By definition, a guru is one who is regarded as having great knowledge, wisdom, and authority in a certain area, and who uses it to guide others. I had an interesting thought: would it be possible to find a “pop guru” who could explain why we obsess over popular culture and who could possibly clarify why America’s favorite show, American Idol, was tragically put on “life support” in Season 9. After a conversation with the-ever-so knowledgeable Herb Longs (founder of ainow.org), I knew I had to interview the dynamic Jim Cantiello, a.k.a. @JambaJim.

Jim Cantiello is best known as a television personality and MTV news correspondent. He hosted the hilarious Tweet Beat, has been seen on Martha Stewart’s daytime talk show, and is MTV’s resident American Idol expert as the host of American Idol in 60 Seconds on MTV.com.