Highly Relevant with Jack Rico

Producer and CEO of 3Pas Studios, Ben Odell, is our guest this week. He shares the fascinating story behind his critically acclaimed new film 'Radical,' starring Eugenio Derbez. The film centers on a gifted but disadvantaged group of students in Mexico whose lives are transformed by an unconventional new teacher. Hear how the film was received differently by Mexican versus American audiences, Eugenio's decade-long journey to becoming a dramatic actor, the challenges Latinos face in gaining Oscar recognition, and the surprising story of how the film's rights were nearly lost.Highly Relevant PlaylistAlch Si - (Carin León feat. Grupo Frontera)Nostalgia - (FlowGPT feat. AI Bad Bunny)Vueltas - (Noah Pino Palo)

'How the Gringo Stole Christmas' is one of only a handful of Latino-centered holiday films ever made. This week, its director, Venezuelan-American Angel Gracia, joins the show to discuss this pressing question: Why are Latino holiday movies so rare? Plus, we discuss his rich three-decade journey in filmmaking, the challenges of authentically casting Latino roles, and the hard business truths of making art in Hollywood.Episode Summary:Angel's diverse upbringing and experiences living as a foreigner in different countries, inform his storytellingCasting George Lopez and connecting with his real-life experience as a Latino dad to a daughter dating someone outside their cultureCasting considerations and controversies around Latinx actors playing roles outside their specific heritageThe business side of Hollywood casting and how it impacts creative decisionsThe importance of authenticity in storytelling while also serving the main genre/purpose of the storyAngel's plans to build Super Studios, a new production studio and school in Texas, as a more affordable alternative to HollywoodHighly Relevant PlaylistMonaco - Lagos feat. Danny OceanCinturita - Reggie El AutenticoYasser Tejeda - Pa' SembrarSubscribe to Highly Relevant with Jack Rico where we explore how Latino pop culture is reshaping mainstream entertainment.

Legendary music producer Gustavo Santaolalla has crafted the soundtrack to Rock En Español, producing career-defining albums for Café Tacvba, Molotov, Juanes, and many more. He is one of only three composers to win consecutive Academy Awards for Best Original Score for Brokeback Mountain and Babel. In our wide-ranging conversation, Gustavo shares his philosophical views on art, humanity, the spiritual connection he finds in music, and the state of the creative industry today. We begin with how Gustavo's hard-knock life in 1960s Argentina led to an explosion of boundary-pushing creativity still felt in music today.Episode Key Quotes:"The album 'Arcoiris' is a blueprint of my career. In that album, you're going to find the music for the movies, the songs, the production tricks.""It's creativity, art, and music that moves you in any art. It's what keeps us sane.""In the next 20 years, we're going to have to make big decisions and big changes or this can go away, really."Highly Relevant PlaylistThe Last Of Us - Gustavo SantaolallaEres - Cafe TacvubaFrijolero - Molotov

This week, renowned Colombian band Monsieur Periné joins the show to discuss their latest release, 'Bolero Apocaliptico'. We interview them about the evolution of their musical style, how they challenge traditional love narratives, and the influence of Afro-Colombian roots on their work. The conversation also navigates thought-provoking issues, such as cultural appropriation and white identity in Latin music, as well as discovering sources of love in an increasingly loveless world.Episode SummaryMonsieur Periné discuss their new album, "Bolero Apocaliptico" and what it meansCatalina Garcia and Santiago Prieto share their views on where they find love in a growing loveless worldThe band talks about the Afro-Colombian influences in their music and beyondMonsieur Periné speak on cultural appropriation and white identity in Latin musicHighly Relevant Playlistunx100to - Grupo Frontera, Bad BunnyMundo Parallelo - Monsieur Periné y Pedro CapóTu y Tu - Los Angeles Azules 

In this week's episode, we welcome singer Julio Iglesias Jr. who celebrated his 50th birthday with a new big band album titled "Under The Covers" out now, his first musical project in 15 years. He also opens up about his father Julio Sr. and superstar brother Enrique and how he defines himself in terms of race, culture, and identity.Interview with Julio Iglesias Jr.:Segment 1: Julio's Musical JourneyJulio discussed his love for his last album, Tercera Dimensión, a Spanish rock record in 2003, which is still one of his favorite records.After that, he did a cover record in Spain, but it was a quicky kind of record that didn't turn out well.He then joined a French project man band called "Latin Lover," where they did a cover of "BK" in French.Julio reveals how he found his passion for big band music and how his producer Rudy Perez helped him create his latest album.Julio explains that he doesn't follow trends and only sings what he loves, which is why he defied the trend of singing reggaeton or urban music.Segment 2: Julio's IdentityJack Rico asks Julio how he culturally identifies, whether as Hispanic, Spaniard, or Latino.Julio admits that he is confused about his identity and explains why.Julio says that he has always felt comfortable embracing his father's music and sees himself doing that type of music as opposed to his brother Enrique.Segment 3: Embracing Family and MusicJack Rico asks Julio why he is so comfortable embracing his family, despite the media trying to create a different narrative.Julio explains that he grew up listening to his father's music and sees himself as a true fan of his dad's music.Julio talks about how he doesn't see Enrique singing his father's songs, but he loves doing it himself.Julio says that he loves his family and enjoys touring with his dad whenever he can.Highly Relevant Playlist:Tormenta - Gorillaz feat Bad BunnyTu Veneno - Silvestre y La NaranjaTan Basico - Los RumberosHighly Relevant Podcast‘Highly Relevant' is a Latino pop culture podcast hosted by Jack Rico, TV host, journalist, and film critic since 2016. He interviews Latino actors, musicians, journalists, and media executives to explore their impact on mainstream culture and entertainment.

Our first guest of 2023 is Xochitl Gonzalez, the multi-talented Puerto Rican-Mexican American writer of the New York Times best-seller "Olga Dies Dreaming" and staff writer for The Atlantic Magazine. She's here to discuss with me her latest thought-provoking article, "The New Case for Social Climbing," and its impact on people of color, particularly Latinos. In our interview, we explore the advantages and disadvantages of seeking higher social status, the right and wrong ways to do it, and why Latinos are more likely to succeed at it. We also get an update on her Hulu TV adaptation of "Olga Dies Dreaming” starring Aubrey Plaza and Ramon Rodriguez. Episode BreakdownTopic 1: What is Social Climbing?Xochitl's definition of social climbingCommon misconceptions about social climbingDifferences between social climbing and networking Topic 2: The Pros and Cons of Social ClimbingAdvantages of social climbingDisadvantages of social climbingHow social climbing can impact personal relationships Topic 3: Strategies for Successful Social ClimbingHow to navigate the social climbing worldTips for building authentic relationshipsBalancing ambition and authenticity Topic 4: Ethical Considerations of Social ClimbingThe impact of social climbing on marginalized communitiesThe responsibility of those who engage in social climbingThe importance of self-reflection and introspectionHighly Relevant Music Playlist: Diferente - (Steve Aoki featuring CNCO)Por Si Volvemos - Karol G and Romeo SantosOnly One - Jessie ReyezHighly Relevant Podcast‘Highly Relevant' is a Latino pop culture podcast hosted by Jack Rico, TV host, journalist, and film critic. He interviews Latino actors, musicians, journalists, and media executives to explore their impact on mainstream culture and entertainment.

In this interview with Marta Tellado, the CEO of Consumer Reports, we discuss how she became one of the few Latina CEOs in the country, how her Cuban heritage shaped her democratic ideals, and how her new book, ‘Buyer Aware: Harnessing Our Consumer Power for a Safe, Fair, and Transparent Marketplace,' acts as a guide for consumers to reclaim their power against shady business practices. Marta's Favorite Things: Casa de Papel, Sound of Music, Esperanza SpauldingHighly Relevant Music Playlist: Flores - Nino Freestyle, DalexTomemos un Trago - Kat & AlexI Know You Know - Esperanza SpauldingHighly Relevant Podcast‘Highly Relevant' is a Latino pop culture podcast. Jack Rico - TV host, journalist, film critic, and podcaster - talks with actors, musicians, journalists, and media executives about how they are influencing mainstream culture and entertainment.

Ximena and I discuss her most recent album Amor Adolecente and how her hit ballad 'Una Vez Más' came to be. We also discuss the significance her sophomore English-language album had on her artistic growth, the pressures for Latin artists to succumb to the Reggaeton momentum, why it's hard for Latina artists to find global acceptance, and we discuss her dreams of one day composing on the New York Broadway stage.

In this week's episode, I talk to Simón Mejía, the founder and band leader of the Grammy-winning Colombian group ‘Bomba Estéreo'. We discuss his latest solo film and music project EL DUENDE, inspired by the Afro-indigenous music of Colombia's jungles, as well as, what he thinks of Colombia's newly elected president Gustavo Petro, and how the Bad Bunny collaboration of ‘Ojitos Lindos' came to be without them ever meeting.The Highly Relevant PlaylistLa isla de Lesbos - Javiera MenaEl Lobby - Micro TDH, Pablo AlboránMala Vibra - GativideoLike to give us your feedback? Email us at highlyrelevant@showbizcafe.comFollow Jack:Twitter: https://twitter.com/JackRicofficial Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackrico40/ Subscribe to Highly Relevant:iTunes http://apple.co/2nh2db1Spotify http://spoti.fi/2mEJfyy

In this week's episode, we welcome Manuel Abud, the CEO of the Latin Recording Academy for a chat about this year's Latin Grammys. We discuss an array of topics including thoughts of taking the Latin Grammys back to CBS and mainstream validation, his vision of taking the show internationally to different countries, competition from other Spanish-language award shows, which award is more important to a Latin artist… the Grammy or the Latin Grammy? and he addresses some of the controversies surrounding the urban/reggaeton backlash of the last several years.

This week I interview my good friend Benjamin Odell, who is the CEO of 3Pas Studios, the production company he and his friend Eugenio Derbez formed together. Their latest project is the remake of the French film ‘The Valet' which premieres on HULU May 20th. In this conversation, Ben and I talk about his unique life and cultural upbringing, as well as the work 3Pas Studios has accomplished in a short time. We discuss in detail the unique ways he and Eugenio have used Latino storytelling to successfully reach general audiences, and why 'The Valet' could very well be a culmination of that work.

Dominican actor Manny Perez, perhaps best known for his films 'Washington Heights,' 'El Cantante,' 'Bella' and the hit action film ‘La Soga,' is now doing his directorial debut with the sequel - 'La Soga Salvation'. We discuss what it takes to write, direct and produce his own movie, what the future of Dominican cinema looks like, and his opinion on the film ‘In The Heights'. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

In our first episode, we welcome actress Justina Machado. You know her from the Emmy Award-winning comedy reboot of “One Day at a Time” from legendary producer Norman Lear and several other tv shows and films. Our conversation covered several interesting subjects such as Latino representation in the animation industry, why Hispanic animated films succeed and real-life Latino content doesn't, and why she stopped using the term Hispanic to describe herself. Highly Relevant Playlist Santo - Christina Aguilera y Ozuna Melancolia - Sinego y Ácido Pantera Eucalipto - Mario Puglia Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Gloria Calderon Kellett's 'With Love' is the best Latinx television I have seen. It combines all the American TV characteristics we grew up with, but with a US Latino family at the center. Think of ‘When Harry Met Sally,' ‘Love Actually,' 'The Holiday,' but with Latinos. It's all the shows that make us cozy up to a warm fire, a snug blanket, and hot chocolate. Gloria shares the details of how she got into the business, and how legendary producer Norman Lear believed in her. Highly Relevant Playlist Eso Es Un Vibe - Omar Courtz Poema - Las Villas Pa Poderte Ver - Mareh, Ana Mancebo, Sobrino, julio cesar Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

This week I welcome Colombian photographer Josefina Santos who as of late has been photographing some of the biggest names in music, tv, and film, such as Olivia Rodrigo, MJ Rodriguez from ‘Pose' and indie director Jim Jarmusch to name a few, plus has photographed covers for The New Yorker, The New York Times, Teen Vogue and more. Josefina and I discuss what she did to make media mainstream's elite notice her, how Instagram is a blessing and a curse and we tackle the creative's debate - should a creative work free for career-changing opportunities OR take the opportunity for no pay. Highly Relevant Playlist La Fama - Rosalia (feat. The Weeknd) Supersad - Georgel, Maco Mares, Diamante Electrico Yate - C. Tangana Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

On a new episode of Highly Relevant, I talk to director/producer Lissette Feliciano about her new indie film 'Women Is Losers'. The film which premiered at 2021's SXSW Festival, has gotten good reviews for it's female empowerment story and her use of multicultural characters. She tells me how lies about Latinos in the media has become the driving force behind the mantra of her production company, Look at the Moon Pictures. She also lets me in on how she raised funds for her own film, and how young producers can do the same for themselves.  Highly Relevant Playlist Mi Fiesta - Bandalos Chinos Sammy Arriaga - Obvio  Cuestión de Suerte - Natalia Lacunza Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

In this rebroadcast of our interview with director Robert Rodriguez from February 27, 2019, we discuss his new film at that time 'Alita: Battle Angel,' how one of the main goals of his TV network 'El Rey' was to find and hire more Latino filmmakers, and if it is the responsibility of a Latino directors to create Latino stars.  Highly Relevant Playlist Pa Mis Muchchas - Christina Aguilera (feat. Nathy Peluso, Becky G y Nicki Nicole Sexy Girl - Ozuna, Megan Stallion y DJ Snake Amor Como Puñal - Loyal Lobos Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Adriana Barraza is one of five Latinas to have ever been nominated for an Academy Award in acting. She is now starring in the new Blumhouse horror film 'Bingo Hell' on Amazon Prime Video, perfectly timed for Halloween. In this new interview, Adriana and I discuss being the first Latina actress in her 60s to lead a film. It was also directed and co-written by a Latina filmmaker Gigi Saul Guerrero. We discuss her 50 year acting career, ageism in Hollywood, how someone once told her to never speak Spanish, and why she doesn't mind the label of Latinx.  Highly Relevant Playlist Bachatica - Leslie Grace fue mejor - Kali Uchis (feat. SZA) Debilidad (A Colors Show) - Javiera Mena Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Actress/producer Aubrey Plaza has become a cult indie film queen since her big break as April Ludgate on NBC's “Parks And Recreation”. Since then she's done popular films such as Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates, and the Child's Play reboot. She's now coming off of a dramedy with Michael Caine called Best Sellers, is currently working with Jason Statham on the action thriller “Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre”, and is gearing up for HULU's comedy Olga Dies Dreaming. In this interview from November 26, 2020, Aubrey and I discussed her recent comedic psychological thriller Black Bear, her interest in producing Latinx content, and why breaking Latina stereotypes is a priority for her. Highly Relevant Playlist Rómpelo - Cimafunk feat. LupeFiasco En La Ciudad de la Furia - Aterciopelados Lento - Bomba Estéreo Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Known for being one of the biggest comedians in Mexico, Eugenio Derbez made a splash in the indie film scene with his bilingual movie ‘Instructions Not Included,' which became the highest-grossing Spanish-language film and the fourth highest-grossing foreign film of all time in the United States. He followed that up with ‘How to Be a Latin Lover,' ‘Overboard,' ‘Dora and the Lost City of Gold,' ‘Coda,' and now Acapulco, his latest TV series with Apple TV+ October 8th. In this interview from April 27, 2018, Eugenio and I discussed his new movie at the time - "Overboard" - but what we really talked about was some of the struggles he was having “fitting in” to Hollywood's exclusive club. We talked about accents, transitioning to starring in English-language movies, how he overcame the sellout stigma from Mexican peers, and why he believes Hollywood is afraid of creating Latino movie stars.  Highly Relevant Playlist Contracorriente - Camilo Séptimo y Ximena Sariñana Que Maldición - Banda MS feat. Snoop Dogg and Becky G. Until The Day - Alexcis and T-Pain  Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! I am kicking off a retrospective series for Hispanic Heritage Month where I revisit with you my favorite interviews of the last five years. We start it off with the star of In The Heights and Transformers 7, actor/singer Anthony Ramos. In this interview I did with him on October 5th, 2018, Ramos is coming off of a co-starring role in Broadway's HAMILTON with Lin-Manuel Miranda, and the Oscar-winning film A STAR IS BORN (no pun intended) with Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper. You can hear him reflective, grateful, and open to whatever the universe has in store for him. It's an interesting interview with a star in the making. Highly Relevant Playlist SacaLaCamara - Manu Manzo Suerte - J Balvin Say Less - Anthony Ramos Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

My guest this week is Camila Legaspi, the Chief Content Officer of Latina Media Ventures, the company which owns Latina Magazine. She joins me this week for an in-depth discussion on the relaunch of Latina.com. We discuss why the brand took a hiatus, why it decided to return, and what role will it play for this new generation of Latinas. Can the brand work its magic again? Highly Relevant Playlist UNA NOTA - J Balvin, Sech PAUSA - Martox y Gian Rojas  DAIKIRI - Simon Grossman Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

In this episode, director Rodrigo Reyes discusses his new film '499,' a documentary about how Spanish colonialism has traumatized the people of Mexico today. He and I will talk about how he got his movie funded and what inspired him to make this film. And I also talk to Stanford Professor Tomás Jiménez about the latest Census numbers and what they really mean to Latinos.  Highly Relevant Music Playlist Linda- Tokischa feat. Rosalía Vil Reptil - Duplat feat. Soy Emilia Estadio Estudio - CLUBZ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Dominican-born Emilio Sosa, the new Chair of the American Theatre Wing, is the first Latino to chair the prestigious organization. He is a Tony-nominated costume designer whose Broadway career includes, ON YOUR FEET!, MOTOWN: The Musical, and his Tony nomination for Gershwin's PORGY AND BESS. We discuss his humble beginnings as a young Dominican living in the South Bronx, how his ambitions and dreams led him to work with the likes of Spike Lee, Celine Dion, and Wynton Marsalis, and what his vision for America's stages will look like in the next four years. Will it become more multicultural under his tenure?  Highly Relevant Music Playlist Funk Aspirin - Cimafunk y George Clinton Gemini Amor - Yoandri Psicodelico - sete y Giorgio Siladi Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

I talk to Uruguayan filmmaker Maximiliano Contenti whose new horror film THE LAST MATINEE is in theaters right now. We discuss the 90's inspiration behind the film as well as tackle colorism in Uruguayan and Argentine cinema. How does it relate to American cinema today? Plus, how do his generations' filmmakers feel about the Hollywood industry today? Do they aspire to it OR are they rebelling against it?  Highly Relevant Playlist Que Locura - J Balvin Los Viejos Vinagres - Los Auténticos Decadentes y Panteón Rococo Todo y Nada - Playa Limbo Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

It's no secret Asian talent and creators are in high demand in Hollywood right now. Teresa Hsiao, creator and showrunner of 'Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens,' realizes how much interest there is for her and her friends right now. Latinos are starting to see glimmers, but for us, it's not the same. We're struggling in Hollywood, the numbers back it up. So what advice does Teresa have for us? Listen in and hear what she has to tell me. Highly Relevant Playlist Trebol - Ben Aler EME - MIEL, Bardo José Igual a nadie - vangoura Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

In this week's episode, I invite a few friends to recommend what they've enjoyed reading, watching, or listening to as of late. Maybe it'll help you choose your next mental escape. Gonzalo Peña - InnoLatino Podcast Agustina Gamero Roman Rojas - Tremenda Vaina Podcast Juan Doe - http://www.juandoe.com Highly Relevant Playlist Conexión Total - Bomba Estéreo, Yemi Alade Don't Go Yet - Camila Cabello No Necesito Más - Marissa Mur Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

In this episode, we discuss Camilo's new 'Kesi Remix' with Canadian pop star Shawn Mendes who sings in Spanish for the very first time. Entertainment reporter Lucas Villa from wearemitu.com joins me to find out how Latino Mr. Mendes wants to be since he's also dating Cuban megastar, Camila Cabello. I also recommend 3 quality films you might have known about for your viewing pleasure this weekend. Highly Relevant Playlist Luna de Plata - La Garfield Todo El Dia En La Cama - Cheo Destroy The Empire - Pachyman Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Joining me today are the podcast hosts of Pero Let Me Tell Yo, DJ and Ish, two Cuban-Americans based in Miami who give me their perspective of the protests in Cuba and what it all means for the future of Cuba and Cuban-Americans in Miami. Highly Relevant Playlist Cabala - Xiomara Fortuna  Cortar - Raquel Sofía (feat. Los Macorinos)  Tú - Okills, Melissa Robles Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Newsletters have become a very popular way of consuming news. The first newsletter I ever read was Brian Stelter's from CNN. The first Latinx newsletter I remember subscribing to was Elisabeth Rosario's 'The Latinx Collective' which I interviewed her about it almost 3 years ago. Back in March, the news website Axios partnered with Telemundo to create Axios Latino. Co-editor Mariana Franco joins me today to discuss how the newsletter is going, why non-Latinos are subscribing, and she shares some reasons why she believes Spanish-speaking newspapers aren't booming. Highly Relevant playlist Perreo y Lloro - Simona y Los del Control Llueven - Claridad y Oli Miglioli Yasser Tejeda - El Sol de la Madrugada Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Christian Herrera and producer 2Deep, co-founders of LA's Gasolina Records, join me today to discuss American Reggaeton, a new musical movement by US-born Latino reggaeton artists who want to break into the Latin-American market. How did they build their record label, why are American Latino reggaetoneros being iced out by the fans and industry? How will Gasolina Records change that? Listen in and find out. Highly Relevant Playlist Deja - Bomba Estéreo High Season - Poolside y Buscabulla KTJDN - Nebulossa Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

In this week's episode, Cuban-American writer-director Carlos V. Gutierrez discusses his first feature-length film - LOCKED IN. We discuss what it took him to get his first Hollywood movie made, if directors and writers are responsible for improving the image of Latino-created characters on film, and what we have to do to convince studio executives that Latino stories are worth watching.  Highly Relevant Playlist Todo De Ti - Rauw Alejandro Suerte - Yorghaki Un Millon - The Marias Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

My guest today is actor Juan Pablo Raba who co-stars in Liam Neeson’s border thriller The Marksman out on streaming now. He plays Mauricio, a Mexican cartel soldier out to retrieve his missing prize. We tackle Hollywood’s fixation with border stories and why Juan Pablo believes border stories need to continue to be told. We also debate The Marksman’s “white savior” narrative and why he believes the movie is really a “brown savior” film. Then I review J Balvin's 'Boy From Medellin' documentary. Highly Relevant Playlist Nagano - CLUBZ y Ela Minus  Commitment - Luna Luna Neon - Patterns Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Los Rivera Destino are a young Puerto Rican band who are driving a new wave of modern boleros in Latin music. They’ve already collaborated with the likes of Bad Bunny and Pedro Capó. We discuss why they believe boleros are having a renaissance, the story behind how they collaborated with Bad Bunny, and whether they are pro or nay for Statehood in Puerto Rico. Highly Relevant Playlist Lo Hice, Te Dejé - Daniel, Me Estás Matando muero x ti- Noah Pino Palo y CLUBZ Eso Que Me Das - Juan Pablo Vega y Esteman  Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

My guest this week is actor/singer Christian Chavez, former member of the musical phenomenon RBD. Christian has a new Telemundo super-series out now called “LA SUERTE DE LOLI” where he plays Matías, a clever and openly gay assistant who is having problems in his marriage. We discuss identity, language, fame, depression and if there is a RBD super-series reunion in the works. Highly Relevant Music Playlist Delorean - Mi$HNRZ Quedarme Con Vos - Los Hermanos Morgan y Hot Plug Beats Disco Stu - The Crayolas Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

This week my guests are Cuban Poet Richard Blanco and Puerto Rican band Buscabulla.  Richard Blanco was the first Latino, immigrant and openly gay poet to be chosen to read at a Presidential inauguration. He recited 'One Today' at Barack Obama's 2013 Inauguration. We spoke on the role poetry should play in our country right now. Puerto Rican duo 'Buscabulla,' founded by Raquel Berrios and Luis Alfredo Del Valle, have a recent album called 'Regresa' which includes 11 tracks. This is my favorite album of 2020, English or Spanish. We talked how they’ve handled not having a live-audience to perform to, why they won’t sing in English, how their track 'La Fiebre' is really about Bad Bunny, and how Reggaeton is being influenced by indie music. Highly Relevant Music Playlist La Luz (Fin) - Kali Uchis y Buscabulla Lo Vas A Olvidar - Rosalia y Billie Eilish De Una Vez - Selena Gomez  Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

Colombian actress Vanessa Rubio, who stars as Carmen Díaz in the hit Netflix show ‘Cobra Kai,' joins the show to discuss what it’s like to be on a hit mainstream show, what her first reaction to hearing she was officially cast in ‘Cobra Kai’ was like, what she thinks of more interracial relationships like she has with Johnny Lawrence, and why she believes the arts are needed more than ever right now. The Highly Relevant Playlist Drivers License - Olivia Rodrigo Supernova - Chia Cassanova Puente - Vale Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Camilo Lara is the brainchild of ‘Mexican Institute of Sound,’ one of the most innovative musical bands in Latin music. Why he doesn't play the Grammy's is beyond us. We discuss the meaning behind his new single - 'My America Is Not Your America' - why racism exists in Mexico, how he collaborated with Pixar’s Oscar winning-film ‘Coco’ and how pop culture will no longer come from America, but from other cultures throughout the world. It’s a candid and memorable conversation you won’t want to miss. Music Playlist La Fiebre - Buscabulla Pronto - CLUBZ Quema - Sotomayor Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Happy Thanksgiving! Our guest today is actress and producer Aubrey Plaza who has a new psychological thriller called BLACK BEAR out December 4th. We did a deep dive on her Puerto-Rican heritage, if she identifies as a Latina, does she speak Spanish and if she wants to make latinx films. Also she explains why breaking Latina stereotypes is a priority for her. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

This week we welcome actor Maximiliano Hernández (The Avengers) where we covered a lot of interesting topics ranging from why there is no Latinx superheroes at Marvel or DC to racism and image representation. Plus, why he considers Peacock's 'Mr. Mercedes' the most fun he's had on a TV show and the question he asked Benicio del Toro on set about the movie that made him want to become an actor. Music Playlist Quedate - Debi Nova, Pedro Capó Paranoia Pop - Bandalos Chinos y LOUTA Paraiso - Monogem  Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

The 21st Latin Grammy Nominations were announced this week and music journalist, Isabela Raygoza, joins the show to help me deconstruct what the plethora of Reggaeton nominations means to music fans and the music industry. Will white and Black artists continue to collaborate with Spanish-language artists? Plus, Isabela weighs in on who will win and lose on Latin’s biggest night in music. Music Playlist Bajofondo - Solari Yacumenza (ft. Cuareim 1080) Dos Extraños - Cero39 (feat. Soy Emilia) Buenos Aires - Nathy Peluso Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Mexican-American comedian Felipe Esparza did something special this year. He is the first comedian to record two separate performances – one in English and one in Spanish - of his new comedy specials 'Bad Decisions' and 'Malas Decisiones' for Netflix, marking this moment a first for Latinx comedians and Netflix as well. Esparza joins Jack on this episode to discuss why no other Latino comedians have done bilingual shows before. what made him want to do it and the challenges of perfecting his Spanish for showtime, and what this achievement means for comedy’s evolution? Will all established and upcoming Latinx comedians take note? Highly Relevant Playlist Nuestra Historia - Humboldt Centro - MIEL Tiempo - Gravité Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

This week actress Genesis Rodriguez drops by the podcast to discuss her new survival thriller Centigrade out on demand right now. Genesis and Jack have a raw conversation on the unhealthy experience she had filming the movie, she describes how she put her body through extreme torture using a diet where she lost 14lbs. in 20 days that left her physically exhausted and different. She also talks how the pandemic has had a toll on her mentally and professionally, how Tik-Tok and cooking have saved her sanity, and that day she was told at a restaurant to go back to her country even though she was born in the United States.  Music playlist Explosion - Adrian Bello (feat. Ximena Sariñana) Los Chicos Si Lloran - Diamante Eléctrico Solito - Hens Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Honduran-American television host Rocsi Díaz joins Jack Rico on the return of the "Highly Relevant Podcast" to discuss her brand new co-hosting show "Cannonball" from the USA Network. She also shares with Jack what she believes are the components she has used to become a national television host on BET, Entertainment Tonight, E! and now the USA Network. Plus, what does she think of the Latinx term, and her thoughts on the fall from grace of Ellen DeGeneres. Music Playlist El Micrófono - Mexico Institute of Sound Jungla - Monte from Simon Mejía Universos Paralelos - Juan Galeano Follow Jack: Twitter: https://twitter.com/JackRicofficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackrico Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Dominican-American director Jessy Terrero discusses with Jack his Netflix project - "Nicky Jam: El Ganador". He also gives his views about creativity under quarantine, the aesthetic of low tech vs. high-tech productions, his thoughts on virtual directing, why Hollywood still hasn't embraced the reggaeton phenomenon like Latinx youth has and the stigma of urban. Latinx Playlist Ahorita - IVANSITO Coachella - REYNA  In Too Deep - Katzú Oso 

Jaime Camil joins the podcast to discuss his new bilingual movie “Pildoras De Mi Novio” out in theaters now. We got a chance to discuss the growing trend of bilingual and bicultural movies, his thoughts on why Jane The Virgin was successful with white audiences, and if we reached a turning point in Hollywood viewing Hispanic actors as legitimate stars.

On this first episode of 2020, we talk to Jencarlos Canela, arguably one of the most beloved singer/actors in the Hispanic market on his new Netflix Latinx sitcom “The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia”. We get into a deep conversation on why he feels comfortable with white showrunners telling him how to play a Hispanic, how he’s handled being told he’s not Hispanic enough, and why he feels people will never grasp the full impact of what Eva Longoria does to push Latinx culture to the American mainstream. Jack's Curated Playlist Something - Los Amigos Invisibles Atomico - Jungle Fire Hasta Que - Tatiana Hazel

This is the last podcast of 2019. We will be back in 2020 with more episodes and also will be launching a new podcast as well. We will be announcing details very soon on all of Jack's social media platforms. On this episode, we discuss the Camila Cabello (1:58) racial debacle with culture critic Mike Sargent over some insensitive comments she said seven years ago. We’ll tell you what she said, what the general reaction has been and will her meteoric rise take a hit in 2020. Then Mike and Jack give you their FIRST REACTION of ‘Star Wars: Rise of the Skywalker’ (32:13) from inside the first New York press screening of the film. Will it satisfy fans and will it satisfy the critics?  Holiday Playlist (31:25) Esta Navidad - Malu Trevejo Jingle Bell Rock - Matisse Te Regalo - Sebastian Yatra

Actor William Levy has a new film out called 'En Abrazos de un Asesino' (8:02) which he co-wrote, produced and stars in. It’s like James Bond meets John Wick, but in Mexico. In our interview, Levy got raw and direct about how the Latino market and Hollywood once told him he was never going to succeed because of his Cuban accent and how he didn't look "Latino" enough play a Latino. Much of these experiences marked him, to the point where he created a production company with the purpose of hiring Latinx actors with all types of accents, and, to develop Spanish language movies for Spanish language viewers like his mother and grandmother who don’t understand English. "Jacked In" Weekly News Recap (6:28) Music Playlist (26:57) Barro En Los Pies - Polock (feat. IZAL) FuckHim - Girl Ultra (feat. Ximena Sariñana) Mala Manera - Juanes

This week actress, singer and producer Ana Villafane joins me to talk about what it feels like to be a part of not one, but two shows on NBC (Sunnyside, New Amsterdam), the reasons why she hasn’t returned to Broadway yet, why she’s been so transparent on speaking about mental health publicly, and why producing her recent Latinx Cabaret event for Hispanic Heritage Month in NY was such a fulfilling experience.  *Colombian singer Santiago Munera is this week's featured artist.

Marcos Juarez, Pandora's Head of Latin Music, stops by to discuss a wide array of topics in the Latin music space, including why most Latinos listen to Pandora for Latin music.