S18EP05 - The Big Takeaway

Joe is joined by Lauri Roggenkamp (Bloody Podcast) for immediate reactions and gut takes on Episode 5 of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18. With the queens split into two groups for the Raida Queen Talent Show and alliances driving the episode’s drama, there’s plenty to unpack—from the double win to a controversial bottom placement. Mia Starr and Juicy Love Dion land in the top two after strong (but very different) talent show performances. The lip sync ends in a double win, sparking debate over whether both queens truly earned the crown—or if one clearly edged ahead. Sierra Mist is named the bottom queen, but both Joe and Lauri question whether she actually deserved that spot. The consensus? Vida Von T-Star should have been in the bottom based on a lackluster performance and missed lyrics. Credit is given where it’s due: Sierra at least attempted something different, even if it didn’t fully land. Juicy Love Dion delivers high-energy stunts and athleticism. Mia Starr opts for storytelling, presence, and classic Drag Race theatrics. Was it a true tie—or did the judges hedge their bets? The talent show is no longer a talent show—it’s a drag show, and judging it as anything else just leads to frustration. The 90-minute format continues to drag episodes down with excessive logistics, alliances, and vote math. Props are discussed, unused tools are called out, and “beautiful gowns” energy is officially invoked. Jane Don’t’s whining reaches new heights—without a performance to balance it out. What will the queens from Part 2 bring next week? Will strategy finally outweigh talent? And will the show ever learn to cut 20 minutes of filler? 🎧 The Big Takeaway drops immediately after each new episode with first reactions, gut takes, and honest opinions—before the full recap dives deeper. For the full, ad-free Drag Race recap, bonus shows, and exclusive content, subscribe on Patreon or Apple Podcasts and join Afterthought Media all season long. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices