

Vibe Check
Zach Stafford, Saeed Jones, Sam Sanders
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.
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.
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 24, 2025 • 37min
He's A Good Man Savannah
The hosts dive into their favorite holiday movies and share personal recipes that bring joy and comfort. They explore the meaning of the season, discussing family dynamics and the importance of boundaries. Whitney Houston's music serves as a nostalgic anchor, while films like Waiting to Exhale celebrate friendship over romance. Zach and Saeed present their mouthwatering holiday treats, from Oreo truffles to pesto cheese grits. They reflect on the beauty of small moments and urge listeners to cherish the holidays as they prepare for the year ahead.

Dec 17, 2025 • 43min
Is Gen X The Greatest Generation?
Economic anxiety is on the rise, with many feeling the pinch during the holidays. Saeed and Zach debate whether Gen X or Millennials truly define the 'greatest generation' in work and culture. They reflect on cultural moments, contrasting Gen X’s appointment media with today’s viral chaos. The hosts celebrate the nostalgic charm of early queer TV and communal watch parties, while calling out tone-deaf remarks from Judi Dench. Their lively discussion sparks thought on generational identity and the bonds that shape our experiences.

Dec 12, 2025 • 51min
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.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 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.

Dec 10, 2025 • 52min
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------------------------------------------------------
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 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.

Dec 8, 2025 • 38min
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 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.

Dec 5, 2025 • 44min
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 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.

Dec 3, 2025 • 1h 1min
Keepers of the Grail
The hosts delve into the Trump administration's troubling decision to overlook World AIDS Day and its far-reaching implications. They passionately discuss the viral TV show "Heated Rivalry," highlighting its unique appeal and representation in the romance genre. Nostalgia for music videos and humorous banter about leftover reheating add a lively touch. A poignant poem reading for World AIDS Day wraps a thoughtful conversation about faith and loss, while exploring the complexities of empathy in policy-making.

Nov 28, 2025 • 1h 1min
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------------------------------------------------------
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 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.

Nov 26, 2025 • 56min
Coded and Loaded
The conversation dives into the release of Epstein emails, exploring the internet's varied reactions. Saeed discusses the discomfort in joking about Epstein, considering survivors' trauma. They tackle the allure of conspiracy theories and their ties to broader societal issues. Tips are shared on dodging awkward holiday conversations, from avoiding hot topics to employing subtle diversion tactics. The hosts also highlight the importance of supporting survivors through community action, urging listeners to turn outrage into meaningful help.

Nov 21, 2025 • 40min
Do You Taste the Love?
Saeed and Zach dive into Thanksgiving's complex history, blending humor with candid insights. They share tips for organizing a successful Friendsgiving, from planning logistics to managing mixed friend groups. The duo emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries during family gatherings and offers advice on outsourcing challenging recipes. They also discuss ways to honor traditions while fostering collaboration among loved ones. Lastly, they touch on gratitude, hope, and handling grief, ensuring listeners are prepared for a meaningful holiday.


