Vibe Check

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”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “The Problem with Early Warnings” by Charles Rafferty Namwali Serpell’s Book On Morrison is out now! You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem: “Another Nate Marshall Origin Story” by Nate Marshall ------------------------------------------------------ You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 at the Sundance Film Festival. Plus, a special rendition of “the vibes are on, the vibes are off,” and a sneak peek at a future episode. You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Bullet Points” by Jericho Brown You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 Seuss 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 If you're interested in learning more about macronutrients and need a resource then you're in luck! Reach out to Erica Giovinazzo, who Zach works with and mentions on this episode! Here's more information: https://www.ericas-edge.com/ You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 Hoover 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 ------------------------------------------------------ You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.bso.org/events/vibe-check-live-with-special-guest-carlos-simon?performance=2026-01-28-18%3A00 You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 28th 2026 - Boston Live Show: https://www.bso.org/events/vibe-check-live-with-special-guest-carlos-simon?performance=2026-01-28-18%3A00 You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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-carlos-simon?performance=2026-01-28-18%3A00 You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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/ ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Sadiq” by Brian Turner 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 You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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” for a free 30-day all access pass and get your personalized “2026 Year Ahead" reading. ------------------------------------------------------ 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 ——————————————————————————— You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 ——————————————————————————— You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 and Zach wrap with Vibes On / Vibes Off, calling out what’s giving energy and what’s absolutely not. Hint: it’s connected to the Heated Rivalry… ——————————————————————————— You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 trusted more than journalists. You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 ------------------------------------------------------ You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.com We 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 listen to new episodes of Vibe Check ad-free. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.