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. ------------------------------------------------------ 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 ———————————————————————————

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

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… ———————————————————————————

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.

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 ------------------------------------------------------

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.

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about the cultural themes and trends that defined 2025.

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the Trump administration’s attempted erasure of World AIDS Day. Then, they talk about the new viral TV show, “Heated Rivalry”. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Devils in America” by Assotto Saint -----------------------------------------------------

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 ------------------------------------------------------

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about the release of the Epstein emails, and how the internet has reacted to them. Then, they offer advice on how to avoid certain conversations during the holidays. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “What the Earth Seemed to Say 2020” by Marie Howe

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach give listeners Thanksgiving advice about connecting different friend groups, trying new recipes, how to avoid feeling overwhelmed, and much more.

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are joined by trans rights activists, Chase Strangio and Imara Jones, to talk all about Wicked - and why the story has such a significant cultural impact. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Her Kind” by Anne Sexton

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.

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

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach answer listeners’ first-time-related questions about money, Queerness, Mary Jane, and much more.

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.

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the U.S. government shutdown, and the effect it may have on SNAP benefits. Then, they talk about the rising popularity of Frankenstein films. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Russet” by Kevin Young from his collection Stones

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the nationwide ‘No Kings’ protests that took place over the weekend. Then, they chat about boxers making a comeback. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Subclinical” by Monica Ferrell ------------------------------------------------------

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the new Israel-Gaza ceasefire deal with Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, Spencer Ackerman. Then, they talk about the passing of Diane Keaton, and the heart tug we feel when losing public figures. Plus, they introduce a new segment called “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Spencer Ackerman’s Website: www.forever-wars.com Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Baptism” by Erika L. Sanchez Vibe Check LIVE at the Ford: https://www.theford.com/events/performances/4102/2025-10-28/vibe-check-live

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about the viral conversation between Ezra Klein and Ta-Nehisi Coates, and the shock of Bari Weiss being named editor-in-chief at CBS News. Plus, a few recommendations to keep your vibe right.