Poplitically Correct

We’re kicking off the new season with a powerhouse premiere featuring educator and Democratic nominee for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction, Dr. Terry Leyba Ruiz!

Dr. Ruiz breaks down her journey, the cultural moments that shaped her philosophy inside and outside the classroom, and how poplitics can help bring us together.

Happy one year of Poplitically Correct, my fellow Popliticians! In this special anniversary episode, Zach sits down for a "State of the Show" address to reflect on the wild journey from an idea to a community of Popliticians. Then, the conversation comes full circle as Zach is joined by his first-ever guest, Emily Richardson, for a deep dive into the "poplitical" landscape of the past twelve months. From auditing the cultural shifts that redefined the news cycle to making bold predictions for what the intersection of pop culture and politics looks like as we head into Year 2, this episode is a definitive pulse check on where we’ve been and exactly where we’re going.

In this episode, Moses Adams joins Zach in exploring how technology has reshaped the way Americans experience politics, culture, and community. From social media algorithms to the power of tech companies, we unpack how digital platforms influence what we see, what we believe, and how we engage with the world around us; and most importantly, how we resist. As our lives move increasingly online, we ask what it really means to be “One Nation Under Tech” and whether our digital future is bringing us closer together or pulling us further apart.

The Super Bowl Halftime Show has transformed from a sanitized distraction into a high-stakes arena for cultural and political defiance. This week, Zach and Tasha trace the shift from the NFL’s "safe" origins to the modern era of the global mega-star, exploring how artists use those twelve minutes to challenge the status quo. We analyze how the stage has become a battlefield for identity and representation—from iconic protest anthems to the groundbreaking impact of the "Benito Bowl"—while questioning what it means to break the "monolith" on a world stage. ¡Que viva la poplítica!

In this episode, we sit down with Elyssa Bustamante (The Funky Latina) to explore the high-stakes journey of being a Latino creator in an industry often built on exclusion. We dive into the philosophy behind the Funky Latina Music Festival, the reality of navigating today’s shifting political climate, and why existing as an authentic artist is, in itself, a radical act of resistance. It’s a deep dive into how we move past mere representation to claim true power, proving that when the room wasn’t designed for you, the only move left is to remix it entirely.

In this foundational solo episode, we define the "Poplitician" identity and explore the framework for blending cultural obsession with civic awareness. The discussion breaks down the essential traits required to stay effective in this space, emphasizing how to balance high-stakes analysis with the pure joy of entertainment. By examining the responsibilities of the modern commentator and the unique power of independent voices, this episode serves as a guide for anyone looking to transition from a passive consumer to an intentional, impactful observer of the world around them.

Zach and guest Collin Pullum conduct a deep analysis of two colossal works of art: Ryan Coogler's film Sinners and Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter. They explore how both projects reclaim the history of the American South and utilize powerful allegory and visual statements to challenge the status quo. The conversation centers on themes of cultural sovereignty, historical truth, and resistance against systems that seek to erase Black creative power.

Zach and guest Emily Richardson dive into the poplitical power of the chick flick and the modern rom-com. They analyze the history and evolution of the genre, critiquing the relationship tropes and impossible romantic standards that dominate the screen. The episode celebrates the progressive power of sisterhood within these narratives and explores how the genre is changing to address queer representation and modern politics.

Zach and guest Bri dive into the lucrative and often contradictory world of wellness, body acceptance, and self-care. They analyze how the movement to "love yourself" has been co-opted by capitalism and social media. This episode explores the relationship between economic class and access to food/fitness, and critiques the true cost of the massive corporate wellness industry.

Zach and guest Brandon Luarca analyze the dynamic and often troubling intersection of pop culture, faith, and political influence in America. After discussing their personal faith journeys, they explore the rise of Christian Nationalism and the specific ways religious rhetoric is being leveraged to build massive political and media brands. This episode asks: how do we discern between genuine spiritual expression and political motivation in public life?