FYPod Episode 38: Trump Might LOSE Gen Z By Going To War With Iran! (w/ Snacks Da Hip Hopper)
Released on June 21, 2025
Host: The Bulwark
1. Introduction and Guest Appearance
[00:02 - 00:29]
Cameron Caskey introduces the episode and welcomes his former roommate and close friend, Snax the Hip Hopper, to discuss the shifting political landscape among Gen Z voters.
Notable Quote:
Cameron Caskey: "I'm Cameron Caskey, and this is Fypod Bulwark's Gen Z est show. Today we're joined by my former roommate and one of my best friends, Snax the Hip Hopper."
2. Identity and Branding: The Story Behind 'Snax the Hip Hopper'
[00:29 - 02:26]
Snax shares the origin of his stage name, explaining how his love for snacks during landscaping and his passion for hip-hop led to the moniker. Cameron humorously remarks on not knowing Snax's legal name until later, highlighting the ease and appeal of his chosen nickname.
Notable Quote:
Snax the Hip Hopper: "I used to eat a lot of snacks while I did landscape. I also, you know, make music, you know, hip hop, obviously. So the two kind of combined."
3. Gen Z's Political Engagement and Workforce Dynamics
[02:20 - 04:16]
Discussion shifts to Snax's multifaceted career in Los Angeles, balancing football and selling insurance. They delve into Gen Z's diverse career paths compared to millennials, emphasizing the pressure to juggle multiple roles and the evolving nature of the workforce.
Notable Quote:
Snax the Hip Hopper: "So I just figured I'd do many things at the same time and see what sticks, right?"
4. Protests, Military Presence, and Public Perception
[04:16 - 06:10]
The conversation addresses recent protests in Los Angeles, the presence of military forces, and public perceptions of civil unrest. Snax clarifies that most protests have remained peaceful despite occasional outbreaks of violence, challenging the narrative that LA resembles a conflict zone.
Notable Quote:
Snax the Hip Hopper: "But those are not people who are actually for that. Cause, you know, like, to be honest, the rest of the protests have been really peaceful."
5. Challenges in Mobilizing Diverse Demographics
[06:10 - 11:01]
Snax discusses the hesitancy among brown and minority communities to participate in protests due to fears of government crackdowns, citing personal anecdotes of encounters with ICE. The hosts reflect on the exhaustion felt by Black communities in consistently bearing the brunt of social movements without substantial policy changes.
Notable Quote:
Snax the Hip Hopper: "I think we're tired of having to be the people to take all... We've been voting for the Democrats for years, and I feel them. Nothing's really changed."
6. Gen Z's Support for Trump: A Complex Landscape
[11:01 - 16:19]
The hosts examine polling data suggesting a nuanced stance of Gen Z toward Trump. While some Gen Z members express support based on entertainment value and perceived strength, others are disillusioned by unfulfilled promises and economic challenges. The discussion highlights the gender divide within Gen Z's political preferences.
Notable Quotes:
Cameron Caskey: "They were drinking the Kool Aid and going along for his sales pitch."
Snax the Hip Hopper: "But those are the points they were making, right?"
7. The Impact of Policies and Economic Conditions on Voting Behavior
[16:19 - 29:59]
A deep dive into how Trump's potential military actions against Iran could erode his support among Gen Z voters. The conversation touches on economic grievances, such as rising insurance rates and stagnant wages, which contribute to Gen Z's shifting allegiances. Snax shares observations of friends reconsidering their political choices in light of current events.
Notable Quote:
Snax the Hip Hopper: "Our economy is not doing great. Costs of everything have gone up... if you look at our media, we look like we're divided between all different types of demographics."
8. Regional Political Shifts: Focus on Michigan and Florida
[30:11 - 35:21]
The hosts discuss the political trends in key swing states like Michigan and Florida. Snax highlights the disappointment among Michigan voters due to unmet economic promises and the lingering effects of the Flint water crisis. Cameron adds context about demographic shifts and economic factors influencing migration patterns.
Notable Quote:
Snax the Hip Hopper: "Michigan also right now has a great governor in Big Rich. She's done great things for the state."
9. Strategies for Gen Z Activism and Engagement
[35:21 - 38:38]
Introducing a new segment, the hosts address audience questions about empowering Gen Z to actively participate in politics. They advocate for grassroots activism, involvement in local government, and fostering respectful dialogues within communities to influence political outcomes effectively.
Notable Quote:
Cameron Caskey: "I think it's important for young people to have those conversations at the dinner table in their community with the people around them."
10. Audience Interaction: Zoomer Mailbag and Community Advice
[38:38 - 41:55]
Responding to a listener named Sage, the guests offer advice on how Gen Z can make their voices heard against Trump. They emphasize the importance of informed discussions, grassroots involvement, and perseverance in political activism despite systemic challenges.
Notable Quote:
Snax the Hip Hopper: "First of all, Gen Z people need to do to stand up to Trump, like, let's have actual candid conversations about what's going on and see what actually benefited you."
11. Concluding Remarks and Final Thoughts
[41:55 - 47:28]
The episode wraps up with light-hearted banter about social media interactions, respecting personal boundaries, and addressing outside criticism humorously. The hosts encourage continued engagement through their channels and sign off with gratitude toward their guest and listeners.
Notable Quote:
Snax the Hip Hopper: "Thank you. Thank you, guys. You guys have a wonderful day. Enjoy."
Key Takeaways
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Gen Z's Political Dynamics: While Gen Z showed significant support for Trump in 2024, factors such as economic challenges and Trump's foreign policy decisions, particularly regarding Iran, are leading to a potential decline in their support.
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Impact of Unfulfilled Promises: Economic grievances and unmet campaign promises, like student loan forgiveness, contribute to disillusionment among young voters.
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Diverse Career Paths and Workforce: Gen Z's tendency to juggle multiple careers reflects shifting workforce dynamics, creating both opportunities and challenges in political engagement.
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Importance of Grassroots Activism: Encouraging Gen Z to engage in local politics and have informed, respectful conversations can empower them to influence broader political outcomes.
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Regional Political Shifts: States like Michigan and Florida illustrate the broader national trend of increasing political polarization, with economic and social issues driving voter behavior.
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the primary discussions and insights from FYPod's Episode 38, providing a detailed overview for listeners and those interested in the evolving political landscape among Gen Z voters.
