In the Year of Our Lord 2026where authenticity often feels scarce, Kareem Rahma’s YouTube series Subway Takes stands out as a beacon of genuine conversation. This unique show brings together celebrities and regular riders on public transit, creating a space for unfiltered and engaging discussions.
Rahma’s approach to internet talk shows is refreshingly different. By setting up his interviews on subways in ManhattanBrooklynLondonChicagoand Berlinhe captures the essence of everyday life while exploring a wide range of topics, from romance to AI and beyond.
Capturing authentic moments on public transit
The production of Subway Takes is a marvel in itself. Between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.Rahma and his team set up their equipment on trains running between Manhattan and Brooklyn. The team, which has grown from just Rahma and two friends to a small crew, ensures minimal disruption to regular riders. They choose mostly empty cars and avoid causing any inconvenience, which has led to a smooth shooting process without any complaints from passengers.
Rahma’s guests range from celebrities like Cate Blanchett and J. Lo to everyday people with interesting perspectives. The show’s charm lies in its ability to blend the extraordinary with the ordinary. As Rahma puts it, “Unless you’re, like, Cate Blanchett or J. Lo, sometimes you’re just mixed with other people.” This inclusivity makes the show relatable and engaging for a wide audience.
The art of editing and pacing
One of the key factors behind the success of Subway Takes is its editing. Rahma’s team distills ten or fifteen minutes of conversation into dynamic, fast-paced reels that keep viewers hooked. The editing process is crucial in maintaining the show’s authenticity while making it engaging for the audience. Rahma acknowledges the skill of his editors, saying, “Our editors make something that seems so simple feel really dynamic, really engaging, really fast-paced, and at the same time not cheap and not slop.“
The show’s authenticity is a breath of fresh air in a world where misinformation is rampant. Rahma believes that Subway Takes offers a respite from the fake news and manipulated content that permeate our daily lives. “You turn on the news, and those people are lying to you. You turn on your social media apps, and those people are lying to you. You watch a video, and you find out it’s fake and they’re lying to you. And then you see ‘Subway Takes’ and you’re like, ‘OK, those people are not lying to me.’“
Growing as an interviewer
Rahma’s journey as an interviewer has been marked by growth and learning. He has had the opportunity to interview a diverse range of guests, from friends to celebrities, each bringing their unique perspectives to the show. One of his most challenging interviews was with Bill Burrwho initially made Rahma feel inadequate but eventually complimented him on his skills. This experience highlighted Rahma’s development as an interviewer and his ability to adapt to different personalities.
Looking ahead, Rahma is eager to explore new locations for Subway Takes. He is particularly interested in Japan and Seoulrecognizing the unique train etiquette and cultural nuances these places offer. “I’m really interested in exploring a Japan season, but I know that their train etiquette is a lot different than New Yorkers’ train etiquette, so I haven’t figured it out. I think South Korea, Seoul, would also be really cool. I want to make it out to Asia.“
In a world where authenticity is often overshadowed by artificial content, Subway Takes stands out as a refreshing and genuine alternative. Kareem Rahma’s unique approach to internet talk shows offers a glimpse into the lives of both celebrities and everyday people, creating a space for meaningful and engaging conversations. As the show continues to grow and explore new locations, it promises to bring even more diverse and captivating discussions to its audience.
