
Vibe Check
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.
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Latest episodes

Jul 9, 2025 • 1h 2min
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 America” by Franny Choi from their 2019 book Soft Science.ZACH: Be Like Others (2008) a documentary directed by Tanaz Eshaghain
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.

8 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 2min
Time Flies, Boo
Reflect on life's lessons from the past month as the hosts dive into the evolving landscape of Americana. Discover how Beyoncé's performances influence cultural narratives and examine the historical contributions of Black individuals. They also emphasize the importance of nurturing relationships through play and artistry, sharing personal anecdotes about summer fun and visits to art museums. Plus, recommendations from Lizzo to 'Brokeback Mountain' add a vibrant touch to the conversation.

4 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 44min
Men on Film
In a lively D.C. event, the hosts celebrate World Pride with discussions on media that shape queer identities. They humorously reflect on personal memories linked to community and current events. The significance of Pride Month takes center stage, intertwined with personal stories and the impact of representation in shows like 'Will and Grace'. Music emerges as a powerful force, with 'Nuck If You Buck' representing queer resilience. Through poetry and shared experiences, they emphasize the importance of vulnerability and community support during Pride.

7 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 35min
Everything Comes Back to Love featuring Danez Smith
Danez Smith is a celebrated poet, writer, and activist known for addressing race, sexuality, and social justice. In a dynamic conversation, they explore the balance of grief and joy, emphasizing love within black queer experiences. Personal tales highlight the impact of family and art on emotional wellness. Smith reflects on poetry's power to confront societal challenges and share intimate moments. The discussion shifts to navigating hope amid pessimism and the importance of resilience in creating meaningful change.

Jun 11, 2025 • 52min
The New Boston Tea Party
Dive into a lively discussion about Patti LuPone's drama with Audra McDonald and how conservatism shapes Broadway. Explore the intriguing concept of a global 'sex recession' impacting younger generations. The hosts blend humor with personal anecdotes while analyzing identity and representation in the entertainment industry. They also touch on the importance of intimacy and connection in relationships, inviting listeners to embrace self-expression and celebration. Join in for reflections on media influence, societal changes, and the joy of community.

Jun 4, 2025 • 40min
Mother of Matriarchs featuring Ms. Tina Knowles
On this special episode of Vibe Check, Zach chats one-on-one with Tina Knowles about her family, her legacy, and her journey of self-discovery while writing her new memoir, MATRIARCH.
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.

May 28, 2025 • 57min
I Am the Fish Delish featuring Tim Miller
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach talk to Tim Miller, host of The Bulwark, about Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill”, Andry José Hernández Romero’s wrongful deportation, and WorldPride 2025. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations: SAM: OK Lady by Roman GianArthurSAEED: “Blue Porsche” by Alex Dimitrov from ECSTASY ZACH: MATRIARCH by Tina Knowles ------------------------------------------------------Live Shows:Boston 5/30 + 5/31: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-wbur-festival-tickets-982066847377Washington DC 6/3: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vibe-check-live-tickets-1338524846849
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.

May 21, 2025 • 51min
The Original Sin
The hosts dive into Joe Biden's health and the political implications of his recent diagnosis, raising concerns about transparency ahead of the 2024 election. They react to the controversial fire at Nottoway Plantation, discussing its historical significance and Southern legacies. A humorous take on fashion follies and music disappointments brightens the conversation, while personal stories and nostalgia provide emotional depth. They also share exciting upcoming performances and invite listeners to engage with their community, making it a lively and thought-provoking discussion.

May 14, 2025 • 48min
There Is Not a Sharp Angle to Be Found
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach discuss how Elon Musk is inflicting mass pollution on a Black neighborhood in Memphis, Tennessee. Then, they chat about new Netflix show, “The Four Seasons”. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.------------------------------------------------------Recommendations: SAM: AndorZACH: Thunderbolts SAEED: “43” by Robin Coste Lewis------------------------------------------------------Live Shows: Boston 5/31: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-wbur-festival-tickets-982066847377Washington DC 6/3: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vibe-check-live-tickets-1338524846849
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.

May 7, 2025 • 33min
A Good Sermon featuring Senator Elizabeth Warren
On this episode of Vibe Check, Sam, Saeed, and Zach sit down with Senator Elizabeth Warren to talk about her political "conversion" story, President Trump's first 100 days in office, and some signs of hope to help us get through the rest of his term. Plus, what's keeping Sen. Warren's vibe right? ------------------------------------------------------Recommendations: SEN. ELIZABETH WARREN: Dogs. Shout to Bailey!
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.