“How are you really doing?” Anas Bukhash asks as he sits across from artists, actors, activists, or musicians on his popular YouTube talk show, #AB Talks. The online show, which launched in 2016, quickly took the internet by storm by delving into deeply personal and transparent conversations with some of the most famous figures in the world. With each episode, Bukhash shatters stereotypes, exploring topics with his guests like family dynamics, masculinity, femininity, mental health, and the myriad challenges we all face daily.
Offering a safe space where guests can speak freely, without judgment, the show’s purpose is to remind viewers that even the most successful people—whether actors, musicians, or artists—are human, just like everyone else. At its core, the show underscores our shared humanity. As Bukhash mentioned in an interview with The National, “The show can help a young boy watching us discuss masculinity understand that crying is not a problem, nor does it diminish one’s masculinity. Just knowing that you are not alone is a reason why the show exists.”
The Emirati entrepreneur, who founded Chalk and Not So Guilty, also addresses broader social issues that resonate deeply, including feminism, parenting, the stigma surrounding divorce, and the pressures of marriage in the Arab world. These discussions spark conversations and debates in households and communities, encouraging a ripple effect of out-of-the-box thinking, opening up different perspectives, and showing that life is not so one dimensional. Since its first episode, featuring Emirati football player Omar Abdulrahman, aired six years ago, Bukhash has consistently delivered thought-provoking content, expanding his reach both regionally and internationally. If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry— we’ve done the homework for you. Read on for our favorite AB Talks episodes to binge watch now.
Marwan Pablo
Egyptian rapper Marwan Pablo gets candid with Bukhash, likely for the first time, discussing his experiences with fame and the lessons it has taught him about lasting happiness, money, and success. He shares how his perception of these topics has evolved over the years and how his breaks from music were pivotal for both his personal growth and his career.
Plestia Alaqad
Palestinian journalist Plestia Alaqad was thrust into the spotlight following the tragic events in Gaza. On AB Talks, she opens up about her experience growing up in Gaza, living a trauma-filled life, how recent tragedies have affected her, and how she is reconciling with the feelings of having to leave the Occupied Strip.
Ronaldinho
Ronaldo de Assis Moreira, better known as Ronaldinho to his adoring legion of fans, is regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time. In a conversation with Bukhash, Ronaldinho, donning his signature Kangol hat, opens up about the loss of his father at a young age, the highs and lows of his career, some of his most iconic football moments, and the secret to his enduring humility despite his many achievements.
Ahmed Helmy
Ahmed Helmy is an esteemed Egyptian actor, comedian, and producer, best known for his roles in Egyptian classics like Keda Reda and Asef Ala Al Ezaaj, and most recently for his role in Wahed Tani. While audiences are familiar with the smiles and laughter Helmy brings to the screen, this episode of AB Talks reveals a deeper, more personal side of the beloved comedian. Helmy shares stories of his humble beginnings, his journey as an actor, and the significance of his family in his life.
Jay Shetty
Jay Shetty, a #1 New York Times bestselling author and the award-winning podcast host of On Purpose, is also known for his time as a monk. In an intimate discussion with Bukhash, Shetty shares his human story, with openness and vulnerability. He discusses his trials and triumphs, his personal struggles, and the profound insights that have shaped his life.
Shaquille O’Neal
One of the greatest basketball players of all time, Shaq sits down with Bukhash amid the excitement of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games. In this episode of AB Talks, the athlete discusses his childhood, his life philosophy, the special place his mother holds in his heart, his relationship with Kobe Bryant, and much more.
Deepak Chopra
Indian-American author, thinker, and doctor Deepak Chopra takes a seat on AB Talks for a unique and enlightening discussion. Born in New Delhi and trained in medicine in India, Dr. Chopra moved to the U.S. in the 1970s and has authored more than 91 books, translated into 43 languages. In this episode, Chopra and Bukhash explore questions about happiness, the meaning of life, and the nature of love.
Azza Fahmy
Renowned Egyptian jewelry designer Azza Fahmy has been translating culture into art since 1969 and was the first woman to train in Egypt’s jewelry quarter, Khan El Khalili. In her episode of AB Talks, Fahmy discusses her creative process, the persistence required to succeed, and her evolving definition of success.
Bassem Youssef
Bassem Youssef, an Egyptian comedian, TV host, and writer, is considered a legend in Middle Eastern television. Known for his shows El Bernameg and The Democracy Handbook, Youssef takes a seat on AB Talks to share his career journey, his relationship with his mother, and his fears about fame. This episode offers a rare opportunity to see a television host take the guest seat and reveal the human side of a regional icon.
Ahmed Malek
The Egyptian actor known for his roles in Bimbo, The Swimmers, and Kira We El Gin, opens up to Bukhash in a heartfelt conversation. In this episode, Ahmed Malek reflects on his beginnings as a child star, the highs and lows of fame, his journey of self-discovery, and his passion for the arts.
Sarah Bahbah
Internationally recognized artist Sarah Bahbah is more known for expressing her emotions through artistic photography series like 3EIB! and Dear Love. But on AB Talks, Bahbah discusses her history of childhood abuse, identity crises, an eating disorder, and her journey of self-discovery around the globe.
Amir Eid
Amir Eid, the co-founder and lead singer of the Egyptian rock band Cairokee, is known for his revolutionary music during the Egyptian revolution. In his episode of AB Talks, Eid reveals the person behind his mysterious demeanor, exploring his personal experiences and artistic journey.
Hala Kazim
In one of the most personal episodes of AB Talks, Anas Bukhash sits down with his mother, Hala Kazim. Kazim, an Emirati life coach, counselor, author, and entrepreneur, was the first Emirati and Arab to devise a transformational program for women. In this candid conversation, Kazim opens up about her childhood, family, marriage, divorce, and motherhood, revealing a side of herself that even those closest to her have never seen.
Wegz
In the milestone 100th episode of AB Talks, Bukhash invited Egyptian hitmaker Wegz for a candid chat where the artist discusses his childhood, music, and his views on fame, offering insight into the person behind the music.
