
Inside the Phenomenon of SubwayTakes: The Unfiltered Take on a Viral Show
2025-05-28
Author: Sophie
Unleashing Opinions on the Subway
In the vibrant world of SubwayTakes, Kareem Rahma embodies an online Socrates, turning the subway into a modern-day Agora. Each episode bursts with spirited exchanges, as Rahma asks unsuspecting commuters, "What’s your take?" From humorously audacious assertions like, "Every country should have one nuclear bomb" to critiques of everyday annoyances like leaf blowers, this show delivers candid opinions from an eclectic mix of guests, including stars like Cate Blanchett and Gwen Stefani.
Rapid Growth and Strategic Choices
Launched in early 2023, SubwayTakes quickly became a digital sensation, thanks to Rahma's previous success with the cabdriver-interview series, Keep the Meter Running. With a strategic plan to monetize the show in 2024—balancing increased episodes from two to a jaw-dropping seven per week—Rahma meticulously maneuvered through the digital landscape, opting for both celebrity collaborations and an aggressive episode rollout to keep his audience engaged.
Authenticity vs. Commercial Interests
However, the journey isn’t without its bumps. Rahma faces the challenge of staying true to the show's authenticity while diving into a sea of sponsored content. Recently, he encountered backlash for a sponsored episode with Microsoft, where he humorously agreed with a spokesperson’s take on AI and meetings. The incident sparked discussions on commercial integrity, underscoring the necessity for Rahma to maintain his indie creator status amidst growing corporate interest.
Crafting Unique Conversations
A veteran of digital media, Rahma's experience allows him to steer clear of superficial trends. He approaches SubwayTakes as a genuine space for discussion rather than another man-on-the-street format. With a modest initial budget of $20,000, he sought to create something sustainable, ultimately evolving the show into an innovative, compelling venture that doesn’t lean on typical media dynamics.