To Shield or Not to Shield

Summary

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The Traitors Official Podcast, Ep. "To Shield or Not to Shield" (Jan 23, 2026): Summary

Episode Overview

In this lively breakdown of Season 4, Episode 6 of The Traitors US, co-hosts Bob the Drag Queen and Boston Rob guide listeners through a jam-packed episode of treachery, shifting alliances, and high drama inside the castle. With signature wit, they dissect major gameplay moments, critical decisions—especially surrounding the coveted shield—and evaluate both style choices and strategic blunders. Guest Ron Funches (freshly banished from the game) joins for insight into his game philosophy and emotional roundtable moments. Key topics include the psychological warfare over shields, Colton’s aggressive gameplay, Lisa Rinna’s heat, and a deep dive into the episode’s roundtable fireworks.

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Detailed Breakdown & Key Discussion Points

1. Breakfast Dynamics & Early Suspicion (00:50–03:07)

• Paranoia at Breakfast: Bob and Rob observe the tension, noting the traitors’ anxiety during breakfast. Lisa Rinna’s change in behavior is flagged; as a Real Housewife, her sudden quietness is suspicious.
  • “If all of a sudden Lisa is quiet...that’s probably suspicious with some people.” —Boston Rob (01:23)
• Colton's Fixation: Colton is relentless in voicing his suspicion of Lisa, telling everyone who’ll listen. The hosts speculate this could backfire due to oversharing.

2. The Shield Dilemma (03:07–06:49)

• Strategic Non-Move: No Faithfuls take shields, preventing a murder. While this round it avoided disaster, both hosts agree passing on the shield is strategically unwise long-term.
  • “If there’s an opportunity to get a shield, I want that.” —Boston Rob (02:04)
  • “Four shields, four of us. Let’s at least have the conversation.” —Bob (01:57)
• Traitor Reactions: Traitors are rattled by this unpredictability, especially Lisa, who nervously claims she “knew it”.

3. Mission Mayhem – Puzzle & Shield Temptation (05:26–06:49)

• Details of the Mission: Contestants solve clues and match them to tombstone names for a potential $18,000 and a shield—though any shield comes at a financial cost.
• Natalie Throws Down: Natalie threatens that shield-takers will be immediate targets. The hosts critique this herd mentality for squashing bold moves and foreshadow Natalie’s own trouble brewing.

4. Alliance Shifts & Numbers Games (07:10–09:14)

• Johnny’s Coup Attempt: Johnny tries recruiting numbers to control the vote and target Colton. Rob expresses ambivalence—while he’d like to support Colton, he’s torn by his own alliances.
• Emotional Gameplay: Bob suggests emotion, friendship, and guilt are seeping into what should be cold, calculated strategy.

5. Colton’s Bold Move—Failed Extortion (09:14–10:56)

• Colton Attempts to “Hold Hostage” Lisa: In an aggressive play, Colton proposes an impossible alliance with Lisa ("I want to win this thing with you"), which the hosts immediately point out is a rookie error.
  • “A traitor and a faithful can’t win together at the end.” —Boston Rob (10:19)
• Bob’s Take: Bob laments Colton’s lack of focus—constantly flipping and telegraphing his next move to everyone.

6. The Roundtable Blow-Up – Lisa vs. Colton (11:11–14:40)

• No One Wants to Start: The hosts humorously bemoan the awkward roundtable silence until Ron jumps to vote.
• Colton Openly Accuses Lisa: He calls her out as a Traitor; Lisa fires back, which Rob declares a rookie mistake (“Do not immediately go right back at that person.” —Boston Rob, 12:15).
• Lisa’s Weak Defense: Her inability to explain her actions (“She’s not good at defending herself...it’s written all over her face.” —Boston Rob, 12:43) stands out.
• Ron’s Sacrificial Speech: Ron almost saves himself with a martyr's address, offering himself up for banishment to prove his Faithful status.

7. Aftermath and Bar Blowout (15:18–17:15)

• Lisa’s Power Move: At the bar, Lisa asserts her identity beyond the "Housewife" label.

  • “Don’t expect me to be a housewife, because I am Lisa fucking Rinna.” —Lisa Rinna (15:51)

• Colton’s Ultimatum: He challenges the Traitors to kill him or face relentless shield grabs.

  • “If you don’t take me out tonight...I will go for every single shield...” —Colton (16:04)

• Host Analysis: Both consider Lisa’s fierce self-definition contrasted with earlier passivity; Colton, meanwhile, is “ballsy” but not necessarily smart for drawing attention.

8. The Black Banquet & The Brooch (17:15–18:26)

• Twist: Alan holds a surprise “Black Banquet” with murder in plain sight. The question of who wears the brooch (signal for murder) arises—Lisa boldly volunteers, possibly a fatal attention-grab.
  • “This might be where she signs her death certificate.” —Bob (17:56)
• Host Take: Both would never volunteer for such a visible marker, remarking on the dangers of seeking attention in the game.

9. Guest Interview: Ron Funches (18:38–27:57)

Game Experience & Approach

• Lone Wolf: As a stand-up comic, Ron felt he lacked prior-game alliances, which helped him avoid bias but left him socially exposed.
• “I’m used to just...being OK with getting to know people and learning about them right from the jump.” —Ron (19:36)
• Cover for Traitors: By making accusations, Ron often provided cover for Traitors unintentionally.

Handling Accusation and Banishment

• Roundtable Reflections: Ron was “sick of defending myself over people who should be intelligent enough to figure it out..." (21:32). His emotional and noble goodbyes nearly swayed votes.
• “If I want to be a real, real, real faithful...probably the best thing I can do is let you guys write my name on there.” —Ron (22:37)
• No Regrets: Despite early elimination, Ron values having stayed true to himself.
  • “I wanted to be able to look back and have my sons watch it and be like, I’m proud of my dad.” —Ron (27:06)

Strategy, Predictions, and Style

• Faithfuls Need Cohesion: Predicts that groupthink and built-up biases are harming the faithfuls’ chances.
• Winner Pick: Says Kristen Kish has the best shot at winning, citing her focus and drive (28:32).

10. Style Section: “Trader Fashionista” (29:33–32:29)

Bob and Rob give signature comedic fashion commentary on the castle residents:

• Lisa’s Jacket: Divisive opinion—Bob loves the oversized look; Rob thinks it's too big (29:51).
• Ron’s Blazers: Bob praises; Rob jokes they look like grandma’s curtains (30:15).
• Alan’s Extravagance: Bob adores Alan's embroidered sash; Rob calls it “bazooka gum” chic (31:14).
• Kristen: Both agree she exudes powerful business-leader energy; Kristen is crowned this week’s “Trader Fashionista” (32:29).

11. Final Predictions & Analysis (32:41–35:47)

• Lisa is Exposed: The hosts believe Lisa, after taking the brooch and being a lightning rod, is in grave danger.
• Colton’s Chaotic Play: His erratic back-and-forth may have bought him another week—no need for anyone to target him now.
• Rob’s Early Betrayal: Boston Rob muses that Rob is moving against the traitors too early, likely affecting trust in the turret (34:48).
• Candace’s Insulation: Noted as the only traitor currently not under significant threat.
• Group Think Hurting Faithfuls: Both hosts repeatedly point to the faithfuls’ inability to coordinate as their downfall.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Bob on Lisa’s Game:
  “Lisa knows they can’t win together. Colton strongly suspects that they can’t win together. Let’s just not talk then. Let’s just fight it at the round table, man.” (10:56)
• Boston Rob on Lisa’s Defense:
  “She’s not good at defending herself. And it’s, like, written all over her face. You can see it.” (12:43)
• Lisa Rinna After the Roundtable:
  “I want to say one thing to Colton...Don’t expect me to be a housewife, because I am Lisa fucking Rinna.” (15:51)
• Colton’s Challenge:
  “If you don’t take me out tonight, I will go for every single shield...” (16:04)
• Ron Funches on Playing Faithful:
  “That’s what makes this game so wild and fun, is that you really see the social experiments of it.” (21:32)
• Ron Funches’ Parting Philosophy:
  “There’s just nothing that’s going to make me betray my character and who I am for any...amount of money or riches. Not at all.” (27:45)
• Hosts on Final Moves:
  “Lisa shouldn’t even be looking Colton in the eyes. He’s onto her. But he also has heat. Let Colton eat himself alive.” —Bob (33:17)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

| Segment | Timestamp | |-------------------------------------------|-------------| | Paranoia at Breakfast | 00:50–03:07 | | The Shield Dilemma | 03:07–06:49 | | Mission & Shield Temptation | 05:26–06:49 | | Johnny’s Coup/Numbers Game | 07:10–09:14 | | Colton “Hold Hostage” Move | 09:14–10:56 | | Roundtable Blow-Up: Colton v Lisa | 11:11–14:40 | | Aftermath Bar Arguments | 15:18–17:15 | | Black Banquet & Brooch Decision | 17:15–18:26 | | Ron Funches Interview | 18:38–27:57 | | Fashion Breakdown | 29:33–32:29 | | Hosts’ Final Thoughts/Predictions | 32:41–35:47 |

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Conclusion

Bob the Drag Queen and Boston Rob expertly balance humor and sharp strategic analysis while debriefing a twisting, tension-filled episode. The focus on shields highlights the season's evolving gameplay, while Colton’s unpredictability and Lisa Rinna's heightened visibility set the stage for more drama. Ron Funches’ candid interview adds heartfelt perspective on playing with integrity. Fashion, fire, and fierce opinions make this a can’t-miss breakdown for fans wanting all the inside drama, strategy, and sass the castle can muster.

Transcript

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Foreign. Hello, and welcome to another episode of the Traders official podcast. This is the closest you're gonna get to Inside the Castle without bribing Allen. We are your gorgeous and brilliant hosts. I am Bob the Drag Queen.

[Boston Rob]

And I'm Boston Rob. Let me start by saying it's a great time to be a fan of the traitors. And. And I'm having a blast watching season four and this week's episode. Well, it definitely didn't disappoint, not even a little bit.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

And if this is your first time tuning in, here's the deal. We are going to be talking in detail about every single thing from episode six. So that means spoilers if you are not caught up. You have been warned. Let's get into it.

[Boston Rob]

Let's do it.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Okay. Let's get into breakfast. Breakfast is a crazy time specifically to be a traitor.

[Boston Rob]

But, like, there's a weird conversation about the salmon. Oh, we're here first. We get to eat the salmon.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Do you like lox?

[Boston Rob]

I mean, I'll eat it, but, I mean, I'm not, like, that excited about it that I'm watching who's eating it, how much they're eating everything else.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yeah, I'm not that into the breakfast, but what I am into is Lisa at breakfast. I can't tell, because here's the thing. I don't watch Housewives, so I can't tell. Everyone's like, this isn't Lisa. This is Lisa. Lisa's being weird.

[Boston Rob]

She's been in the public eye a long time. She's an actress. She does other things. And if all of a sudden Lisa is quiet, her demeanor is not really, you know, out there, trying to be out in front like the housewives usually are. That's probably suspicious with some people.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yeah.

[Boston Rob]

And they actually happen to be right in this situation.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yes, they are.

[Boston Rob]

So we saw last night in the turret, the Traders were told that no one had taken a shield.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yes.

[Boston Rob]

So we knew there wasn't going to be a murder. Right. But, like, let me ask you, like, do you think the Faithfuls made the right decision in not taking shields?

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I mean, I would have taken a shield when I saw four shields. Four of us. Let's at least have the conversation.

[Boston Rob]

I agree. Like, if I'm a Faithful, if there's an opportunity to get a shield, I want that. I'm. I'm going to strive to go get it. This time. It worked out. Nobody took it. But I don't think that in the long run, that's a smart play for the Faithfuls.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

And it can't. In fact, let's look, let's look at the traitors talking about it.

[Ron Funches]

I come with news.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

It's. It's in whisper mode.

[Lisa Rinna]

Oh, God.

[Ron Funches]

There will be no murder.

[Lisa Rinna]

I knew it.

[Boston Rob]

Oh.

[Ron Funches]

The faithful resisted the temptation of the shield.

[Lisa Rinna]

I knew it.

[Boston Rob]

Like, could she have known?

[Ron Funches]

I never said it was going to be easy being a traitor, did I? No.

[Boston Rob]

What? Wow.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

If just one traitor had taken a shield, they could kill anyone they want.

[Boston Rob]

But they weren't really in an opportunity to be able to take the shield by themselves. That's why, because they were with the group, it's going to lead to some suspicion on them.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

In my opinion. It's been a little too easy for the traders. They are very unified right now.

[Boston Rob]

But now that Lisa has a little heat, I think we're going to see the direction move towards them.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

We got at breakfast, she looks so annoyed. Every time she looks at Colton, she's like, like she, I can tell that Colton is just, just a thorn in her side. At breakfast, Colton leans over to Dorinda and he's like, I think Lisa is a traitor. Like, he will not let this go. Any opportunity, anyone who has an ear near it.

[Boston Rob]

Yeah, he said something to Natalie too at the breakfast, but I think he's.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Telling too many people.

[Boston Rob]

It's like he has all his eggs in that basket. So it's either gonna work out for him or it's gonna end up working against him. Everybody's kind of going for Ron at this point. Yeah, right? Yeah. They're still hard on Ron.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Like. So we're back in the castle. Dorinda is very suspicious of Ron. Let's sit in this clip here.

[Lisa Rinna]

He pivots so drastically. One minute he is verbal, he is precise, and then when we're in another situation, he is just observant and quiet. That to me is traitor behavior.

[Colton]

Well, guys, this is what I will say is you have to think if he gets up there and says he's.

[Lisa Rinna]

A Faithful, I don't think he will be.

[Ron Funches]

Are you afraid?

[Colton]

I am afraid. And I, I'm, I'm saying this 100%. I'm going wrong tonight. I'm, I actually am really afraid that he was the.

[Boston Rob]

It's kind of smart a little bit.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I mean, is it smart to put all of his cards out there like that? He's telling everything he's going to do.

[Boston Rob]

I know, but he's low key, like sending a message to Lisa. That's what I got in that scene. Like, okay, listen, I'm playing along tonight. I'm going to go Ron. But if not everybody else, you know, you got to pay attention to kind of like put it out there so that if he does go Ron, and he ends up being unshielded, that Lisa won't kill him.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yeah.

[Boston Rob]

Welcome to Ashfield Place, the safest, safest.

[Lisa Rinna]

Safest town in America.

[Ron Funches]

These people are crazy.

[Boston Rob]

Starring Emmy award winner Keke Palmer.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

So what's the.

[Boston Rob]

The deal with that old Victorian house? There have been whispers of murder, murder, murder. Aren't small towns just the best?

[Ron Funches]

Just give and get out the burbs.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Streaming February 8th only on Peacock. So are we going to go in?

[Boston Rob]

Do white ladies love salads? Hell, yeah, we're going in. Let's move on and let's discuss this week's mission.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Okay.

[Boston Rob]

All right. It's not for the faint of heart.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

No, this is. This is. This one is. This one's pretty fierce. They have to solve these puzzles, right? You get these puzzles that are like clues toward the names, but also the names on the headstones are quite similar. So you have to make sure you get it right and then you run. So basically you send people out two at a time. They go to the tombstone and you have to match it to the clue that you're being given. They can win $18,000 and they can take a shield, but it will cost you money. Natalie just goes, if anyone gets a shield, you're getting voted out tonight.

[Boston Rob]

That's it. It's like they're using this throw threat of the person that takes the shield against them and they're using it to kind of like equalize the playing field. I don't understand the collective group think here and you gotta ask yourself, who is the one standing up and saying that all the time?

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yeah. And I think this is the beginning of Natalie's heat. This is when Natalie starts getting her heat for real when she says that at one point, Jam Jam wants a shield, but Maura will not let him get it. Jam Jam's like. Cause he is pan. He is. He is paranoid.

[Boston Rob]

Yeah. That's like a little bit because of Survivor, right? Like, it's the survivor, the gamer people. Like, they're used to having immunity. So you see, like, Natalie, Jam, Jam, like, they're fighting. They want the shield. Natalie last week fighting to have it.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

You know, drama response. Yeah.

[Boston Rob]

I mean, it's just like it's. It's known as safety in that game. And that's what they're bringing here to.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Traders for the most part. They actually did A pretty good job. They got almost every single one right with the exception of the very first one. They learn the error of their ways. Anyway, let's get back to the castle. I love back in the castle because this, for me is when you gather some of the most important information, especially back in the castle after a mission or back in the castle after the roundtable.

[Boston Rob]

After the mission and after the roundtable. Like, those are the times that are the most telling. Johnny's trying to get a group of people based solely on the numbers and and he tries to get Rob into their group. We got a clip. Let's watch it.

[Ron Funches]

I'm gonna go fast.

[Boston Rob]

What is going on?

[Ron Funches]

If we have eight faithfuls, we control the table.

[Boston Rob]

What, this?

[Ron Funches]

We have eight people for Colt.

[Boston Rob]

This is smart.

[Ron Funches]

We can get him out. I feel like he's controlling the game, guys. This feels crazy.

[Boston Rob]

Oh, see, you did the whole time. We have a gut feeling and then we switch up. They're planning a coup. They're planning to vote Colton out tonight, which kind of took me by surprise.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

By surprise.

[Boston Rob]

Colton trusts me a lot, so if I vote for him, it's not gonna look so good for me. But also, I don't want to vote Ron. This game sucks. It's a dilemma. I understand that.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I mean, okay, yes, it's a dilemma. But also, here's the thing and tell me how you feel about this. I feel like Rob was on board. He's like, we are traitors. We are murderers. But now some somewhere his emotion, his humanity is affecting his game. He's feeling bad. He's like, well, Colton likes me and Ron's having a hard time. And I'm like, yeah, but do you want to win?

[Boston Rob]

I'm telling you, like, we're responsible for this. Rob is a traitor and he knows eventually he's going to have to get rid of the other traders. He's good with Ron.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

He.

[Boston Rob]

He's good with Colton, so he wants to keep his people. So he's going to start steering the ship the other direction. I don't think he should do it this soon. Like, Lisa naturally is going to have heat on her, but he's playing the long game early, I think.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

So obviously Johnny is doing the numbers game. I personally think they should all listen to Johnny. But Colton is also. I don't think I've ever seen anyone play the game as aggressively as as Colton is playing and he makes a crazy move on Lisa. Let's look at it.

[Colton]

I feel like I am a pretty obvious choice for an upcoming murder no, you're not.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

You have heat.

[Colton]

Instead of trying to banish a traitor, I'm gonna try to hold one hostage.

[Boston Rob]

I didn't mind this. I kind of liked the thought behind it.

[Lisa Rinna]

Yeah, I am.

[Colton]

Here's what I'll tell you. I want to win this thing with you.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

The whispering is so big brother.

[Boston Rob]

That's problem number one. He can't win it with her. You protect me, editor. See, he's trying now. That looks tricky. The way he did it just. It looks too tricky.

[Lisa Rinna]

What are you talking about?

[Boston Rob]

What are you talking about? Yeah, see, he's trying. I'm faithful.

[Lisa Rinna]

I'm the faithful.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I feel like if colton stuck to a plan, he would be able to execute something.

[Boston Rob]

Yeah.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

But we watch him change and flip and so much. He's like, he's telling everyone it's lisa, it's lisa, it's lisa. But I'm going to vote for Ron. But it's lisa. It's lisa. Lisa. But I'm going to vote for ron. And then everyone's like, then now he's pulling lisa aside.

[Boston Rob]

He loses credibility.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yes.

[Boston Rob]

I think in this scene, in this situation, what he did, like, he tried to extort her. And I like that when. But he did it in a way where what he offered was undeliverable. He said, I want to win this game with you. A traitor and a faithful can't win together at the end.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Impossible.

[Boston Rob]

If he presents it like, let's get far and then go after each other, then it kind of like, I'm not going to go after you until we get towards the end. Then it may alleviate her and, like, keep him safe for a few A few votes in the turret.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

If I were lisa and colton, I would be avoiding each other. You have nothing to talk about. Yeah, we have. You don't trust me. I don't trust you. Lisa knows they can't win together. Colton strongly suspects that they can't win together. Let's just not talk then. Let's just fight it at the round table, man.

[Boston Rob]

Are you ready for this roundtable? Let's get into it.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I cannot stand when no one wants to start the roundtable. I get it because you were there. I started quite a few.

[Boston Rob]

Yeah, but. But I know you don't like it, but, like, that's the optimal move to. To do. Like, don't be the one to lead the charge.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

What it's sending me is that ron is already holding his chalk. Ron had his tablet. He was like, let's write. We're not gonna talk. Let's just start writing.

[Boston Rob]

He wanted to go right away.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

He said, let's do it. If we all go sit here in silence, let's just do it. In the great Colton v. Lisa court case, let's take a look at some of the courtroom footage right now.

[Boston Rob]

Here we go.

[Colton]

I don't know much about housewives, but I know one thing. You don't go against a housewife.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Oh, Candace's pissed.

[Colton]

And that first night vote has never sat right with me. And. And I believe you're a traitor.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Why is everyone shocked? Oh, I know that's who we're shocked.

[Lisa Rinna]

And I believe you're a traitor. I am a faithful.

[Boston Rob]

Oh, no, Lisa, you know better. Don't do that for anybody out there that's ever going to go play traitors. If you're a traitor and somebody accuses you of being a traitor, do not immediately go right back at that person.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Lisa is not good at defending yourself. Like, why not? Because I'm not.

[Boston Rob]

She's not.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Why did you vote for? Because I did. Why did I? Because I don't know.

[Boston Rob]

Yeah, I agree with you wholeheartedly. She's. She's not good at defending herself. And it's, like, written all over her face. You can see it.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

When he was like, I want to see the real housewife jump out. I was. I was wishing she would throw a drink of water in his face. I was like, I would have been like, baby, if you want the housewife to show up, just throw a drink in his face. I'm like, if you want a housewife, I'm going to give you a housewife, baby.

[Boston Rob]

That would have been epic.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I think that Colton should have not said anything this roundtable. Colton should have just sat back. He knows that people are going for Ron. Everyone in the castle saying it. Just sit back and don't say anything.

[Boston Rob]

He literally is feeling the heat early the round table and everybody seems to be onto him. But almost out of nowhere, here comes Ron, sacrificial lamb. Like, almost like he raised his hand like, hey, guys, you guys are going to get rid of Colton. What about me?

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I think that Ron had a great showing this roundtable. He almost saved himself and it was very impressive.

[Boston Rob]

I also remember when he was saying, like, well, guys, I guess all you have to do is vote me out. And when you do, you'll realize you know who the traitor is. It was almost like he was falling on his sword as a martyr.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yeah.

[Boston Rob]

Like, do you think, like, gameplay wise, like, sacrificing yourself as a faithful to show who the traitor is, is. Is honorable.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Right? You want to stay in that honorable? I don't care if you win. I want to win. The truth is, the only people truly playing together are the traitors. The faithfuls are actually playing against each other.

[Boston Rob]

They are playing against each other, which is wild, because if you think about that right from a strategic point of view, the faithfuls, even though they're together, they have to cannibalize each other. And the traitors who are supposed to be together are the ones that are doing it. You're starting to see it now.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

There was a lot going on. The table was completely split. I've never seen the votes go this many directions. But ultimately, Ron lost his battle in the castle, and he's voted out.

[Boston Rob]

He's gone. I mean, he didn't put on much of a fight either.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Can I ask you a genuine question?

[Boston Rob]

Yes.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

What's with these straight guys named Rob with thick accents in the turret acting crazy? What is with traitors named Rob voting against what? I honestly, I don't know why he voted for. I don't know. Like, he. I just don't think that Rob needed to do that. And then fucking Candace is so mad at Rob, she's eating candy. She just throws. Throws a piece of candy. That was my favorite part of her throwing candy at him was. So they. You know the housewives are here. Yep, the housewives have shown up, honey.

[Boston Rob]

So immediately after the roundtable, they go back to the bar, and Lisa has some choice words. Let's check it out. So, yeah, like when I asked her.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

How you say you can trust me.

[Boston Rob]

Look at her eyeing them.

[Lisa Rinna]

I want to say one thing to Colton. Colton, I've been in this business for 36 years. I just want you to know I am so much more than a housewife.

[Colton]

I know that. I know that.

[Lisa Rinna]

I just want to. I want you to know that I.

[Colton]

Know you're an icon and a legend, and you are so confident, and I. I was expecting more.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Expecting.

[Boston Rob]

Okay.

[Lisa Rinna]

That's the word I want to say. Don't expect me to be a housewife, because I am Lisa fucking Rinna.

[Colton]

I know you are.

[Lisa Rinna]

Yes, I was gather him four housewives, and I am Lisa fucking Rinna after.

[Boston Rob]

But watch, watch.

[Colton]

Let me just say this to the traitors in this room. If you don't take me out tonight, I will go for every single shield, and I will make it very difficult to take me out anytime later. So use your opportunity tonight to take me out.

[Boston Rob]

Wow. That's so.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

But why would you say That I.

[Boston Rob]

Know, I know, but it's like, it's so ballsy.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

It is ballsy. But, like, is the point of the game to win or to be ballsy? Like, being like, well, you better kill me tonight, baby.

[Boston Rob]

I didn't say it was smart, okay?

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Lisa actually does a pretty decent job being like, you came in here with expectations of me to be something, but you don't know me. Right. I am Lisa Rena, which is such a great moment. She like, digs her little size 5 heels into the. Into the grounds of that castle. And she's like, I am more than just a housewife. And I feel like. Because she kind of cleared him on that moment, that's when he was like, he was back against the wall. He was like, well, I'll just be as defensive as possible. So now just say, well, then you better kill me tonight to any traders in the room.

[Boston Rob]

What's ironic about it though, is by her coming out and being so enthusiastic about who she is, it's proving his point that she hasn't been like that all season. So usually after the round table, we're going to bed.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yes.

[Boston Rob]

But Alan has different plans tonight.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

We are going to have this big, beautiful black banquet. And obviously everyone's on guard. No one's comfortable. This can't. Alan, as lovely as he is, he doesn't do nice things just for the sake of being nice. At least not in this castle.

[Ron Funches]

Right.

[Boston Rob]

And in addition, it's making the traitors work. There's gonna be a murder in plain sight.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

And so this is one of those where you gotta manipulate someone into doing something. So they have a brooch. They all decide who's gonna wear this brooch. Obviously it would look a little strange if Rob wore the brooch.

[Boston Rob]

Of course.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

And it's gonna fall to a housewife. Cause this is big, gaudy, like very, you know, big amulet. And then Lisa's like, I'll do it.

[Boston Rob]

Right, baby.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

This might be where she signs her death certificate.

[Boston Rob]

I mean, it's very bold, but the housewives cannot steer away from any attention seeking moment.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

If we were up in the tour together and someone had to wear a brooch, would you have worn it?

[Boston Rob]

Absolutely not. And not because it's a brooch, but because I don't want the extra attention.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Even if it was a baseball cap, you wouldn't wear it.

[Ron Funches]

No.

[Boston Rob]

No, thank you.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

It's a lot of heat.

[Boston Rob]

I would have put it on Carolyn. Well, I'll tell you what, this episode was jam packed.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yes. And we are going to come Back and have a deep conversation with the man of a thousand sweaters, Ron Funches.

[Boston Rob]

From standup to inside out two to the halls of the treacherous castle. Please welcome our next guest, the the brilliant comedic mind of Ron Funches.

[Ron Funches]

Oh, thank you.

[Boston Rob]

Welcome, my man.

[Ron Funches]

Thank you for having me.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Robin.

[Ron Funches]

Bob.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

It's a pleasure to have you. Think, Ron. Robin. Bob.

[Ron Funches]

Ron.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Robin.

[Boston Rob]

Bob.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Ron. Robin.

[Boston Rob]

Bob.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Exactly. I want to talk about some of these looks that you had in this castle. That orange coat.

[Boston Rob]

Thank you.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I don't know where that came from, and I don't know where it is now, but I know that I was floored. I think you had some really cool looks in the castle.

[Ron Funches]

I really appreciate that. I'm a big fan of style, Ron.

[Boston Rob]

I'm not gonna comment on the fashion because I'm not qualified.

[Ron Funches]

Oh, I could. Oh, trust me. I could tell by sitting next to you.

[Boston Rob]

My God. I dressed up today too.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

You look nice. So, you know, how is it in the castle when you have people who are, like, from these franchises, the gamers and the housewives, and you were kind.

[Ron Funches]

Of a lone wolf in there, being a standup comic. I usually work by myself and travel a lot, so I'm used to just, like, being okay with getting to know people and learning about them right from the jump and being open about myself. And I don't watch terribly too much television, so pretty much had to learn about everyone at the castle, which I think was good because it didn't give me any preconceived notions about is this a good person or a bad person?

[Boston Rob]

You almost have a little bit of an advantage to fly under the radar. And in a game like Traders, did you feel like you were targeted right away, or did you feel like you had time to create relationships and establish rapport with people?

[Ron Funches]

I think in the beginning, I was able to fly under the radar a little bit. If I hadn't put myself a little bit out there with making some judgments and accusations towards Porsche, I think I probably could have been under the radar a little bit longer. But to be honest with you, I think putting myself out there probably helped me because I end up being used as cover for the Traders for quite a bit of my time.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

What was going on in your head when people are building their cases against you? It was the most split roundtable of the season. Yeah, the votes were the most split. So what was going on with the voices in your head? Loud. With the voices at the table? Loud.

[Ron Funches]

All of the above, because I went in going like, okay, this is my last Night for sure.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

You actually haven't had a chance to see it yet, so I want you to look for the very first time at your roundtable.

[Colton]

Ron, I really do like you. Banishing you tonight gives us more answers than you've been able to provide, even at this table.

[Ron Funches]

But do you feel the need to do it? Cause you got it wrong more than me.

[Boston Rob]

Gather her.

[Colton]

With who? With Portia and with Tiffany.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yeah.

[Ron Funches]

And then with Michael.

[Boston Rob]

With everyone.

[Ron Funches]

Because Michael. We don't like Michael. We don't count it.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I don't know if you were in your feisty mode, but you cleared and you said. Any other questions? Oh, you gathered him like a chignon. Like, was that you being feisty or were you just being like.

[Ron Funches]

I was just sick of it. Because part of it was just like, I'm sick of defending myself over people who should be intelligent enough to figure it out and who are turning around and judging me for the same mistakes that they're making. I think that's also just what makes this game so wild and fun, is that you really see the social experiments of it.

[Boston Rob]

When you're in the castle, right? You want to go after people, you want to accuse them. So they're, like, punishing you for doing what you're supposed to do as a faithful, and that's to try to find the traitors. How do you defend against that when that's supposed to be your job and that's what they're accusing you of doing?

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Wrong.

[Ron Funches]

I mean, that was the most frustrating part. That's when you. I really was like. That's why I was mostly like, okay, let's get. Feel ready to go. Because I'm. It's real damned if you do, damned if you don't. Situation for me right now, Tough, right?

[Boston Rob]

And it's almost like the default is you're better off not saying anything, but by doing so, you're leaving yourself vulnerable.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

And you're not playing the game at that point.

[Boston Rob]

You're not.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Let's watch a little more.

[Ron Funches]

If I want to be a real, real, real faithful, then probably the best thing I can do is let you guys write my name on there.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

So.

[Ron Funches]

Then you can know for real. I would love to get a chance to just go around a circle and just say goodbye to you guys before it wraps up.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Watch their reactions.

[Ron Funches]

Jam, Jam. I think you're really good at this, and it's been a pleasure to get to know you a little bit better. Natalie, I think you are exactly who you are and who you say you are. 100%. Rob, the same to you. And it's been a real. I was wrong about that, though. Mara, Stephen, Mark, same. You've been an absolute pleasure. I enjoy your company. I don't think he's a traitor. Tara, also super sweetheart. Lisa, you are thoughtful and kind. Colton, Eric, you're the best.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I don't think he's a traitor.

[Ron Funches]

I don't think he is either.

[Lisa Rinna]

Will I ever have to.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Oh, you don't think he's traitor.

[Ron Funches]

Rob, you're a legend, dog.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

You don't think.

[Ron Funches]

Can I say something?

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Come on, Tara, wake it up.

[Ron Funches]

I don't know if this will get me murdered tonight, but it's not wrong.

[Boston Rob]

So you would just wanted to say goodbye and say it. But, like, as a strategy, it kind of like was starting to work.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I was like, he's eating. I remember being like, oh, my God, this is the smartest strategy. I remember thinking to myself, that is so smart. Cause you made yourself so vulnerable. And you were like, listen, y', all, I'm outta here. I just wanna tell you all how great it's been and I wanna tell each of you individually and as you're talking, you can see them being like.

[Boston Rob]

I don't think it's him. I don't think he's a traitor.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I think you swayed a lot of.

[Boston Rob]

Votes, a lot of people. Yeah.

[Ron Funches]

Yeah. I wish it was back because I was ready to go home. So I was.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

So you like, please.

[Boston Rob]

No, no, actually, it's ok.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Were you over it? Was it tough?

[Ron Funches]

It was tough because I was pretty much sure. I was like, there's no me as a game player. I would never let me get to the end. There was a moment when Tara spoke up and mostly personally, it just made me feel better because I really like Tara and I had spent a lot of time with her. There's some moments where she was scared and I held her hand. And one of the people who I felt knew me the most and could fill my heart the most was her fact that she knows that, like, I'm probably being voted out, but she feels that she has to stand up at this moment. So it meant a lot to me.

[Boston Rob]

Was there anyone you connected with initially that you felt like you could establish some rapport and relationship with?

[Ron Funches]

Yeah, initially it was Donna and Kristin and Kristen, people that I knew from before. So then when Donna was revealed to be a traitor and was gone, did.

[Boston Rob]

That surprise you when she was revealed to be a traitor?

[Ron Funches]

Not by the second night, no. Cause, no. Not by the time when she was talking about how she was starstruck by people and her story was starting to fall apart, you know, and so I wasn't surprised by it, but I knew at that point. I'm like, oh, they're gonna think that we were traitors together just because of guilt by association.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

So as a stand up comedian, you stand up, you walk over to that entryway. What are you thinking as you make your declaration to what role you're playing in this game?

[Ron Funches]

I'm just full of relief and kind of like, okay, here's my chance that I can really tell people how I feel. Cause I've been holding my tongue for quite a long time, you know, being a standup part of me that whole time just wanted to be like, oh, I ripped you apart for this. I got you for this. I got you. I've been reading you the whole time. But then I'm like, if I do that, I know I'm gone. So to be able to. And even still, like, I feel like when I felt I was gonna be banished, I was like, oh, you're gonna do this, you're gonna rip them up. But when the time actually happened, I just felt so grateful about, like, my experiences there. I'd never been to Scotland. I'd never been on a canoe. I'd never like meeting Alan.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

The canoe of it all.

[Ron Funches]

The canoe of it all, girl.

[Boston Rob]

Let me ask you this, Ron. Like, when it's all said and done, any regrets?

[Ron Funches]

Not a single regret. I love how I handled myself. I love that I went outside my comfort zone. I had trust issues before I even came into this.

[Boston Rob]

So what would you do different if you went back and played again?

[Ron Funches]

Not a single thing would I do different.

[Boston Rob]

But you ended up so early.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

That's okay.

[Boston Rob]

That's okay.

[Ron Funches]

That's fine by me. I'd rather be me. Like I said, when I left, I wanted to be able to look back and have my sons watch it and be like, I'm proud of my dad. And they can go back and see that their dad never lied, never, never begged, never lowered himself. When people said like, oh, we don't believe in you and why don't you defend yourself? I just said, I don't feel the need to.

[Boston Rob]

That's what's really great about the traitors in this show, is that you don't have to make it to the end to get something out of it. Like, you can still play the game, have a good time, and there's still, like, gifts bestowed upon people besides winning.

[Ron Funches]

The end of the day, I was happy for the opportunity, and I wanted the money, but there's just nothing that's going to make me betray my character and who I am for any. For any amount of money or riches. Not at all.

[Boston Rob]

So no Survivor for you?

[Ron Funches]

No. Because I hear you guys just eat just nothing but, like, the spoonful of peanut butter, and then you can't poop for weeks. You got to have, like, one little nugget of poop for, like, weeks.

[Boston Rob]

Well, you need that backstabbing knife, and it sounds like you don't use that. All right, before you go, what predictions do you have for us as far as your other faithful go?

[Ron Funches]

My predictions are that they need to get it together because it felt like they're letting biases and groupthink control everything.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Here's my last question for you. Who do you think in that castle has the best shot of actually winning this game?

[Ron Funches]

Ooh. Who has the best shot? I would always. I can't go against my girl Kristen Kish. She's smart. She's. She's just very calculated, and she's driven wherever. That's one thing I told her when I saw her, I was happy. I knew I made the right choice of being there because whenever I see her at a place, I know I'm in the right place because she's a hard worker.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Well, shout out to Kish with a good quiche. Thank you all. Thank you so much for joining us. Do not go anywhere. We'll be right back with a lot more podcasts. So you think you could survive the castle in Scotland?

[Ron Funches]

I don't know.

[Boston Rob]

If you do, you're in luck, because right now, applications are open.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yes. And you don't got to be a housewife. You don't got to be from Survivor. You don't got to be on Drag Race. They're open applications. Go to the tradersus.com and apply right now.

[Boston Rob]

Let's see if you got what it takes.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

And now for Boston Rob's favorite part of the episode. It's time to talk fashion.

[Boston Rob]

Man, I have been waiting all week for this. And for all of you listening, if you want to see what we're discussing, check out our video version on PeaceRock or on YouTube.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Okay. You can't not tell me that Lisa's jacket is not amazing.

[Boston Rob]

You would wear that. I don't like her jacket. I just think it's six sizes too big.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

It's in big. So the thing. Big top, little bottom. You gotta wear a big jacket. You gotta wear skinny little pants.

[Boston Rob]

That's it.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Let's Keep looking. Ron is back with another, like, you know, over the top, like, brocade. Looks like some sort of embroidery style blazer. Thoughts on that? Cause you like a blazer.

[Boston Rob]

I mean, I don't mind a blazer. It's okay. I think it's like he's trying to be cool in 1980, but it's like 20, 25.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yes.

[Boston Rob]

I mean, it feels like. I don't know.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I've noticed you don't like things that look like curtains or tablecloths.

[Boston Rob]

I mean, this. This definitely looks like grandma's curtains for sure.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

If I come to your house, grandma better watch out because I will make a pair of pants. Jenny Weir's wearing this, like, sheer. It looks like some sort of either charmeuse or some sort of a, you know, taffeta top with this cute little beret that has, like, some. Some sort of embroidered beaded piece on it. I do love the hat. I'll say that it could use an earring.

[Boston Rob]

I have no comment on this.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

So do you have any taffeta in your closet?

[Boston Rob]

I don't even know what that word means.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Tool tweed.

[Boston Rob]

My tools are in the garage. I got hammers, wrenches, saws. I mean, this is a different show. I think you're talking about.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Let's go on to Alan. I love this sash with this embroidery on it. I think it's so over the top. I love this, like, Elizabethan collar is so good.

[Boston Rob]

He feel like the spokesman for bazooka gum here. Like, I just think, like, some kind of firecracker or fourth of July celebration.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

And don't you want to chew some gum now?

[Boston Rob]

I kind of do a little bit.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

So Colton's wearing this. It looks like either denim or some sort of a blue top with these patches on it. I think it's really cute. For Colton, this seems like a lot.

[Boston Rob]

It feels like something someone in Venice beach in LA would be wearing.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Let's go to jam. Jam. Jam looks like an account. He goes, I'll jazz it up with a brooch.

[Boston Rob]

I like the suit. It's regular. It feels good. I can't give him a hard time about.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

It is regular. I think that's a compliment if you speak.

[Boston Rob]

Oh, yeah.

[Ron Funches]

That is.

[Boston Rob]

It's a compliment. He does have, like, a cute little pin there that I'd probably take off.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

One pin is too much. I thought it was a bunch of brooches. You can't wear one brooch. Kristen. I would let her, like, step on me. She always looks like she's in charge of something.

[Boston Rob]

I Agree. I think she. This looks very business. Smart, powerful. I get that. And I get that from her, too.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yeah. She's in charge.

[Boston Rob]

Oh, my God. We agreed on something.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

What?

[Boston Rob]

She's our winner.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

You heard it, Kristen. You are the winner of this week's Traders fashionista award. It goes to you. We'll be right back with more podcasts.

[Boston Rob]

Welcome back to the Traders official podcast. We're just about out of time, so let's give some final thoughts on this week's episode. What we think is in store.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

So Lisa is doing a solo mission.

[Boston Rob]

At this point, it feels like that. And like who. Who are we thinking that she's gonna go after?

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I would go for someone who is not gonna get voted out. I would go for Kristen. I would go for Eric. I would go for. Not Natalie, before Natalie. But now the heat is on her, so I would leave her around longer.

[Boston Rob]

I also think Colton gets a pass right with all his back and forth.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I wouldn't touch colton with a 10 foot.

[Boston Rob]

He bought him another week.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Lisa shouldn't even be looking Colton in the eyes. He's onto her. But he also has heat. Let Colton eat himself alive. Let Colton keep throwing himself out there.

[Boston Rob]

You know what's something I learned from you and it's really smart and it's stuck with me to this day. When we're in the turret, you always said target the person they would never expect. And it's like it's always a good choice.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yeah. You gotta get someone that no one's gonna because then you just. I just don't want it ever coming back to me.

[Boston Rob]

Right.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

How do you feel about this murder in plain sight compared to the last one.

[Boston Rob]

This is wild. Like, I think Lisa's the perfect person to pull this off. However, you know there's going to be immediate fallout from it.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yeah. I think that with the amount of heat Lisa's got on her, she should have never taken that brooch. I would have given it to Candace. Candace has zero heat on her right now.

[Boston Rob]

They should be looking at the Johnny Weirs, the Tara Lipinski's, but whether they do or not, I don't know what's going to happen.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I mean, I feel like Johnny's trying to create a true faithful alliance. People are just not getting in line.

[Boston Rob]

And he's got Rob in that group. I. I mean, I don't know. I don't know how well it's going to work out. I love the sentiment in the idea. I think it's actually smart what he's trying to do. But you got to be sure you got your people.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I mean, Rob's ready to turn on the Traders anyway.

[Boston Rob]

It feels like he is. Maybe he'll join.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Rob is playing a crazy game. I think Lisa is in a dangerous spot. Candace seems to be the only trader who is not in a hard spot right now.

[Boston Rob]

Candace is basically insulated from any type of outside negative information, and that's a good place to be as a Trader. I think Rob, by his decision at the roundtable to vote for Lisa, put himself in a precarious spot. It almost feels like he's going to start going after the Traders too early. And I wonder about how that's going to affect his relationship in the turret with Candace.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

I mean, can you speak to me from, like, what it feels like to be in the turret with people who don't trust you?

[Boston Rob]

I mean, I, of course. And I had that exact situation happen to me where I was at the roundtable and Danielle had voted against me and we had to go back up to the turret that night because I made it through.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Not pretty.

[Boston Rob]

No, it wasn't pretty. And I mean, there was a lot of. A lot of distrust and it was impossible to move forward because you have to make decisions. But now you have distrust amongst people that are supposed to be working together.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Yeah.

[Boston Rob]

Well, thank you so much for watching. Make sure you watch episode seven of the Traders only on Peacock next Thursday.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

And you can find us on the official Traders podcast, dropping after every episode on Peacock YouTube and listen and follow wherever you get your podcast so you never miss an episode. And do not forget to follow us on socials. The Traders us. Bye. Don't die.

[Boston Rob]

The Traders official podcast is a Peacock original produced by USG Audio and TH Studios.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

The series is hosted by me, Bob.

[Boston Rob]

The Drag Queen and me, Boston Rob.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

It's executive produced by Shane Redar and J. Jill Johnson at TH Studios and.

[Boston Rob]

By Josh Block at USG Audio.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Co executive produced by Michael Wolf.

[Boston Rob]

Story produced by Zoe Clar.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Post production and editing by Stephen Wong.

[Boston Rob]

Production by TH Studios Production support by Josh Lalonghi at USG Audio.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Music and clips provided by Studio Lambert.

[Boston Rob]

If you'd like to watch this podcast, you can find us on Peacock or YouTube. YouTube. New episodes of the Trader Season 4 are available on Thursdays at 6pm Pacific, 9pm Eastern on Peacock.

[Bob the Drag Queen]

Thanks for listening.