s biggest critics, and somehow even more lore Joe hasn’t uncovered yet. Before getting to the main event, Joe recaps an unusually talkative night out with John Paul, gives his thoughts on the new Robert Pattinson film about the world of To Catch a Predator, and Nathan weighs in on the heated political argument that was removed from the latest episode of The Tea. Plus, the boys lament the apparent death of the Discord, Nathan prepares for Singapore, Joe investigates whether two Scottish gay sportsmen have actually slept together, and—for the first time in Rumor Mill history—the voicemail bag is completely empty. Oh, and Nathan would like everyone to know that gays are awful. In this episode:• Joe apparently cannot stop talking• Nathan prepares for Singapore• Revisiting the missing argument from The Tea• The absolutely bonkers Last Ditch lesbian bar controversy• A polycule becomes a “monocule”• Clown school enters the chat• Mask mandates, angry commenters and a disastrous community meeting• Why the gays have now inserted themselves into lesbian drama• The mystery of Lewis and Deckhead• Zero voicemails?!• Nathan assigns Disney characters during the credits• A very special sad version of the Rumor Mill theme song Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan are back with updates from the Afterthought Media universe, including what’s coming up on Drag Race Recap and some early talk about the new season of Dragula. Then, a check-in with the live chat somehow turns into an extended investigation of hookups, jockstraps, Isaac’s hole, and whether there are some things you simply don’t need to know about someone you’re sleeping with. Later, Joe and Nathan dive into the week’s Ed Sheeran and Macklemore controversy before turning to your voicemails, with conversations about aggressive Australian wildlife, Tears of the Kingdom, vacation adventures, clothing-optional resorts, body confidence, and embracing your inner daddy. Plus: Nathan worries about the things he says on the internet, Joe reveals more than he probably intended about his sex life, and “Big Apple, eat some hole” becomes a sentence that unfortunately now exists. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan are back at the Rumor Mill, and this week they’re digging into TikTok drama, revisiting some old Afterthought grudges, and somehow spending an alarming amount of time discussing other people’s asses. Joe examines his long and storied history of being ghosted. That leads to memories of Robert, Joey Carlisle, Evan Markson and Daniel Brewer — plus plans for the upcoming “Carlisle Accords,” where Joe and Daniel will finally attempt to hash things out. Then it’s time for TikTok drama as Joe breaks down the controversy surrounding creator Jesus Nalgas, his budding coffee business, accusations of doxxing and the internet pile-on that followed. Are younger generations obsessed with justice — or are they really obsessed with punishment? Nathan has some celebrity sightings and entertainment updates, Joe shares the story of a mother who charged her 10-year-old for gas on his birthday, and the conversation takes several increasingly inappropriate detours involving coffee scrubs, nude beaches and the hypothetical Michelin Guide to assholes. The voicemails bring listener reactions to the latest All Stars 1 recap, some very welcome praise for Afterthought Media’s audio quality, another bizarre development in the ongoing Tom Bombs saga, and an update from a listener preparing to explore opening up his 27-year relationship. Plus: Practical Magic 2, The Wiggles, Dollywood plans, the empowering side of taking sexy photos, and Joe and Nathan finish things off by deciding which Afterthought members they would — or would not — rim. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan are back at the Rumor Mill, and this week there’s plenty to discuss. Joe shares an unexpected update about the Activities Director job, while Nathan reveals that the play he spent weeks complaining about ended with a surprising honor — and an official relationship status update. Then it’s time for the celebrity news, including the shocking death of Hayden Panettiere and the controversy surrounding her estranged mother’s response, plus rumors about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reportedly heading back to the UK. Joe has theories about what the move could mean — including one that involves a possible royal reconciliation and another that could spell trouble for the Sussex marriage. Later, a listener revisits an infamous Drag Race Recap episode Joe didn’t appear on, leading to a plan to finally correct a decade-old Afterthought injustice. Plus, the mailbag brings questions about Little Delicious, Wollongong’s proximity to saltwater crocodiles, and whether one listener is actually just Lord Newton in medical drag. And finally, Nathan heads to the zoo — but not before assigning Australian animals to the expensive-tier patrons. It’s another trip through celebrity gossip, Afterthought history, listener shenanigans, and wildly unnecessary speculation on the Rumor Mill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan are back at the RMZ news desk, and this week the rumors range from the very demure to the deeply Disney Adult. First, Joe recaps his less-than-magical D23 Day at Disneyland, including the impossible-to-get princess concert, the Cavalcade of Legends, some questionable Disney fashion choices, and a vintage piece of Disneyland history that immediately has Nathan asking about Joe’s will. Then it’s time for the internet drama. Jools Lebron is facing backlash after asking fans to help fund her dental work, leading Joe and Nathan into a conversation about internet fame, getting a regular job, and what happens when your viral moment doesn’t last forever. Next, they dive into the viral “Peter Pan Girl” and the internet’s fascination with her Disneyland character interactions. Is she cringey? Absolutely. But is she really the worst Disney Adult wandering around the parks? Joe has thoughts—and firsthand evidence that things can get much, much weirder. Plus: Nathan’s play limps toward the finish line, the Secret Show inspires some nostalgia, Gus Kenworthy continues existing, Nathan clears up once again that he did NOT live in New Zealand, and Joe delivers his definitive dissertation on why Stop That Train fundamentally misunderstands what made Airplane! work. All that, your voicemails, Q&A, and the usual nonsense on this week’s Rumor Mill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan are back with another Rumor Mill, and this week they’re diving into internet scandals, drag drama, questionable Australian cuisine, and some deeply irresponsible fortune-telling. First, Joe catches Nathan up on the disturbing Perez Hilton incident that unfolded on TikTok Live, before they turn to the latest rumors surrounding Maddy Morphosis and the controversy over Kennedy Davenport booking Shangela for her anniversary show. That leads to a bigger conversation about friendship, accountability, cancel culture, and whether people should ever be allowed to screw up, make amends, and move forward. Then it’s time for your voicemails! The Velvet Detective continues his increasingly convoluted investigation, April needs Nathan to explain whether Australians actually eat kangaroos and crocodiles, and a listener makes a request involving one of Afterthought’s long-lost shows. Nathan also reports back from opening night of Arsenic and Old Lace, complete with sick cast members, forgotten lines, questionable accents, and some pre-show panic. And finally, Joe breaks out the tarot cards to predict the futures of the Expensive Tier members while Nathan provides his own completely unqualified interpretations. Expect impending doom, religious conversions, polygamy, doll diddling, murder accusations, and an alarming number of wands. It’s another perfectly responsible edition of The Rumor Mill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan weigh in on Alaska taking the national tour of Oh, Mary!, Raven’s brief appearance on Drag Race Down Under vs. the World, and Selena EsTitties’ Big Brother eviction. They also revisit a classic Afterthought mystery, announce the winner of Joe’s $75 contest, and discuss Nathan’s possible podcast collaboration with Christian. Then, listener voicemails inspire conversations about Joe and Nathan’s alternate-universe marriage, Nathan’s fellow Afterthought crushes, celebrity scandals, Broadway’s most affordable seats, and the lasting effects of Joe’s experiences with sexual assault. Plus: Nathan prepares to attend a costume party as Dobby, Joe connects a college student with the Lord Mayor of Wollongong, and the Patreon supporters are sorted according to the week’s most important criterion: bald or not bald. Leave us a voicemail at speakpipe.com/afterthoughtmedia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan are back live, and this week they cover everything from a heated debate over Studio Ghibli to an unexpected visit to the set of Extraction 3. Nathan explains why he just can't get into Hayao Miyazaki's films, Joe shares his experience seeing Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey in IMAX 70mm, and the two compare notes on Hollywood, Australian celebrities, and moviegoing etiquette. Plus, Nathan meets Chris Hemsworth, Joe recounts a very eventful trip to Universal CityWalk, the Rumor Mill Mailbag debuts with a brand-new theme song, and listeners send in voicemails, updates, and one unforgettable email that takes the conversation in a completely unexpected direction. In this episode: Nathan's controversial Miyazaki hot take Joe's Hollywood Bowl and The Odyssey adventures Behind the scenes on the set of Extraction 3 Meeting Chris Hemsworth (and almost Idris Elba) Australia's celebrity Mount Rushmore The debut of the Rumor Mill Mailbag Listener voicemails and star ratings Updates on the ongoing Lord Newton mystery Plus plenty of tangents, laughs, and Afterthought Media lore. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 11, Episode 12 – "Disco SmackDown for the Crown" It's finale time! Joe and Taylor break down the epic lip sync SmackDown for the crown as the Top 4 battle it out to become the newest member of the Drag Race Hall of Fame. The boys discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the All Stars bracket format, debate whether the point system has run its course, and examine how strategy, alliances, and social politics shaped the season. They also weigh in on Joey J's surprising run to the finale, Crystal Methyd's dominant season, Jasmine Kennedy's controversial gameplay, and whether the final lip sync actually determined the winner. Plus: The fallout from the Rate-a-Queen reveal The queens answer each other's toughest questions A breakdown of every lip sync in the Disco SmackDown The return of iconic disco classics, including "The Main Event" and "MacArthur Park" Joe and Taylor reveal what they'd change about the All Stars format going forward Final thoughts on the season—and whether the right queen took the crown Join us as we close the book on All Stars 11 and look ahead to what's next for Drag Race. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Rumor Mill is back with another week of Drag Race chatter, pop culture detours, and the kind of conversations that somehow only get weirder as the episode goes on. This week, Joe and Nathan dive into Disney pin collecting, a surprising engineering adventure beneath an Australian mountain, podcast comments that spark a larger discussion about authenticity, and the strange ways listeners keep crossing paths in the real world. Along the way, they tackle the latest Drag Race headlines, share updates from the Afterthought community, answer listener voicemails, and somehow end up talking rugby, Broadway, Zelda, and much more. As always, expect plenty of laughs, a few hot takes, and absolutely no guarantee that the conversation will stay on track. Follow us on social media and join the conversation on Patreon for bonus episodes, live recordings, and more from the Afterthought Media family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Taylor recap RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 11, Episode 11: "Tournament of All Stars Rumble." The queens battle it out in the season's talent show, but was Crystal Methyd the right winner? The hosts debate the judging, break down every performance, and discuss Jasmine Kennedie's emotional reaction after the results. They also dive into the ongoing tension between A'Keria C. Davenport and Silky Nutmeg Ganache, analyze the runway looks, and react to a lip sync that sends one more queen home just before the finale. As always, expect plenty of hot takes, laughs, and unapologetic opinions as the race for the crown reaches its final stretch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on The Rumor Mill... It's a birthday edition of The Rumor Mill! Joe and Nathan keep things short(ish) with a voicemail-focused episode after Joe decides to spend his birthday taking it easy—and Nathan has to race off to rehearsal for Arsenic and Old Lace. Along the way, they discuss: Joe's first conversation with Nathan's partner, "Argentino" Why Joe happily skipped an 80-person Fourth of July party A behind-the-scenes look at The T and Nathan's new role as co-host The mystery surrounding Lori's infamous "Cancel that Rogaine!" moment The return of the Melissa Witt/Adam Burns murder-tip trivia Why the hosts seem to attract listeners from across the Commonwealth Ideas for a musical theater podcast (or at least a Lori musical theater segment) Which athletes have the hottest uniforms Vegas hotel talk, TMZ sightings, and Robert Mata updates Bob the Drag Queen's evolving relationship with drag Listener questions about the history and names of Afterthought Media shows An impressive musical voicemail audition from Pablo Plus, another fantastic batch of listener voicemails from Tom Bombs, Steven, Sasha, Lewis, Katie, Trevon, Trotsaway, Pablo, and more. As always, thank you to everyone who called in—and if you've been thinking about leaving a voicemail, this is your sign! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The queens from all three brackets finally come together as the semifinals begin! This week, the remaining competitors take the stage to share personal stories with a message for their younger selves before serving up Red Carpet Realness on the runway. Joe and Taylor break down the strongest and weakest performances, debate whether Crystal Method deserved the win over fan favorite Joey Jay, and discuss the emotional showdown between Kennedy Davenport and A'Keria C. Davenport. Plus, they celebrate one of the most memorable lip syncs of the season, unpack the growing tension between A'Keria and Silky Nutmeg Ganache, and somehow spend a surprising amount of time talking about sitcom legend Mabel King. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on Rumor Mill, Joe and Nathan dive into the latest controversy surrounding Mistress Isabelle Brooks after a viral street interview sparks debate over consent, accountability, and whether the video should have ever been posted. They also explain why they skipped the latest Raven vs. Willam drama and what actually makes a story worth covering. Elsewhere, Nathan shares stories from a spectacular U.S. Embassy Fourth of July celebration in Australia, complete with Route 66 décor, fireworks, free food, and enough patriotic merch to fill a suitcase. The conversation expands into American culture, international perceptions of the U.S., and why visitors often come away with a very different impression than expected. Plus, Joe reviews the Australian LGBTQ+ horror film Leviticus, the hosts discuss their very different approaches to rating movies, laugh about an unforgettable high school production of Aladdin, introduce a brand-new recurring segment, and close the show with a heartfelt listener voicemail about how the Afterthought Media podcasts have helped through life's toughest moments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The road to the semifinals gets messy as the queens take on a lip sync acting challenge inspired by RuPaul's classic 1990s talk show! We break down the best (and worst) celebrity impressions, debate whether the judges got the placements right, and gush over a fantastic David Bowie-inspired runway. Then it's time for the point drama to reach its boiling point. We unpack shifting alliances, strategic gameplay, emotional confrontations, and RuPaul's surprising decision that changes the semifinal lineup. Plus, we discuss the mysterious Wild Card twist and share our predictions for which eliminated queen is about to make a dramatic return. Who truly earned a spot in the semifinals? And who do we hope is waiting inside that bingo cage? Tune in as we recap every shady, shocking, and spectacular moment from All Stars 11, Episode 9. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on Rumor Mill, Joe and Nathan kick things off with a lengthy pre-show tease involving stories that may never make it to the public feed before introducing a brand-new segment-in-development: Dom Top Minute. From there, the conversation expands into the future of the podcast itself, with a major announcement about Rumor Mill’s next evolution. Plus: Joe and Nathan reveal plans to expand Rumor Mill beyond Drag Race into a broader pop culture and entertainment gossip show Discussion of the legal battle between outdoor apparel giant Patagonia and drag environmentalist Patty Gonia Why trademark law often forces companies to protect their brands—even when it makes them look like the villain The ongoing Heated Rivalry discourse continues as listeners weigh in with mixed reviews of the series A new conspiracy theory emerges regarding the mysterious Morgan McMichaels/Jewish drag performer controversy Nathan receives a glowing recommendation for Italy’s population of bald, bearded men Listener reactions to Drag Race France’s AI-generated promotional images spark a larger conversation about artificial intelligence and creativity Joe discusses how AI is currently used behind the scenes in podcast production and where he draws the line First-time callers from around the world share memories, stories, and appreciation for Afterthought Media Lori joins the show to finally clarify the infamous shark-surfing story from her childhood Movie Minute returns with reviews of Toy Story 5 and Stop That Train Patreon shout-outs, audience questions, and the usual Afterthought chaos close out the episode As always, the world’s greatest chat room keeps the conversation moving, listeners contribute theories and trivia, and absolutely no topic remains on track for very long. Support Afterthought Media: Patreon subscribers get bonus content, exclusive shows, live recordings, and all the stories that are just a little too juicy for the public feed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on the RuPaul's Drag Race Recap Show, Joe and Taylor break down All Stars 11 Episode 8, "Wrap & Roast Redux!" The queens trade shade in a hilarious mini challenge before taking on a rap-themed roast that leaves the judges divided and the fans debating. The hosts discuss the evolving points strategy, Sam Star's growing workroom tensions, Joey Jay's standout performance, and whether the judges got the Top 2 right. Plus, a deep dive into the controversial lip sync to Stephen Sondheim's "The Ladies Who Lunch" and why it sparked such strong reactions. Follow us on social media and join the conversation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan are back together after a brief on-air feud, and they waste no time revisiting their phone call drama, awkward goodbyes, and the strange ways friendships can spiral into podcast content. Nathan shares highlights from his New York trip, including attending the Tony Awards, spotting Broadway celebrities, sneaking into an afterparty, and unexpectedly warming up to a certain Drag Race queen. The pair then dive into the latest Drag Race-adjacent controversy as they break down a viral TikTok accusing Morgan McMichaels of trying to sabotage another performer's gig. Joe and Nathan examine the claims, question the evidence, and offer their own theories about what may have actually happened behind the scenes. Plus, listener voicemails return with updates from Lord Newton, a challenge for Nathan’s hand in marriage, a classic Afterthought Media callback involving a little person and a print shop, and a surprisingly detailed discussion of a very unusual dream featuring J. Thomas Plank and Little Delicious. Also this week: Edinburgh travel plans, Disney cruises, Toy Story 5 anticipation, theater talk, Stop That Train reviews, obsession with Obsession, and plenty of the usual Rumor Mill chaos. This episode contains adult language and mature content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The final bracket of queens enters the competition and faces a design challenge that puts their creativity to the test. Using athletic gear as their only materials, the queens must transform sportswear into runway-worthy fashion while navigating alliances, point strategies, and growing competition pressure. Joe and Taylor break down the challenge looks, debate the judges' critiques, discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the third bracket, and share their thoughts on the ongoing points system. Plus, they weigh in on the top two performances, the lip sync showdown, and whether the right queen walked away with the extra point. Also in this episode: Taylor returns from Gay Disney The surprising lack of workroom drama Sam Starr vs. Jasmine Kennedie Kennedy Davenport's long-awaited return Joey J's growing fanbase A deep dive into jock straps nobody asked for Marilyn McCoo, Janet DuBois, and several unexpected television detours Join us as we discuss, dissect, and deconstruct another episode of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 11. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Get ready for another deep dive into the cast of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 11 as Joe and Robert break down the queens of Bracket 3. The duo discusses the Drag Race histories of Hershii LiqCour-Jeté, Jasmine Kennedie, Joey Jay, Kennedy Davenport, Sam Star, and Shuga Cain, sharing their thoughts on each queen’s original run, strengths, weaknesses, and chances of advancing in the competition. Along the way, they debate Kennedy Davenport’s legacy, revisit some controversial Drag Race moments, discuss queens who may have been robbed, and speculate on who could emerge as the surprise standout of the bracket. Plus, there’s plenty of tangents, laughter, and classic Joe-and-Robert banter about movies, fandom, and the ever-evolving Drag Race universe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Robert recap the final episode of Bracket 2, and the queens are feeling the pressure as they compete in a makeover challenge featuring a group of gay dads. On the runway, family resemblance is the name of the game, but the real drama happens when the queens start distributing points and long-standing alliances begin to crack. This week, Joe and Robert discuss: The makeover challenge and the gay dads who joined the competition Vivacious finally getting her moment in the spotlight Selena S. Titties’ ambitious alliance strategy Silky Nutmeg Ganache’s controversial point distribution Crystal Methyd’s Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence-inspired runway The emotional final point ceremony that determines who advances to the semifinals The Super Bass lip sync between Selena and Vivacious The Untucked fallout and the end of at least one drag friendship As Bracket 2 comes to a close, only two queens earn spots in the semifinals. Who moves on, who gets left behind, and who leaves with hurt feelings? Joe and Robert break it all down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 11, the queens of Bracket 2 put their instructional skills to the test as they create a series of over-the-top how-to videos. From cooking tutorials to zombie survival guides, the queens attempt to educate the children while fighting for valuable points in the competition. Joe and Taylor break down the challenge, debate the judges' decisions, discuss the increasingly exhausting alliance conversations, and weigh in on a farm-themed runway that delivered everything from hay couture to questionable tractor fashion. Gina Gershon arrives ready to play and earns rave reviews as a guest judge. The hosts discuss whether the challenge format helped or hurt the queens. Alliance talk continues to dominate the workroom conversation. Joe shares strong opinions about washing chicken. April Carrion and Silky Nutmeg Ganache's playful rivalry fizzles before it can become real drama. Aura Mayari's zombie-themed tutorial leaves the hosts unconvinced. Crystal Methyd channels absurdist comedy in one of the episode's strongest performances. Selena EsTitties and Silky's videos spark a conversation about stereotypes and comedy. The hosts break down every look from the "Barned This Way" runway. Debate over whether the judges picked the correct Top 2 queens. Joe and Taylor disagree with the lip sync outcome. An unexpected tangent about banana splits, Wiener Schnitzel, and childhood dessert memories. April Carrion serves high-fashion hay couture. Aura Mayari transforms into a glamorous barn owl. Crystal Methyd delivers another delightfully bizarre presentation. Silky Nutmeg Ganache brings the dairy farm to the runway. Vivacious attempts tractor-inspired club kid couture. With alliances and point distribution continuing to dominate the narrative, Joe and Taylor find themselves wishing for more organic drama and character development. Still, strong guest judging from Gina Gershon, a few memorable challenge performances, and a surprisingly effective lip sync keep the episode moving as the season heads toward its merge. Follow us on social media and join the conversation: Patreon: patreon.com/afterthoughtmedia Discord: Available to Patreon supporters Visit Afterthought Media for all of our podcasts and bonus content If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the show with a fellow Drag Race fan! In This EpisodeRunway HighlightsFinal Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Taylor are back to break down RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 11 Episode 4, “It Takes Two,” and this one has everything: butter-themed runway looks, chaotic duet pairings, desperate point politicking, and a legendary lip sync song that sends Joe into full gay-history mode. The duo discusses Crystal Methyd’s stunning runway package, Silky Nutmeg Ganache’s evolution as reality TV chaos incarnate, and why Vivacious remains compelling television even when the competition may no longer fit her strengths. They also debate whether Aura Mayari deserved the lip sync win, unpack Selena’s increasingly frantic gameplay, and question whether strategic alliances in this format actually work. Plus: Michelle Visage tries to coach April Carrion through recording vocals, the queens fight over “Dreaming of Me,” and Joe and Taylor somehow detour into a lengthy discussion about the deeply problematic 1982 Richard Pryor movie The Toy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Taylor are back together to break down RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 11 Episode 3, “Shop Till You Drop.” Before diving into the competition, Taylor opens up about the frightening family emergency that caused his absence last week and shares an update on his mother’s health following a TIA. Then it’s time to unpack the final Orange Bracket showdown. The queens tackle a spooky home shopping acting challenge, the MVQ point strategy reaches a boiling point, and Morgan McMichaels continues to quietly produce some of the best television of the season. Joe and Taylor debate whether the right queens won the challenge, whether Dawn actually won the lip sync, and whether RuPaul made the correct final call sending A’Keria and Dawn into the semifinals. Plus: Mystique Summers Madison’s increasingly tense behavior Why Morgan McMichaels came out looking like the consummate professional Morphine’s stunning Phantom of the Opera runway The problem with Lucky Starzzz’s performance style The hidden strategy behind the MVQ points Why A’Keria may be the most well-rounded queen in the bracket And Joe compares Drag Race Philippines craftsmanship to the Louvre runway looks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the RuPaul’s Drag Race Recap Show, host Joe Betance is joined by special guest co-host Adam Salandra to break down the design challenge of the season. From point-distribution drama to "demon twinks" and unconventional materials, we dissect everything that happened on the main stage and in the workroom. The Daddy Discourse: Joe and Adam kick things off with a candid (and slightly weird) conversation about fatherhood terminology and how kids navigate having two dads. Point Distribution & Betrayals: The queens head back to the workroom to de-drag and distribute their MVQ points. We discuss Morphine’s disappointment and Lucky Stars' decision to snub her in favor of Mystique. Mini Challenge Madness: The girls attempt to put on "chonies" without using their hands. Spoiler: Nobody wins, but it leads to a hilarious story about Joe’s "Sisterhood of the Traveling Chonies". Maxi Challenge: Bar Queen Couture: The queens are tasked with creating high-fashion looks from unconventional materials based on queer bar categories like Leather, White Party, and Piano Bar. Runway Review: A’keria C. Davenport stuns in White Party realness. Dawn brings the "demon twink" energy to the Piano Bar. Lucky Stars confuses (and delights) as a pinata in a donut hole. Mystique Summers Madison redeems her Season 2 country past. The Lip Sync Battle: A’keria and Dawn face off to Fergie’s "Fergalicious" for the win and a major advantage in the competition. "I thought Dawn was such a demon twink... she’s no longer nice to their faces either. Progress!" — Joe Betance "I am a dual type of daddy, so I think it's fine." — Adam Salandra Follow the Show:Be sure to subscribe and join us three times a week as we continue to discuss, dissect, and deconstruct every episode of RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars Season 11. Special Thanks:Shout out to Adam Salandra for filling in at the last minute and sharing his expertise from the San Fernando Valley. Our thoughts remain with Taylor and his family during this time. Inside This EpisodeEpisode Highlights Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Taylor kick off coverage of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 11 with Episode 1, “Breakdancing 2: Electric Rugaloo,” and before they even get to the queens, the conversation somehow spirals into Disney popcorn buckets, haunted mansion drink sippers, and the psychology of eating popcorn alone at Disneyland while holding collectible toys. It’s the kind of chaos you’ve come to expect. Once the episode discussion begins, Joe and Taylor break down the entire Orange Bracket premiere cast including Morphine Love Dion, Dawn, Morgan McMichaels, A’Keria C. Davenport, Lucky Starzzz, and Mystique Summers Madison. They discuss which queens already feel like real contenders, which queens may be struggling to adapt to modern Drag Race, and whether some returning contestants were brought back for redemption… or nostalgia. The duo also dives deep into: Whether Morgan McMichaels is quietly producing good television in real time Why Dawn’s elevated drag package still doesn’t stop Joe from distrusting her The strange energy surrounding Mystique Summers Madison’s return Whether Morphine deserved a Top 2 placement The awkwardness of the choreography rehearsal segment Why the episode itself feels oddly tension-free despite obvious shade La Toya Jackson as a guest judge and the lost art of 80s camp celebrity Whether the “Tournament of All Stars” format is helping or hurting the show Plus: Joe theorizes that Disney adults are funding a black market popcorn bucket economy Taylor explains why taking a season off from Drag Race may actually improve your viewing experience An unexpected sidebar about cigarette smoke aging drag queens And Joe nearly launches a conspiracy theory about production timelines before immediately disproving it himself At the end, Joe and Taylor debate whether the right queens landed in the Top 2, whether Morgan truly won the lip sync fairly, and pitch an entirely different All Stars bracket format that might solve one of the franchise’s growing problems. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Robert kick off coverage of All Stars 11 by diving into the Orange Bracket, breaking down six returning queens and setting expectations for the season’s new bracket format. Instead of covering every queen at once, they focus on this first group—looking at past performances, evolving narratives, and what each queen needs to prove this time around. The conversation begins with Dawn, whose run on Season 16 sparked debate. Joe reflects on her sharp, behind-the-scenes gameplay and “nice on the surface” persona, while Robert questions whether her quirky villain energy will land better—or wear thin—on All Stars. They agree she has potential but may need to evolve to stand out. Next up is Morphine Love Dion, who earns much warmer praise. Both hosts agree she had one of the strongest growth arcs on her season, transforming from a slightly off-putting presence into a fan-favorite lip sync assassin. Joe admits she won him over completely by the end, and they’re both excited to see how she performs in a format that could play to her strengths. A’Keria C. Davenport gets a two-part discussion, covering both her Season 11 success and her more subdued All Stars 6 return. Joe and Robert agree she has always been polished and capable, but something has consistently kept her from fully breaking through as a standout star. They also revisit how production may have shaped her narrative and question whether this third attempt will finally unlock her full potential. Lucky Starzz is a wildcard in the bracket. Joe barely remembers her run, noting she made an impression early but didn’t last long enough to fully develop. Robert sees potential in her confidence and aesthetic but acknowledges that unconventional drag doesn’t always translate well on Drag Race. They’re curious to see whether she can surprise them. Mystique Summers Madison brings pure chaos and nostalgia. Robert is thrilled by her return, celebrating her as an iconic early-season personality with endlessly quotable moments. Joe is more cautious, hoping her drag has evolved while still retaining the unpredictable energy that made her memorable. Finally, Morgan McMichaels rounds out the bracket as a veteran presence. Joe and Robert discuss her legacy as a Drag Race pioneer and her strategic missteps on All Stars 3, where her upfront gameplay made her an early target. While Joe suspects she may benefit from strong connections within the cast, Robert questions whether her “tough persona” helps or hurts her on the show. To close, they zoom out and look at the Orange Bracket as a whole, speculating on how the mix of early outs, fan favorites, and seasoned competitors might play out. With the bracket format creating unpredictable challenge groupings, both agree that success may come down as much to luck as talent. The season is officially underway—and the chaos has already begun. Follow us on social media and subscribe for full episode recaps, deep dives, and bonus content all season long. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s the end of an era—at least for now—as RulaskaThoughts wraps its run with a chaotic, candid, and completely unfiltered breakdown of the RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18 finale. After skipping the live viewing in favor of a night at the Magic Castle, the hosts return tired, slightly hungover, and ready to air every last grievance about the episode—and the season as a whole. The conversation quickly spirals from finale reactions into a full-scale critique of the show’s production, editing, and storytelling. From confusing camera direction to an overstuffed production team that somehow still missed key fundamentals, the finale leaves more questions than satisfying conclusions. The hosts call out inconsistent staging, lack of clear performer direction, and a general sense that the show has become bloated without improving quality. They also dig into the season-long issue: a cast full of talented queens who never quite broke through as undeniable stars. While watchable and likable, the finalists lacked defining moments, leaving editors scrambling to construct narratives that didn’t fully land. Forced storylines—especially emotional beats that weren’t supported by what aired—become a major point of frustration. Runway critiques highlight a strange trend: strong looks from the waist up paired with questionable choices below, creating a disconnect across multiple queens. Meanwhile, reunion-style segments and pre-planned speeches come under fire for feeling overly rehearsed and lacking authenticity. The episode also veers into broader pop culture commentary, including generational divides in recognizing icons, the role of legacy artists in modern spaces like Coachella, and whether “lifetime achievement” honors still make sense for artists who are actively evolving. Throughout it all, the tone remains sharp, funny, and brutally honest—exactly what longtime listeners expect. As the show closes, the hosts reflect on the season’s biggest takeaway: solid talent, uneven execution, and a production machine that may need a serious reset. After the outro, stick around for bonus conversation covering the Magic Castle outing, unexpected personal connections, and a few stories that definitely didn’t make it into the main episode. Subscribe & Support Get full recaps, bonus episodes, and exclusive content on Patreon. Follow & Connect Stay up to date with all shows from Afterthought Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The crown has been claimed, the final lip sync has played out, and Season 18 comes to a close. Joe and Nathan break down the Grand Finale—from the final three performances to the crowning of America’s Next Drag Superstar—while asking the bigger question: did this season live up to the talent of its cast? Episode Highlights Joe and Nathan kick things off with a quick look at the finale format and why it continues to feel… off. They dig into the loss of the live finale energy, how pre-taped finales impact storytelling, and why the show may be missing opportunities to respond to audience reactions in real time. The conversation turns to the final three—Darlene Mitchell, Nini Coco, and Mikey Meeks—as each queen delivers her original performance. They discuss what worked, what didn’t, and how each queen’s narrative (or lack thereof) shaped the outcome of the season. They also cover: Jane Don’t winning Miss Congeniality The ongoing issue of branding-heavy segments (and whether they’re dragging the show down) Miley Cyrus receiving the “Giving Us Lifetime Achievement Award” The overall pacing and structure of the finale episode When it comes to the final lip sync, Joe and Nathan debate who actually won the performance versus who ultimately took the crown—and whether those were the same thing. The Big Takeaway The talent was there—but the production didn’t match it. Joe argues that Season 18 featured a strong cast that was ultimately underserved by weak challenges, inconsistent storytelling, and a finale format that feels increasingly disconnected from the audience. Final Thoughts Season 18 ends not with a bang, but with a shrug. While there were standout queens and memorable moments along the way, the finale—and the season as a whole—left Joe and Nathan wanting more. The question now: can the show course-correct, or is this the new normal? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Robert are back to break down the penultimate episode of the season, diving into the Lalaparuza and everything that came with it. With a full bracket of lip syncs and a returning cast, they unpack what worked, what didn’t, and which performances actually delivered. They kick things off with thoughts on the workroom energy and how certain queens came across the second time around. From shifting dynamics to confidence boosts, there’s plenty to discuss before the lip syncs even begin. The Lalaparuza itself takes center stage, with Joe and Robert questioning whether the performances lived up to the hype. They get into the difference between being a strong dancer versus a compelling lip sync performer, and whether some queens were oversold based on reputation alone. They also debate standout moments from the night, including the most memorable reveals and which matchups could have gone either way. Along the way, they revisit RuPaul’s music catalog and whether the song choices helped or hurt the overall experience. As the episode wraps, they reflect on how this installment fits into the season as a whole and what it sets up heading into the finale. Follow us on social media and join the conversation. Subscribe for full coverage of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18, including The Big Takeaway, Drag Race Recap, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The eliminated queens return for a high-stakes lip sync showdown, battling it out tournament-style for a 50,000 dollar cash prize. With a new bracket format and a lineup of RuPaul tracks, the queens face off one by one until a winner is crowned. Joe and Nathan break down all the lip syncs, the questionable judging, and the surprising (or not so surprising) final outcome. Along the way, they dig into the workroom drama, including lingering tensions between Jane and Sierra, and whether certain queens were truly there to compete or just fulfill their contracts. They also debate the biggest performances of the night, from Juicy Love Dion’s undeniable dominance to Mia Starr’s polarizing run through the bracket, and ask the big question: were the results driven by performance or production? Plus: The new smackdown format and whether it worked Juicy Love Dion’s standout moments and why she owned the night The Mia Starr debate: great performer or overhyped? Workroom drama that didn’t quite land but was still fun to watch Why some lip sync results felt questionable Final thoughts heading into the Season 18 finale At the end of the night, Juicy Love Dion takes the crown and the cash, proving once again that when it comes to lip syncing, she’s in a league of her own. Subscribe and follow for full coverage of RuPaul’s Drag Race, including weekly recaps, deep dives, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Robert are back to break down the deeper themes behind RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18 as the competition barrels toward the finale. With the top queens solidified and the endgame in sight, the conversation turns to what this season really represents. Is this a strong season—or just an easy one to watch? And why does the fan reaction seem to flip overnight? In this episode: Why Season 18 feels “fine”… but not exactly unforgettable The sudden shift in fan sentiment after recent eliminations A closer look at Darlene Mitchell and the idea of the “cinnamon roll” queen How audience perception—and bias—shapes who we root for Whether track records and challenge performance actually matter anymore Production choices, casting gaps, and what might be missing from modern Drag Race Why this final challenge felt like a misfire heading into the finale As always, Joe and Robert dig past the surface to unpack what’s driving the narrative—both on the show and in the fandom. Subscribe & Support the Show: For full episode recaps, bonus shows, and ad-free content, join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/afterthoughtmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan are back to break down the penultimate episode of Season 18, where the final four queens take on a morning show hosting challenge—and the competition tightens as the finale looms. This week’s maxi challenge pairs the queens into duos to co-host the fictional talk show Good Morning Bitches. While some partnerships click effortlessly, others struggle to find their rhythm. On the runway, the category is Drag Excellence, bringing polished, high-concept looks as the queens make their final push toward the crown. After critiques, two queens rise to the top while two land in the bottom, leading to a high-energy lip sync that determines who will move on to the finale—and who falls just short. Episode Highlights Joe and Nathan react to the final four and the emotional fallout after Jane Don’t’s elimination Discussion of the morning show challenge, including what worked—and what didn’t Breakdown of each duo’s chemistry and performance styles Thoughts on the “Drag Excellence” runway presentations A deep dive into the judging decisions and whether the right queens landed in the top and bottom Lip sync analysis and debate over whether the correct queen was sent home A look back at Joe and Nathan’s preseason predictions—and just how right (or wrong) they were Final Thoughts With the finale just around the corner, the competition feels wide open. While one frontrunner may be emerging, there’s still room for a surprise—and as always, Drag Race loves a last-minute shakeup. Subscribe & Support Full episodes of Drag Race Recap are available ad-free on Patreon Get early access and bonus content at: patreon.com/afterthoughtmedia Follow Afterthought Media Stay connected for all shows, updates, and content from the network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Robert dive into one of the most unexpected episodes of the season, where a shocking elimination sends ripples through the competition. With the queens tackling improv sketches alongside RuPaul herself, the episode raises big questions about performance, editing, and what really makes Ru laugh. Shock Elimination: The departure of Jane Don’t stuns both hosts, who unpack why it felt so unexpected—and why, in hindsight, the edit may have been signaling it all along. Improv Challenge Breakdown: Joe and Robert debate whether the challenge itself set certain queens up for failure, especially when paired directly with RuPaul in the sketches. Mikey Meeks’ Win: A win that makes sense on paper, but sparks discussion about consistency, momentum, and how the audience perceives frontrunners. Darlene Mitchell’s Momentum: RuPaul’s clear enjoyment of Darlene leads to a deeper conversation about what actually wins challenges: technical performance or making Ru laugh. Was It Really That Bad?: Robert pushes back on the harsher critiques, arguing the episode was more enjoyable than it’s being given credit for. The Edit Tells All: Joe connects the dots on Jane’s arc, suggesting the show quietly telegraphed this outcome through subtle character beats all season long. Production Choices Under the Microscope: From the structure of the sketches to the sudden visual changes on the main stage, the hosts question some late-season production decisions. A mixed bag of performances in the improv challenge, with some queens benefiting more from their scene partners than others. Juicy Love Dion’s runway sparks debate over construction and polish compared to her usual high standard. Nini Coco stays true to her hyper-literal, detail-oriented perspective—even when it leads to some unconventional choices. Darlene Mitchell’s performance style draws comparisons to classic sketch comedy, aligning perfectly with RuPaul’s comedic sensibilities. An episode that may not land evenly for everyone, but delivers one of the season’s biggest surprises. Whether it felt like a misstep or a much-needed shakeup, there’s no denying that “Karen’s Gone Wild” re-energizes the competition heading into the final stretch. Follow & Support the Show Stay connected for all things Drag Race: Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts Join the conversation on social media Support the show on Patreon for bonus content and early access Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Robert sit down with a very special guest: actor and Drag Race fan Julianne Nicholson, fresh off her appearance as a guest judge. What follows is a rare behind-the-scenes conversation about what it’s actually like to step into the Werk Room orbit—and how surreal it feels when you go from watching the show at home to sitting on that panel. From superfan to guest judgeJulianne shares her deep history with Drag Race, from discovering the show with her daughter to bingeing every season—and what it meant to finally step onto the main stage. What the judges actually seeA fascinating breakdown of how little context guest judges get going in, how the acting challenge is presented, and what it’s like judging queens you’ve never met before. The energy in the room vs. what we see on TVJulianne describes the surreal, almost dreamlike quality of filming—quiet soundstage, long pauses, and how different everything feels compared to the final edit. The acting challenge debateJoe and Robert revisit their (very different) takes on the sketches, while Julianne offers her perspective from inside the room—fully in the moment and genuinely laughing along. Lip sync clarity vs. in-the-room experienceWhy the winner of the lip sync felt more obvious on TV than it did live—and how proximity and staging affect perception. Track record vs. RuPaul’s decision-makingA thoughtful discussion about whether track record actually matters, or if the lip sync—and Ru’s instincts—always win out in the end. The emotional weight of being on Drag RaceJulianne reflects on the impact of the show, the fan response, and what she would want the queens to know about how much their work matters. Favorite queens and seasonsJulianne runs through some of her favorite queens—from Bob and Monet to Sasha Colby and Mistress—and how her experience discovering the show later shaped her perspective. This episode offers a rare glimpse behind the curtain of RuPaul’s Drag Race through the eyes of someone who truly loves the show. Julianne Nicholson brings both fan energy and actor insight, grounding the conversation in genuine appreciation for the queens, the craft, and the magic of the experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week’s episode of RuPaul’s Drag Race, the queens take on a chaotic comedy challenge that proves just how tricky improv can be. After a drama-free but telling elimination, the top five head into a Puppet Mini Challenge that completely flops—earning no winner and a rare crew tip-out from RuPaul. From there, things only get messier. For the maxi challenge, the queens must embody viral “Karens” in an improv sketch alongside RuPaul. What should have been a high-energy, character-driven challenge instead becomes a test of who can survive the awkwardness, unclear direction, and wildly uneven performances. On the runway, the category From Wholesome to Folsom delivers some of the episode’s strongest moments, offering a much-needed visual payoff after a shaky challenge. By the end, one queen rises by default, while the rest struggle to justify their placements—leading to a controversial bottom two and an elimination that’s sure to spark debate. Highlights from Joe & Nathan: The Puppet Mini Challenge may have officially lost its magic—was this the worst one yet? A discussion on whether modern Drag Race production (the “commune era”) is killing preparation and on-screen dynamics Why the improv challenge felt more like “RuPaul improv” than actual improv—and why that matters The queens’ lack of defined character POVs becoming a major issue this late in the season Debate over whether NeNe Coco’s villain edit is real—or completely fabricated The growing frustration with safe, conflict-free workroom dynamics (“bring back the fights!”) A breakdown of each queen’s improv performance and where things went wrong The runway delivers—even when the challenge does not Runway Category: From Wholesome to Folsom A standout category that asked queens to transform from sweet to subversive. While the challenge faltered, the runway gave several queens a chance to shine with clear visual storytelling and strong reveals. Final Results: WIN: Mikey Meeks BOTTOM 2: Jane Don’t & NeNe Coco ELIMINATED: Jane Don’t Final Thoughts: This episode highlights a growing issue late in the season: when strong personalities are eliminated early, what’s left can feel competent—but not compelling. Without clear character identities or conflict, even traditionally fun challenges like puppets and improv fall flat. Still, the unpredictability of the elimination—and the continued dismantling of “track record logic”—keeps the season from becoming too predictable. Subscribe & Support the Show: Full episodes, bonus content, and early releases available at Patreon.com/AfterthoughtMedia Ad-free and extended content available on Apple Podcasts subscriptions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After letting the episode marinate, Joe and Robert return for a deeper dive into one of the most controversial challenges of the season—the makeover. And as expected, the conversation quickly turns into a full dissection of judging inconsistencies, production manipulation, and the ever-elusive concept of “family resemblance.” The Makeover Challenge Strikes Again Joe and Robert unpack the long-standing issue with makeover episodes: the rules are vague, the judging is subjective, and the outcomes often feel predetermined. Is this challenge designed more for storytelling than fairness? Did the Right Queen Win? Robert questions the win, echoing fan reactions online, while Joe examines how production may be shaping the narrative as the season nears its endgame. Jane Don’t & The Bottom Placement Debate A major point of contention—Jane’s look checked every box the judges have historically asked for, yet she still lands in danger. The conversation highlights the mental gymnastics required to justify certain critiques. Creativity vs. Simplicity in Makeovers A recurring theme: the show often rewards safe, matching looks over more creative or conceptual approaches. When queens take risks, are they being penalized for it? The “Family Resemblance” Problem What does it actually mean? Joe and Robert question whether even the judges could define it consistently—and whether it’s just a convenient excuse to justify placements. Discord’s Elimination While both agree it was likely her time, the discussion acknowledges how uneven wins across the season have muddied the competitive stakes. Juicy Love Dion Appreciation Robert champions Juicy’s performance this week, celebrating her polish and presence—even as the season’s narrowing diversity becomes more noticeable. This episode reinforces a familiar truth: the makeover challenge isn’t about clear criteria—it’s about narrative. As the competition tightens, the judging feels less about performance and more about positioning queens for the finale. Whether frustrating or expected, it’s all part of the Drag Race machine. What did you think of the makeover challenge? Did the judging make sense—or was this another case of production pulling the strings? Let us know your thoughts! Follow the show for weekly deep dives into RuPaul’s Drag Race Support the network on Patreon for bonus content and exclusive episodes Connect with us on social media and join the conversation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan break down this week’s makeover challenge, where the queens transform a group of queer cowboys into members of their drag families. From a chaotic mini challenge to questionable judging, the episode delivers plenty to discuss as the competition gets tighter. Episode Highlights The queens makeover a group of queer cowboys, with Joe praising the show for presenting a more diverse and unexpected version of queer representation A rare return to a fun, low-stakes mini challenge with the inflatable horse race Discussion of the makeover challenge judging and how “family resemblance” continues to be inconsistently applied Jane Don’t raises concerns about sabotage while also positioning herself as the front-runner Conversation about how off-camera interactions may be affecting the storytelling this season Runway – Drag Family Resemblance Mikey Meeks and Morgan Meeks Strong resemblance and cohesive presentation earn them the win, even if the overall look is simple NeNe Coco and Patsy Coco A butterfly and caterpillar concept that raises questions about balance between queen and partner Juicy Love Dion and Lucy Love Dion A last-minute adjustment creates a workable but slightly awkward final look Jane Don’t and Maybe Don’t Matching wigs and makeup achieve resemblance, but the look lacks impact Discord Adams and Harmony Adams A divisive presentation, with debate over whether the resemblance was overlooked by the judges Darlene and Bonnie A fun, character-driven pairing with strong chemistry and a clear point of view Final Results Winner – Mikey Meeks Bottom Two – NeNe Coco and Discord Adams Eliminated – Discord Adams Final Thoughts The makeover challenge once again highlights how flexible judging criteria can shape the outcome. While the episode has entertaining moments and strong personalities, the decision-making feels increasingly transparent as the season moves closer to the finale. Follow and Support Listen to more episodes at patreon.com/afterthoughtmedia Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform Leave a review and share with other Drag Race fans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on The Big Takeaway, Joe and Lauri recap Episode 12 of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18, where the queens take on a makeover challenge with queer cowboys and hit the runway in coordinated drag family looks. Mikey Meeks snags her second win, while NeNe Coco and Discord Adams land in the bottom, leading to Discord’s elimination after the lip sync. Episode Highlights • A chaotic start to the recording leads to what Joe calls a “cursed episode,” complete with mic issues and delayed recording • Lauri is once again called out (by Joe and listeners) for being on her phone during recording • Joe addresses missed Patreon uploads and promises to get back on track • The makeover challenge sparks debate over what “family resemblance” should actually mean in drag • Lauri questions whether the challenge is really about “family” or just making contestants look like identical twins • Strong disagreement over placements—Lauri would have put Juicy in the bottom instead of Discord • Discussion of Discord Adams leaving the competition with composure and self-awareness The Big Takeaways Lauri’s Takeaway: This episode highlights the emotional importance of Drag Race in creating space for men to explore femininity without fear. The stories from the makeover participants—especially around masculinity and safety—underscore how difficult it still is for many men, particularly gay men, to express themselves freely. Joe’s Takeaway: The show has evolved. Unlike earlier seasons, this episode treated the makeover participants—who were older, more diverse, and not stereotypically “model-perfect”—with respect and dignity. There was no mockery, no cheap jokes, and no manufactured struggle about their appearances. Instead, they were embraced as they were. Final Thoughts A heartfelt but somewhat low-energy episode. While the emotional beats land, both Joe and Lauri agree: the season continues to be consistently watchable… but not particularly exciting. Support the Show Get bonus episodes, exclusive content, and access to the full Afterthought Media library: patreon.com/afterthoughtmedia New content drops throughout the week depending on your tier. Follow & Subscribe Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow Afterthought Media for updates, clips, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Robert are back to break down Episode 11, and this one has them diving deep into the roast challenge, Alyssa Edwards’ evolution, and whether Drag Race has lost a little of its messy magic. Episode Rundown Before getting into the episode, Joe shares why he’s suddenly grateful Robert doesn’t listen to Recap… sparing them both some awkward moments. From there, the conversation turns to the fan reaction, Robert’s alleged “rinsing,” and whether self-deprecating humor is really in his wheelhouse. Main Discussion The conversation centers on the roast challenge and whether it actually functioned as a roast at all. Robert points out that very few jokes were actually directed at Alyssa Edwards, with most queens opting for safer, generalized humor rather than biting material. This leads to a broader discussion about how Drag Race—and Alyssa herself—has evolved from chaotic, unfiltered entertainment into something far more polished and self-aware. Joe and Robert explore the idea that Alyssa’s original appeal came from her lack of self-awareness, and question whether that magic can exist once a queen becomes fully in control of their brand. Roast Performances The hosts break down the major performances: Jane Don’t delivered a technically strong, well-structured set—but one that felt overly familiar and lacking originality Mikey’s performance was polished but leaned heavily on previously successful bits Darlene Mitchell becomes the most debated performance of the night Joe initially found Darlene’s set confusing and overpraised, while Robert outright didn’t find it funny. However, Joe revisits the idea that the performance may have played much better in the room, where energy and unpredictability can carry a set in ways that don’t translate on screen. They ultimately land on the distinction between something being “effective in the moment” versus “repeatably brilliant.” Standout Moments RuPaul’s brutal reaction to Kenya’s N-word joke becomes one of the funniest—and harshest—moments of the season The mini challenge sparks discussion thanks to RuPaul’s “12 Years a Slut” joke The queens recreating Alyssa Edwards moments in the workroom is highlighted as a genuinely fun callback Runway & Character Notes Robert gives credit where it’s due, praising NeNe Koko for taking a familiar runway concept (widow) and adding a fresh comedic twist instead of relying on the expected “I killed him” trope. The hosts also briefly touch on how certain queens are being perceived versus what might actually be happening behind the scenes, raising questions about editing, unseen relationships, and narrative shaping. Final Thoughts This episode sparks a bigger conversation about what Drag Race rewards now versus what it used to celebrate. While the technical quality of performances is high, Joe and Robert question whether something essential has been lost—namely, risk-taking, messiness, and genuine unpredictability. Still, the episode delivers memorable moments, sharp commentary, and plenty to debate—exactly what RulaskaThoughts is here for. Follow & Support Enjoying the show? Follow, rate, and share to support the podcast. For bonus content, extended discussions, and more, check out the Patreon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on RuPaul’s Drag Race, the queens are tasked with celebrating—and roasting—drag royalty. The episode begins with a throwback mini challenge inspired by Season 5, where the queens must create a scent and film a commercial to promote it. The chaos continues with the maxi challenge: delivering a toast (that quickly becomes a roast) honoring the one and only Alyssa Edwards. On the runway, the category is “Swept Away,” as the queens face dramatic wind effects meant to send their garments—and nerves—flying. In the end, Darlene Mitchell snatches the win for the week, while Kenya Pleaser and Juicy Love Dion land in the bottom two. After a lip sync battle for their lives, Juicy is told “Shantay, you stay,” and Kenya Pleaser is asked to sashay away. Joe and Lauri break down the episode, debate the judging decisions, and share their big takeaways from another dramatic week in the competition. • The mini challenge brings back the infamous scent commercial concept from Season 5—and the results are as bizarre as expected. • The queens attempt to “toast” Alyssa Edwards, but the challenge quickly turns into a full-on roast. • Joe and Lauri discuss the difference between comedy that kills in a live room versus comedy that translates on television. • A debate over whether Darlene Mitchell’s performance truly deserved the win—or if the humor simply played better in the room than on screen. • The hosts analyze why roast jokes must be concise and how delivery, pacing, and character work affect whether a joke lands. • A discussion about Kenya Pleaser’s charisma versus the technical comedy skills needed for a roast challenge. • Joe reflects on the surprisingly low drama among the remaining queens and whether a kinder cast makes for less compelling reality TV. Joe’s big takeaway centers on the unusual dynamic of this season’s cast. With most of the queens getting along and avoiding open conflict, the traditional reality-TV narrative feels absent. While that may make the competition less dramatic, it also creates a rare moment where the queens compete more on talent than interpersonal chaos. Whether that makes for better television—or just different television—is still up for debate. Subscribe & Follow To hear more Drag Race coverage from Joe and the Afterthought Media team, visit:patreon.com/afterthoughtmedia Follow Joe Betance and Afterthought Media for more podcasts, recaps, and commentary on drag, pop culture, and reality television. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on RuPaul’s Drag Race, the queens are tasked with celebrating—and roasting—drag royalty. The episode begins with a throwback mini challenge inspired by Season 5, where the queens must create a scent and film a commercial to promote it. The chaos continues with the maxi challenge: delivering a toast (that quickly becomes a roast) honoring the one and only Alyssa Edwards. On the runway, the category is “Swept Away,” as the queens face dramatic wind effects meant to send their garments—and nerves—flying. In the end, Darlene Mitchell snatches the win for the week, while Kenya Pleaser and Juicy Love Dion land in the bottom two. After a lip sync battle for their lives, Juicy is told “Shantay, you stay,” and Kenya Pleaser is asked to sashay away. Joe and Lauri break down the episode, debate the judging decisions, and share their big takeaways from another dramatic week in the competition. • The mini challenge brings back the infamous scent commercial concept from Season 5—and the results are as bizarre as expected. • The queens attempt to “toast” Alyssa Edwards, but the challenge quickly turns into a full-on roast. • Joe and Lauri discuss the difference between comedy that kills in a live room versus comedy that translates on television. • A debate over whether Darlene Mitchell’s performance truly deserved the win—or if the humor simply played better in the room than on screen. • The hosts analyze why roast jokes must be concise and how delivery, pacing, and character work affect whether a joke lands. • A discussion about Kenya Pleaser’s charisma versus the technical comedy skills needed for a roast challenge. • Joe reflects on the surprisingly low drama among the remaining queens and whether a kinder cast makes for less compelling reality TV. Joe’s big takeaway centers on the unusual dynamic of this season’s cast. With most of the queens getting along and avoiding open conflict, the traditional reality-TV narrative feels absent. While that may make the competition less dramatic, it also creates a rare moment where the queens compete more on talent than interpersonal chaos. Whether that makes for better television—or just different television—is still up for debate. Subscribe & Follow To hear more Drag Race coverage from Joe and the Afterthought Media team, visit:patreon.com/afterthoughtmedia Follow Joe Betance and Afterthought Media for more podcasts, recaps, and commentary on drag, pop culture, and reality television. Highlights from this episodeFinal Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Robert return to break down a surprisingly mellow episode of Drag Race Season 18. With no elimination and plenty of feel-good moments, the conversation turns to whether the episode was heartfelt television… or an hour-long email. Along the way, the duo discusses Jane Don’t’s fabric drama, the curious return of Sierra Mist, the increasingly repetitive jokes of the season, and which queens are actually leaving an impression as the competition narrows. Later in the episode, Joe revisits last week’s solo RulaskaThoughts about negativity in Drag Race discourse and plays a listener voicemail responding to the conversation. Highlights from this episode include: The no-elimination episode and whether it felt meaningful or filler Jane Don’t’s “scrap fabric” storyline and whether it was exaggerated Why Discord continues to quietly survive the competition Kenya Pleaser’s recurring confessionals and the show’s repeating jokes Mikey’s upward momentum and Juicy’s “ingenue” edit this season The confusing OJ Simpson reference in the Snatch Game runway look The difference between critique and negativity in Drag Race commentary Listener feedback on the Afterthought Media shows Joe also shares a listener voicemail responding to last week’s conversation about tone and criticism in Drag Race coverage—and why thoughtful critique is part of the fun of engaging with the show. Whether you loved this week’s episode or thought it could have been an email, Joe and Robert break it all down with their usual mix of analysis, tangents, and a few unexpected pop-culture detours. Support the show and unlock bonus episodes: Patreon patreon.com/afterthoughtmedia Follow Afterthought Media Instagram: @afterthoughtmedia Twitter/X: @afterthoughtmedia Hosted by: Joe Betance and Robert Mata Produced by: Afterthought Media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe Betance and Nathan Patrick Brown break down Season 18 Episode 10 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, where the queens must turn discarded drag into couture. With the reading challenge returning and a design challenge using materials left behind by eliminated queens, the competition tightens as the remaining contestants fight for a spot in the finale. This week’s episode brings laughs, a few controversies, and one queen continuing a dominant run in the competition. HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE • The queens say goodbye to Athena and reflect on the previous elimination. • Tensions surface as some contestants believe Discord should have been in the bottom last week. • The reading challenge returns with a mix of hits, misses, and plenty of shady moments. • The maxi challenge tasks the queens with creating a party look using materials from eliminated contestants’ suitcases. • Sierra Mist’s suspiciously sabotaged suitcase leaves Jane with scraps to work with. • Discord sparks debate in the workroom by using hundreds of safety pins in her design. • RuPaul conducts table visits while the queens scramble to finish their outfits. • Supermodel Iman joins the judges panel as the guest judge. • After critiques, the judges place Jane Don’t and Kenya Pleaser in the top two for the week. RUNWAY & LIP SYNC With no one placed in the bottom this week, the judges declare everyone safe except for the top two queens. Jane Don’t and Kenya Pleaser face off in a lip sync for the win to: Feels Like Another One – Patti LaBelle After the performance, RuPaul names Jane Don’t the winner of the lip sync, earning her third challenge win of the season. FINAL THOUGHTS Joe and Nathan discuss the increasingly clear frontrunners of the season, the debate over Discord’s safety pin strategy, and whether the judges made the right call by skipping a bottom placement this week. They also break down the design looks and what the episode may signal for the endgame of the competition. Be sure to join us next week as we continue to discuss, dissect, and deconstruct every new episode of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18. FOLLOW & SUPPORT THE SHOW Join the Afterthought Media Patreon for bonus episodes, live recordings, and exclusive content: patreon.com/afterthoughtmedia Follow Afterthought Media: afterthought.media Hosted by Joe Betance and Nathan Patrick Brown. Produced by Afterthought Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe flies solo this week as Lauri recovers from food poisoning, but the show must go on. In Episode 10, the queens sharpen their claws for the annual Reading Challenge before diving into a design challenge where they must create runway looks using materials packed by eliminated queens. With no one going home and the judges leaning positive across the board, the episode delivers an unexpectedly joyful energy—and Joe has thoughts about why that matters. EPISODE BREAKDOWN Reading Is FundamentalThe queens take part in the traditional Drag Race Reading Challenge. While not the most brutal reading session in the show’s history, the jokes land more as playful banter among friends than vicious shade—hinting at how well the remaining queens actually get along. Maxi Challenge: Drag in a BagEach queen receives a suitcase filled with materials left behind by eliminated contestants and must transform the contents into a runway party look. The challenge highlights sewing skills, creativity, and the ability to work with whatever scraps remain. Runway ResultsNo one lands in the bottom this week. Instead, the judges select two queens to lip sync for the win. Top TwoJane Don’tKenya Pleaser Jane Don’t ultimately collects her third win of the season, continuing a remarkable streak of top placements and further solidifying herself as one of the strongest competitors in the competition. Kenya Pleaser earns a much-needed high placement after surprising the judges with a polished design. JOE’S BIG TAKEAWAY A Surprisingly Joyful Episode In contrast to the cynicism Joe discussed on last week’s Patreon-exclusive RulaskaThoughts, this episode felt genuinely upbeat. The queens appear to truly enjoy each other’s company, and that camaraderie carries through the reading challenge, the workroom interactions, and the runway critiques. While the episode lacks the high drama typical of Drag Race, Joe argues that not every episode needs to operate at maximum conflict. Sometimes the show benefits from a lighter installment where the cast simply has fun together—and the audience gets to enjoy that energy. The result is an episode that might not be the most explosive of the season, but one that feels refreshing in its warmth and sense of community. LISTENER CALL-IN MOMENT Discord regular Supernova Ghoul briefly joins Joe to discuss the episode. She agrees that Jane Don’t and Kenya Pleaser were the correct top two and praises Jane’s ability to construct a winning garment from almost nothing. The conversation also touches on a broader point about modern Drag Race: while the queens remain talented, some longtime viewers feel the show’s formula has become familiar over time. FINAL THOUGHTS With no eliminations and universally positive critiques, Episode 10 serves as a breather in the middle of the competition. It’s a reminder that sometimes Drag Race works best not when the queens are fighting—but when they’re simply enjoying each other’s company. SUPPORT THE SHOW Follow Drag Race Recap wherever you listen to podcasts.Leave a 5-star rating and review to help new listeners find the show. For bonus episodes, early releases, and exclusive content:patreon.com/AfterthoughtMedia If you want, I can also show you a slightly improved version of the standard template that keeps the same structure you use but performs better in Megaphone, Patreon, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify simultaneously (avoids formatting bugs you mentioned earlier). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe and Nathan are back to break down a rusical that had big ambition, beige fashion, and some very suspicious judging. This week the queens sing, dance, and vogue their way through a ballroom-inspired parody of Annie — and not everyone survives the hard knock life. The queens star in a rusical mashup that blends Broadway camp with ballroom flair. Roles are assigned, egos flare, and strategy enters the workroom when Mikey Meeks and Nini Coco both want the lead role of Fanny. After auditions and a group vote, Mikey earns the part — but in a strategic twist offers it to Nini. Nini hesitates, overthinks, and ultimately sticks with Big Peppa, a decision that may have changed the trajectory of the episode. On stage: Mikey carries the emotional center of the show. Jane Don’t chews the scenery as Miss Shenanigans. Kenya and Juicy bring energy to the ballroom ensemble. Discord and Nini struggle to leave a lasting impact. Athena delivers a polished but restrained Mama Big Bucks. Joe and Nathan debate who truly deserved the win — and whether the judging told the full story. The category is beige — and surprisingly, the queens deliver. From structured silhouettes to avant-garde textures, this is one of the stronger fashion weeks of the season. Standouts and surprises are discussed, along with whether runway placement influenced the final bottom two decision. Jane Don’t takes the win. Juicy Love Dion and Athena Love Dion land in the bottom two, setting up a mother-daughter lip sync to “Call Me When You Break Up.” The emotional stakes are high — but was the matchup producer-driven? Joe and Nathan unpack: Whether Mikey should have won If Discord and Nini were overlooked for the bottom And whether Athena’s elimination was justified They also speculate about what next week’s twist could mean… including the possibility of a return. Producer shenanigans? Possibly. Strong performances? Definitely. Clear pecking order? Not so much. With seven queens remaining, the competition is tight — and the narrative is anything but predictable. We’ll be back next week to continue discussing, dissecting, and deconstructing every moment of Season 18. For bonus content, extended discussions, and exclusive episodes, visitpatreon.com/afterthoughtmedia Follow Joe and the network on social media for updates, clips, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on Season 18, the queens take on a musical send-up of Annie in the “Fanny: The Hard Knock Ball” Ruzical. On the runway, the category is “Beige Against the Machine,” challenging the dolls to elevate one of fashion’s most unforgiving colors. After critiques, Jane Don’t is named the winner of the challenge. Juicy Love Dion and Athena Love Dion land in the bottom two and lip sync against each other for survival. In the end, Juicy is told “Shantay, you stay,” and Athena is asked to sashay away. In this episode of The Big Takeaway, Joe and Lauri break down the judging, the performances, and whether the producers made the right calls. MAIN DISCUSSION POINTS Did the right queen win? Both Joe and Lauri agree that Jane Don’t earned her win. While her personality may divide the room, her comedic timing, vocal performance, and overall command of the Ruzical stood out. Even if she’s bracing for the inevitable “target on my back” narrative, the win felt justified. Were the right queens in the bottom? This is where things get contentious. Joe and Lauri question the decision to place Juicy and Athena in the bottom when several other performances felt weaker. The judges claimed they were “splitting hairs,” but that justification opens the door to almost any elimination outcome. The sense is that production may have seized the opportunity to finally pit the Dion sisters against each other. Did the right queen go home? The consensus: probably not. While Athena may not have delivered a standout performance, the argument is made that other queens have repeatedly escaped the bottom despite underwhelming showings. The elimination feels more producer-driven than performance-driven. THE RUZICAL ITSELF Joe’s big frustration: clarity. While the songs were solid and the performances mostly strong, the narrative of the musical felt muddled. The story beats were difficult to track, and the emotional arc never fully landed. Strong songs alone aren’t enough — the storytelling needs to connect. Lauri’s take? The expectations may have shaped the judges’ reactions. Certain performances were praised as “Broadway level,” but she questions whether they truly met that bar. Solid? Yes. Elite? Debatable. BIG TAKEAWAY When judges say they’re “splitting hairs,” it often signals that the outcome was predetermined. If everyone did well, then technically anyone can be critiqued into the bottom. The tension this week didn’t feel rooted in performance quality so much as timing and storyline. As the competition narrows and stronger queens continue to go home, the structure of the season starts to feel increasingly engineered. We’re officially down to seven queens — and with teases of something major happening next week, the competition may be about to shift again. Join us next week as Joe and Lauri continue breaking down every twist, performance, and questionable judging decision from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18. Always settle for more and never settle for anything less. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of RulaskaThoughts, Joe and Robert dive into the Season 18 Snatch Game and the fallout that followed. From Mikey Meek’s Drew Barrymore to the format change debate, the boys break down what worked, what didn’t, and why some queens just can’t recover from a catastrophic performance — no matter how strong the lip sync. They also tackle the online discourse, discuss whether Snatch Game needs the panel format restored, and revisit the age-old question: is a lip sync really a battle… or is it RuPaul’s final confirmation? Plus, Robert makes a few unexpected pivots (including one you definitely clocked). — EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS • Snatch Game reactions: Mikey Meek’s standout Drew Barrymore • Why Discord’s pope performance sparked debate • Nini Coco’s David Attenborough and the Aussie confusion • The problem with the Bitchler format vs. the classic panel • Mia Starr’s elimination — was it already decided? • Lip sync philosophy: “Impress me” vs. “Beat her” • The Go-Go’s song choice and why it didn’t build • Online reactions and Reddit’s alternate reality • The “Do you even like the show?” Patreon moment • Excoriate-gate — FINAL THOUGHTS A solid, entertaining outing for Season 18, even if the format tweaks continue to divide. As always, the question isn’t just who wins — it’s what kind of drag the show rewards. — Follow the show on Patreon for bonus content and extended conversations. Join the conversation on social media. Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen. See you next week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the queens trade the classic panel format for a revamped Snatch Game of Love Island, bringing their celebrity impersonations to a dating-show parody. On the runway, the category is 80s Ladies, serving up big hair, bold shoulders, and even bigger references. In the end, Nini Coco takes the win, while Kenya Pleaser and Mia Star land in the bottom two. After a lip sync to “Head Over Heels” by The Go-Go’s, Mia Star is asked to sashay away. A New Snatch Game Format The queens are surprised with a format shake-up: instead of sitting behind desks, they must flirt and volley with three suitors in a Love Island-style setting. Joe questions whether the twist helped or hurt the queens, while Nathan appreciates the physicality and change in pace. Made-Up Characters vs. Real Celebrities A major discussion point: should Snatch Game always require a real celebrity? With multiple queens opting for invented personas, the debate centers on whether fictional or generic characters dilute the challenge. Standout Performances Mikey Meeks as Drew Barrymore delivers a fully realized impersonation with strong voice work and confident interaction. Jane Doe as Truman Capote gives a polished, studied performance that checks all the technical boxes. Discord Adams as The Pope splits opinion — bold and committed, though not a traditional celebrity choice. Struggles of the Week Mia Star’s Bloody Mary fails to generate consistent jokes or a strong comedic premise. Kenya Pleaser’s Lizzo leans heavily into blue humor without sharp punchlines. Darlene Mitchell’s Mrs. Claus receives limited airtime, raising questions about just how close she may have been to the bottom. The queens pay homage to iconic women of the 1980s. Highlights include: A vibrant Celia Cruz tribute with dramatic color and presence. A recognizable Olivia Newton-John moment, complete with era-accurate styling. A Dolly Parton-inspired silhouette that captures classic 80s glamour. Kenya’s runway look draws criticism for fabrication and finish, further sealing her bottom placement. Kenya Pleaser vs. Mia Star Song: “Head Over Heels” – The Go-Go’s The lip sync sparks debate. While Mia delivers strong musicality and performance, Kenya survives the week — suggesting that overall challenge performance weighed heavier than the final showdown. This episode raises bigger questions about Snatch Game strategy: Is it better to play it safe with a polished impersonation? Should fictional characters be allowed? And does a disastrous Snatch Game outweigh a winning lip sync? With the competition tightening and multiple queens proving technically strong, the margins are getting thinner — and the judging decisions more controversial. Be sure to join us next week as we continue to discuss, dissect, and deconstruct every moment of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18. Follow Afterthought Media for bonus content, extended discussions, and exclusive episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices