Vibe Check

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A weekly podcast where Sam Sanders, 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.

  • 52 minutes 13 seconds
    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”.

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    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 [email protected], 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.

    23 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 59 minutes 46 seconds
    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”.

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    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

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    You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com

    We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected], 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.

    21 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 44 minutes 51 seconds
    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”.

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    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 [email protected], 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.

    16 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 55 minutes 4 seconds
    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”.

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    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 [email protected], 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.

    14 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 45 minutes 1 second
    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.

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    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 [email protected], 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.

    9 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 1 hour 2 minutes
    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/

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    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 [email protected], 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.

    7 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 55 minutes 39 seconds
    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” for a free 30-day all access pass and get your personalized “2026 Year Ahead" reading.

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    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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    You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com

    We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected], 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.

    31 December 2025, 8:00 am
  • 37 minutes 29 seconds
    He's A Good Man Savannah

    On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach share their favorite holiday-themed movies, recipes and poems.

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    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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    You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com

    We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected], 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.

    24 December 2025, 8:00 am
  • 43 minutes 19 seconds
    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 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…

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    You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com

    We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected], 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.

    17 December 2025, 8:00 am
  • 50 minutes 43 seconds
    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 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 [email protected], 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.

    12 December 2025, 8:00 am
  • 51 minutes 46 seconds
    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”.

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    Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Happy Endings” by Kristen Tracy

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    You can find everything Vibe Check related at our official website, www.vibecheckpod.com

    We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected], 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.

    10 December 2025, 8:00 am
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