Vibe Check
A weekly podcast where Saeed Jones and Zach Stafford make sense of what’s going on in news and culture – and how it all feels. Vibe Check is your favorite group chat, come to life.
Episodes
Nobody Knows How to Be a Fan Anymore
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about fandoms and why it suddenly feels so out of control. From the origins of the word "stan" to the ways fan culture has evolved from community into something a little more obsessive, they explore how we got here, and confess some of the wild things they've done in the name of being fans.
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What Kids Know That Burned-Out Adults Don't
On this episode of Vibe Check, Zach chats with comedian Julian Shapiro-Barnum about their show Celebrity Substitute, what adults can learn from kids, his new show Outside Tonight (out June 17th), his upcoming book How to Grow Up Without Becoming a Grown-Up (out August 4), and more.
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Pre-order Julian’s new book, How to Grow Up Without Becoming a
Congratulations…Now What?
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach offer advice to new graduates entering the workforce. They discuss career paths beyond your degree, the growing impact of AI on jobs, and the money conversations every graduate should have.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.com, and keep in to
Is Success Ruining Everything?
On this episode of Vibe Check, Zach sits down with Dr. Jack Halberstam to discuss his forthcoming book, Anarchitecture After Everything: A Trans Manifesto, and revisit the ideas behind The Queer Art of Failure. They talk about why freedom may require letting old systems collapse, what failure can teach us about living differently, and how uncertainty can open the door to new possibilities.
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What We Get Wrong About Epstein
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are joined by special guest Jess Michaels – TEDx speaker, survivor advocate, and 1991 survivor of Jeffrey Epstein. They explore why the Epstein files matter beyond the headlines, and how the conversation around abuse, consent, and survivor expectations often misses the deeper cultural realities.
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Time to Set It the F*ck Off
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the new movie, Is God Is, and explore how rage shapes politics, culture, and our personal lives – and whether rage can sometimes be a force for something better. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.”
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Saeed’s Poem: “Acquainted with the Night” by
We Caused a Divorce?
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach react live to listener voice messages for the very first time. Listeners reveal the major life decisions the hosts have influenced – while Saeed and Zach try to remember ever giving the advice at all.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.com, and
How the Internet Lost Its Taste
On this episode of Vibe Check, Zach is joined by special guest host Fran Tirado, editor and co-host of the podcast, Like a Virgin. Together, they discuss how AI slop is slowly turning into “taste slop,” and how Pride can become more than just a moment to fight for trans people, but a way to materially support them and help them survive this moment. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibe
A Fountain of Regret
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach explore regret. They get vulnerable, sharing stories about the regrets they still carry, the ones they’ve learned to let go of, and what it means to move forward without forgetting the past.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.com, and keep in t
There’s Always Another Basement In Hell
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk with Tennessee Representative Justin Jones about the gutting of the Voting Rights Act. Then, they talk about The Devil Wears Prada 2, and why it was unexpectedly triggering as people who’ve worked in journalism and media. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.”
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A Walk Down Memory Lane
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach sit down with writer Isaac Fitzgerald – one of Saeed’s closest friends – for a personal conversation about storytelling, friendship, and finding your voice.
They discuss his new book American Rambler: Walking the Trail of Johnny Appleseed (out May 12), reflect on his memoir Dirtbag, Massachusetts: A Confessional, and explore how grief, upbringing, and
Mark Yourself Safe from the Met Gala
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach revisit Beyoncé’s iconic Lemonade album on its 10th anniversary, unpacking its cultural impact. They also take a closer look at Beyoncé – how her politics, power, and public persona have evolved over the past decade, and where admiration, frustration, and critique collide when art and influence meet. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes a
Is True Crime the New White Noise?
This week on Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach let listeners take over with the first-ever “Patreon’s Choice” episode. They get into the ethics of true crime, why it endures, and where it crosses the line. Then, they talk about HBO’s Murder in Glitterball City. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.”
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Saeed
From D.C. Drama to Relationship Mess
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the alleged assassination attempt at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Then, they break down the news of Megan Thee Stallion being cheated on by Klay Thompson. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.”
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Saeed’s Poem: “What Big Eyes You Have”
Why “Summer Bodies” Still Stress Us Out
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about summer bodies, body anxiety, and the politics of appearance. They also explore whether today’s diet culture is veering into something more extreme – an obsession with control, conformity, and rigid ideals.
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Saeed’s Poem of the Week: Old Glory by Ocean Vuong
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He Put It in the Song Title, and Nobody Listened
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach unpack the rise in intimate partner violence against women of color – touching on the D4vd case as part of thaw conversation. Then, they call out Vogue for calling an afro a “cloud bob.” Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.”
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Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “
If It’s Not A Hell Yes, It’s A No
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about taking the leap – what it really means to go for it, and how you know when the risk is actually worth it. They get into moments from their own lives, from bold career moves to saying yes to romance, and even figuring out when it’s time to walk away.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe wa
You Can Go to the Moon and Back, but Your Salary Won't
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about the politics of Coachella and about a personal obsession of Saeed’s, competency porn. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.”
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Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Characteristics of Life” by Camille Dungy
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Happy Spring! Clean Your Closet, Dump Your Friends, Delete the App
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach get into spring cleaning — both literally and metaphorically. From tidying up your space to letting go of people and habits that no longer serve you, they talk about what it means to reset for a new season. Plus, they answer listener questions.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from
You Can Do Everything Right and Still Get Left
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach break down the latest drama – from the political shake-up involving Kristi Noem and Pam Bondi’s firing by Trump, to the bigger questions it raises. Then, they dive into Summer House chaos, unpacking Amanda allegedly dating West behind Ciara’s back. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.”
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Is Superman Jesus-Coded? How Hollywood Keeps Retelling the Jesus Story
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach get into some Jesus-coded characters in film and TV, and the stories that feel just a little too Christ-adjacent to be a coincidence. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.”
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Saeed’s Poem of the Week: Heart to Heart by Rita Dove
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How Conservatives Became the Snowflakes (And Usher's Defense of Diddy)
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about chaos surrounding comedian Druski’s viral skit about conservative white women and the conversation (and ruffled feathers) it sparked. Then, they unpack Usher’s recent controversial comments about Diddy. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.”
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The Business of Black Women: Symone Sanders-Townsend
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach wrap up this year’s Hey, Sis mini-series with special guest – political commentator and strategist Symone Sanders-Townsend. They get into her dynamic career across politics and media, the challenges she’s faced as a Black woman in the spotlight, and how staying true to herself has been key to her success. They also discuss the outsized role Black women
ICE Is at the Airport and Straight Men Have No Friends
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about the latest chaos in air travel – from government funding cuts leaving TSA agents unpaid, to ICE agents being deployed in airports to “assist,” and safety concerns after a fatal air traffic control–related incident at LaGuardia. Then, they dive into the new documentary, Inside the Manosphere. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes
The Business of Black Women: Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach continue the Hey, Sis mini-series with special guest – economist, Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman. They break down how systemic inequality creates real, measurable costs just to exist – especially for Black women – drawing on insights from Anna’s book, The Double Tax: How Women of Color Are Overcharged and Underpaid. They also unpack how misogynoir shows up a
Oscars Recap & The Politics of Posting
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach welcome back Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks, for an Oscars recap – from the biggest wins to the most talked-about moments. Then, Saeed and Zach unpack a social media debate: should you expect your friends to post about politics and the news, and is it fair to judge them if they don’t? Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “th
The Business of Black Women: Lisa Beasley
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach continue the Hey, Sis mini-series with special guest – actor, comedian, and writer Lisa Beasley.
They talk about Lisa discovering her viral character “Corporate Erin,” the performance of professionalism, and the ways code switching and corporate language can be exclusionary. Plus, a look at how race and gender quietly shape the rules of workplace commu
One Oscar Battle After Another with Traci Thomas
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are joined by Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks podcast, for an in-depth pre-Oscars chat. They break down this year’s awards season chaos and dig into Sinners and One Battle After Another, exploring how both films depict Black life in America from very different angles. They also get into Hollywood’s habit of rewarding negative tropes about Black women
The Business of Black Women: Ashley Cunningham
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach kick off the return of the Hey, Sis mini-series with special guest Ashley Cunningham, owner of Bad Ash Bakes in Pasadena, California.
Ashley talks about starting out in cooking competitions at just 16, working as a line cook, and later becoming a private chef for NBA players before launching her baking business. She also shares how going viral during t
The Iran War: Shock & Awe, Again
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are joined by returning guest, journalist Afeef Nessouli, reporting live from Beirut, Lebanon. He breaks down what’s really happening in Iran and across the Middle East — and what life on the ground looks like amid rising tensions.
Then, Saeed and Zach unpack the flashbacks this moment is triggering from the post-9/11 era, and the Iraq and Afghanistan
American Music Was Birthed in the Black Church
On this episode of Vibe Check LIVE, Saeed and Zach head to Boston for a special live taping with special guest, classical composer Carlos Simon. They talk about Carlos writing music for America’s 250th anniversary, how faith and spirituality shape his work, his newest piece, Good News Mass, and more. Plus, they close out the conversation with an audience Q&A.
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The Politics of Pretending to be Apolitical
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach break down the political drama surrounding the Berlin Film Festival 2026 (Berlinale). Then, they dive into Tyra Banks and the new documentary Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model, unpacking how the show’s cruelty reflected its era, and how it functioned as part of a broader cultural machine built to break women down. Plus, they share their la
Difficulty Isn’t a Wall, It’s a Doorway
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed speaks to author Namwali Serpell about her new book, On Morrison. They talk about their personal relationships to Toni Morrison’s work, the shortcomings of academic approaches to teaching literature, why difficult books are worth the effort, and more. Namwali Serpell’s Book On Morrison is out now!
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Epstein Files and the American Psyche
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach wrestle with the emotional weight of the Epstein files and the aftershocks that follow each new revelation.Then, they examine America’s growing literary crisis – declining reading skills, shrinking attention spans, and what it all means.Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.----------------------------------------------
RomanceLandia and the Rise of Queer Romance
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach welcome Saeed’s longtime friend and romance expert Tanya Melendez to break down the rise of romance across every genre. From beloved tropes to what really separates a true romance from just a love story, they cover it all — including a deep dive into the TV show Heated Rivalry. Then, Tanya spills a little tea about what Saeed was like as a teenager. Pl
Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl and his Politics of Joy
On this special episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach break down the cultural and political impact of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX halftime performance with Nelini Stamp – Director of Strategy at the Working Families Party and certified Bad Bunny superfan!
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.c
You Can’t "Try On” Blackness
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach break down Timothée Chalamet’s recent behavior shift leading up to the Oscars and what it says about image, performance, and proximity to Black culture. They dig into “wigga” culture and who benefits when Black culture becomes a costume. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.---------------------------------------------
The Art of Resistance with Maxwell Frost
On this episode of Vibe Check, Zach sits down with Congressman Maxwell Frost, the youngest person elected to Congress in modern history, for a wide-ranging conversation on activism, art, and politics. Rep. Frost opens up about his early start as an organizer, how music continues to shape his leadership, his new CREATE Art Act tackling the future of music and AI, and his experience being assaulted
A Celebration (and Corrective) of Black History Month
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are back with another rendition of modern scriptures, but this time, it’s all about Black History Month.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.com, and keep in touch with us on Instagram @vibecheck_pod.Get your Vibe Check merch at www.podswag.com
Alex Pretti’s Death — And Why No One Is Coming to Save Us But Us
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minneapolis, and what this moment reveals about the state of safety and power in America. They reflect on how this violence ripples far beyond one city, and how we can practice personal acts of resistance. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------
I Can't Afford a House, So I'm Becoming Hot Instead
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach unpack the rise of the “maxxing” trend and what it says about living, optimizing, and coping when our sense of control feels more out of reach than ever. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: Bluish by Diane SeussJan 28th 2026 - Boston Live
2016 Was Not That Great
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss Trump’s obsession with wanting to take control of Greenland. Then, they talk about the “2016” social media trend and debunk the nostalgic romanticization of that year. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “‘God’s Promises” by Paul H
RFK Jr vs. Reality: America’s Doctor on the Health Chaos
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach sit down with board-certified physician – Dr. Darien Sutton.They talk about new years resolutions, RFK Jr, health and science myths, the rising popularity of sobriety, and more. Then, Dr. Darien shares his picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Jan 28th 2026 - Boston Live Show: https://www.
You Will Never Be White Enough to Escape Fascism
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss tan ICE agent shooting and killing Renee Good in Minneapolis. Then, they chat about the collective cultural obsession with the hit show, Heated Rivalry. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “No Forgiveness Ode” by Dean Young Jan 28t
Is Cheating Ever Justified?
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach define “cheating” and talk about their experiences being “the other woman”. Then they answer listeners’ questions about open relationships, chat-bot romances, and react to a listener’s cheating story.------------------------------------------------------Jan 28th 2026 - Boston Live Show: https://www.bso.org/events/vibe-check-live-with-special-guest-carl
Venezuela is Just the Beginning
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach sit down with award-winning journalist and friend of the show, Spencer Ackerman to discuss Trump’s invasion of Venezuela. Then, they share their picks for a special edition of “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”Spencer’s Newsletter: https://www.forever-wars.com/About Spencer’s next book: https://www.forever-wars.com/book-two-majid-khan-iran-troops/--
Chani Nicholas on Why 2026 Is a Year of Reckoning (and How to Survive It)
Back by popular demand! On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach sit down with astrologer and activist, Chani Nicholas. They reflect on 2025 through the lens of her previous appearance on the show. Then, Chani forecasts the cultural and political vibe for 2026, and answers some listener questions.Chani has given Vibe Check listeners a special discount code for her app, CHANI. Use “vibecheck30
He's A Good Man Savannah
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach share their favorite holiday-themed movies, recipes and poems.------------------------------------------------------Jan 28th 2026 - Boston Live Show: https://www.bso.org/events/vibe-check-live-with-special-guest-carlos-simon?performance=2026-01-28-18%3A00 ———————————————————————————
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Is Gen X The Greatest Generation?
Why does it feel like no one is spending money right now? On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach dig into the economic anxiety so many Americans are feeling — from rising costs to job insecurity — and why everything feels financially tight.Then, a generational showdown: Gen X vs. Millennials. Which generation actually has it right when it comes to work, money, and culture? Plus, Saeed an
Is Getting Canceled the New Career Plan?
On this episode of Vibe Check, Zach Stafford and Saeed Jones sit down with comedian Jay Jurden to talk about his new Hulu special Yes, Ma’am! — and why comedy has become one of the most powerful forces in politics, media, and culture right now. But who is really laughing? Because it's not us. Then they dig into cancel culture, viral comedy, podcast power, and how comedians are increasingly truste
They Might Have Ate With That
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about Pantone’s controversial pick for 2026 Color of the Year. Then, they talk about the battle for the acquisition of Warner Bros. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Happy Endings” by Kristen Tracy----------------------------------
Wrap It in Intention
On this bonus episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about their favorite gifts to give and receive. Then, they share their best tips and tricks for navigating the holiday season.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.com, and keep in touch with us on Instagram @vibecheck_pod.Get your Vib
Not a Drop to Drink
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about the cultural themes and trends that defined 2025.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.com, and keep in touch with us on Instagram @vibecheck_pod.Get your Vibe Check merch at www.podswag.com/vibecheck.Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to
Keepers of the Grail
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the Trump administration’s attempted erasure of World AIDS Day. Then, they talk about the new viral TV show, “Heated Rivalry”. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Devils in America” by Assotto Saint--------------------------------
The Art of Gathering featuring Priya Parker
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam Sanders and acclaimed author Priya Parker talk all about her book, The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why it Matters. Plus, Priya answers some questions from listeners. ------------------------------------------------------www.priyaparker.com/vibecheck------------------------------------------------------
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Coded and Loaded
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about the release of the Epstein emails, and how the internet has reacted to them. Then, they offer advice on how to avoid certain conversations during the holidays. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “What the Earth Seemed to Say 20
Do You Taste the Love?
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach give listeners Thanksgiving advice about connecting different friend groups, trying new recipes, how to avoid feeling overwhelmed, and much more.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.com, and keep in touch with us on Instagram @vibecheck_pod.Get
Green Is a Bridge Too Far featuring Chase Strangio and Imara Jones
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are joined by trans rights activists, Chase Strangio and Imara Jones, to talk all about Wicked - and why the story has such a significant cultural impact. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Her Kind” by Anne Sexton
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Come Out Loud featuring adrienne maree brown
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk to author and activist, adrienne maree brown about how to endure difficult times, finding light and hope in the darkness, and learning to thrive within it.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.com, and keep in touch with us on Instagram @vib
No Raisins in the Potato Salad featuring Blakely Thornton
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are joined by pop culture anthropologist Blakely Thornton, to talk about the Democrats folding in the government shutdown battle. Then, they talk about hot criminals. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Author’s Prayer” by Ilya Kaminksy
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Champagne Problems
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach answer listeners’ first-time-related questions about money, Queerness, Mary Jane, and much more.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.com, and keep in touch with us on Instagram @vibecheck_pod.Get your Vibe Check merch at www.podswag.com/vibechec
First Time Fears
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed, Sam and Zach go live from Hollywood in The Ford venue where they share their stories about feeling fear for the first time. Then, they talk to author and educator Tananarive Due.
You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.comWe want to hear from you! Email us at vibecheck@stitcher.com, and keep in touch with us on Ins
Let Them Eat Cake
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the U.S. government shutdown, and the effect it may have on SNAP benefits. Then, they talk about the rising popularity of Frankenstein films. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Russet” by Kevin Young from his collection Stones
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Still Here, Still Queer
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the nationwide ‘No Kings’ protests that took place over the weekend. Then, they chat about boxers making a comeback. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Subclinical” by Monica Ferrell-----------------------------------------------
Let’s All Hold Hands featuring Spencer Ackerman
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the new Israel-Gaza ceasefire deal with Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, Spencer Ackerman. Then, they talk about the passing of Diane Keaton, and the heart tug we feel when losing public figures. Plus, they introduce a new segment called “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Spencer Ackerm
An Abundance of White Mediocrity
On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about the viral conversation between Ezra Klein and Ta-Nehisi Coates, and the shock of Bari Weiss being named editor-in-chief at CBS News. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations:ZACH: A Thousand and OneSAEED: “Ode to Drinking Water from My Hands” by Ross Gay Vibe Ch
It’s A Pretty Garden
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach talk about the current “low-fire, low-hire” economic state, and Bad Bunny headlining the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show. Plus, a big announcement from Sam.------------------------------------------------------Vibe Check LIVE at the Ford: https://www.theford.com/events/performances/4102/2025-10-28/vibe-check-live
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Caught Up in the Rapture
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach discuss ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ being suspended, then returning to air, and what it says about censorship. Then, they chat about the official start of the fall season. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations:SAM: Insecure Soundtrack (Season 1 and 2)ZACH: All That Heave
Add Some Whiskey to It
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam and Saeed talk about the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations:SAM REC 1: The Fleetwood Mac Universehttps://open.spotify.com/prerelease/5TJZm01vY10HOaVriweTuD?si=rr9hcXhzTIGJKazbsraowA&nd=1&dlsi=e8f56dd082834194https://open.spotify.com/album/5FIN8py
Put Our Cracker Back!
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam and Zach talk about Trump and ICE’s “Operation Midway Blitz”, the MTV VMAs, and why music videos don’t have the cultural impact that they used to. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations:SAM: SPLITSVILLE ZACH: TWINLESS Order Saeed’s new book: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-people-
It’s Still Cerulean, B!tch
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach talk about influencers getting paid for promoting political messaging, and a job listing for The Cutting Room Floor that has sparked outrage. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations:ZACH: “Essex Honey” by Blood Orange SAEED: “Let Them Not Say” by Jane Hirshfield SAM
All Billionaires Are Kinda Bad
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach talk about Serena Williams using and boosting GLP-1 weight loss drugs. And the changes COVID brought to us after five years later. ----------------------------------------------------Recommendations:ZACH: CAN I BE FRANK and TA-DA! both Off-BroadwaySAEED: DIJON - Absolutely (Film)SAM: “I'm Dating a Man Who’s Married" by Aaron Smith
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A Nightmare Blunt Rotation
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach talk about Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent social media tactics against Trump. Then, they each talk about their end of summer protocols. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations:ZACH: ScandalSAEED: Part 1 of “I Must Become A Menace to My Enemies” by June JordanSAM: M
That’s Called A Striptease
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam and Zach talk about Instagram’s new map feature and the lack of privacy with technology. Then, they discuss how strict emotional boundaries may tie into the loneliness epidemic. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations:ZACH: KPop Demon HuntersSAM: Weapons
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Bellissimo, Baby
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach chat about Sex and the City’s reboot, And Just Like That…, and hate-watching TV shows. Then, they answer two listener questions. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations:ZACH: The Hunting Wife on Netflix SAEED: “Cage” by Rigoberto GonzalezSAM: Learning the Boots On T
Cultural Whiplash featuring Afeef Nessouli
On this episode of Vibe Check, Zach speaks with journalist and activist, Afeef Nessouli, about his recent experience in Gaza. Then, Sam, Saeed, and Zach discuss Sydney Sweeney’s new American Eagle ad, and how pop culture is leaning conservative. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations: ZACH: “Actual Life” by Fred Aga
Forever35 with Elise Hu and Doree Shafrir
This week, we’re airing a conversation from the Forever35 podcast where Sam joins former Vibe Check guest, Elise Hu, and her co-host, Doree Shafrir. They talk about self-care, the hack of using “I feel” statements, realizing that some hills are not worth dying on, and more. You can listen to Forever35 wherever you get your podcasts! Follow the show on Instagram (@Forever35Podcast).
You can find ev
Ladies and Labubus
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach talk about the MAGA rebellion, the Jeffrey Epstein files, and the new Superman movie. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations: SAM: LoganSAEED: In the chemo room, I wear mittens made of ice so I don’t lose my fingernails. But I took a risk today to write this down.Z
Everybody Say Love
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach discuss the Big Beautiful Bill. Then, they talk about the reality tv show Love Island. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations: SAM: Toni Morrison’s speech to Howard University students on fascism and racism. SAEED: “In the Mornings, I Scroll My Way Back into Ameri
Time Flies, Boo
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach reflect on what life has taught them in the past month. Then, they talk about the state of Americana. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations: SAM: MY FACE HURTS FROM SMILING by LizzoSAEED: “Tired of Love Poems” by Megan FernandesZACH: Brokeback Mountain directed by
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