

Vibe Check
Zach Stafford, Saeed Jones, Sam Sanders
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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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

7 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 1h 2min
It’s A Pretty Garden
The hosts tackle the "low-fire, low-hire" economy, discussing job insecurity and the potential of education and tech to solve employment issues. They explore the impact of AI on the job market, highlighting the precarious nature of modern work. Transitioning to pop culture, they react to Bad Bunny headlining the 2026 Super Bowl, examining his significance in music and politics. The show takes an emotional turn as Sam announces his departure, reflecting on their journey together while promoting their upcoming live show.

7 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 60min
Caught Up in the Rapture
The hosts dive into the complexities surrounding Jimmy Kimmel's temporary suspension, exploring censorship and corporate influences. They reflect on the changing seasons, signaling the arrival of fall with thoughts on harvest and social connections. Personal anecdotes about childhood rapture fears add humor, while discussions on food comfort and entertainment recommendations deepen the vibe. Highlights include a poignant poem by Jericho Brown and a classic film that stands out in queer theory.

4 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 56min
Add Some Whiskey to It
The hosts tackle the serious topic of Charlie Kirk's shooting, discussing its political ramifications and societal divisions. They explore the importance of stepping back from social media amidst such events. On a lighter note, a deep dive into Fleetwood Mac reveals how their tumultuous dynamic and music can uplift spirits. Recommendations also include Mira Jacob's insightful work 'You Are Here' and an electrifying Al Green concert performance, perfect for a mood reset.

4 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 51min
Put Our Cracker Back!
Dive into a lively discussion on the recent political controversy surrounding a former president at the US Open. Explore the decline of cultural impact at the MTV VMAs as hosts reflect on past glories and the influence of social media on music. Enjoy engaging reviews of indie films Splitsville and Twinless, along with humorous takes on survival scenarios. The conversation also touches on cultural appropriation and the role of queer voices in shaping an inclusive future, all while sharing thoughtful recommendations to keep your vibe right.

5 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 54min
It’s Still Cerulean, B!tch
The hosts dive into the world of influencers getting paid for political messaging, questioning the ethics behind it. They tackle a controversial job listing that sparked outrage, highlighting systemic labor issues in media. The discussion also reflects on evolving journalism, revealing struggles faced by newcomers in the industry. To lighten the mood, they share recommendations like Blood Orange's 'Essex Honey' and insightful works from Elizabeth Gilbert, connecting personal narratives with broader societal themes.

7 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 1h 5min
All Billionaires Are Kinda Bad
The hosts dive into the controversial endorsement of GLP-1 weight loss drugs by Serena Williams, sparking a conversation on body image and celebrity influence in health. They also reflect on the social and political ramifications of COVID-19 five years later, discussing public trust and ongoing challenges. The lighthearted banter blends humor with serious themes, exploring the complexities of wealth, health, and emotional well-being, all while celebrating connections within the community.

Aug 20, 2025 • 51min
A Nightmare Blunt Rotation
The hosts dissect Gavin Newsom's social media strategies and compare them to Trump's approach. They share lighthearted tales about chaotic birthday planning and concert ticket troubles. Engaging summer reminiscing leads to discussions on end-of-summer rituals, highlighting personal experiences like whale watching. Recommendations include insightful cultural readings and entertaining podcasts. The blend of humor with political discourse and nostalgia creates an engaging atmosphere, reminding listeners to appreciate life's fleeting moments.

5 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 52min
That’s Called A Striptease
A lively discussion unfolds about Instagram's new location-sharing feature and its privacy implications. The hosts delve into the loneliness epidemic and how emotional boundaries play a role in our connections. They explore the challenges of social isolation in a post-pandemic world, urging listeners to embrace genuine connections despite modern conveniences. Finally, the conversation shifts to unique film experiences, including the captivating 'K-pop Demon Hunters,' sparking excitement for shared media moments.

7 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 59min
Bellissimo, Baby
The hosts dive into the cultural phenomenon of 'And Just Like That' and the art of hate-watching, sparking lively discussions on nostalgia in modern TV. They share humorous contrasts between vibrant Black culture and the quieter Utah life. The complexity of family dynamics is explored through poignant personal stories. In a lighter turn, they reminisce about cherished desserts, blending heartfelt memories with culinary delights. A heartfelt recommendation for line dancing highlights the joy of cultural expression.

5 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 7min
Cultural Whiplash featuring Afeef Nessouli
Afeef Nessouli, a journalist and activist recently returned from Gaza, shares his harrowing experiences working on the ground amidst a humanitarian crisis. He highlights the stark contrast between media portrayals and the grim realities families face daily. The conversation digs deep into the struggles of queer individuals and the complexities of community support in Gaza. The hosts also critique Sydney Sweeney's controversial ad campaign, examining intersections of race, desirability, and the evolving narratives shaped by pop culture.