Survivor 48 Pre-Game Day 6: Kevin Leung & Mary Zheng
Rob Cesternino (@RobCesternino) and Mike Bloom (@AMikeBloomType) are here to share with the listeners their reactions to the cast reveal of Survivor 48! Join us to learn a bit about the 18 new castaways to be tested on the islands of Fiji
Survivor 48 premieres Wednesday, February 26th at 8pmET/5pmPT with a jam-packed two-hour episode. Join us at 10:15pmET/7:15pmPT following the episode for the first Survivor post-game podcast LIVE!
Kevin Leung, a contestant on Survivor 48, brings a unique blend of analytical thinking and social acumen to the game. With a background in civil engineering and a career shift to finance, Kevin’s journey is marked by a passion for problem-solving and a love for engaging with people. This combination could prove to be a formidable asset in the high-stakes environment of Survivor.
Kevin’s fascination with Survivor began in his childhood, when he was captivated by the strategic gameplay and the diverse cast of characters. A pivotal moment for him was witnessing Yul Kwon’s success on the show, which inspired Kevin to see himself as a potential contestant. This representation fueled his ambition to apply, and now, as he steps onto the island, Kevin is ready to put his strategic mind to the test.
His approach to the game centers on building strong alliances and using his charm to foster trust among his fellow castaways. Kevin believes that making others feel valued and connected is crucial to advancing in the game. His experience in finance, where interpersonal skills are key, has honed his ability to read people and adapt to different personalities.
Kevin’s strategy is not just about forming alliances but also about knowing when to pivot and adapt. He understands that the dynamics of Survivor are ever-changing, and being able to navigate these shifts is essential. By combining his analytical skills with a keen sense of social dynamics, Kevin aims to outwit, outplay, and outlast his competitors.
As Kevin embarks on this adventure, his journey from engineering to finance and now to Survivor reflects a continuous pursuit of challenges and growth. His story is one of inspiration and determination, and fans are eager to see how his strategic prowess will unfold on Survivor 48.

Mary Zheng enters Survivor 48 with a rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped her into a resilient and adaptable competitor. As a social worker, Mary’s career is rooted in empathy and understanding, skills that are invaluable in the complex social landscape of Survivor. Her personal history, marked by her parents’ involvement in the Tiananmen Square protests, adds a layer of depth to her approach to the game.
Mary’s path to Survivor was influenced by a transformative backpacking trip around the Mediterranean, which ignited her passion for social work. This journey taught her the importance of adaptability and the ability to thrive in unfamiliar environments—qualities that are crucial in the unpredictable world of Survivor.
Her strategy focuses on observing the dynamics around her and deciding when to form deep alliances or play independently. Mary understands that flexibility is key, and she plans to use her keen observational skills to navigate the social intricacies of the game. Her background in social work has equipped her with the ability to connect with people on a deeper level, a skill that she hopes will help her build trust and forge strong relationships with her fellow castaways.
Mary’s personal history also plays a significant role in her Survivor journey. Her parents’ courageous escape from China to the U.S. has instilled in her a sense of resilience and determ...