The ShowBiz Podcast with Robert Rabiah and Joey Coley-Sowry

Beyond the Headlines with award-winning Australian artist, Robert Rabiah. What rests beneath the recurring news cycles of crisis and conflict? In this special audio documentary and conversation, award-winning Australian actor, writer, and filmmaker, Robert Rabiah, takes listeners past the superficial soundbites to explore the beating heart, rich history, and complex identity of modern Lebanon. From the ancient, history-drenched stones of Byblos to the creative underground of Beirut, this episode explores the enduring themes of culture, migration, memory, and resilience. Tailored specifically for the audio space, this extended conversation offers intimate reflections, raw context, and unique voices from...

Special Episode 5: Robert Rabiah visits Hamra. In this compellling special episode, award-winning Australian artist, actor, and filmmaker, Robert Rabiah, takes listeners on an immersive journey to Hamra—one of Beirut's most iconic, culturally vibrant, and historically diverse districts. Moving beyond surface-level narratives, Robert Rabiah explores the beating heart of Hamra, examining how its unique tapestry of art, politics, resilience, and history continues to shape modern identity. Blending storytelling with rich atmospheric context, this episode dives into the enduring spirit of a neighborhood that has long stood as a crossroads of creativity and change.

Special Episode 3: Robert Rabiah visits Qadisha Valley. In this breathtaking and spiritually resonant special episode, writer, actor, and cultural advocate, Robert Rabiah, journeys deep into the majestic and sacred landscape of Lebanon's Qadisha Valley (the Holy Valley). Carved by the Qadisha River over millennia, this dramatic gorge has served as a remote sanctuary for monastic communities, hermits, and seekers since the early days of Christianity. Flanked by ancient cedar groves and towering cliffs dotted with rock-cut grottoes and cliffside monasteries, Qadisha stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site where nature, history, and profound...

Special Episode 4: Robert Rabiah visits National Museum of Beirut. In this powerful special episode, writer, actor, and cultural advocate, Robert Rabiah, takes listeners on an extraordinary acoustic and emotional journey inside the National Museum of Beirut. As the principal museum of archaeology in Lebanon, the institution houses artifacts spanning millennia—from prehistoric times to the medieval Mamluk period. But more than just a repository of ancient treasures, the museum stands as a resilient symbol of Lebanon's cultural endurance, having survived the devastation of the Lebanese Civil War with its remarkable mosaics, sarcophagi, and Ph...

Special Episode 2: Robert Rabiah visits Martyrs' Square. What does it feel like to step into a living monument of history? In this second Special Edition episode, we take you on location to Martyrs' Square with acclaimed artist and storyteller Robert Rabiah. Moving away from the traditional studio setting, this episode captures an organic, reflective dialogue right in the heart of a landmark defined by courage, sacrifice, and endurance. Rabiah shares insights on how our physical surroundings inspire creative work, the responsibility of preserving cultural memory through art, and the enduring human spirit that...

Special Episode: Robert Rabiah visits the site of the Beirut Port Explosion. In this deeply moving special episode, Australian actor, writer, filmmaker and activist, Robert Rabiah, takes listeners on a raw, firsthand journey to the very heart of tragedy—the ground zero of the catastrophic 2020 Beirut Port explosion. Walking among the haunting, skeletal remains of the silos and the surrounding shattered neighborhoods, Rabiah reflects on the sheer scale of the devastation, the resilience of the Lebanese people, and the profound human cost left in the wake of one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history. This isn't ju...

In this compelling and fun episode, acclaimed Australian artist Robert Rabiah sits down with fast-rising comedian Joe Fahed. Together, they pull back the curtain on the world of stand-up comedy, exploring what it really takes to command a room, find your authentic voice, and turn life’s awkward cultural nuances into pure gold. From navigating the highs and lows of the entertainment industry to the therapeutic power of a shared laugh, Joe shares raw insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of laughs along the way. Whether you are an aspiring comic, a die-hard comedy fan, or ju...

In this powerful episode, host Robert Rabiah sits down with Charbel Bassil, the resilient owner of Le Chef—the legendary, unassuming culinary landmark in the heart of Beirut’s Gemmayze district. Following the catastrophic port explosion that devastated the city, Le Chef was left reduced to shattered glass and twisted metal, threatening to erase over five decades of family history and community warmth. Charbel shares the harrowing reality of that fateful day, what it means to rebuild when dreams are left in the rubble, and how an unexpected lifeline from Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe c...

Robert Rabiah sits down with the man who has spent years chasing stories across continents—the founder of No Garlic No Onions, culinary explorer and international blogger, Anthony Rahayel. From the vibrant alleys of Lebanon to the furthest corners of the globe, Anthony doesn't just document what people eat; he captures who they are. Today, we’re talking about the raw realities of digital storytelling, the hustle of relentless travel, and how a shared meal can bridge any divide. From Lebanon to the rest of the planet, Rahayel has spent years capturing the soul of loca...

Tune in to an insightful and inspiring new episode as host Robert Rabiah sits down with the exceptionally talented musical artist Nizar Zgheib. In this captivating conversation, Robert Rabiah and Nizar Zgheib dive into the creative process, exploring the stories, inspirations, and dedication that shape Nizar’s unique sound. They discuss the highs and lows of the artistic journey, the cultural influences that fuel Nizar's music, and what it truly takes to carve out a distinct path in the modern music industry. Whether you're a long-time fan of Nizar's work or discovering his music for th...

Step behind the screen and into the spotlight in this exclusive Film Premiere Q&A featuring acclaimed Australian actor, writer, and creative force Robert Rabiah. Known for his electrifying screen presence and intense, deeply committed performances, Robert Rabiah answers audience questions at this film premiere regarding his latest cinematic release. In this candid and illuminating conversation, he discusses his creative inspiration, technical challenges, and personal passions that went into bringing the project and character to life and ultimately to the big screen. Tune in for an unfiltered snippet and exclusive listen at this Q&A Film Premiere...

In this special TV-focused retrospective, the spotlight is turned onto award-winning Australian actor Robert Rabiah by a popular Australian TV host. With a celebrated screen career spanning over two decades, Rabiah has left an indelible mark on Australian film and television. Join us as we explore the iconic roles that defined his career, the evolution of the Australian screen landscape, and the dedication required to navigate the highs and lows of the entertainment industry. Whether you've followed his journey from his earliest television appearances to his latest films, this episode offers a compelling look at a versatile...

PART 2 of this special episode where the roles are reversed as acclaimed, multi-nominated Australian artist Robert Rabiah steps into the guest seat for a candid conversation. With a career spanning over two decades, Robert Rabiah has established himself as an enigmatic force in global film and television. Widely recognized for his intense screen presence and compelling performances, he has collaborated with some of the industry's most respected directors and producers. His diverse screen credits include feature films such as Land of Bad, Face to Face, Chopper, Ali’s Wedding, and Below, alongside standout television performances in Secret Ci...

Step past the velvet ropes and flashbulbs as award-winning Australian actor, writer, and producer Robert Rabiah takes listeners on an exclusive, all-access pass behind the scenes of a major entertainment awards ceremony. Drawing on his decades of firsthand experience in the film and television industry, Rabiah strips away the polished red-carpet veneer to reveal what really happens when the cameras stop rolling. From the high-stakes pre-show nerves and green-room chaos to the unscripted moments shared between industry peers, this episode offers a rare, unfiltered look at the triumphs, tensions, and camaraderie of awards season. Whether you are...

In this special episode, the roles are reversed as acclaimed, multi-nominated Australian artist Robert Rabiah steps into the guest seat for a candid conversation. With a career spanning over two decades, Robert Rabiah has established himself as an enigmatic force in global film and television. Widely recognized for his intense screen presence and compelling performances, he has collaborated with some of the industry's most respected directors and producers. His diverse screen credits include feature films such as Land of Bad, Face to Face, Chopper, Ali’s Wedding, and Below, alongside standout television performances in Secret City, Safe Ha...

Robert Rabiah interviews action movie Director, Blair Moore. Blair Moore is an accomplished promoter and writer who cut his entrepreneurial skills in the live event industry as he wanted to bring more excitement to many live events such as boxing and Thai boxing. Blair was the youngest promoter in Australia for Thai boxing (Muay Thai) and assisted in setting up high-roller tournaments from Bangkok to Conrad Jupiters Casino. Moore then branched out into live bands and extreme sports. Expanding into the visual medium, he produced numerous video productions covering everything from live bands, sporting events, and various specialized events...

Robert Rabiah was nominated for Best Actor in a film alongside Geoffrey Rush, Hugo Weaving, Sam Neill and David Wenham at the 2012 Australian Film Institute/Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards, 2011 Inside Film Awards, and is a 2xtime Australian Academy Awards candidate - 2023/2024.
Robert Rabiah has also won Best Actor (Monaco Charity Film Festival) for his performance in Face to Face (2011) by Michael Rymer, Best Writer at the Australian Writer's Guild (Monte Miller Award) and Best Writer at the National Literary Awards (Fellowship of Australian Writers) Robert Rabiah's other notable distinctions include a top 5 Award at...

In this episode, Robert Rabiah interviews Nicole Chamoun as she reflects on her acting journey across acclaimed productions including Troppo, Safe Harbour, On The Ropes, and Romper Stomper. The discussion explores the intensity of character preparation, the role of research in performance, navigating creative pressure, and the realities faced by actors working within Australia’s film and television landscape.

Robert Rabiah draws out Nicole’s candid perspectives on the industry, artistic discipline, and what it takes to sustain a career built on truth and commitment. This episode offers valuable insight for actors, creatives, and anyone interested in the...

Robert Rabiah has been a fixture in Australian film and television for more than two decades, with work spanning major feature films and long running television series. His screen credits include Land of Bad, Face to Face, and Chopper, alongside television roles in Secret City, Safe Harbour, Irreverent, and Deadline Gallipoli. Across his career, Robert has worked as an actor, writer, producer, filmmaker, and musician, moving fluidly between disciplines and formats.

In this episode, Robert speaks candidly about his path through the industry, the realities of sustaining a creative career over time, and the experiences that have...

In this episode, award-winning Australian artist Robet Rabiah discusses themes of culture, identity, migration, and history, drawing on conversations and experiences connected to Lebanon. The episode touches on the significance of Byblos, recognized as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and reflects on how place, heritage, and memory continue to shape Lebanese identity today.

While this episode covers similar subject matter to the This Is Lebanon documentary, the podcast offers a different format and perspective. The conversations are edited specifically for audio, allowing for extended reflection, context, and discussion that differs from the...

Part 1. Special. In this episode, Robert Rabiah speaks with Michael Rymer as he reflects on his early career, key creative milestones, and the experiences that shaped his approach to directing. The discussion covers his work across major productions including Hannibal, Battlestar Galactica, American Horror Story, In Too Deep, Perfume, Queen of the Damned, and Face to Face, alongside broader reflections on craft, creative discipline, and storytelling philosophy.

Throughout the conversation, Robert Rabiah and Michael Rymer explore the realities of working across international film and television, the evolution of visual narrative, and the long term thinking required to...

Part 2 Special. In this episode, Robert Rabiah speaks with Michael Rymer as he reflects on his early career, key creative milestones, and the experiences that shaped his approach to directing. The discussion covers his work across major productions including Hannibal, Battlestar Galactica, American Horror Story, In Too Deep, Perfume, Queen of the Damned, and Face to Face, alongside broader reflections on craft, creative discipline, and storytelling philosophy.

Throughout the conversation, Robert Rabiah and Michael Rymer explore the realities of working across international film and television, the evolution of visual narrative, and the long term thinking required to...

In this episode, Robert Rabiah speaks with Laura Gordon as she reflects on her work across film, television, and theatre, including projects such as Late Night with the Devil, Wolf Creek Legacy, Saw V, Secret City, Face to Face, Undertow, Watching You, Hotel Cocaine, and Voltron. The discussion explores character development, the demands of emotionally complex roles, and the realities of working across both Australian and international productions.

Throughout the conversation, Laura speaks openly about sustaining a career over time, the importance of meaningful female roles, and the discipline required to continue evolving as an actor. This...

In this episode, Robert Rabiah speaks with Stephen Corvini as he reflects on his work across acclaimed projects including Hungry Ghosts, Safe Harbour, Secret City, Better Man, A Savage Christmas, Four Years Later, and Hyde & Seek. The discussion explores the Australian television landscape, the challenges of producing scripted drama, and the process of developing ambitious ideas into realised screen projects.

Throughout the conversation, Stephen shares insight into creative development, collaboration, and the behind the scenes decision making required to sustain long term careers in television production. This episode offers perspective for writers, producers, and creatives interested in...

In this episode, Robert Rabiah speaks with Ryan Hayden as he discusses the realities of working as an agent in Hollywood and what artists need to understand about representation at the international level. The conversation explores the business of talent agencies, the process of securing US based representation, and the professional standards expected of actors navigating competitive global markets.

Ryan shares insight drawn from his experience building a boutique agency and working closely with clients across film and television, offering practical perspective on how careers are developed, managed, and sustained over time.

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