Vibe Check

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk to author and activist, adrienne maree brown about how to endure difficult times, finding light and hope in the darkness, and learning to thrive within it. 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.

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are joined by pop culture anthropologist Blakely Thornton, to talk about the Democrats folding in the government shutdown battle. Then, they talk about hot criminals. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.------------------------------------------------------Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Author’s Prayer” by Ilya Kaminksy 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.

In an engaging conversation, the hosts explore the emotional rollercoaster of receiving a first big paycheck and the tangled web of taxes. They reminisce about cultural moments that illuminated their queerness through TV and music. The adventure continues with tales of solo travel mishaps in Europe, mixing excitement with comedy. Lastly, they reflect on unforgettable first experiences with marijuana, featuring comical overindulgence in Amsterdam. The mix of personal anecdotes and listener questions creates a vibrant tapestry of storytelling!

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed, Sam and Zach go live from Hollywood in The Ford venue where they share their stories about feeling fear for the first time. Then, they talk to author and educator Tananarive Due.  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.

Saeed and Zach tackle the looming U.S. government shutdown and its impact on SNAP benefits, highlighting community responses and the complexities of welfare politics. They delve into the resurgence of Frankenstein films, exploring contemporary themes of creation, AI, and the moral questions surrounding them. The duo also shares their quick cultural picks in the 'vibes are on, vibes are off' segment and ends with an insightful reading of Kevin Young's poem, connecting its themes to the broader conversation.

The hosts dive into the nationwide 'No Kings' protests, discussing their significance and turnout compared to past movements. They explore the cultural comeback of boxers in fashion, linking it to shifts in masculinity and artistic expression. A critical take on media misinformation surrounding the protests is shared, alongside a discussion on the dangers of mobile sports betting. The episode also highlights empowering women's pop songs and delves into a poignant poem about shared melancholy, prompting deeper reflections on emotion and community.

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Spencer Ackerman, known for his insightful analysis on warfare policies, as he delves into the complexities of the recent Israel-Gaza ceasefire. He critiques Western media's portrayal of Palestinians, spotlighting the need for better representation. Spencer discusses the devastating consequences of the conflict, urging for Palestinian freedom as a key to lasting peace. The hosts also reflect on the emotional impact of losing cultural icons like Diane Keaton, alongside a new segment exploring cultural vibes.

Saeed and Zach dive into the concept of 'white mediocrity,' sparking a lively discussion around a viral exchange between Ezra Klein and Ta-Nehisi Coates. They tackle the implications of Bari Weiss's appointment at CBS News and its impact on media integrity. The hosts examine how civility can mask harmful ideologies and argue for a politics of care that prioritizes marginalized voices. With insightful recommendations on films and poetry, they also address listener feedback about their critiques of white gay men.

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.

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.