Sakaa

Sakaa EP41 with Charles Al Hayek | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 15:59:10 +0000

In this episode of #SAKAA, we sat down with Charles Al Hayek to talk about his journey as a historian, the importance of understanding our history, and how the past continues to shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us.From challenging historical narratives to making history more accessible, we explored why understanding the past matters today.

Sakaa EP40 with Stephanie Ghalbouni | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 14:27:43 +0000

In this episode of #SAKAA, we sat down with Stephanie Ghalbouni to talk about her journey into stand-up comedy, the evolution of the comedy scene in Lebanon, and how it has shaped her creative process. From writing jokes to finding her voice on stage, we explored what goes into making people laugh.

Sakaa EP39 with Jad Shahrour | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 14:26:52 +0000

In this episode of #SAKAA, we sat down with Jad Shahrour, journalist, political activist, and spokesperson at the Samir Kassir Foundation. We revisited John and Jad’s trip to the Grand Canyon before taking the conversation to Lebanon, the challenges the country faces, and what it takes to keep going and create meaningful change.

Sakaa EP38 with Abdo & Chris Feghali | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 16:34:50 +0000

In this episode of #SAKAA, we sat down with Chris and Abdo Feghali for a conversation about their careers, their shared passion for motorsports, competition, and the experiences that shaped their journeys on and off the track.

Sakaa EP37 with Tony Bejjani | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 16:24:46 +0000

In this episode of #SAKAA, we sat down with Tony Bejjani, John’s manager, for a conversation about life behind the scenes of comedy, managing John’s career, touring around the world, and everything that goes into making the shows happen.

Sakaa EP36 with Andre Soueid | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 19:42:49 +0000

In this episode of #SAKAA, we sat down with Andre Soueid for a conversation about music, his journey as an artist, building a career from Lebanon, and the experiences and lessons that shaped the musician and person he is today.

Sakaa EP35 with Dr. Salah Damer | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 19:39:21 +0000

In this episode of #SAKAA, we sat down with Dr. Salah Damer for a conversation about dentistry, his journey in the field, building a career in Lebanon, and the experiences and lessons that shaped the dentist and person he is today.

Sakaa EP34 with Emil Wakim | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 19:35:32 +0000

In this episode of #SAKAA, we sat down with Emil Wakim for a conversation about comedy, his journey into stand-up, growing up Lebanese-American, navigating the comedy world in the U.S., and the experiences that shaped the comedian he is today.

Sakaa EP33 with Anjo Rihane | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 19:28:02 +0000

In this episode of #SAKAA, we sat down with Anjo Rihane for a conversation about theatre, acting, and the world behind the stage. We talked about his journey as an actor, the craft of performing, the stories we choose to tell, and what it means to make theatre in Lebanon.

Sakaa EP32 with Nabil Habiby | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 19:24:38 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Pastor Nabil Habiby for a conversation about faith, comedy, and religious freedom. We talked about navigating differences in belief, where freedom of expression fits in, and what happens when religion and comedy meet in a country like Lebanon.

Sakaa EP31 with Mario Yazbeck | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 17:50:56 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with comedian Mario Yazbeck to talk about comedy, his journey on stage, and a loooot about Montreal. We got into the comedy scene there, what makes it different, and how a city can shape the way you approach comedy.

Sakaa EP30 with Diana Moukalled | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 17:47:51 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Diana Moukalled, Lebanese journalist, writer, and co-founder of Daraj. We talked about Lebanon, belonging, identity, the role of journalism, and what it means to keep questioning the systems and narratives around us.

Sakaa EP 29 with Mario Moubarak | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 17:44:09 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Mario Moubarak, Lebanese stand-up comedian. We talked about scuba diving (for much longer than we expected), his journey in comedy, the limits of freedom, and the process behind writing jokes. — Hosts: Raffi Feghali John Achkar Videography Editing: Nelly Chartouni Calina Chehade Management: Tony Bejjani — About Sakaa After nearly ten years of working together on stage, on the road, and behind the scenes, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali slow things down for a different kind of spotlight. Sakaa is a space for honest conversations beyond the stage. Listen to #Sakaa on: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0fOhPVl Deezer: https://deezer.com/show/1002169091 Anghami: https://open.anghami.com/jWjvyXL1nWb Podeo: https://player.podeo.co?type=podcasts Follow Mario Moubarak: https://www.instagram.com/mariomoubarak/ — Follow John Achkar: Instagram: www.instagram.com/johnachr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnelachkar Follow Raffi Feghali: Instagram: www.instagram.com/raffifeghali

Sakaa EP 28 with Wael Arakji | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 17:27:13 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Wael Arakji, Lebanese professional basketball player and entrepreneur, to talk about the journey that took him from the courts of Beirut to competing on some of the biggest stages in international basketball. We talked about his career, what it means to represent Lebanon, the sacrifices behind professional sports, and the mindset that has helped him perform at the highest level. This episode was filmed on July 15, 2026, before Wael’s injury.

Sakaa EP27 with Ibrahim Maalouf | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 15:40:15 +0000

In this episode of Sakaa, we sat down with Ibrahim Maalouf, the Lebanese-French trumpeter, composer, and producer known for blending jazz with Arabic music and bringing the quarter-tone trumpet to stages around the world.

Sakaa EP 26 with Miled Rahal

Thu, 21 May 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Miled Rahal, content creator and digital storyteller. We talk about content creation, how it all started, and the evolution of creating in a constantly changing digital world. Miled shares his perspective on AI, creativity, and how technology is shaping the way people build and consume content today. A conversation about beginnings, adapting to change, and the future of creativity.

About SakaaAfter nearly ten years of working together on stage, on the road, and behind the scenes, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali slow things down for a different kind of spotlight. Sakaa is a space for honest conversations beyond the stage.

Sakaa EP 25 with Bin Swelah

Sun, 17 May 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Bin Swelah, Emirati comedian and content creator. We talk about comedy, cultural differences, storytelling, and finding humor in everyday moments. Bin shares his perspective on creating content, connecting with different audiences, and the experiences that shape both comedy and identity. A conversation about humor, creativity, and life behind the laughs.

Sakaa EP 24 with Walid Mansour

Thu, 07 May 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Walid Mansour, venture capital investor and Co-CEO of MEVP. We talk about entrepreneurship, building businesses, investing in ideas, and the mindset behind scaling companies. Walid shares his perspective on risk, decision-making, and what founders and creatives have in common when building something from the ground up. A conversation about business, creativity, and long-term vision.

About SakaaAfter nearly ten years of working together on stage, on the road, and behind the scenes, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali slow things down for a different kind of spotlight. Sakaa is a space for honest conversations beyond the stage.

Sakaa EP 23 with Anthony Touma

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Anthony Touma, Lebanese-French singer and entrepreneur. We talk about his journey in music, the creative process behind building songs and stories, and the realities of staying consistent in a demanding industry. Anthony shares his perspective on passion, identity, and evolving as both an artist and entrepreneur. A conversation about creativity, discipline, and finding your voice.

About SakaaAfter nearly ten years of working together on stage, on the road, and behind the scenes, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali slow things down for a different kind of spotlight. Sakaa is a space for honest conversations beyond the stage.

Sakaa EP 22 with Imad Kehdy

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Imad Kehdy, stand-up comedian and reinsurance manager. We talk about balancing two completely different worlds, building something on the side, and what it means to figure things out as you go. Imad shares his perspective on comedy, work, and what might come next. A conversation about choices, timing, and navigating uncertainty.

About SakaaAfter nearly ten years of working together on stage, on the road, and behind the scenes, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali slow things down for a different kind of spotlight. Sakaa is a space for honest conversations beyond the stage.

Sakaa EP 21 with Amina Hussein

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Amina Hussein, content creator, social media manager, and stand-up comedian.We talked about everything… and nothing. From social media chaos to stand-up, random thoughts, and the kind of conversations that somehow make no sense and all the sense at the same time.This episode was taped before the ongoing war.A light, unfiltered conversation that just happened.
About SakaaAfter nearly ten years of working together on stage, on the road, and behind the scenes, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali slow things down for a different kind of spotlight. Sakaa is a space for honest conversations beyond the stage.

Sakaa EP 20 with Jade

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Jade, DJ, producer, and entrepreneur. We talk about his journey in the music industry, how he built his path, and what goes on behind the scenes. Jade shares his perspective on consistency, discipline, and the reality of turning passion into a career. A conversation about growth, commitment, and creating something that lasts.

Sakaa EP 19 with Maha Jaafar

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with content creator, comedian, and dentist Maha Jaafar. We talk about her journey across different paths, how she found her voice through content and comedy, and what it means to make people laugh. Maha shares how she experiences those moments of connection with her audience, and how humor can carry meaning beyond entertainment. A conversation about identity, purpose, and the impact of making someone smile.

About SakaaAfter nearly ten years of working together on stage, on the road, and behind the scenes, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali slow things down for a different kind of spotlight. Sakaa is a space for honest conversations beyond the stage.

Sakaa EP 18 with Malki Mardinali

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 17:54:13 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with stand-up comedian and STYRIA co-founder Malki Mardinali. We discuss what STYRIA is, how it was built, and how the collective continues to grow despite everything happening in Syria. Malki shares where they see STYRIA in the next five years, how they are navigating challenges, and what it means to create space for comedy during uncertain times.A conversation about vision, growth, resilience, and the evolving role of comedy when everything around you is shifting.About SakaaAfter nearly ten years of working together on stage, on the road, and behind the scenes, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali slow things down for a different kind of spotlight. Sakaa is a space for honest conversations beyond the stage.

Sakaa EP 17 with Sherif Homsi

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with stand-up comedian and STYRIA founder Sherif Homsi. We talk about how he built STYRIA, how the past year reshaped life and comedy in Syria, and what his experience taught him about resilience, adaptation, and creating space for laughter in times of change. A conversation about rebuilding, perspective, and the role of comedy when everything around you shifts.About SakaaAfter nearly ten years of working together on stage, on the road, and behind the scenes, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali slow things down for a different kind of spotlight. Sakaa is a space for honest conversations beyond the stage.

Sakaa EP 16 with Tara Khattar

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with chef Tara Khattar, who came all the way from New York to Beirut. We talk about her journey into cooking, how her career as a chef started, and the role creativity plays in the kitchen. A conversation about food as expression, discipline, and the balance between structure and instinct in creative work. About Sakaa After nearly ten years of working together on stage, on the road, and behind the scenes, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali slow things down for a different kind of spotlight. Sakaa is a space for honest conversations beyond the stage.Sakaa

Sakaa EP 15 with Nour Hajjar

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sit down with Nour Hajjar, a Lebanese stand-up comedian. We dive into the story behind his comedy, what inspires his work, where he loves performing, and the realities of the comedy scene in Lebanon today.

Sakaa EP 14 with Mohammad Dayekh

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Mohammad Dayekh, the Lebanese cinematographer and writer behind Marhaba Dawle. We dig into the story behind the series, why it resonated with so many people, and how the success of Marhaba Dawle changed life for Mohammad and the team. We also talk about writing, growth, and where he wants to take his work next.

Sakaa EP 13 with Nataly Aukar | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Nathaly Aukar, one of the sharpest and most self-aware voices in Lebanese stand-up comedy today.

Sakaa EP 12 with Ghaliaa Chaker | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 14:55:28 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Ghaliaa, one of the most fearless voices in the Arab alternative music scene. An artist who turned vulnerability, rebellion, and raw emotion into a language that resonates far beyond the stage.

Sakaa EP 11 with Fadi El Khatib | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Fadi El Khatib, the legendary Lebanese basketball icon whose discipline, resilience, and hunger for excellence shaped generations on and off the court.From national pride to personal growth, we talk about what it really takes to stay driven, reinvent yourself, and keep showing up, even when the lights fade.—Sakaa (سكعة): Lebanese slang for that hangout spot we all know too well, the kind that shapes us quietly, in the conversations that happen between stories, breaths, and laughter.After nearly 10 years of working together on stage, on the road, and backstage, comedian John Achkar and improv theater maker Raffi Feghali are finally slowing down for a different kind of spotlight.

Hosts: Raffi Feghali John Achkar

Producer: Safa Salem

Videography Editing: Jimmy Azouri

Management: Tony Bejjani

Follow John Achkar:Instagram: /johnachrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnelachkar

Follow Raffi Feghali:Instagram: /raffifeghali

Follow Fadi El Khatib:Instagram: @fadielkhatib15

✉️ Business Inquiries: hi@johnachkar.com#sakaa #johnachkar #raffifeghali #fadiElkhatib #creativity #sports #leadership #Lebanon #stories

Sakaa EP 10 with John and Raffi

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we’re not sitting with a guest. We’re sitting with the year itself. Raffi and John look back at the conversations that shaped Sakaa, a podcast that became a pause button. A table where strangers, artists, comedians, and dreamers sat and somehow left a little lighter. This episode is about everything that happened on the mic, and everything that quietly transformed behind it.

Sakaa (سكعة): Lebanese slang for that hangout spot we all know

After years of touring, shows, stages, and constant movement, John Achkar and Raffi Feghali continue learning how to slow down, and listen.

Hosts: Raffi Feghali and John Achkar

Producer: Safa Salem

Art and creative direction: Jimmy Azouri

Videography: Nelly Chartouny

Editing: Calina Chehade

Management: Tony Bejjani

Sakaa Ep 09 with Faia Younan | John Achkar & Raffi Feghali

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 14:27:19 +0000

In this episode of Sakaa, we sat down with Faia Younan, the voice that has carried nostalgia, longing, and hope across a whole generation.With a sound rooted in old villages, northern winds, and the softness of Levantine storytelling, Faia turned her voice into a home for those searching for one.Her music is a bridge between past and present, between what we lost and what we’re trying to rebuild.

Sakaa Ep 08 | With Zouz

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 17:00:00 +0000

On this episode of #Sakaa, we’re joined by Zouz (Zahra Almahdi), a Kuwaiti artist, writer, filmmaker, musician, and stand-up comedian who turns humor, philosophy, and culture into pure art.

Sakaa Ep 07 | With Faraj Suleiman

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 17:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Sakaa, we sat down with Faraj Suleiman, Palestinian composer and pianist known for blending Arabic melodies with jazz, classical, and contemporary influences. His work bridges East and West, turning the piano into a storyteller of identity, exile, and freedom.

Sakaa Ep 06 | With Zeina Daccache

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Zeina Daccache, actress, director, and drama therapist whose groundbreaking work inside prisons and on stage has transformed Lebanese theatre and given voice to stories often left unheard.

Sakaa Ep 05 | With Issam Bou Khaled

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Sakaa, we sat down with Issam Bou Khaled, actor, director, and playwright whose work continues to shape the Lebanese theater and television scene.

Sakaa Ep 04 | With Osama AlYahya

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0000

In this episode of #Sakaa, we sat down with Osama Al Yahya, co-founder of Comedy Pod. Based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Comedy Pod creates spaces where laughter brings people together.

Sakaa Ep 03 | With Fouad Yammine

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 08:33:06 +0000

In the third episode of Sakaa, we sat down with Fouad Yammine, Lebanese actor, writer, and musician known for his blend of humor, storytelling, and social reflection on stage and screen.

Sakaa Ep 02 | The Hanafiyeh Theory

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 13:24:40 +0000

In the second episode of Sakaa, we sat down to talk about failure. Instead, we spent half the time talking about plumbing. So yeah, Episode 2 is basically life advice + pipes ?!

Sakaa Ep 01 | Testing, Testing 1,2

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 10:30:17 +0000

In this first episode of Sakaa, John and Raffi get real about what it’s actually like behind the scenes: from writing, testing, bombing, editing, and performing to the chaos of creative work and the messy middle of life. It’s raw, funny, and honest. Basically, everything that happens off stage but shapes what happens on it. In this first episode of Sakaa, they get real about what it’s actually like behind the scenes: from writing, testing, bombing, editing, and performing to the chaos of creative work and the messy middle of life. It’s raw, funny, and honest. Basically, everything that happens off stage but shapes what happens on it.