The Beirut Banyan

We're joined by Joseph Haboush for Episode 119 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss the difficulties facing traditional media outlets like The Daily Star - Lebanon, and the determination of news reporters to deliver content despite financial woes. Joseph reflects on The Daily Star's continued tradition of training younger journalists covering the region who have gone on to work for renowned intern...

We're joined by Thanassis Cambanis for Episode 118 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss the dilemma of weapons beyond state control and the challenges to political and economic reform. Thanassis shares his views on the political calculations that brought Lebanon to its current economic breakdown, and the potential for a citizenry and social pact that respects universal rights and ensures the prote...

We're joined by Joey Ayoub for Episode 117 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss the links Lebanese share to regional demonstrators and wider international movements. Joey reflects on the internationalization of the moment, and shares his views on regional and international dynamics at play that link Lebanon to a wider story of calls for dignity and reform. The Arab Tyrant Manual podcast episode re...

We're joined by Nemr Abou Nassar for Episode 116 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss his personal contribution to the spread of stand-up comedy in Lebanon and the Middle East and a wider appreciation for the power of humor in bringing diverse communities together. Nemr is a stand-up comedian currently performing his 'The Future is Now' set. I saw him perform in New York and highly recommend catch...

We're joined by Kamel, Feryal and Faleh Taha for Episode 115 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss food and Lebanese identity, and what it takes to run a family-owned shop like Feryal Boutique celebrating local produce. We reflect on the ongoing revolt amidst economic uncertainty, and the immense challenges corruption poses to small businesses across the country. Visit Feryal Boutique's website: ht...

We're joined by Luna Safwan for Episode 114 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss citizen journalism, stumbling blocks to political reform and the role of women during the ongoing revolt. Luna is an independent journalist and a freelance writer for Vice News Arabia. Follow her on Twitter: @LunaSafwan and check out her website: http://www.lunasafwan.com If you're enjoying these episodes, help suppor...

We're joined by Amer Bisat for Episode 113 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss the economic policies that led to the financial collapse we're witnessing. Amer shares his views on various demonstrations over Lebanese history and the political and societal components within Lebanon that prevent fundamental change despite repeated attempts at reform. Amer is a senior fund manager at a global asset m...

We're joined by Carmen Geha for Episode 112 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss the ongoing momentum behind the October 17 revolt and the 'triangle of weapons, banks and religious courts' protestors are up against. Carmen is an Assistant Professor of Public Administration at the American University of Beirut. She is a regular contributor to The New Arab. Click on the following link to read her re...

We're joined by Anthon Elghossain for Episode 111 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss the lead up to the October 17 revolt and political and economic implications surrounding the ongoing uprising. Anthony reflects on local demands for accountability and good governance, and offers perspective on consistencies and potential policy shifts from the United States towards Lebanon and the region. Antho...

We're joined by Timour Azhari for Episode 110 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss independent journalism, traditional reporting and general coverage of the ongoing Lebanese revolt. Timour shares his personal thoughts on the uprising's evolution over the past 3 1/2 months, differing views over the use of violence to achieve political goals, and the importance of giving voice to protestors througho...

We're joined by Karma Ekmekji for Episode 109 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss the needed role for dialogue and debate during times of economic crisis and political tumult. Karma is the founder of #Diplowomen, celebrating women's empowerment and achievements in the field of citizenry, diplomacy and conflict resolution. She is the international affairs advisor to Caretaker Prime Minister Saad H...

We're joined by co-host Elia Haber for Episode 108, and we reflect on her invaluable three-month contribution to The Beirut Banyan. Elia recorded 37 episodes for her Voices from the Square series. She's leaving Beirut to return to Montreal and finish her Masters degree. The ongoing revolt could not have been covered without Elia's immense contribution, capturing protestors' voices and demands day-...

Voices from the Square, Part 37 with Elia Haber for The Beirut Banyan, bringing conversations directly from Martyrs Square. Elia reflects on a courtroom proceeding during the revolt, the pursuit of civil justice while state institutions are strained, incapable of responding and all too often incompetent. If you're enjoying these episodes, help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:...

We're joined by Zeina Mhaidly for Episode 106 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss mental health issues and storytelling's abilities to positively shed light on mental illness. Zeina is the founder of De-construct, an initiative providing individuals a venue to share their own challenges of tackling mental illness and a communal environment that addresses mental health concerns. De-construct have...

I share my personal thoughts on recent reactions to Qassem Soleimani's killing. If you're enjoying these episodes, help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut Or donating through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanyan And subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform. Follow us on Instagram: thebeirutbanyan Twitter: beirut_...

We're joined by Nasser Yassin for Episode 104 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss the successes and limitations of Lebanon's ongoing revolt, as well as the dynamics at play between protestors remaining on the street and the political class still in power. Nasser is the Interim Director of Research at the Issam Fares Institute for Public Policy and International Affairs and an assistant professor...

Voices from the Square, Part 36 with Elia Haber for The Beirut Banyan, bringing conversations directly from Martyrs Square. Elia speaks with Claude Jabr, 40-year old software industry professional. Claude elaborates on the structural issues that curtail a full revolution from taking place, despite all attempts the previous three months and earlier attempts at revolt. He reflects on the positivity...

We're joined by Joseph Bahout for Episode 102 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss shifting dynamics between revolutionary and counter-revolutionary tendencies in Lebanon and the region. Joseph is a professor of Middle East studies at Sciences Po and a nonresident fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. If you're enjoying these episodes, help support The Beirut Banyan by contribu...

Voices from the Square, Part 35 with Elia Haber for The Beirut Banyan, bringing conversations directly from Martyrs Square. Elia speaks with Myrna Boulos Jaquin, 54-year old professional trainer living in France. Myrna returned to Lebanon to participate in the ongoing demonstrations now in their fourth month, and shares her hopes for protestors' abilities to translate their demands into political...

To watch Episode 100 of The Beirut Banyan, please click on the following link: https://youtu.be/OIG_cCk2CEI A special episode marking six years since my father's assassination, and a century of history in Martyrs Square. In pain and prosperity, through triumph and tragedy. If you're enjoying these episodes, help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut...

Voices from the Square, Part 34 with Elia Haber for The Beirut Banyan, bringing conversations directly from Martyrs Square. Elia's final episode for the year. She follows up with Ramzi Shemaa from Part 11, reflecting on the nomination of a new prime minister and the revolt now in its third month. To enjoy our upcoming Episode 100, please subscribe to our YouTube channel via the following link: htt...

We're joined by Kareem Sakka for Episode 98 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss the role of independent media from the Arab Spring to the ongoing October 17 revolt. Kareem shares his thoughts on independent media's capabilities when it comes to storytelling and narrative, especially during times of immense political and economic change for the region over the past decade. Kareem is the publisher...

We're joined by Najwa Sahmarani for Episode 97 of The Beirut Banyan, and we discuss entrepreneurship in Tripoli, startup initiatives, youth engagement and the city's dedication to the uprising now in its third month. Najwa Sahmarani is the co-founder and director of programs at Tripoli Entrepreneurs Club. Check out their website by clicking below: https://www.tripolientrepreneurs.org If you're enj...

Voices from the Square, Part 33 with Elia Haber for The Beirut Banyan, bringing conversations directly from Martyrs Square. Elia follows up on Part 6 by speaking with Selim Mawad, recapping the revolt now in its 62nd day. Selim reflects on his earlier statements at the start of the uprising, the political progress made by protestors, and the reluctance of the governing class to cede more authority...

Voices from the Square, Part 32 with Elia Haber for The Beirut Banyan, bringing conversations directly from Martyrs Square. Elia speaks to Aurore Ghmeid - 29-year old online consignment store owner. Aurore shares her thoughts on small business ownership and the general economic decline prior to the revolution, and how recent demonstrations are impacting employment. She also offers perspective on t...