Vibe Check

On this episode of Vibe Check, Zach sits down with Dr. Jack Halberstam to discuss his forthcoming book, Anarchitecture After Everything: A Trans Manifesto, and revisit the ideas behind The Queer Art of Failure. They talk about why freedom may require letting old systems collapse, what failure can teach us about living differently, and how uncertainty can open the door to new possibilities.

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are joined by special guest Jess Michaels – TEDx speaker, survivor advocate, and 1991 survivor of Jeffrey Epstein. They explore why the Epstein files matter beyond the headlines, and how the conversation around abuse, consent, and survivor expectations often misses the deeper cultural realities.

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the new movie, Is God Is, and explore how rage shapes politics, culture, and our personal lives – and whether rage can sometimes be a force for something better. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem: “Acquainted with the Night” by Robert Frost

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach react live to listener voice messages for the very first time. Listeners reveal the major life decisions the hosts have influenced – while Saeed and Zach try to remember ever giving the advice at all.

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Zach is joined by special guest host Fran Tirado, editor and co-host of the podcast, Like a Virgin. Together, they discuss how AI slop is slowly turning into “taste slop,” and how Pride can become more than just a moment to fight for trans people, but a way to materially support them and help them survive this moment. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Fran’s Podcast, Like A Virgin: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/like-a-virgin/id1592166548 Fran’s Fundraiser: DollInvasion.org

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach explore regret. They get vulnerable, sharing stories about the regrets they still carry, the ones they’ve learned to let go of, and what it means to move forward without forgetting the past.

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk with Tennessee Representative Justin Jones about the gutting of the Voting Rights Act. Then, they talk about The Devil Wears Prada 2, and why it was unexpectedly triggering as people who’ve worked in journalism and media. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem: “Sightseers” by Eve Ewing from her book 1919.

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach sit down with writer Isaac Fitzgerald – one of Saeed’s closest friends – for a personal conversation about storytelling, friendship, and finding your voice. They discuss his new book American Rambler: Walking the Trail of Johnny Appleseed (out May 12), reflect on his memoir Dirtbag, Massachusetts: A Confessional, and explore how grief, upbringing, and timing shape the stories we choose to tell. ------------------------------------------------------ You can preorder Isaac’s new book here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/736787/american-rambler-by-isaac-fitzgerald/

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach revisit Beyoncé’s iconic Lemonade album on its 10th anniversary, unpacking its cultural impact. They also take a closer look at Beyoncé – how her politics, power, and public persona have evolved over the past decade, and where admiration, frustration, and critique collide when art and influence meet. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem: “Beyonce in the Third Person” by Morgan Parker Saeed Jones and Isaac Fitzgerald at the Brattle Theater, May 13th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/isaac-fitzgerald-at-the-brattle-theatre-tickets-1985452437688

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2026

This week on Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach let listeners take over with the first-ever “Patreon’s Choice” episode. They get into the ethics of true crime, why it endures, and where it crosses the line. Then, they talk about HBO’s Murder in Glitterball City. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem: “Brutal Imagination” by Cornelius Eady – “Who am I?”

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the alleged assassination attempt at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Then, they break down the news of Megan Thee Stallion being cheated on by Klay Thompson. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem: “What Big Eyes You Have” by Heather Christle

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about summer bodies, body anxiety, and the politics of appearance. They also explore whether today’s diet culture is veering into something more extreme – an obsession with control, conformity, and rigid ideals. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: Old Glory by Ocean Vuong

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach unpack the rise in intimate partner violence against women of color – touching on the D4vd case as part of thaw conversation. Then, they call out Vogue for calling an afro a “cloud bob.” Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “won’t you celebrate with me” by Lucille Clifton

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about taking the leap – what it really means to go for it, and how you know when the risk is actually worth it. They get into moments from their own lives, from bold career moves to saying yes to romance, and even figuring out when it’s time to walk away.

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about the politics of Coachella and about a personal obsession of Saeed’s, competency porn. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Characteristics of Life” by Camille Dungy

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach get into spring cleaning — both literally and metaphorically. From tidying up your space to letting go of people and habits that no longer serve you, they talk about what it means to reset for a new season. Plus, they answer listener questions.

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach break down the latest drama – from the political shake-up involving Kristi Noem and Pam Bondi’s firing by Trump, to the bigger questions it raises. Then, they dive into Summer House chaos, unpacking Amanda allegedly dating West behind Ciara’s back. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Powdered Wig” by Richie Hofmann

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach get into some Jesus-coded characters in film and TV, and the stories that feel just a little too Christ-adjacent to be a coincidence. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: Heart to Heart by Rita Dove ------------------------------------------------------

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about chaos surrounding comedian Druski’s viral skit about conservative white women and the conversation (and ruffled feathers) it sparked. Then, they unpack Usher’s recent controversial comments about Diddy. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Pokeberries” by Ruth Stone

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach wrap up this year’s Hey, Sis mini-series with special guest – political commentator and strategist Symone Sanders-Townsend. They get into her dynamic career across politics and media, the challenges she’s faced as a Black woman in the spotlight, and how staying true to herself has been key to her success. They also discuss the outsized role Black women play in shaping culture, news, and politics, and the ways those same systems often work against them.

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach talk about the latest chaos in air travel – from government funding cuts leaving TSA agents unpaid, to ICE agents being deployed in airports to “assist,” and safety concerns after a fatal air traffic control–related incident at LaGuardia. Then, they dive into the new documentary, Inside the Manosphere. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.”

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach continue the Hey, Sis mini-series with special guest – economist, Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman. They break down how systemic inequality creates real, measurable costs just to exist – especially for Black women – drawing on insights from Anna’s book, The Double Tax: How Women of Color Are Overcharged and Underpaid. They also unpack how misogynoir shows up across culture, from the economy to pop culture. You can buy Anna’s book here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-double-tax-how-women-of-color-are-overcharged-and-underpaid-anna-gifty-opoku-agyeman/

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach welcome back Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks, for an Oscars recap – from the biggest wins to the most talked-about moments. Then, Saeed and Zach unpack a social media debate: should you expect your friends to post about politics and the news, and is it fair to judge them if they don’t? Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “I’m Learning Nothing This Night” by Reginald Dwayne Betts ------------------------------------------------------

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach continue the Hey, Sis mini-series with special guest – actor, comedian, and writer Lisa Beasley. They talk about Lisa discovering her viral character “Corporate Erin,” the performance of professionalism, and the ways code switching and corporate language can be exclusionary. Plus, a look at how race and gender quietly shape the rules of workplace communication. Follow Lisa Beasley on Instagram @lisabevolving.

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are joined by Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks podcast, for an in-depth pre-Oscars chat. They break down this year’s awards season chaos and dig into Sinners and One Battle After Another, exploring how both films depict Black life in America from very different angles. They also get into Hollywood’s habit of rewarding negative tropes about Black women and debate what actually makes a movie a “Black movie.” Then, they wrap with their Oscar winner predictions.

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach kick off the return of the Hey, Sis mini-series with special guest Ashley Cunningham, owner of Bad Ash Bakes in Pasadena, California. Ashley talks about starting out in cooking competitions at just 16, working as a line cook, and later becoming a private chef for NBA players before launching her baking business. She also shares how going viral during the pandemic helped jumpstart her career in baking, and the highs and lows that come with social media virality. Ashley also reflects on building a brand rooted in her tagline: “Love Made Visible.” Order cookies every 3rd week of the month at www.badashbakes.com

Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are joined by returning guest, journalist Afeef Nessouli, reporting live from Beirut, Lebanon. He breaks down what’s really happening in Iran and across the Middle East — and what life on the ground looks like amid rising tensions. Then, Saeed and Zach unpack the flashbacks this moment is triggering from the post-9/11 era, and the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “I don’t usually talk to strangers” from DON’T LET ME BE LONELY (2004) by Claudia Rankine

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check LIVE, Saeed and Zach head to Boston for a special live taping with special guest, classical composer Carlos Simon. They talk about Carlos writing music for America’s 250th anniversary, how faith and spirituality shape his work, his newest piece, Good News Mass, and more. Plus, they close out the conversation with an audience Q&A.

Transcribed - Published: 27 February 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach break down the political drama surrounding the Berlin Film Festival 2026 (Berlinale). Then, they dive into Tyra Banks and the new documentary Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model, unpacking how the show’s cruelty reflected its era, and how it functioned as part of a broader cultural machine built to break women down. Plus, they share their latest picks for “the vibes are on” and “the vibes are off.” ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “How Can Black People Write About Flowers at a Time Like This” by Hanif Abdurraqib

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed speaks to author Namwali Serpell about her new book, On Morrison. They talk about their personal relationships to Toni Morrison’s work, the shortcomings of academic approaches to teaching literature, why difficult books are worth the effort, and more. Namwali Serpell’s Book On Morrison is out now!

Transcribed - Published: 20 February 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach wrestle with the emotional weight of the Epstein files and the aftershocks that follow each new revelation. Then, they examine America’s growing literary crisis – declining reading skills, shrinking attention spans, and what it all means. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “The Problem with Early Warnings” by Charles Rafferty Namwali Serpell’s Book On Morrison is out now!

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach welcome Saeed’s longtime friend and romance expert Tanya Melendez to break down the rise of romance across every genre. From beloved tropes to what really separates a true romance from just a love story, they cover it all — including a deep dive into the TV show Heated Rivalry. Then, Tanya spills a little tea about what Saeed was like as a teenager. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”.

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2026

On this special episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach break down the cultural and political impact of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX halftime performance with Nelini Stamp – Director of Strategy at the Working Families Party and certified Bad Bunny superfan!

Transcribed - Published: 9 February 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach break down Timothée Chalamet’s recent behavior shift leading up to the Oscars and what it says about image, performance, and proximity to Black culture. They dig into “wigga” culture and who benefits when Black culture becomes a costume. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem: “Another Nate Marshall Origin Story” by Nate Marshall ------------------------------------------------------

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Zach sits down with Congressman Maxwell Frost, the youngest person elected to Congress in modern history, for a wide-ranging conversation on activism, art, and politics. Rep. Frost opens up about his early start as an organizer, how music continues to shape his leadership, his new CREATE Art Act tackling the future of music and AI, and his experience being assaulted at the Sundance Film Festival. Plus, a special rendition of “the vibes are on, the vibes are off,” and a sneak peek at a future episode.

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach are back with another rendition of modern scriptures, but this time, it’s all about Black History Month.

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minneapolis, and what this moment reveals about the state of safety and power in America. They reflect on how this violence ripples far beyond one city, and how we can practice personal acts of resistance. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Bullet Points” by Jericho Brown

Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach unpack the rise of the “maxxing” trend and what it says about living, optimizing, and coping when our sense of control feels more out of reach than ever. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss Trump’s obsession with wanting to take control of Greenland. Then, they talk about the “2016” social media trend and debunk the nostalgic romanticization of that year. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “‘God’s Promises” by Paul Hoover 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 ------------------------------------------------------

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach sit down with board-certified physician – Dr. Darien Sutton. They talk about new years resolutions, RFK Jr, health and science myths, the rising popularity of sobriety, and more. Then, Dr. Darien shares his picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ 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

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach discuss tan ICE agent shooting and killing Renee Good in Minneapolis. Then, they chat about the collective cultural obsession with the hit show, Heated Rivalry. Plus, they share their picks for “the vibes are on, the vibes are off”. ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “No Forgiveness Ode” by Dean Young 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

Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach define “cheating” and talk about their experiences being “the other woman”. Then they answer listeners’ questions about open relationships, chat-bot romances, and react to a listener’s cheating story. ------------------------------------------------------ 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

Transcribed - Published: 9 January 2026

On this episode of Vibe Check, Saeed and Zach sit down with award-winning journalist and friend of the show, Spencer Ackerman to discuss Trump’s invasion of Venezuela. Then, they share their picks for a special edition of “the vibes are on, the vibes are off” Spencer’s Newsletter: https://www.forever-wars.com/ About Spencer’s next book: https://www.forever-wars.com/book-two-majid-khan-iran-troops/ ------------------------------------------------------ Saeed’s Poem of the Week: “Sadiq” by Brian Turner 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

Transcribed - Published: 7 January 2026

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 ———————————————————————————

Transcribed - Published: 31 December 2025

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 ———————————————————————————

Transcribed - Published: 24 December 2025

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… ———————————————————————————

Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2025

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.

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2025

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.

Transcribed - Published: 8 December 2025

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

Transcribed - Published: 5 December 2025