Can Bad Bunny Save America?
Feb 03, 2026•28 min•Season 1Ep. 88
Listen to this episode in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more
Summary
This episode explores Bad Bunny's immense global impact, from his Grammy win to his Super Bowl Halftime Show, and how he's "rewriting the map" of pop culture by prioritizing his Puerto Rican identity and Spanish language. Dr. Nate Rodriguez explains that Bad Bunny's authenticity challenges the traditional "crossover" model and inherently politicizes discussions around immigration and American identity. The hosts also examine why the NFL, despite controversy, chose Bad Bunny, attributing it to his talent, global reach, and the league's strategic ambitions to expand its international audience.Episode description
From the Grammys to the Super Bowl, this is Bad Bunny’s world… We’re just lucky to live in it. But his presence goes far beyond music.
Dr. Nate Rodriguez, professor of journalism and media studies at San Diego State University, teaches a course all about Bad Bunny’s influence on media, identity and global culture.
Sam and Dr. Nate dive into the contrast of Bad Bunny’s success, while ICE is flooding American cities. They also discuss what the NFL gains from broadcasting his message to the world.
Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.
The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android