Poplitically Correct

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?

The biggest story of Election Day 2025 wasn't the sweep — it was the playbook that became the blueprint for victory.From Zohran Mamdani’s historic victory to the passing of CA Proposition 50, Zach and Tasha analyze the campaigns that successfully embraced viral messaging and pop culture aesthetics to drive voter turnout, proving that getting with the times is quickly becoming the only path to electoral victory.

Halloween is more than just candy y'all... it's a sociocultural free-for-all! The Poplitically Correct Season 2 Premiere is hitting the streets for a spooky deep-dive. Zach and Tasha tear into the political commentary hidden in the horror genre (from Get Out to The Substance), debate where a costume crosses the line, and reveal what classic Disney villains (looking at you, Scar and Ursula) really teach us about power and class. Plus, a fast-paced round of "Spooky or Poplitical?"

For the grand finale of Season 1, Zach reunites with bestie and fan favorite Emily Richardson to hand out the ultimate Poplitical Superlatives—honoring the moments that made us laugh, rage, spiral, and maybe even hope this past year. From the unserious to the unforgettable, it’s a year-in-review you won’t want to miss.They reflect, predict, and pop off one last time before heading into a new season this fall.⚠️ This episode contains MAJOR spoilers for Shrinking and Severance (Apple TV+).

Finding your voice isn’t easy—but it’s possible, and it’s poplitical. In this solo Poplitical Pulse episode, Zach shares five hard-earned tips for staying grounded, growing, and speaking up in today’s ever-shifting social and political landscape.

Juneteenth is more than just a holiday—it's a legacy, a movement, and a mirror. In this episode of Poplitically Correct, Zach is joined by friend and activist Tylor Brown for a deep dive into the pop culture and politics of Black liberation. From Kendrick to Beyoncé, to brand performativity, and the importance of Black films like Sinners, they unpack what it means to honor Juneteenth in today’s climate without watering it down. Tune in for a reflective, honest, and Poplitically charged conversation that keeps the celebration rooted in truth.

Pride isn’t just a party—it’s power, protest, and pop culture.In this special episode, Zach and his good Judy, Collin Pullum, unpack how queer culture shaped the mainstream, why Pride feels different in 2025, and what it means to reclaim it amidst rising anti-LGBTQ+ attacks. From drag race to trans rights, they get into the messy, meaningful poplitics of Pride.Because Pride has always been political—and there’s no Pride without Poplitics.

From Cheech & Chong to corporate cannabis—this episode hits all the highs and lows. Zach and guest Vinny Reilly explore how marijuana has been portrayed in pop culture, break down the myths (and realities) of weed use, and dive into the politics of mass incarceration and the urgent need for federal legalization. Light up the discourse—this one’s blunt in all the right ways.

Pop culture doesn't just entertain—it educates. In this solo episode, Zach shares the performances, shows, and moments that shaped his worldview long before he had the words for it. From High School Musical to Lemonade, A Bug’s Life to Love, Simon, this episode is a tribute to the media that made him—and maybe it even made you, too.

Is cancel culture about accountability—or control? Zach is joined by Cody Baker to break down celebrity and political scandals, stan-fueled cancellations, and the blurred line between justice and performance. Plus, Zach shares his own experience getting "cancelled" by a stanbase.

Reality TV isn’t just a guilty pleasure—it’s a poplitical mirror. Zach teams up with returning guest, Tasha Spoo, to break down the deeper social dynamics behind your favorite messy moments. From Housewives to RuPaul's Drag Race to The Traitors, nothing is off-limits.

From Oscar upsets to Grammy snubs, award shows have never been just about trophies. Zach is joined by his friend, Vic Salinas, to break down the politics, performances, and pop culture chaos of the industry’s biggest nights. Who gets recognized, who gets robbed, and why it all matters more than you’d think.

Zach teams up with his Gen Z sister Mariah to break down select songs that accidentally go hard for the revolution.From breakup anthems that sound like policy critiques to chaotic bangers with protest potential, this episode explores how pop music can hit harder than a political ad… even when it doesn’t mean to. This episode is giving resistance with rhythm.

Join Zach and his brother Isaiah as they recap and reflect on their experience at the 2025 Funky Latina Music Festival. This first mini-episode that we will be calling a Poplitical Pulse is a beautiful example of why representation matters and the power of building community.

Pop divas do more than entertain—they shape culture, spark conversations, and use their platforms for activism. In this episode, host Zach is joined by his best friend, Tasha Spoo, to explore how icons in music and film turn their art into statements.From Beyoncé’s COWBOY CARTER to Chappell Roan’s queer advocacy; from the themes of Wicked to Melissa Barrera’s act of protest against oppressive producers, they discuss the risks, rewards, and impact of blending artistry with activism—plus, can men be Poplitical Divas too? Find out now!

Stan culture has taken over the internet—but what happens when it takes over politics, too? In this episode of Poplitically Correct, Zach is joined by his good friend Emily Richardson, a communications and policy pro in state government, to break down the rise of political fandoms. Are we treating politicians like pop stars? Do Stans help or hurt democracy? And is blind loyalty ever a good thing? From the power of online movements to the chaos of unhinged Twitter wars, we’re diving deep into the Stan-ocratic Party.

Defining what it means to “think Poplitically” and setting the stage for the show’s perspective.