Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias

Latest Episodes:

Laëtitia Hollard on Becoming Emma Nolan The Pitt Season 2 First Day Chaos & Dana Bond Feb 13, 2026

Show notes

Laëtitia Hollard joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to talk about stepping into The Pitt Season 2 as Emma Nolan — one of the breakout new characters of the season.

Fresh out of Juilliard, Laëtitia shares how she landed the role, what it was like joining an Emmy-recognized cast, and how Emma’s overwhelming first day at The Pitt mirrored her own first day on set.

We dive deep into Emma’s emotional growth, her powerful mentor relationship with Dana, and the unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments that fans are still talking about.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Landing The Pitt through her Juilliard showcase
• Joining the cast before the Emmys and navigating pressure
• Building Emma Nolan as a Midwest, Gen-Z nurse
• Using real-life nursing research (and nurse TikTok) for authenticity
• The evolving Emma and Dana dynamic
• The shocking maggots scene and intense first-day cases
• Emma’s full Season 2 character arc
• Hopes for Season 3 and exploring Emma’s backstory

If you’re a fan of The Pitt, medical dramas, or love hearing actors break down their creative process, this episode gives you a deeper look at Emma Nolan’s journey and Laëtitia’s breakout performance.

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/A8jb-9rWI84

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#thepitt #thepittseason2 #thepittcast

Kevin James on Solo Mio, Heartbreak, and the Most Personal Film of His Career Feb 11, 2026

Show notes

Kevin James joins Elias on Pop Culture Unplugged during press day for Solo Mio to talk about what he calls the most personal film of his career.

In this heartfelt conversation, Kevin opens up about stepping into a story that begins with heartbreak instead of comedy, why contrast is essential to great storytelling, and how friendship becomes the emotional backbone of Solo Mio.

Kevin shares why playing Matt Taylor was deeply personal, how filming in Italy elevated the story, and why this romantic comedy feels different from anything he’s done before.

“This is my favorite film by far.”
“You can’t give up — that broken heart might be what leads you to real love.”

From vulnerability and isolation to hope and second chances, Kevin reflects on love, loss, and the importance of getting back up when life knocks you down.

In this episode:

Why Solo Mio is Kevin James’ favorite project
Starting a romantic comedy with heartbreak
The power of friendship in healing
Italy as a character in the film
Advice for anyone going through heartbreak
Why this movie deserves the big screen experience

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/izrqLVEtv-8

For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here

Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at popcultureunplugged@gmail.com

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Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here

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Kristian Ventura Breaks Down Simon’s Darkest Arc Yet School Spirits Season 3 Feb 09, 2026

Show notes

Kristian Ventura joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to dive deep into School Spirits Season 3 and Simon’s most intense storyline yet.

In this spoiler-aware conversation, Kristian opens up about playing Simon while trapped in the afterlife, navigating an entirely new cast dynamic, and how Season 3 flips Simon’s journey from saving Maddie to fighting for his own survival. He also discusses the emotional horror of being a ghost, the tension between Simon and Wally, and how this season forces Simon to finally put himself first.

Kristian teases what surprised him most while filming, explores Simon’s growth since Season 1, and breaks down why School Spirits does such a powerful job humanizing its villains without asking the audience to forgive them.

If you’re watching School Spirits Season 3, this interview gives deeper insight into Simon’s mindset, the mystery beneath Split River High, and why this chapter may be the show’s most emotionally intense yet.

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yYNk8ZWnW7s

For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here

Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at popcultureunplugged@gmail.com

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates
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Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here

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Annabel O’Hagan Breaks Down Steph Harper’s Power Shift in Fallout Season 2 Feb 04, 2026

Show notes

Annabel O’Hagan joins Pop Culture Unplugged for an in-depth conversation about playing Steph Harper in Fallout Season 2. In her second appearance on the show, Annabel breaks down Steph’s emotional shift, survival instincts, and the trauma behind her character’s secret past.

She discusses discovering Steph’s full backstory mid-season, why her performance became colder and more controlled this year, and how fear changes the way Steph connects with others inside the Vault. Annabel also explores whether Steph is truly a villain or simply doing what she must to survive, her complicated relationship with Lucy, and what she hopes to see for the character in Season 3.

Plus, Annabel shares behind-the-scenes insights on creating Steph’s inner life through journaling, fan reactions to the eyepatch, and what’s next for her career, including upcoming film projects and festival appearances.

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iBpgs0Y2Z-s

For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here

Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at popcultureunplugged@gmail.com

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates
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Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here

Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!

Ava Ryan Talks Free Bert, Working with Bert Kreischer & Georgia’s Journey Feb 02, 2026

Show notes

Ava Ryan joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to talk about playing Georgia in Netflix’s hit comedy series Free Bert, which recently climbed into the Netflix Top 10.

In this episode, Ava opens up about landing the role, instantly connecting with the script, and working alongside Bert Kreischer and Arden Myrin. She also breaks down Georgia’s emotional journey — from being the awkward new girl at school to navigating popularity, friendships, and family chaos.

Ava also shares what it was like filming the pilot, improvising scenes with Bert, and why Georgia’s story about bullying and fitting in resonates with so many viewers. Plus, she talks about her hopes for a possible Season 2 and what she’d love to explore next with the character.

Episode highlights include:
How Ava landed the role of Georgia
Working with Bert Kreischer and behind-the-scenes improv
Georgia’s journey from outcast to popular
Popularity vs. real friendship
Hopes for Free Bert Season 2
What’s next for Ava Ryan

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TB9FtKLsbC0

For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here

Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at popcultureunplugged@gmail.com

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates
- X: https://x.com/PopCultureUnplg
- Instagram: instagram.com/popcultureunplugged
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- TikTok: tiktok.com/@popcultureunplugged
Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here

Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!

Nadine Bhabha on Heated Rivalry, Elena, Friendship, and Being Kip’s Emotional Bodyguard Feb 02, 2026

Show notes

Nadine Bhabha joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to talk about her role as Elena in the hit hockey romance series Heated Rivalry.

Nadine opens up about landing the role without a traditional audition, why she immediately connected with Elena’s personality, and how the character became the emotional anchor for Kip throughout Season 1. She discusses Elena’s “rough love” approach to friendship, the sibling-like bond between Elena and Kip, and whether Elena was right to step in when things became complicated with Scott.

She also reflects on the massive fan response to the series, what she hopes to explore for Elena in Season 2, and her upcoming project Slow Pitch, where she works as a writer.

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WFT2B9IHCTw

For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here

Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at popcultureunplugged@gmail.com

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates
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Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here

Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!

Scott Foley on Grief, Fatherhood & Faith in 'It’s Not Like That' Jan 30, 2026

Show notes

Scott Foley joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias for a powerful and emotional conversation about his role as Malcolm in the drama series It’s Not Like That.

Scott opens up about portraying a grieving husband, devoted father, and faith leader who must find his voice again after devastating loss. He shares how his real-life experiences as a father shaped Malcolm’s parenting, why vulnerability was central to the character, and what drew him to such a deeply human story.

The conversation also explores Malcolm’s evolving relationship with Laurie, the tension with David, and the challenges of playing a pastor navigating grief, love, and responsibility to his congregation. Scott reveals the real-world research he did with faith leaders to bring authenticity to the role and reflects on what grief, healing, and second chances truly mean.

This episode dives into emotional storytelling, fatherhood, faith, and the quiet moments that define healing.

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8aUctfr1lic

For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here

Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at popcultureunplugged@gmail.com

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates
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Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here

Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!

Arden Myrin on Playing LeeAnn Kreischer in Netflix’s Free Bert Jan 26, 2026

Show notes

Arden Myrin joins Pop Culture Unplugged to talk about stepping into her first-ever leading role as LeeAnn Kreischer in Netflix’s hit comedy series Free Bert. In this fun and heartfelt conversation, Arden shares how she approached playing a real-life person, what surprised her most about working with Bert Kreischer, and why the show has more heart than viewers might expect.

Episode Highlights:
• Arden on becoming a leading lady for the first time in her career
• How she captured LeeAnn Kreischer’s spirit without doing an impression
• Why LeeAnn is the emotional anchor of the family
• What it was like working alongside Bert Kreischer

Free Bert is now streaming on Netflix.

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GkUf1NlQVRg

For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here

Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at popcultureunplugged@gmail.com

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates
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Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here

Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!

Fiona Dourif Talks Dr. McKay, Trauma, and Growth in The Pitt Season 2 Jan 20, 2026

Show notes

Fiona Dourif joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias for an in-depth conversation about The Pitt Season 2, her role as Dr. McKay, and the emotional weight carried by the series following the mass-casualty event.

In this episode, Fiona reflects on realizing how big The Pitt had become, why Dr. McKay is the role closest to her real personality, and how Season 2 explores trauma, resilience, and quiet authority inside the hospital. She also discusses McKay’s growth as a third-year resident, her dynamic with Dr. Robbie, and what new layers viewers will see unfold this season — with Season 3 already on the way.

The conversation dives into authenticity in medical dramas, trusting the audience, and why The Pitt resonates so strongly with viewers who crave grounded, emotionally honest storytelling.

Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias brings you thoughtful conversations with today’s most compelling actors, creators, and storytellers.

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VcGQh2Ude7g

For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here

Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at popcultureunplugged@gmail.com

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates
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Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here

Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!

Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova on Bringing Svetlana to Life in Heated Rivalry Jan 13, 2026

Show notes

Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova joins Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias for a deep dive into her breakout role as Svetlana in Heated Rivalry, one of the most talked-about series of the year.

In this revealing conversation, Ksenia breaks down Svetlana’s true role in the story, addresses fan theories surrounding Jane and Shane, and explains why her character is far more than a romantic distraction. She opens up about auditioning in both English and Russian, landing the role unexpectedly, and having creative freedom to shape Svetlana beyond the books.

Ksenia also discusses the moments fans can’t stop analyzing, her belief about what Svetlana really knows, and why the character serves as a quiet emotional anchor for Ilya throughout Season 1. Plus, she teases what she’d love to explore next if Heated Rivalry returns for Season 2 — including more involvement in the hockey world.

This episode is a must-listen for Heated Rivalry fans, book readers, and anyone fascinated by how complex characters evolve from page to screen.

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HOXAczNKaos

For more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias on YouTube: Subscribe here

Got a burning question or a topic suggestion? Reach out to us at popcultureunplugged@gmail.com

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest show updates
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Visit our official website for more: www.popcultureunplugged.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exciting content: Subscribe here

Don't miss out on the latest updates and exclusive content—join us in Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias!