RAANAP: Brandon and Akiva Discuss Jaws

Rob Cesternino (@robcesternino) and Akiva Wienerkur (@keev26) need a podcast and every week, Rob and Akiva spin a wheel of listener-submitted podcast ideas, and whatever the wheel lands on is what they podcast about next. This week, Brandon and Akiva talk Jaws.

With Rob in LA, Brandon Donlon hosts alongside Akiva Wienerkur for a special deep dive into the classic 1975 film Jaws, joined by Jaws superfan and collector Ryan. Shifting gears from Survivor to the iconic suspense of Amity Island, the trio unpacks what makes Jaws an enduring masterpiece, shares personal stories about childhood collections, and debates whether shark movies still make an impact today.

The discussion opens with Brandon introducing Ryan, known for his impressive Jaws memorabilia—from VHS tapes and paper plates to signed collectibles. Ryan reveals how his collection began, the sentimental value behind each item, and even his experiences at Jaws-themed events and conventions. The group shares their own stories of buying, and sometimes regretting, fandom merchandise, comparing Power Rangers pillows to rare Jaws artifacts.

Key discussion points include:

Ryan guiding listeners through his unique Jaws collection, including napkins, paper plates, laserdiscs, and autographs from Richard Dreyfuss
The difference between the Jaws book and film, covering book-exclusive plot twists and why the movie’s adaptation stands out
A scene-by-scene retelling of Jaws from Brandon’s fresh perspective, including discovering famous lines, the impact of classic scares, and missing details when watching on an iPad mini
The iconic USS Indianapolis monologue, how real-life locals were cast in minor roles, and stories from Martha’s Vineyard
Who deserves a sought-after autograph at a Jaws convention—and what it’s like meeting the actors behind even the smallest roles

As Jaws approaches its 50th anniversary, Brandon, Avika, and Ryan ponder how the film’s legacy compares to modern shark movies, dive into sequel absurdities, and weigh in on whether Jaws still makes viewers avoid the ocean.

Which classic line stuck with Brandon and did the first viewing on a small screen dampen its punch? Get fresh perspectives and plenty of movie lore by listening to the full episode!

For the link to the spreadsheet that Rob and Akiva use to compile ideas, check it all out here: Rob and Akiva Need a Spreadsheet (compiled by the great Will from America).

To submit an idea for a future episode of “Rob and Akiva Need a Podcast” to be discussed on the mailbag, submit it on this form: Rob and Akiva’s Mailbag Form.

Past Episodes of Rob & Akiva Need a Podcast