The Beirut Banyan
Ronnie Chatah
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Storytelling and conversations, from Beirut and beyond. Subscribe from your preferred podcast platform. Support us through Paypal or Patreon.
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5 days ago
Ep.380: The Signs of our Time with Naila Al Hares
A conversation with Naila Al Hares - sign language interpreter, instructor and founder of Sign With Naila.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/SqYN2kS-jAM
Discussing the passion and pursuit behind Naila's sign language instruction, her mission to bridge communication between the hearing impaired and hearing communities and the personal journey that shaped her career and interpreter profession.
We also talk about different sign 'languages', lip reading along with several basic exercises shared with the audience.
Taped live at Aaliya's Books and released on International Day of Disabled Persons.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
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Or donating through our Patreon page:
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Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
4:41 Personal journey
9:55 Day to day activities
18:06 Sign language exercise
22:11 Access
30:20 Different types
36:19 Lip reading
41:59 Expressive
46:33 Another example
52:48 The basics
57:07 Coping
1:03:14 Perceived disadvantage
1:13:22 Rights of deaf community
1:19:14 Stigma
1:23:27 NGOs
1:30:43 Hearing impaired parents raising hearing children
1:45:04 In this country
1:47:42 Hearing impaired relative
1:59:47 Writing to communicate
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Nov 26, 2023
Ep.379: Lebanon's Independence & Fouad Chehab's Legacy with Simon Kachar
A conversation with Simon Kachar - lecturer in political science at the American University of Beirut, fellow at the Issam Fares Institute for Public Policy and International Affairs and author of 'Fouad Chehab and the Political Change in a Pluralistic Society'.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/ntj65MQA9tM
Discussing the buildup to cross-communal power sharing and the national pact, 1958, the legacy of Fouad Chehab and a wider look at institutional building and foreign policy during the 1960s.
We also talk about the 1969 Cairo Agreement's long term implications, trying to replicate 'Chehabism' under those circumstances and 80 years of independence in retrospect.
Taped live at Aaliya's Books on Lebanon's Independence Day.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
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Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
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@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
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Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
2:04 Birth pangs of this country
8:20 Sectarian model
14:18 Reflective of Lebanese society
19:36 1958
27:16 Fouad Chehab's career
45:00 The system, itself
49:02 Deuxième bureau
53:51 Relations to political families
1:00:19 Post-Fouad Chehab
1:07:34 Who we are & where we are
1:11:39 The same position
1:19:19 Religious family laws
1:21:06 Palestine
1:22:47 Successors
1:25:32 'Chehabism'
1:28:14 Alternative narrative
1:30:28 Other political figures
1:40:45 Foreign policy
1:45:37 Sarkis & Frangieh dispute
1:50:21 Political reform
1:51:57 Forming a political party
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Nov 19, 2023
Ep.378: The Journalist's Job with Wael Taleb
A conversation with Wael Taleb - journalist at L'Orient Today.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/FyJbW5P4z9M
Discussing the journalist's role in news reporting and features writing, built-in differences within fact-based coverage and opinion analysis, a wider meaning of 'Palestine' and sometimes separating a political cause from its people, feelings of liberation over time and how to transition from sub-state subjugation to a sovereign state.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
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Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
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@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
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Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:53 The journalist's job
8:18 Palestine
18:58 Narrative at stake
31:47 Expression
36:38 Feeling of liberation
47:39 A seat at the table
55:15 Domination to a state
1:10:07 Fallen in popularity
1:20:15 Not really involved
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Nov 16, 2023
Ep.377: A Life Worth Living with Bashshar Haydar
A conversation with Bashshar Haydar - professor of philosophy and the Mohammad Atallah chair of ethics at the American University of Beirut.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/kBFTpM-J3QY
Discussing the wider topic of war ethics in philosophy, difficulties of academic/scholarly debate in times of ongoing and harrowing strife & his views on last week’s canceled AUB event, including the fallout that ensued.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
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Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
4:05 Ethics
26:58 'Unprovoked'
29:55 Context
39:25 Guest in question
58:32 Academia
1:15:27 'Cancel culture'
1:31:29 A life worth living
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Nov 3, 2023
Ep.376: The Chief Satirist with Salam El Zaatari
A conversation with Salam El Zaatari - producer, director & satirist, taped live at Aaliya's Books.
Discussing how to properly navigate and eloquently express emotions as they relate to political conflict, the use satire provides in debunking conspiracy, myths and state-propaganda, how misunderstanding of history and false narratives emerge from lack of political agency, a reflection of audience engagement from mainstream television to alternative podcasts, and whether or not religion plays a fundamental role in continued regional war.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
2:36 How to talk about the situation
9:38 Bassem Youssef
17:41 Media
35:55 History & narrative
44:44 Audience engagement
49:20 Religion
1:04:12 The value of comedy & satire
1:14:24 Q&A
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Oct 28, 2023
Ep.375: Windows of Opportunity with Mohamad Faour
A conversation with Mohamad Faour, Assistant Professor in Finance at The American University of Beirut, taped live at Aaliya's Books.
Discussing the ongoing Hamas-Israel war, the de-development of Lebanon's economy, best-case and worst-case economic scenarios given geopolitical constraints, October 17 in retrospect, windows of opportunity and using social media to express principles without shame.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
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Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:42 Here by choice
6:04 De-development
14:37 Somalia
27:14 Forecast
30:27 October 17
39:44 Power
47:29 AUB
57:41 The right thing
59:50 Q&A
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Oct 25, 2023
Ep.374: Common to Us with Fadi BouKaram
A conversation with Fadi BouKaram, edited from an Instagram Live we shared.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/kJzw2OpuR-M
Discussing the channeling of emotions during times of immense crisis, a look at Ireland and that country's own unique perceptions, offering benefit of the doubt when exploring multiple narratives and persuasions, reducing conflict to its basics and honing a certain patience abroad, and preserving ones principles while listening without judgement.
Apologies for the audio quality and ten second video blackout from 0:02:44 to 0:02:54
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
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Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:02 Channel emotions
4:56 Benefit of the doubt
7:24 Ireland & Northern Ireland
12:55 Connectivity
15:37 Reducing to basics
19:50 A productive role
21:52 Moderation
23:44 Source of a conflict
25:59 Listening
30:03 Skills honed abroad
32:49 Language and its abuse
35:32 Disconnect in context
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Oct 21, 2023
Ep.373: 'All She Lost' with Dalal Mawad
Episode 373: 'All She Lost' with Dalal Mawad, taped live at Aaliya's Books.
A conversation with award-winning journalist and author Dalal Mawad.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/BGjBJdTCNa4
Discussing the ongoing Hamas-Israel war, regional implications for Lebanon, the role of journalists during trying times and crisis, narrative vs truth, and her recently published 'All She Lost' covering the post-port blast aftermath and the story of women's strength and survival in Lebanon.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:08 The role of a journalist
5:33 A war of narrative
11:55 In Lebanon
20:42 'All She Lost'
33:12 After the port blast
38:11 Governance
48:44 Banned in the Emirates
58:03 Survival
1:08:34 Q&A
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Oct 16, 2023
A Time of Mourning
On Gisele Khoury's passing & October 17's anniversary
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Oct 14, 2023
Ep.372: A Shining Star with Matteo El Khodr
Episode 372: 'A Shining Star' with Matteo El Khodr, taped live at Aaliya's Books.
A conversation with actor and countertenor Matteo El Khodr.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/4t_bYwpVVG4
Covering the role of artists in defending free expression, persevering as a performer despite all types of difficulties in Lebanon, and a unique voice that merges art with activism.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
3:58 An artist today
9:51 The beginning
13:35 Countertenor
19:18 "The most beautiful years of our lives"
29:04 Professional decision to return home
33:18 Decriminalization of homosexuality
36:18 Limited out of fear
43:39 Chicago Arabia
51:28 Lebanon being injured
55:31 Cosmopolitanism
1:07:25 Q&A
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Oct 6, 2023
Ep.371: 'Twilight Cities' with Katherine Pangonis
Episode 371: 'Twilight Cities' with Katherine Pangonis, taped live at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/4KAoSvi9BeA
A conversation with author Katherine Pangonis on her recently published 'Twilight Cities' with a focus on Tyre and Carthage and topics that transcend antiquity with modern history.
The discussion covers Phoenician city-states and former trade routes, 'capitals' once known for their economic and military glory, and links to a celebrated and shared heritage across the Mediterranean.
Katherine is a British historian and author of 'Queens of Jerusalem' and 'Twilight Cities' - available for purchase online and in print at Antoine Library.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.bei…
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Sep 12, 2023
Anger & Thirst by Rea Gemayel
Anger & Thirst by Rea Gemayel
Rea is an actress and appeared in Memory Box, Echoes & Le Départ.
Click to watch video version: https://youtu.be/mqLU-7CT_G8
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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Aug 2, 2023
GENXZ With John Achkar
GENXZ wraps up its first season with comedian John Achkar in a conversation that covers his personal journey from student-led politics to stand-up comedy, free expression that takes the written word on stage, the comfort & healing of performance-based art, & the importance of following your passion & pursuit no matter the cost.
The episode includes a reflection of this Friday’s third commemoration of the August 4, 2020 port blast, October 17 & March 14 uprisings in retrospect, & the sensitivity to humor when justice remains elusive.
Click to watch video version: https://youtu.be/5DKE6gKQZeA
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
8:30 Childhood
14:48 Power through words
20:10 Politics to comedy
27:10 Leaving Leba…
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Jul 29, 2023
Ep.370: The Architect with George Wardini
Episode 370: 'The Architect' with George Wardini, taped live at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch video version: https://youtu.be/2BQ83aSzC7w
A conversation with digital content creator George Wardini that covers the design process behind the Instagram page PolyBlog & its opinion-based narrative born out of political activism, as well as a look at other platforms he helped produce including Wassil Sawtak, The Happy Hour Show, PolyTalks & The Square.
The discussion includes a look at particular posts defending marginalized communities while holding October 17 politicians to account, in addition to drawing the line at ethical concerns & limits to free expression.
We also talk about the future of PolyBlog & digital content ushering in a new form of political pressure, including comments by Najat Aoun Saliba sharing her own experiences with new media before & after the 2022 parliamentary elections.
George Wardini is a digital content creator.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributi…
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Jul 23, 2023
GENXZ With Elias Hankach
GENXZ is a miniseries hosted by Sarah Al Asmar that tackles Lebanese political, economic and social issues from a youth perspective.
For this episode Sarah is joined by Elias Hankach, MP Metn District and member of Kataeb.
Click to watch video version: https://youtu.be/ytcMIS_SvnA
The discussion covers a deep dive into Roumieh and rethinking its prison location, a retrospective on Kataeb's role during the civil war, Syrian occupation and post-2005 politics, navigating ongoing paralysis amidst financial collapse and a firm belief (against the odds) that Lebanon's better days lie ahead.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
1:27 Roumieh
15:47 Kataeb
37:09 War
51:40 Paralysis
1:06:08 Believe
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Jul 22, 2023
Ep.369: 'Einmal ist keinmal' with Ambassador Andreas Kindl
In memory of Milan Kundera.
Episode 369: 'Einmal ist keinmal' with Ambassador Andreas Kindl, taped live at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch video version: https://youtu.be/4kTJ34QGw9c
A conversation that explores the day-to-day affairs of Germany's Ambassador to Lebanon, divergency between local expectations and the job description at hand, communication with local actors on the one side and Germany's foreign ministry on the other (and how wider narratives are shaped when formulating policy and diplomacy), and measuring regional security implications with domestic agency, from the consequences of political violence to the Syrian refugee crisis.
Andreas Kindl is the German Ambassador to Lebanon.
"The Time to Act is Now" is accessible via the following link:
https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1312839/the-time-to-act-is-now.html
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://www.patreon.co…
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Jul 16, 2023
Ep.368: Meeting of Minds with Nadim Shehadi & Hicham Bou Nassif
Episode 368: Meeting of Minds with Nadim Shehadi & Hicham Bou Nassif, taped live at Iris Domain.
Click to watch video version: https://youtu.be/KyIs_EBz5qY
Delving into childhood & academic experiences in retrospect, communitarianism, supranational identities, systemic paralysis & potential solutions to failed governance, geopolitical infringement on sovereignty, sub-state security & the collapse we’re living through.
Audience Q&A included in the episode, with special thanks to a dedicated group that stayed with us well past midnight, Sarmad Salibi for hosting the event and the audio technical support of both Samer Beyhum & George Wardini.
Nadim Shehadi is a columnist and Hicham Bou Nassif is a co-founder of Federal Lebanon.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
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Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagr…
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Jul 10, 2023
Ep.367: Ten Thousand Stories in One with Rawi Hage
Episode 367: Ten Thousand Stories in One with Rawi Hage, taped live at Aaliya's Books.
A conversation that brings childhood memories of Geitaoui, Rmeil and a bygone Achrafieh back to life.
Click to watch video version: https://youtu.be/2X5InI_nCEs
Rawi's experiences in the early years of the civil war, his brief move to Cyprus followed by a short return and an eventual departure to New York and Montreal are all covered, including his pursuit of photography and the inception for writing De Niro's Game.
The discussion includes a reflection of communal comfort and identity on the decline, a free expression that defined pre-civil war Beirut, a writing style that lends itself to bursts of creativity, and a look at secularists and outcasts in Beirut Hellfire Society .
Rawi Hage is a novelist.
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
Subscribe to our podcast…
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Jul 9, 2023
GENXZ with Wael Taleb & Amira Kazoun
GENXZ is a miniseries that tackles Lebanese political, economic and social issues from a youth perspective.
For this episode Amira Kazoun joins as co-host and we introduce Wael Taleb to the podcast, a reporter and features writer at L'Orient Today and a gifted journalist.
Click to watch video-version: https://youtu.be/GfVximIb3jM
The discussion covers Wael's personal journey into journalism, how to best handle fake news and misinformation, neutral coverage vs narrative divergency and three recent pieces he wrote that go in-depth into cars without license plates, stateless people's right to nationality and differentiating limits to freedom of expression and opinions surrounding hate speech and religion.
The conversation also includes a back and forth on social attitudes towards Syrian refugees, how to best tackle prejudice by providing fact-based information and reflecting on preconceived judgement when covering opposing sides of any sensitive argument.
The articles referenced are…
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Jul 2, 2023
GENXZ with Jad Shahrour
GENXZ is a miniseries hosted by Sarah Al Asmar that tackles Lebanese political, economic and social issues from a youth perspective.
For this episode Sarah is joined by Jad Shahrour, spokesperson for the Samir Kassir Foundation.
Click to watch video version: https://youtu.be/4pv2AHv6cPY
The discussion covers the Samir Kassir Foundation's work in defending journalist rights and the wider struggle against impunity that transcends politics and the written word.
The conversation includes Samir Kassir's legacy, threats against digital platforms and revised legislation lacking due to ongoing political paralysis.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:35 Personal story
1:21 Samir Kassir Foundation
8:20 Impunity
14:04…
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Jun 30, 2023
Ep.366: 'Beirut is a River' with Camille Ammoun
Episode 366: ‘Beirut is a River’ with Camille Ammoun, taped live at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch video version: https://youtu.be/GGFMulaHEl4
A conversation that covers writing styles and technique, psycho-geography and urban planning, a look back at civil society's role in 2005 and 2019, a reading of 'Beirut is a River' and the universality within Beirut.
The discussion includes expectations from the Change bloc and whether new and old names entering parliament share the same political hurdles ahead.
Camille Ammoun is a writer and policy advisor.
The articles referred to are listed below in order of mention:
Not resilience, subsidence!
https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1291894/not-resilience-subsidence.html
From Waste to Trash:
https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1294851/from-waste-to-trash.html
Beyrouth est un fleuve:
https://www.lorientlejour.com/article/1300886/beyrouth-est-un-fleuve.html
I am no longer a silo:
https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1307682…
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Jun 25, 2023
GENXZ with Chrystine Mhanna
GENXZ is a miniseries hosted by Sarah Al Asmar that tackles Lebanese political, economic and social issues from a youth perspective.
For this episode Sarah is joined by Chrystine Mhanna, a journalist and human rights advocate.
Click to watch video version: https://youtu.be/b2HRIqtg_OQ
The discussion covers digital media trends, differentiating 'alternative' from 'activist' descriptions, narrative trends when covering marginalized communities and the wider struggle for human rights advocacy.
The conversation also includes a back and forth on sectarian governance and its reasons for failure, feminist advancements in today's political environment, and external factors that limit reform, accountability and good governance.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twi…
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Jun 24, 2023
Ep.365: This Place Called Home with Tom Young
Episode 365: ‘This Place Called Home’ with Tom Young, taped live at Aaliya's Books.
A conversation that covers painting Lebanon’s ever-changing landscape, a process of healing personal wounds through art, overcoming immensely challenging moments through creativity and camaraderie, and a lifelong quest for meaning and truth.
The discussion includes shared tales of the Holiday Inn hotel and experiences of brushing with fate.
Tom Young is a painter. You can find him on Instagram [at]tomyoungart and his website www.tomyoung.com
Check out the episode's video version: https://youtu.be/aOhUvL7hT-0
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
3:09 Non-negotiable
12:04 Clo…
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Jun 18, 2023
GENXZ with Antoine Habchi
GENXZ is a miniseries hosted by Sarah Al Asmar that tackles Lebanese political, economic and social issues from a youth perspective.
For this episode Sarah is joined by Antoine Habchi, MP Lebanese Forces.
Click to watch video-version: https://youtu.be/BzEzxzSj9d8
The discussions dives into cannabis legislation, a draft law yet to be implemented on its medicinal and industrial use, social attitudes surrounding its potential decriminalization and the general taboo of its recreational use.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
1:02 Legislation background
4:28 Draft law
7:06 Academic angle
10:37 Comparing cannabis to harder drugs
15:20 Industry
19:35 Economic sectors…
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Jun 16, 2023
Ep.364: Leaving (& Not Leaving) Beirut with Imogen Kimber
0:00 Intro
2:36 What brought you to journalism?
7:07 Attention span
9:34 Narrative
13:49 Media's role
22:43 Preconceived notions
27:34 Public-funded media
32:52 Why are you going to Doha?
36:12 Baabda
49:19 Doing what you're doing
53:07 Friendly argument vs journalist grilling
58:28 Appreciation for audio
1:03:23 Q&A
1:28:41 Accountability
1:41:48 Ireland & sectarianism
We're with Imogen Kimber for Episode 364 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya’s Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/i4bpVDbOkKU
For the first half of the episode we reflect on Imogen's journalism career since her arrival to the Middle East in 2005, a foundation formed in the UK that has only grown deeper since, and a rapid evolution in digital media over the past two decades.
Our conversation includes media's role and effectiveness in shaping expression, the difference between a journalist and an opinion analyst, and an independent role journalists can shape in private and public-funded media.
The se…
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Jun 11, 2023
GENXZ with Amira Kazoun
GENXZ is a miniseries hosted by Sarah Al Asmar that tackles Lebanese political, economic and social issues from a youth perspective.
For this episode Sarah is joined by Amira Kazoun, USJ MA graduate in clinical psychology and president of the university's mental health club.
Click to watch video-version: https://youtu.be/DpNx8zpGXdw
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps:
1:57 Sense of belonging
3:47 Civil war
7:47 Busy surviving
10:03 Mental health awareness
17:17 Lebanese context
20:49 Stigmatized
24:10 Generational trauma
27:04 National identity
30:26 ‘Triggering’
35:57 Humor & healing
40:06 Finland
43:21 Discomfort
46:06 Pain
50:26 Professional help
53:53 Limits
59:01 P…
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Jun 5, 2023
Ep.363: Wine as a Vehicle with Michael Karam
0:00 Intro
2:22 The last three years
16:33 Tourism & narrative
24:27 Lebanon's role
32:56 Consequential to stability
37:24 Expression
42:31 Branding
48:00 Cosmopolitanism
56:39 Q&A
1:25:38 History of wine in the region
We're with Michael Karam for Episode 363 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya’s Books.
Click for video version: https://youtu.be/gcNOVWJ830k
We reflect on the past three years of political instability, economic collapse and rampant impunity, and the general viability of Lebanon's wine industry moving forward.
Our conversation includes a reflection of Michael's co-created 'Wine and War' film available on Amazon Prime (for free), a general decline of Levantine cosmopolitanism in the region and the role free expression plays in both journalism and cultural identity.
The episode wraps up with a brief history of wine in the region during the audience Q&A.
Michael Karam is a journalist and wine writer.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal…
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Jun 4, 2023
GENXZ with William Noun
GENXZ is a miniseries hosted by Sarah Al Asmar that tackles Lebanese political, economic and social issues from a youth perspective.
For her first episode, Sarah is joined by William Noun, political activist and younger brother of Joe Noun.
Click to watch video-version: https://youtu.be/nE6ja6THLUE
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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May 29, 2023
GENXZ with Sarah Al Asmar: What the youth really wants
A new miniseries hosted by Sarah Al Asmar, covering all things youth-related in Lebanon.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/tOeUz6M2Mfc
For this introduction Sarah sits with me and outlines what she hopes to achieve with her new role as a host on The Beirut Banyan, and the topics she intends to focus in on.
Stay tuned for weekly episodes beginning this June!
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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May 27, 2023
Ep.362: A Story of Many Narratives with Ramzi Abou-Ismail
0:00 Intro
1:51 One year after the election
10:57 Research & political psychology
37:28 Defining sectarianism
1:01:11 National identity
1:23:23 Q&A
We're with Ramzi Abou-Ismail for Episode 362 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya’s Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/qIiLdcpx9XI
We reflect on a year following parliamentary elections best defined by paralysis and Ramzi's political psychology research focusing on behavior, attitude and collective violence that pervades modern Lebanese history.
Our conversation includes an in-depth examination of what sectarianism really means along with the wider case for a national identity that transcends sects and communities.
Ramzi Abou-Ismail is a political psychologist.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram &…
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May 21, 2023
Ep.361 (Live Video): Divorced from its Surroundings with Mohamad El Chamaa
0:00 Intro
0:51 Finding the castle
14:29 Refugee influx
28:41 David Saad
47:57 Sensitivity
54:25 Q&A
1:08:05 Relics that survived
We're with Mohamad El Chamaa for Episode 361 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya’s Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/Ebjl3XrlyKk
We discuss three articles of his long-form articles, including a piece on a forgotten crusader castle, European Jewish refugees arriving to Beirut in the 1930s and a sports history story dating back to the 1970s about a Lebanese Jewish Olympian David Saad.
Our conversation includes a Q&A section that reflects on relics from the civil war era, downtown Beirut's devolution, destruction and reconstruction in retrospect and an audience debate on lessons learned from our history vs capabilities that can shape our destiny.
Mohamad El Chamaa is a journalist and urban planner.
Special thanks to Samer Beyhum for his audio-technical support.
What’s to become of Beirut’s forgotten castle?
https://today.lorientlejo…
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May 13, 2023
Ep.360 (Live Video): Exchange of Knowledge with Najat Aoun Saliba
0:00 Intro
2:22 Two different opinions
6:11 Recent trip
13:02 Left to the margins
20:23 2006-2008
26:08 Back to the process
31:51 No IMF deal & no port blast investigation
37:25 Baabda
48:08 A third candidate
52:25 Municipal elections
59:17 Q&A
1:33:29 "Largest militia in the world"
We're with Najat Aoun Saliba for Episode 360 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya’s Books.
Click to watch :https://youtu.be/JEbMyUvm6lU
We discuss the necessity for international action and protection, recent trips to Geneva and New York, the likelihood for no IMF deal / port blast investigation and a clear stand regarding Baabda.
Our conversation includes circumventing political paralysis, security and state capture and a personal journey that began in civil society and entered politics over the past year.
Najat also reflects on her break from Taqaddom and a marked reassessment over how much leverage local agency offers while Hezbollah's security remains central to our politics.
Najat Aoun…
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May 6, 2023
Ep.359 (Live Video): Streets of Philadelphia & Beirut with George Azar
0:00 Intro
0:45 Childhood in Philadelphia
7:49 News bulletin
21:19 Darkly funny
26:51 A place full of weird people
32:13 Israeli invasion
45:09 Azar & Arafat
58:32 The boy in Martyrs Square
1:03:28 Transition
1:11:44 Robert Fisk
1:17:04 Q&A
We're with George Azar for Episode 359 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya’s Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/WfLoa1iz58M
We discuss a childhood in Philadelphia and university student journey to Beirut, and the civil war years that defined a professional career in photojournalism.
Our conversation includes covering the Israeli invasion and siege of Beirut and looking at a collage of photographs taken in the 1980s (among them with Yasser Arafat).
We also talk about Martyrs Square, dark humor in times of tragedy and shared memories of Robert Fisk.
George Azar is a photojournalist, documentary filmmaker and instructor in journalism and digital media at The American University of Beirut.
Special thanks to Samer Beyhum for his a…
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Apr 30, 2023
Ep.358 (Live Video): The Public Source with Lara Bitar
0:00 Intro
1:53 What brought you to journalism?
9:19 Linkage
14:08 The written word
21:52 Donations
25:09 Editorial
30:47 Cybercrime bureau case
42:31 Local vs regional issues
48:24 Intimidation
54:33 Switching roles
1:01:18 Radical
1:08:43 Q&A
We're with Lara Bitar for Episode 358 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya’s Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/2KZhlFMGi9A
We discuss her journey into journalism, creating The Public Source, an emphasis on marginalized communities and powerless voices, and an appreciation for long-form written word and analysis.
Our conversation includes what it means to be 'radical' as well as Lara's recent cybercrime bureau summoning.
Lara Bitar is Editor in Chief for The Public Source.
Special thanks to Samer Beyhum for his audio-technical support.
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
Subscribe to our p…
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Apr 22, 2023
Ep.357 (Live Video): Moving Forward with Jean Kassir
0:00 Intro
2:07 Targeting Megaphone
5:40 A sign of success?
9:11 A divided movement
19:40 March 14
24:40 The Lebanese Forces
29:06 Two ways to address
35:17 Leftist movement
40:32 Diaspora
44:30 Megaphone & the digital age
49:14 Q&A
1:06:43 Why Lebanon fell apart
1:23:20 'Sectarian'
We're with Jean Kassir for Episode 357 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya’s Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/HrvC8JSlSAM
We discuss his recent summoning, protestor pushback and state retraction, the key issues continuing to divide October 17 and momentum in forming a leftist party / coalition.
Our conversation includes a look at the diaspora's role in local politics while lobbying abroad, and a look back at political successes and reasons March 14 was initially able bridge the divide among previously opposing parties.
Jean Kassir is cofounder of Megaphone.
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Apr 16, 2023
Ep.356 (Live Video): Setting the Standards High with Diana Moukalled
0:00 Intro
4:01 Thirty years ago
8:52 Today's ceiling
19:07 Inaccessible
23:24 Production house
38:22 A step back
44:01 Retraction
48:42 Sectarianism & March 14
59:40 What destroyed Lebanon?
1:04:25 Q&A
1:27:52 The role that we play
We're with Diana Moukalled for Episode 356 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya’s Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/Tz1NGf2FR2Q
We discuss the evolution of Daraj Media into a competitive media outlet, recent journalist summonings and attempts at lawyer censoring, state retractions as a result of public pressure, and today's journalism ceiling compared to the initial post-civil war years.
Our conversation includes a look back at Diana's career in Future TV, hesitation on identifiers like 'alternative media’, and a brief debate on why March 14’s momentum withered.
Diana Moukalled is a celebrated journalist in her own right and cofounder of Daraj Media.
Special thanks to Samer Beyhum for his audio-technical support.
Help support The…
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Apr 9, 2023
Ep.355 (Live Video): The Last Ottoman with Nadim Shehadi
0:00 Intro
2:07 Sectarianism
10:24 Metropole
23:23 Sovereignty
35:18 Falling apart
42:39 System
57:22 Dubai
1:04:22 Traumatized
1:19:27 Perspective
1:28:43 Q&A
1:35:43 Ras Beirut
1:51:03 Uncertainty about the future
We're with Nadim Shehadi for Episode 355 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/2LwriUwm4_k
We discuss communal power sharing in time, debate the importance of sovereignty over a set of ideas and consensus, a society slowly degrading and a cosmopolitanism on the decline.
Our conversation includes recent pieces Nadim has written for Arab News, revolving around impunity, trauma and international protection lacking in recent years.
Nadim Shehadi is a columnist and former executive director of LAU's New York campus. He is also the former director of Tufts University's Fares Center for Eastern Mediterranean Studies.
Special thanks to Samer Beyhum for his audio-technical support.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributin…
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Apr 1, 2023
Ep.354 (Live Video): Since October 17 with Albert Kostanian
0:00 Intro
1:52 A return to sectarian discourse
7:46 Senate & federalism
23:00 'Change' & sectarianism
29:28 Post-elections
38:14 Culture & infrastructure
46:28 Resignation & boycott
1:01:11 Port blast investigation
1:10:24 Media figure
1:29:08 Q&A
1:58:36 Nine years ago
We're with Albert Kostanian for Episode 354 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/AYj36wcmKFQ
We discuss the post-October 17 political and economic landscape, the role of media and Vision 2030's impact on discourse and narrative, an anthropological take on culture and infrastructure and the lack of public utility that could bring more people together, and where the port blast investigation stands.
We also cover post-elections frustration and sectarianism in light of the time zone fiasco, including a look at why Taif's stipulation for a senate was never implemented and increased calls for federalism.
Albert Kostanian is an economist, host of LBC's Vision 2030 and ch…
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Mar 25, 2023
Ep.353 (Live Video): Don't Look Back with Zaven Kouyoumdjian
0:00 Intro
5:15 How would you define yourself?
11:05 'Lebanon Shot Twice'
22:34 'Beirut Guilty Pleasures'
38:39 Television
54:40 Freedom
1:03:23 Career
1:13:19 Q&A
1:35:22 Prime
We're with Zaven Kouyoumdjian for Episode 353 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/MACRiI2FpO8
A bittersweet, emotionally intense and exceptionally honest episode.
We discuss two of Zaven's books, 'Lebanon Shot Twice' and 'Beirut Guilty Pleasures' and reflect on his illustrious television career.
We also cover shifts in digital media and examine Zaven's own thoughts on his role within the political/media 'establishment' at length.
Zaven Kouyoumdjian is a media expert, talk show host and published author. Check out his books at Antoine Library.
A special thanks to Wael Abifaker for his audio-technical support.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://www.pat…
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Mar 17, 2023
Ep.352 (Live Video): Part of the Story with Jad Ghosn
0:00 Intro
6:21 Post-elections
16:21 Independent
25:47 Social media
32:20 Jamil Al Sayyed
41:02 Charbel Nahas
1:02:56 Curiosity in politics
1:08:29 Syria in the background
1:16:52 2000
1:24:53 2005
1:28:56 July 2006
1:38:11 May 2008
1:41:13 2019
1:48:45 The last chapter
2:02:02 Q&A
We're with Jad Ghosn for Episode 352 of The Beirut Banyan, recorded live at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/RJFu2kRmgrg
The discussion we shared is exactly why I podcast.
We covered our thoughts on independent journalism and an expanding alternative-digital media space, political persuasion through long-form narration, and our own respective lives growing up in post-civil war Lebanon (and how that shaped the words and phrases we use regularly that evolve over time).
Jad Ghosn is an independent journalist and podcaster. Check out his channel Reflections with @JadGhosn
A special thanks to Wael Abifaker for his audio-technical support and to Aaliya's Books for hosting the event.
Help su…
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Mar 12, 2023
Ep.351 (Live Video): Since Embrace Began with Mia Atoui
0:00 Intro
3:28 Exhausting for you?
8:02 Psychology
13:29 Responsibility
18:21 Measuring success
23:33 Limit
30:12 Young men
39:40 Communal anxiety
48:40 Positive trend
52:25 Q&A
1:23:14 Suffer in silence
We're with Mia Atoui for Episode 351 of The Beirut Banyan, and the third of a live series at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/gRfx6ySwj-4
Our conversation covers mental health and men's health awareness, a positive trend of accessibility towards psychology and therapy's benefits in recent years, and the differentiation between communal and sectarian anxieties as they relate to individual agency.
We also talk about measuring success, where limits are drawn and an acknowledgement of the majority that suffer in silence.
Mia Atoui is a clinical psychologist, cofounder and president of Embrace.
A special thanks to Wael Abifaker for his audio-technical support and to Aaliya's Books for hosting the event.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https…
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Mar 5, 2023
Ep.350 (Live Video): Nowhere Else to Go with Ziad Abi Chaker
0:00 Intro
1:27 Why are you here?
10:13 Policy & planning
19:27 Not in parliament
29:16 Vertical farming
36:59 Solar energy
39:20 Medical coverage
49:27 Research center
1:02:26 Q&A
1:28:18 Incentive
1:38:22 The system
We're with Ziad Abi Chaker for Episode 350 of The Beirut Banyan, and the second of a live series at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/KQKaqNhqENo
Our conversation covers policy and planning expectations in the near term, potential benefits of remaining in civil society while outside parliament, vertical farming and solar energy prototypes along with incentives meant to maneuver poor governance.
We also talk about Gemmayze in time, medical coverage in face of inflation and a research center burned to the ground and currently under reconstruction.
Our discussion ends with a back and forth over expectations for system change in our lifetime.
Ziad Abi Chaker is an industrial and environmental energy and is an expert in waste management.
A special thanks…
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Feb 24, 2023
Ep.349 (Live Video): Change & Continuity with Charles al-Hayek
0:00 Intro
4:15 Gemmayze
11:23 Roman Beirut
24:39 Late Ottoman Era
54:30 1950-1970
1:16:58 Pop Quiz
1:27:21 Q&A
We're with Charles al-Hayek for Episode 349 of The Beirut Banyan, and the first of a live series at Aaliya's Books.
Click to watch: https://youtu.be/gxNpGaQCKUk
Our conversation covers three different eras encompassing Beirut's role in history as a regional hub for trade, knowledge and a metropole for emerging political ideas and more, including the Roman era, late-Ottoman years and two decades of post-independence history.
We also talk about Gemmayze in time, pluralism that once defined our part of the world and the centrality cosmopolitanism played in hosting minorities seeking refuge in modern Lebanon.
Charles al-Hayek is a public historian/consultant and runs the 'Heritage and Roots' page on Instagram.
A special thanks to Wael Abifaker for his audio-technical support and the entire team at Aaliya's for making this first live episode special.
Help support The Beirut…
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Feb 18, 2023
Ep.348 (Video): Two Years Later with Marie Jo Sader & Monika Borgmann
We're with Marie Jo Sader & Monika Borgmann for Episode 348 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/wh2lH3z3vBc
We discuss the two year anniversary of Lokman Slim's assassination, the role of investigative journalism in pursuing accountability and justice, and whether the written word is a challenge to the criminals committing political violence.
We also talk about the Lokman Slim prize, a demand for an international investigation and a generations-long challenge against impunity.
Marie Jo Sader is an investigative and video journalist, and Monika Borgmann is the director of UMAM and Lokman Slim Foundation.
Click below for a link to the referenced L'Orient-Le Jour piece:
https://www.lorientlejour.com/article/1289613/comment-lokman-slim-a-ete-assassine.html
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your prefe…
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Feb 12, 2023
Ep.347 (Video): Rock On with Bachir Ramadan
We're with Bachir Ramadan for Episode 347 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/u5yRAHHMo8k
We discuss near fatal injury following the August 4, 2020 port blast, his gradual recovery and a passionate pursuit for drumming against all odds.
We also talk about the metal scene in Lebanon and the wider story of music appreciation and performance.
Bachir Ramadan is a drummer.
For in-person and online drumming lessons, contact Bachir on Instagram: [at]Bachirramadan89 or by email: Bachirramadan[at]live.com
You can also check out his Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Bachirramadandrums
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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Jan 25, 2023
Ep.346 (Video): Tormented Destiny
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/c3ILmIEV3dE
I share my thoughts on the situation evolving between Tarek Bitar and Ghassan Oueidat's jurisdiction, the realization that a local investigation into the port blast simply will not yield tangible results, Wissam Eid’s important legacy and reflections on my earlier conversation with Melhem Khalaf and Najat Aoun Saliba during their fifth night in parliament.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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Jan 25, 2023
Ep.345 (Video): Mutineer
In memory of Aimee Daou
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/NC25udsI63o
Listen to our earlier conversation (Ep.334: Life in a Time of Cholera, Corona & Cancer):
www.soundcloud.com/thebeirutbanyan/ep334
And check out Warren Zevon's final performance of Mutineer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShB7zbHu9X4
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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Jan 24, 2023
Ep.344 (Video / IG Live): Bitar & Baabda with Najat Aoun Saliba & Melhem Khalaf
We're with Najat Aoun Saliba & Melhem Khalaf for Episode 344 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/PqTrgZd23NU
Apologies for the poor audio. This was taken from an Instagram Live session filmed in parliament during their fifth night sleeping there, and the internet connection was sub-standard. The quality improves as the discussion progresses.
We discuss Tarek Bitar's sudden return, Baabda elections and their firm belief in institution-building and local agency.
Najat Aoun Saliba & Melhem Khalaf are members of parliament. Fellow MP Paula Yacoubian also makes an appearance towards the end.
Photo credit: Mohamad Yassin / L'Orient Today
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.c…
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Jan 18, 2023
Ep.343 (Video): Until the End with William Noun
We're with William Noun for Episode 343 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/bVpSOiGjNDk
We discuss his recent interrogation and arrest. Our conversation includes ongoing protests aimed at protecting Tarek Bitar's role as investigative judge looking into the August 4 port blast.
We also talk about recent escalation from families and whether street protests can, in effect, help Bitar resume his work now stalled for nearly 15 months.
William Noun is a political activist.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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Jan 12, 2023
Ep.342 (Video): Beyond the Point
I share my thoughts on Tarek Bitar's predicament, protestors' demands at the Justice Palace and an insistence on proactive diplomacy that focuses on Iran's security interests in Lebanon while discrediting pandering voices seeking accommodation with Hezbollah's weapons.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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Jan 11, 2023
Ep.341 (Video): A Step Back with George Wardini
We're with George Wardini for Episode 341 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/sUhmyviJG7M
And like last time, we switch roles between host and guest.
We discuss the reasons both of us cover political developments in Lebanon, the art of persuasion through content creation and a wider pursuit for decency, fairness and justice.
George Wardini is a content creator.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Dec 27, 2022
Ep.340 (Video): Loss in Time with Nina Chatah & Gabrielle Elia
This happened by accident.
Gabrielle Elia and I had just finished recording Al Wadi (Part 2), and my mom wanted to speak with her for a moment.
The cameras, microphones and Zoom kept recording. With their permission, they let us listen and turn this into an anniversary episode.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/kHGDRpzWgjo
In memory of those across generations and communal lines that paid the ultimate price for a free and tolerant Lebanon.
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Dec 26, 2022
Ep.339: Time (Video)
In memory of Mohamad Bahaa Chatah
7 March 1951 - 27 December 2013
https://youtu.be/-jQlvqrh2CQ
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Dec 20, 2022
Ep.338 (Video): Al Wadi (Part 2)
Video version:
https://youtu.be/AgfKUejHnkg
Al Wadi (Part 2) catches up with Gabrielle Elia, author of 'Impressions of My Youth in Lebanon'.
We dive deep into Wadi Abu Jmeel's history - a bygone neighborhood once central to downtown Beirut - and the Lebanese Jewish community's position in a time of post-independence uncertainty for Lebanon.
Our discussion explores Gabrielle's childhood, full of an innocent joy that she retains. We also talk about relics both abandoned and restored of a once vibrant community's rich and troubled past.
Our conversation also touches on the storytelling craft, and why Gabrielle continues to write about a country she left over half a century ago.
If you haven't already, listen to the first episode of Al Wadi (Episode 170) released in June 2020:
https://soundcloud.com/thebeirutbanyan/ep170
And check out all her books (including 'Impressions of My Youth in Lebanon') via the following Amazon link:
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=%22Gabrielle+Elia%22&i=stripbo…
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Dec 5, 2022
Ep.337 (Video): Podcast-Curious with George Wardini
0:00 Intro
3:01 Michel & Michel
29:48 Architecture
40:12 Moawad & Baroud
55:11 Leverage
We're with George Wardini for Episode 337 of The Beirut Banyan.
And, at times, we switch roles between host and guest.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/RKdAGJs3UeI
We discuss Michel Moawad's presidential candidacy, the 'Change' bloc's Baabda-elections voting record, looking at local politics through three dimensions, possibilities for a 'Change'-'Opposition' alliance and leverage when it comes to lost diplomacy.
George Wardini is a content creator.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Dec 4, 2022
Ep.336 (Video): Media & Memory with Zaven Kouyoumdjian
0:00 Intro
2:50 Career
10:19 Social media
18:24 Not visible
31:06 Silos
36:45 L'Orient
40:51 St. George
44:38 Holiday Inn
1:01:22 Burj El Murr
1:09:37 Grand Theater
1:16:03 Martyrs Square statue
1:23:54 The fist
1:28:55 The egg
1:33:24 Connection
1:39:07 Beit Beirut
1:43:46 National museum
1:48:36 Generational shift
We're with Zaven Kouyoumdjian for Episode 336 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/S6HAaWIXbTw
We discuss his over two decade career as a journalist in a shifting media landscape, his evolution from mainstay television screens to more alternative outlets, and his newly published book 'Beirut Guilty Pleasures' covering the city's layered - and scarred - history through photography and narrative text.
Zaven Kouyoumdjian is a renowned television host & journalist.
Check out 'Beirut Guilty Pleasures' at Antoine Bookstore and Antoine's online catalogue:
www.antoineonline.com
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/…
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Nov 13, 2022
Ep.335 (Video): The Film Critic with Anis Tabet
0:00 Intro
3:03 Four years ago
12:02 'West Beirut'
21:12 Storytelling
27:39 Twelve years ago
47:23 Anxiety & depression
59:51 Change
1:05:39 Personal favorites
1:13:09 Satisfaction
1:23:28 Favorite movie(s)
We're with Anit Tabet for Episode 335 of The Beirut banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/quyly6uhD_c
We discuss cinema culture, movie reviewing, contrasting classic films with newer series, more selective streaming services and how Ziad Doueiri’s West Beirut brought us closer to our respective storytelling careers.
We also discuss overcoming mental health concerns, the pandemic’s long-term impact on cinemas worldwide & where the Lebanese industry stands today.
Anis Tabet is a film critic.
Check out the 'Let's Talk About Movies' website:
www.tlkabtmovies.com
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferr…
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Nov 6, 2022
Ep.334: Life in a Time of Cholera, Corona & Cancer with Aimee Daou
A conversation about a friend's incredible strength in fighting stage three breast cancer, going through double mastectomy surgery, coping with cancer's temporary remission followed by recurrence and spread into bone marrow, proactively maintaining mental health despite being bed-ridden for over three months and how she is an inspiration to anyone handling immense personal pain in a time of collapse and uncertainty.
With Aimee Daou of Bolero - Batroun.
Here is the link to Warren Zevon’s final talkshow appearance while referencing “enjoy every sandwich”:
https://youtu.be/giTi8KWSZl4
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Nov 2, 2022
Ep.333 (Video): Clear & Honest with Ibrahim Mneimneh
0:00 Intro
0:24 Complications
21:21 Next phase
31:34 Michel Moawad
48:47 Taif
58:27 Sectarianism
1:07:20 Hostage
We're with Ibrahim Mneimneh for Episode 333 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/bn0M5vwcziI
We discuss complications surrounding the ‘Change’ bloc’s fracturing, the next political phase and how to approach Baabda elections, defending the Taif Agreement and addressing sectarian reform through a long-delayed senate, and challenging our hostage-like situation by producing legislation & legacy.
Ibrahim Mneimneh is a Member of Parliament.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Oct 30, 2022
Ep.332 (Video): In Different Ways with Gistelle Semaan, Iman Tabbara & Ghiya El Asaad
0:00 Intro
2:11 What's happening
18:14 Mechanism
30:22 Pragmatism
42:45 Baabda
52:29 Michel Moawad
1:04:52 Long battle
We're with Gistelle Semaan, Iman Tabbara & Ghiya El Asaad for Episode 332 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/lCYHieBqEDs
We discuss the fracturing of the 'Change' bloc, an internal mechanism needed that takes voting and consensus into account when needed, populism vs pragmatism, the Baabda elections underway, Michel Moawad's viability and the long battle ahead and against paralysis.
Gistelle Semaan, Iman Tabbara & Ghiya El Asaad are members and friends of National Bloc.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustrat…
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Oct 26, 2022
Ep.331: Independent Thirteen
I share my thoughts on the 'Change' bloc fracture, democratic voting vs consensus, compromise vs absolutism & October 17's national-political pursuit overlayed with differing lists & districts.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
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https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
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@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Oct 19, 2022
Ep.330: A Typical Afternoon In Beirut
I share my thoughts on the 10-year marker of Wissam El-Hassan's assassination, joining his son Mazen El-Hassan in Martyrs Square where both of our fathers are buried side by side, heading to Gemmayze afterwards and untangling the political discussions that grew from there.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
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@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Oct 9, 2022
Ep.329 (Video): Extreme Frustration with Rawad Taha & Laury Haytayan
0:00 Intro
1:32 Cynthia Zarazir
26:08 Organization
45:18 Line 29
1:16:43 Baabda
1:42:48 Serail
1:48:34 Hezbollah
1:53:42 Social contract
We're with Rawad Taha & Laury Haytayan for Episode 329 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/jvDheG_l1x8
We discuss all that is post-elections political terrain and also cover bank heists, the need for more October 17 supporters and groups to organize into political parties, Line 23 vs Line 29, Baabda elections and new potential names for the Serail, Hezbollah's crippling role in sub-state security and reform, and the evolution of Lebanon's social contract.
Rawad Taha is a journalist and Laury Haytayan is an oil and gas policy expert.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check…
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Oct 2, 2022
Ep.328 (Video): 'Allo, Beirut?' with Tala Khlat & Delphine Darmency
0:00 Intro
3:16 Personal story
10:09 Not so negative
16:15 Accessible for the youth
26:07 Idea of the project
32:23 National healing process
41:28 Planting seeds
51:10 'Allo, Beirut?' exhibition
We're with Tala Khlat & Delphine Darmency for Episode 328 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/e-emNUkREZ0
We discuss citizenship building, civic engagement and the wider role of youth empowerment and education.
Our conversation includes the power of collective memory in reclaiming history and addressing national wounds within venues like Beit Beirut, ranging from the civil war to all forms of political violence.
We also talk about the 'Allo, Beirut?' exhibition currently underway in Beit Beirut.
Tala Khlat is the founder and president of Min ila, and Delphine Darmency is an independent journalist and visual storyteller.
Please visit min ila's website:
www.minila.org
Or contact Tala Khlat via her social media platforms for more info on how to support her youth empower…
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Sep 28, 2022
Ep.327 (Video): Diplomatic Protocol
Apologies for the mismatched audio levels.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/5lUD1VEgxFg
I share disagreements with the wider framing of core problems explored within the opinion piece 'The Time to Act is Now' authored by the EU various European ambassadors and the need to create leverage and diplomatically engage Iran over Lebanon.
Link to L'Orient Today article authored by EU and various European ambassadors:
https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1312839/the-time-to-act-is-now.html
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Sep 25, 2022
Ep.326 (Video): A Constant Battle with Najat Aoun Saliba
0:00 Intro
1:18 The death of the country
9:12 A process that's denied
22:40 Line 29
36:55 Baabda
48:02 Reclaim what was stolen
52:44 'Madrase' moment
1:03:02 Political violence
1:14:38 Environmental degradation
We're with Najat Aoun Saliba for Episode 326 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/JniZaGvq5wM
We discuss her first four months as a member of parliament, the debate surrounding Line 23 vs Line 29, the Baabda presidency-selection process moving forward, her 'madrase' moment, the ongoing struggle against impunity and tackling widespread environmental degradation.
Najat Aoun Saliba is a member of parliament and Taqaddom.
Since we cannot upload bank details directly in this information box, please contact Najat Aoun Saliba's team via her social media platforms and they will forward necessary info on how to support her environmental protection office:
Facebook page: Najat Aoun Saliba
Instagram: najat.aoun.saliba
Twitter: najat_saliba
Help support The Beirut B…
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Sep 3, 2022
Ep.325 (Video): Strength & Warmth
I discuss the strength, warmth and inspiration that keeps me in this country - and despite the immense pressure and suffering we are witnessing - defines by defying Lebanon's tragedy.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/mIanFfYOznI
With mentions of Chaden El Daif, Joe Farchakh, Charbel Salameh and Charles al-Hayek.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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Aug 31, 2022
Ep.324 (Video): Rough Around the Edges
0:00 Intro
0:46 AUB
12:41 Mikhael Gorbachev
19:21 Cause & consequence
39:27 Baabda
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/LVKuyzwxZlg
I discuss changes at AUB, Mikhail Gorbachev’s legacy, the cause & consequence for state failure along with independent MPs navigating paralysis, & structural limitations inherent to Baabda.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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Aug 22, 2022
Ep.323 (Video): Action Over Words with Gino Raidy
Recorded from an Instagram Live session
We're with Gino Raidy for Episode 322 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/gw0T0eCEkvo
We discuss heightened social media attacks and physical threats hurled against photojournalist Hasan Shaaban and MTV host Dima Sadek.
Our conversation includes merging local aspirations with international diplomacy, and the process needed for 'Change' bloc MPs to pursue and yield reform.
Gino Raidy in an activist, blogger, and podcaster. He current hosts the BUKRA podcast and writes opinion pieces for NOWLebanon.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
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Aug 3, 2022
JUSTICE for Lebanon
Recorded on 17 July (International Justice Day) at Station Beirut
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/zwkryW4QJOk
Introductory speeches: Monika Borgmann-Slim, director of UMAM Documentation & Research; Rasha Al Ameer, director of Dar Al Jadeed; and Anna Fleischer, director of Heinrich Böll Stiftung Beirut - Middle East
Participants: Ronnie Chatah, host of The Beirut Banyan podcast; Andreas Kindl, German Ambassador to Lebanon; Moussa Khoury, lawyer of Ms. Borgmann for the Lokman Slim case; Aya Majzoub, researcher at Human Rights Watch; Nizar Saghieh, Executive Director of Legal Agenda; and Reina Sfeir, Human Rights professor at La Sagesse University, former liaison officer with families of victims for the STL
Moderator: Najat Rochdi, UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Lebanon and appointed UN Special Envoy for Syria
Closing Remarks: Dr. Hana Jaber, director of Lokman Slim Foundation
In partnership with Heinrich Böll Stiftung Beirut - Middle East; Dar Al Jadeed; UMAM Documentation & Re…
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Jul 20, 2022
Ep.322 (Video): 'Lebanon, Then & Now' with Mohamad Tohmé
0:00 Intro
5:39 Instagram page
15:12 Measurements
36:06 Done it better
46:26 Without Solidère
52:28 People
1:03:01 The story
1:11:38 A whole chapter of history
We're with Mohamad Tohmé for Episode 322 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/XI_9NZuvZl0
We discuss his Instagram page (lebanon_then_now) and the measurements needed to accurately layer before and after photos throughout Beirut.
Our conversation includes the Municipality and Solidère's varying roles in post-civil war urban development, and a consideration of what downtown would have looked like without a private company managing public space.
We also talk about the emotions associated with reflection and nostalgia, and the value of Gabriele Basilico's photography in the immediate aftermath of post-civil war downtown.
Mohamad Tohmé is an architect and designer.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://ww…
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Jul 13, 2022
Ep.321 (Video): A Photographic Journey with Nabeel Yakzan
0:00 Intro
9:50 Hamra
25:21 Camera choice
29:14 Manara
51:12 Achrafieh
1:01:15 October 17, 2019
1:18:37 Blast
1:21:17 Graduation
We're with Nabeel Yakzan for Episode 321 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/d8a4GG5hLOc
We discuss the passion that is storytelling, a journey into photography, and capturing the personal and political on Beirut's streets one neighborhood at a time.
Our conversation includes camera preference and technique, October 17's natural impact on an earlier hobby, and why certain subjects are at times too sensitive to cover.
We also talk about balancing career choices, and a determination to carry on with photography despite potential departure from Lebanon.
Nabeel Yakzan is a recent chemical engineering graduate from AUB and a talented street photographer.
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Jul 3, 2022
Ep.320 (Video): Astronomy & Astrophotography with Maroun Habib
0:00 Intro
2:30 Into astronomy
8:09 Healing
23:50 Place in the universe
38:05 Commitment
49:23 Telescope & astrophotography
1:00:48 Ritchey-Chrétien Telescope
We're with Maroun Habib for Episode 320 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/ics5xrZD9P8
We discuss deep curiosity and passion when it comes to astronomy and astrophotography, a 'healing' hobby that allows for exploration beyond familiar Lebanese political terrain, and a commitment to science research despite the difficulties of deteriorating and limited infrastructure.
Our conversation includes looking at a self-assembled Ritchey-Chrétien Telescope, preferred environment for delicate imagery processing and the pure joy that comes from star gazing at night.
Maroun Habib is a cybersecurity specialist (by day) and astrophotographer (by night).
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutb…
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Jun 23, 2022
Ep.319 (Video): Change & Circumstance
I share my thoughts on 'Change' MPs choosing not to vote for Nawaf Salam during prime-ministerial consultations, pragmatism vs. absolutism and Line 29, the downside to endless photo ops, fallout from Najat Aoun Saliba's comments regarding Nabih Berri's experience in parliament, and the inability to address policy concerns related to Iran's security dominion over Lebanon.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Ta1BMKJchaM
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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May 14, 2022
Ep.318 (Video): Vote with Paul & Tracy Naggear
0:00 Intro
0:28 Diaspora
3:19 Expectations
21:29 The three of us
29:18 Justice
36:03 Familiar terrain
47:47 Paternal duties
48:27 Trust
55:09 Failure
1:03:12 Mission
1:16:48 Nation
We're with Paul & Tracy Naggear for Episode 318 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/D_cZTNKPwYk
We discuss the diaspora vote, expectations for Sunday's parliamentary elections, and the mission that bonds the three of us.
Our conversation includes the pursuit of justice, building trust for newer names and groups demanding change, and the familiar terrain that pushes many Lebanese citizens to vote for well-established parties.
We also talk about the needed consequence for failure, and the silence that brings a nation together.
Paul & Tracy Naggear are political activists and the parents of Alexandra "Lexou" Naggear.
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…
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May 13, 2022
Ep.317 (Video): This Time Around with Fouad Makhzoumi
0:00 Intro
1:41 This time around
9:46 Policy
16:38 Earlier attempts
27:35 What can be done
35:39 Repetition
42:38 Current ambition
49:14 The Hariri name
58:14 Beirut 2
We're with Fouad Makhzoumi for Episode 317 of The Beirut Banyan.
We compare this year's parliamentary elections with 2005 and 2009 and examine what can be done that is different to earlier attempts at reform.
Our conversation includes avoiding repetition that leads to paralysis, policies that would undermine Iran's security position in Lebanon and on the ground campaigning in Beirut.
Fouad Makhzoumi is MP candidate in Beirut 2 district.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.ronniechatah.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration b…
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May 13, 2022
Ep.315 (Video): Back in Time with Alain Aoun
0:00 Intro
5:19 2004 - 2005
11:50 Mar Mikhael Agreement
20:23 Sided opposition
27:29 Sectarianism
37:07 Fault
50:41 Protesters
1:02:24 Blast
1:08:54 Baabda
1:12:18 Iran's security in Lebanon
We're with Alain Aoun for Episode 315 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/klKtZcfxk9Q
We discuss the buildup to March 14, 2005, the political decisions taken in the aftermath of the Syrian army's withdrawal from Lebanon, and the wider role of sectarianism while pursuing national aspirations.
Our conversation includes the geopolitical burden on local affairs, looking back at forced national unity, and protester demands following October 17, 2019.
We also discuss the port blast's implications on sovereignty, a diplomatic way to challenge Iran's security needs in Lebanon, and voter concerns while campaigning in Baabda district.
Alain Aoun is MP candidate in Baabda district.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donatin…
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May 12, 2022
Ep.314 (Video): The Program with Mounir Doumani, Petra Samaha & Rayan Charara
0:00 Intro
1:30 List formation
31:17 Reform
47:23 Fundamentally disagree
1:43:40 Economics
2:12:20 Post-elections
We're with Mounir Doumani, Petra Samaha & Rayan Charara for Episode 314 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss the list formation process, why previous reform attempts failed and the program offered by Citizens in a State.
Our conversation includes a look at post-civil war economics, post-elections ambition and a healthy debate on political agency, sub-state activity, systemic failure and lost sovereignty.
Mounir Doumani is MP candidate in Tripoli, Petra Samaha is MP candidate in Zahle & Rayan Charara is a member of Citizens in a State.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.ronniechatah.com
Music…
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May 12, 2022
Ep.316 (Rescheduled / Video): Unique & Different with Iman Tabbara & Waddah Sadek
0:00 Intro
2:55 Sectarian anxiety
11:08 One particular figure
26:04 Voters in Beirut
36:35 Local issues
47:58 The message
1:03:11 Enter parliament
1:11:03 Expertise
1:24:22 A system for Lebanon
We're with Iman Tabbara & Waddah Sadek for Episode 316 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss campaigning in Beirut 2 district, combating sectarian anxiety within the Sunni community and delivering the message of reform and good governance.
Our conversation includes taking expertise in various fields to parliament, pushing through legislation when dealing with geopolitical concerns, and overcoming the exit of one particular figure from politics.
Iman Tabbara and Waddah Sadek are MP candidates in Beirut 2 district.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanya…
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May 10, 2022
Ep.313 (Video): Fear, Courage & Keys with Sarah Yassine
0:00 Intro
1:00 Personal intention
9:24 Municipal to national elections
20:44 National journey
34:43 Larger list
1:01:53 Day-to-day politics
1:15:31 The wall
We're with Sarah Yassine for Episode 313 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/4tZTLxYRzYM
We discuss the personal intentions for running for parliament, Madinati's journey from municipal to national elections, and why a larger unified list did not pan out for October 17 groups.
Our conversation includes campaigning on the ground in Beirut 2, the day-to-day concerns of voters and overcoming the geopolitical burden on reform-minded politicians.
Sarah Yassine is MP candidate in Beirut 2 district.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
ww…
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May 9, 2022
Ep.312 (Video): Clear & Concise with Khalil Helou
0:00 Intro
0:58 Childhood
7:34 Enter parliament
12:47 Sovereignty
24:41 Pressure
29:25 Violence
43:02 Army figure
51:06 Baabda voters
57:00 Memories of my father
We're with Khalil Helou for Episode 312 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/eOk2q_hr9Es
We discuss his childhood pre-civil war, a well-established army turned political career, issues of sovereignty and foreign policy, and how to affect change through parliament.
Our conversation includes campaigning on the ground in Baabda and tackling system failure through legislature.
Khalil Helou is MP candidate in Baabda district.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.ronniechatah.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by S…
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May 4, 2022
Ep.311 (Video): Fighting for Fairness with Verena El Amil
0:00 Intro
2:38 Reluctance
10:49 Transition
24:38 Secularism
42:58 March 14 & March 8
57:10 On the ground
1:02:58 Judicial independence
1:10:38 The journey
We're with Verena El Amil for Episode 311 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss reluctance and responsibility when it comes to running for parliament, the transition from student politics to national aspirations, and the journey set forward from October 17, 2019..
Our conversation includes wider debates surrounding secularism and sectarianism, the comparisons made between March 14 & March 8, and an insistence on judicial independence.
We also talk about campaigning on the ground in Matn district, and why the choice was made to run there as opposed to Beirut 1 district.
Verena El Amil is MP candidate in Matn district. She is a lawyer and member of the Beirut Bar Association.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://www.patreon.com/thebe…
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May 1, 2022
Ep.310 (Video): The Process with Najat Aoun Saliba
0:00 Intro
4:55 Memories
8:53 Politics today
13:03 Structural problem
23:24 Pursuit in parliament
30:30 Beyond the state
36:53 Independent
41:57 Generator industry
49:28 Waste burning
55:37 On the ground
We're with Najat Aoun Saliba for Episode 310 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/BEsRNfDpCE0
We discuss early memories of Damour and pre-civil war Lebanon, political pursuit today through parliament and focusing on administrative process and accountability.
Our conversation includes obstacles beyond the state obstructing reform, independent voices emerging as competition to established names, and issues addressed when campaigning on the ground.
We also talk about the decades old generator industry, increased waste burning and mitigating environmental concerns through legislation.
Najat Aoun Saliba is MP candidate in Chouf district. She is a Professor of Analytical Chemistry and an atmospheric chemist at the American University of Beirut.
Help support The Beiru…
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Apr 27, 2022
Ep.309 (Video): Caza & Coalition with Chaden El Daif
0:00 Intro
0:36 A success story
5:07 Parties & families
12:57 Unification
23:41 A path to parliament
36:41 Numbers
44:46 Zgharta
59:44 In parliament
1:11:15 Investigation stalled
We're with Chaden El Daif for Episode 309 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/NAkzkKWOQoQ
We discuss the Shamaluna coalition, its relative success compared to other October 17 electoral lists, and the difficulties of challenging traditional parties and entrenched families.
Our conversation includes increased demands in Zgharta for alternative voices, what political agency would look like in parliament post-May 15, and the limits set for any MP pursuing transparency and accountability.
Chaden El Daif is a member of OSOS and part of the Shamaluna coalition.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
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Apr 24, 2022
Ep.308 (Video): Big & Strong with Ziad Abi Chaker
0:00 Intro
6:31 Limited
12:04 Earlier elections
23:47 Waste management
33:47 Initiative
43:09 Parliament
50:50 Decentralization
1:05:46 Third alternative
We're with Ziad Abi Chaker for Episode 308 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/exiGOw5tPqI
We discuss the difficult work necessary to tackle towards waste management, de facto decentralization emerging from the ongoing political and economic crisis, and political agency afforded through upcoming parliamentary elections.
Our conversation includes individual initiatives at the local Municipal level, how those efforts can translate on a national scale, comparing May 15 to earlier elections and looking at third alternatives for answers.
Ziad Abi Chaker is MP Candidate for Beirut 1 District.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.…
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Apr 20, 2022
Ep.307 (Video): Citizens in a State with Charbel Nahas
0:00 Intro
3:25 List formation
14:55 Political failures
27:33 Building blocks
42:25 The problem persists
49:20 Hezbollah is preserved
1:15:25 Taef
1:32:23 Citizens in a State
We're with Charbel Nahas for Episode 307 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/qN_7g5A7tFw
We discuss difficulties surrounding the list formation process, structural failures that have kept Lebanon's politics paralyzed and the building blocks necessary to reform and rebuild the state.
Our conversation includes addressing the issue of Hezbollah's sub-state security and weaponry, the limitations of the Taef Agreement and Citizen in a State's political journey.
Charbel Nahas is MP Candidate for Beirut 1 District and the General Secretary of Citizens in a State.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
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Apr 17, 2022
Ep.306 (Video): Before & After with Nadim Gemayel
0:00 Intro
0:25 This round
8:45 Core issue
13:51 Policy
31:10 No tolerance
42:01 Expectation
48:49 Kataeb today
55:36 Post-May
1:00:42 Baabda
We're with Nadim Gemayel for Episode 306 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/lEC-skcbHGs
We discuss upcoming parliamentary elections, what makes this round different than previous years, and the core obstacles preventing reform.
Our conversation includes policy on how to deal with Iran's security interests in Lebanon, an increased disinterest among youth voters in reelecting pre-October 17 figures, and Kataeb's narrative challenge today as supportive of October 17's demands and one of the oldest political groups in Lebanon.
We also talk about expectations placed on Nadim as the son of Bachir Gemayel, and how Nadim sees Baabda - and the country's - future.
Nadim Gemayel is MP Candidate for Beirut 1 District, and a member of Kataeb.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut…
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Apr 10, 2022
Ep.305 (Video): Persistence & Pursuit with Maher Abou Chackra
0:00 Intro
0:42 Relationship to Li Haqqi
5:55 Design
10:52 Burden
18:17 Tentative alliance
30:46 Reform
39:48 Violent component
45:32 Kataeb & October 17
56:18 Regret
58:06 Decentralization
1:03:49 Resignation
1:14:54 This road
We're with Maher Abou Chackra for Episode 305 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/GdtY8msFqSc
We discuss the founding of Li Haqqi and his personal journey into politics, and reflect on all that has happened since October 17, 2019.
Our conversation includes the inner dynamics within Li Haqqi's horizontal organization, a principled pursuit of political and economic reform and the wider disagreements within October 17 parties.
We also talk about the reasons for Li Haqqi's withdrawal of the majority of its candidates from upcoming parliamentary elections and Maher's own decision to resign from the group.
Maher Abou Chackra is a former member of Li Haqqi.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbe…
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Apr 3, 2022
Ep.304 (Video): The Whole Story with Jana Massoud & Ghiya El Assaad
0:00 Intro
1:00 Day-to-day
13:51 No candidate
19:11 Division
25:02 Kataeb
33:49 Secularism
56:36 Hezbollah
1:19:35 Women-led
1:30:33 Personal reasons
We're with Jana Massoud and Ghiya El Assaad for Episode 304 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/M0C8Jweks0w
We discuss their day-to-day workings within Minteshreen, and whether the meaning of what began on October 17, 2019 shifted over time.
Our conversation includes the group's decision not to field a candidate in upcoming parliamentary elections and to focus, instead, on the local and Municipal level. We also talk about divisions within the October 17 movement, the polarizing issue of willing to engage regime parties seeking reform and addressing Hezbollah's sub-state weapons and security.
The episode concludes with a reflection of women-led protests turned politics, and personal reasons for their commitment to Lebanon.
Jana Massoud is a youth coordinator and Ghiya El Assaad directs external relations for Mintes…
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Mar 27, 2022
Ep.303 (Video): Three Main Components with Elias Hankach
0:00 Intro
1:44 Personal journey
11:19 Buildup to 1975
20:01 Disarmament of the last militia
25:40 Third component
35:54 Tarek Bitar
40:57 Local issues
50:19 Inertia
57:32 The end
1:03:24 All three
We're with Elias Hankach for Episode 302 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/5WU2JD1C_jA
We discuss his personal journey into politics, memories of the civil war and Syrian occupation, and reemergence of Kataeb's role in post-2005 politics.
Our conversation includes three components needed to address Lebanon's lost sovereignty, local pressure points through parliament, and the fallout from communal distance & boycotting.
Elias Hankach is a resigned Kataeb member of parliament and a candidate in upcoming elections.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
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Mar 24, 2022
Ep.302 (Video): The First Hundred Days with Neemat Frem
0:00 Intro
0:25 Anti-system
12:20 Fundamental circumstances
25:37 Reformers
37:16 Victory
40:05 Memories of my father
We're with Neemat Frem for Episode 302 of The Beirut Banyan.
Video:
https://youtu.be/g4QBDb6opLc
We discuss his earlier career as an MP affiliated with the Free Patriotic movement, his resignation from the bloc and later from parliament following the Beirut port blast, and his belief in the potential for reform through upcoming parliamentary elections.
Our conversation includes his current candidacy, what he deems an 'anti-system' movement, as well as memories of my father days before his assassination.
Neemat Frem is a resigned member of parliament and a candidate in upcoming elections.
Check out Project Watan’s website:
www.projectwatan.com
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platf…
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Mar 20, 2022
Ep.301 (Video): The National Bloc with Naji Abou-Khalil
0:00 Intro
1:27 Narrative problem
11:44 Selling the message
20:35 Focus on sectarianism
29:08 Parliament
40:21 Persuade
48:52 Glory years
We're with Naji Abou-Khalil for Episode 301 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/faiQxgczKtA
We discuss the National Bloc's evolution from pre-independence years until today, and reflect on overdue reform measures.
Our conversation includes framing a united narrative for October 17 parties, how to address sectarian insecurities through government, tthe maneuvering space afforded for candidates seeking election wins, and the pressure capabilities for a minority opposition in parliament.
Naji Abou-Khalil is the Political Director and Executive Committee member of the National Bloc.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook,…
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Mar 17, 2022
Ep.300 (Video): A few ideas...
0:00 Intro
0:15 Iran
8:18 Sunni void
16:58 Elections
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/ZV5VP61pcm8
I share a few ideas on how civil society can better deliver policy points on relations with Iran, the 'Sunni void' and sectarianism, and expectations from parliamentary elections.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.ronniechatah.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Mar 13, 2022
Ep.299 (Video): Nation of Heroes with Ambassador Ihor Ostash
0:00 Intro
0:17 Parallel
12:15 Lost battle
27:02 Endgame
36:18 Near the end
53:37 Refugees
1:00:05 Russia without Putin
We're with Ambassador Ihor Ostash for Episode 299 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/gBRk62qvHLY
We discuss Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, Putin's security considerations and endgame in Kiev, and parallels to Lebanon's place under Syrian occupation and current Iranian dominion.
Our conversation includes the Ambassador's optimistic view that the Putin regime is nearing its end. We also compare the 1986 Chernobyl disaster to the 2020 Beirut port blast, and consider tipping points for regimes' influence over regional security spheres.
Ihor Ostash is the Ambassador of Ukraine to Lebanon.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Insta…
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Mar 6, 2022
Ep.298 (Video): Federal Republic of Lebanon with Iyad Boustany
0:00 Intro
5:53 Delivering the message
9:42 Layered & complicated
15:25 Sovereignty
30:53 Ethno-geography
48:03 Birth & death
1:12:25 Ten principles
1:12:40 (1) National Narratives
1:17:50 (2) Self-government
1:17:59 (3) Subsidiarity & Localism
1:19:38 (4) Solidarity
1:25:32 (5) Cantonal Sovereignty
1:36:21 (6 & 7) Structure & Government
1:46:27 (8) Direct Democracy
1:54:46 (9 & 10) Roadmap & Implementation
2:16:28 Consensus
We're with Iyad Boustany for Episode 298 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/uUXIzS6VE9g
We discuss layered history, identity and the merits of sovereignty in a consensus-based form of power-sharing governance.
Our conversation includes reflections on the Règlement Organique constitution, the Mutasarrifyate form of governance, French Mandatory and post-independent administration and a debate on political violence's role in systemic paralysis.
We also talk about the proposed federalist constitution's ten principles and the role of family his…
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Mar 1, 2022
Ep.297 (Video): Ideological Battle with Toufic Hindi
0:00 Intro
2:53 From science to politics
12:59 Ideological shift
38:24 Immediate post-civil war era
51:14 Falling out with the Lebanese Forces
57:00 March 14, 2005
1:07:13 Seventeen years
1:22:15 Local decisions
1:31:37 External powers
We're with Toufic Hindi for Episode 297 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/zMsnTnb244I
We discuss his varied career in Lebanese politics, radical shift in ideological stance during the civil war and 15-month imprisonment from 2001-2002.
We look back at the civil war years, in particular, and reflect on his earlier relationship with the Lebanese Forces and how local decisions taken by partisan groups interplayed with geopolitics.
We also talk about the prospects for serious reform without addressing Iran's security considerations and underlying local problems that persist.
Toufic Hindi is a political analyst.
The book mentioned in this episode, ‘Une Trosième Guerre Mondiale Pas Comme Les Autres' can be purchased via the follo…
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Feb 24, 2022
THE HAPPY HOUR (Video): Reflecting on lost sovereignty and capturing the moment
My appearance on The Happy Hour podcast, hosted by Ramzi Abou Ismail.
0:00 Does story telling shape or reflect public opinion?
3:47 Remembering Martyr Mohammad Chatah: Will justice be achieved?
23:11 Lebanon and sovereignty: A long history of battles.
31:26 Is Hezballah a “security provider” for part of the Lebanese society?
42:15 Are groups trying to dominate each other in Lebanon by seeking foreign aid?
50:24 Do our problems lie in our inability to apply legislation, or with legislation itself?
59:07 Similarities and Differences between March 14 2005 and October 17 2019
1:01:47 Different perspectives regarding the opposition today: Strength and weaknesses
1:19:56 What is truly dividing the opposition, and what are our chances in the elections?
'Podcaster, columnist, advocate for Lebanese sovereignty, and all-round awesome guy, this Thursday, we bring you the Happy Storyteller, Ronnie Chatah! With Ronnie, we reflect on Lebanon’s struggle with political violence, absence of jus…
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Feb 2, 2022
Ep.296 (Video): Present, Past & Future with Monika Borgmann, Rasha al Ameer and Salma Merchak
In memory of Lokman Slim
17 July 1962 - 4 February 2021
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/64ib_xV6kIA
A special thank you to Monika Borgmann (filmmaker, director of UMAM Research & Documentation & Lokman's wife); Rasha al Ameer (author, publisher of Dar al Jadeed & Lokman's sister); & Salma Merchak (editor, publisher & Lokman's mother).
Zero Fear.
Arabic translation & subtitles by Yousra El Baba. Music by Marc Codsi.
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Feb 1, 2022
Ep.295 (Video): Navigate & Maneuver with Ziyad Baroud
0:00 Intro
2:09 So Far
9:04 Two Sides of the Story
15:56 Beyond Control
30:27 Independent
42:46 Maneuvering Space
50:57 2018
56:59 2022
1:04:36 Decentralization
1:10:18 32 Years
We're with Ziyad Baroud for Episode 295 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/S2eZy-1vEMg
We discuss his illustrious career in civil society (from working and serving as secretary general of LADE to positions at both TRA and LCPS), as well serving as minister of interior in two successive governments.
We look back at the maneuvering space afforded to him, responsibilities while serving in power and resignation, lessons learned from the 2018 election campaign and the possibilities for running in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
We also talk about electoral reform and decentralization.
Ziyad Baroud is an attorney and former minister of interior.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://ww…
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Jan 25, 2022
Ep.294 (Video): Finance & Journalism with Kabalan Farah
0:00 Intro
4:12 Transition
9:08 Today
14:47 Fluctuation
18:55 IMF Deal
27:15 What happens?
30:47 Mistakes
37:11 Looking Back
45:54 Rentier Economy
50:36 Haircut
54:45 Capital Controls
55:45 State Assets
1:02:31 Price
We're with Kabalan Farah for Episode 294 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/PFQWLa3iPOs
We discuss Kabalan's transition from navigating the financial markets to reporting on Lebanon's crippling economic crisis.
We look back at lack of fiscal policy / mistakes made in the years leading up to 2019, and the potential for crisis management, stabilization and lasting reform lost in the months following October 17.
We also talk about a de facto haircut, capital controls and the future of state assets.
Kabalan Farah is a finance reporter at L'Orient Today.
Check out his latest piece, 'A new peg in the works?':
https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1288334/a-new-peg-in-the-works.html
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://…
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Dec 26, 2021
Ep.293 (Video): Bahaa (Glory)
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/y3KzP0npJo4
In memory of Mohamad Bahaa Chatah
7 March 1951 - 27 December 2013
Music by Marc Codsi.
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Dec 21, 2021
Ep.292 (Video): Eight Years with Nina Chatah
0:00 Intro
3:51 Spotlight
16:03 Teenagers
23:53 Civil war
40:03 Inclination
46:19 IMF
55:17 Return
1:01:11 Diplomacy
1:17:58 Eight years
We're with my mom, Nina Chatah, for Episode 292 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/3oNV3wgJO9U
We share memories of my father, Mohamad Chatah. We discuss my parents' relationship growing up in pre-civil war Lebanon, their move to the United States, his career abroad and ultimate return to Lebanon.
We also reflect on eight years passing since his assassination on December 27, 2013.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.ronniechatah.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Dec 19, 2021
Ep.291 (Video): A Moment in Time with Asma Andraos
0:00 Intro
3:27 Meaning
9:22 Divide
28:36 Something wrong
46:56 Aspiration
1:00:33 Now
We're with Asma Andraos for Episode 291 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/aRTcMDErOPw
We discuss all that was March 14, 2005. From its buildup in the weeks leading up to that date, the momentum on the street vs the political decisions made, and the movement that withered as political violence took hold.
We also look back at the reasons for the divide that emerged between the March 8 and March 14 camps, carry-over aspirations into October 17, 2019 and where the older demands for sovereignty and independence stand today.
Asma Andraos in an events organizer. She previously served as an advisor to former prime minister Saad Hariri from 2005 - 2017.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Foll…
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Nov 28, 2021
Ep.290 (Video): Writing the Story with Dana Hourany
0:00 Intro
1:30 Drive to register
18:51 Future of this country
42:38 Entrepreneurs
We're with Dana Hourany for Episode 290 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/WbtraNrDDpc
We discuss her recent NOWLebanon pieces covering opposition-led politics and last week's lawyers syndicate election defeat for October 17 parties, impressions following the diaspora voter registration campaign, as well as entrepreneurial skills moving online in times of financial crisis and economic collapse.
Dana Hourany is a multimedia journalist for NOWLebanon.
The pieces mentioned in this episode are listed below in order of appearance:
'244,442':
https://nowlebanon.com/244442-2/
'The case for a united opposition':
https://nowlebanon.com/the-case-for-a-united-opposition/
'The Beirut Bar elections breakdown':
https://nowlebanon.com/the-beirut-bar-elections-breakdown/
'More than just a business':
https://nowlebanon.com/more-than-just-a-business/
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contribu…
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Nov 23, 2021
Ep.289 (Video): Independence
I discuss October 17's setback and defeat in last weekend's lawyer syndicate elections, our recent independence day's passing and why political & militant actors in Lebanon are behaving as they do.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Jr-FamUfG00
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.ronniechatah.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Nov 21, 2021
Ep.288 (Video): Podcasting & Politics with Jad Ghosn
0:00 Intro
1:35 Transition
24:38 Regime
44:20 March 14
1:11:42 Investigation
1:19:06 October 17
We're with Jad Ghosn for Episode 288 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/xXykuFazJa0
We discuss his journalism career and transition from mainstream media to independent podcasting, and the common criticism both of us face when recording episodes with 'regime' figures.
Our conversation includes a look back at the March 14 movement, investigative journalism's role in the port blast aftermath and the potential for October 17 parties to win seats in next year's parliamentary elections.
Jad Ghosn is a former television host and documentary producer at Al Jadeed and currently hosts his independent podcast 'Reflections with Jad Ghosn'.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on…
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Nov 15, 2021
Ep.287 (Video): Agency. Not Surrender
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/04xqYUAgxmM
In Ep.287 I narrate my latest piece for NOWLebanon, 'Agency. Not Surrender'.
To read the full article:
https://nowlebanon.com/agency-not-surrender/
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Nov 13, 2021
Ep.286 (Video): Tyranny & Vanity
I discuss the driving force - both the good and the bad - behind running for next year's parliamentary elections, in hopes that pushing for reform remains an ultimate priority, regardless of whether the opposition wins or loses against traditional parties.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/VCwMqgjufFk
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.ronniechatah.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Nov 12, 2021
Ep.285 (Video): Consensus
I discuss the wider issue of consensus and how it has shaped modern Lebanese political history. I also reflect on the 1960s and why that decade is an anomaly when it comes to state building, neutrality and sovereignty.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.ronniechatah.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Nov 10, 2021
Ep.284 (Video): Registering to Vote
I discuss the need for diaspora citizens to register to vote for next year’s parliamentary elections and I outline the process step by step.
To register, click on the following link:
https://diasporavote.mfa.gov.lb
And follow the steps noted in the episode. Contact Kulluna Irada's call center for further information needed:
Worldwide: +96176907686 (WhatsApp)
North America Hotline: +16478466388
To read my article, 'Agency. Not Surrender.' in NOWLebanon this Thursday, visit the website:
www.nowlebanon.com
The other episodes referenced include:
Ep.281: Minteshreen with Hussein El Achi
https://youtu.be/HS-EVvzEeoA
Ep.275: Moving Forward with Laury Haytayan
https://youtu.be/nAK5qU9hHjA
Ep.277: Kataeb in Perspective with Samy Gemayel
https://youtu.be/3aJdZ4eht-0
Ep.279: Kulluna Irada with Diana Menhem
https://youtu.be/SoKG0EGaf8U
Ep.260: Fading Illusions with Albert Kostanian
https://youtu.be/wMzOpwbCP0A
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.payp…
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Nov 7, 2021
Ep.283 (Video): 'Heaven Only Knows' with Rabih Salloum
0:00 Intro
3:34 What keeps you here?
10:30 Appreciation for rock music
19:44 Patience
41:25 Democratization
1:00:38 Benefit
1:14:33 Independence
1:34:38 Years to come
We're with Rabih Salloum for Episode 283 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/ZFr1aUPNAhI
We discuss his current solo project Grave Jones, his latest single 'Heaven Only Knows' and earlier music with Slutterhouse.
Our conversation includes an appreciation for rock music, Beirut as a backdrop for storytelling and the political evolution we both experienced from 2005 onwards.
We also talk about patience lost through social media, an upbringing that allowed for imagination and creativity and why a sense of anger overtakes our emotions online.
Rabih Salloum is a singer, songwriter and philosophy instructor at AUB.
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
Subscribe to our p…
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Nov 4, 2021
Ep.282 (Video): What's at Stake
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/6YFqWn7ny4M
I discuss what's at stake when it comes to reformists and next year's parliamentary elections, regional and international posturing vis-a-vis Iran and the increasingly likely return of (Russian-based) Syrian influence over Lebanon, and why any country with leverage over the Iranian regime and negotiating over their nuclear program must place our sovereignty on the table.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.ronniechatah.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Oct 24, 2021
Ep.281 (Video): Minteshreen with Hussein El Achi
0:00 Intro
5:01 Fatherhood
10:45 Reflection
31:16 Maturity
40:34 2005 & 2009
54:43 March 14
1:06:32 Sectarianism
1:17:21 Militia
1:40:02 Internal Structure
1:44:18 Diaspora
We're with Hussein El Achi for Episode 281 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/HS-EVvzEeoA
We discuss all that is Minteshreen, reflections on two years past the October 17 uprising and comparisons with earlier protest movements.
Our conversation includes last week's tragic events in Tayyouneh, differences between current clashes and the civil war years and disagreements on the use of the word 'militia' to describe local parties aside from Hezbollah.
We also talk about Minteshreen's internal structure and the important role of the diaspora in next year's parliamentary elections.
Hussein El Achi is the secretary general of Minteshreen.
Check our Minteshreen's recently launched website:
www.minteshreen.com
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbe…
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Oct 12, 2021
Ep.280 (Video): How does this all end?
I discuss the recurring suspension of the Beirut port blast investigation, Judge Tarek Bitar's continued pursuit and the reasons I think the threats against him are more performative in nature than meant to remove him, in an attempt to discredit the entire process as was done to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Fve_5cMKr3U
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.ronniechatah.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Oct 10, 2021
Ep.279 (Video): Kulluna Irada with Diana Menhem
0:00 Intro
0:25 What is Kulluna Irada?
10:55 'Email your ambassador'
17:10 The same page
26:12 Port blast investigation
35:45 Opposition parties
46:06 Reflective
50:48 Splintering
We're with Diana Menhem for Episode 279 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/BUId-YOV0iM
We discuss civic engagement, political reform and the wider role of Kulluna Irada.
Our conversation includes position papers and policy statements delivered by Kulluna Irada, lobbying efforts regarding lawsuits and the port blast, and why political clarity is essential for opposition parties to win seats in next year's parliamentary elections.
We also talk about whether the splintering of advocacy groups hurts efforts done and Diana's own reflections on her career in civil society stemming from the You Stink crisis and Beirut Madinati through to her current position in Kulluna Irada.
Diana Menhem is the managing director of Kulluna Irada.
The position papers and policy statements mentioned in the…
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Oct 3, 2021
Ep.278 (Video): Urban Planning & Bygone Transport with Mohamad El Chemaa
0:00 Intro
0:58 Karantina
19:01 1934 Beirut Port Blast
25:47 Tramway
42:52 Train
48:12 Alternative Modes
57:26 Pressing Matter
We're with Mohamad El Chemaa for Episode 278 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Ai_sxzYy9Nk
We discuss Karantina's construction and evolution, the 1934 port blast and the country's once-renowned public transport system including the Beirut tramway and Lebanese national rail network.
Our conversation includes urban planning gone astray, alternative modes of transport proposed and never implemented and the simple dream of an urban planner.
Mohamad El Chemaa is an urban planner and researcher at Beirut Urban Lab.
The articles by Mohamad referenced in this piece are below in order of appearance:
'Beirut’s forgotten medical history: Quarantining before COVID-19' in Beirut Today:
https://beirut-today.com/2021/04/06/beiruts-forgotten-medical-history-quarantining-before-covid/
'The forgotten explosion: Reconstructing the 1934 Beirut port b…
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Sep 26, 2021
Ep.277 (Video): Kataeb in Perspective with Samy Gemayel
0:00 Intro
2:23 Scar
15:48 Change
31:17 Reconciliation
39:47 Militia
48:00 Sovereignty
56:23 Elections
1:11:50 On Your Terms
We're with Samy Gemayel for Episode 277 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/3aJdZ4eht-0
We discuss the shared pain of losing family members to political assassinations, and inheriting legacies from loved ones.
Our conversation includes Kataeb's political evolution since 1936, along with its militia role during the 1970s and 80s. We touch on the difficulties of addressing responsibility during the civil war years, including multiple massacres from Damour to Sabra and Shatila.
We also talk about the long-term consequences of diminished sovereignty, and the type of political agency that can emerge from next year's parliamentary elections. I also let Samy address some of the negative feedback I received for willing to host him on the podcast.
Samy Gemayel is the President of Kataeb Party.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via Pa…
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Sep 25, 2021
Our YouTube channel (Video)
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/8p47uTIfPAg
Subscribe to The Beirut Banyan's YouTube channel and help promote our video releases:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Thanks to everyone listening and watching. Stay tuned for tomorrow's episode with Samy Gemayel.
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Sep 19, 2021
Ep.276 (Video): Dumb Politics with Nadim Shehadi
0:00 Intro
0:25 America
28:50 Stability & Crisis Management
47:56 Two Narratives
1:01:49 Sovereignty & Neutrality
1:23:38 October 17
We're with Nadim Shehadi for Episode 276 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/502pNWB33_E
We discuss America's influence in Lebanon over the past two centuries, and the soft power interchange among people and education vs a more recent foreign policy defined by hard power expenditure and bureaucracy.
Our conversation includes a fork in the road for Lebanon and two possible narratives emerging, one cautiously optimistic and the other catastrophic.
We also debate sovereignty and neutrality and focus in on past disassociation agreements, and conclude with perspectives on the October 17 uprising's political prospects for next year's parliamentary elections.
Nadim Shehadi is the Executive Director of the Lebanese American University New York Headquarters and Academic Center.
The article mentioned at the start of the episode is linked b…
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Sep 12, 2021
Ep.275 (Video): Moving Forward with Laury Haytayan
0:00 Intro
1:05 Tankers & Talks
7:58 Coming from Syria
14:01 Hof Line
23:37 Expectations from Elections
35:33 Burden
44:36 Engaging Iran
49:14 Lebanese Forces' Disarmament
We're with Laury Haytayan for Episode 275 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/nAK5qU9hHjA
We discuss the energy crisis impacting Lebanon, along with the Iranian oil tanker and World Bank proposal both involving Syria.
Our conversation includes Laury's perspective on the Hof Line and more recent negotiations regarding off-shore reserves, expectations from next year's elections and the wider dilemma of Iran's military and security involvement in Lebanon.
We also put the Lebanese Forces' militia disarmament in the early 1990s in perspective, and whether that offers any comparisons to a possible Hezbollah disarmament.
Laury Haytayan is an oil and gas governance expert and a member of Taqaddom.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donatin…
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Sep 5, 2021
Ep.274 (Video): The Need to Amplify with Rawad Taha
0:00 Intro
4:23 Political Curiosity
18:42 The Same Story
28:29 Broader Alliance
35:43 National Elections
51:38 Hezbollah
1:00:09 Not Leaving
1:08:51 Clarity
1:14:37 Lebanese Forces & Opposition
We're with Rawad Taha for Episode 274 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/ekKbRFkfIIs
We discuss Rawad's political activism, how the readings of Samir Kassir impacted his views and whether the current aspirations of Minteshreen match those from the buildup to the March 14 movement.
Our conversation includes expectations from local elections, working with broader alliances for next year's parliamentary elections and the wider debate surrounding Hezbollah's security apparatus and varied opposition views on the Lebanese Forces.
Rawad Taha is a member of Minteshreen.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your pref…
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Aug 29, 2021
Ep.273 (Video): Foundation for Federalism with Hicham Bou Nassif
0:00 Intro
2:29 Preconditions
8:57 Sovereignty
28:25 Militia
34:21 Neutrality
50:00 Baabda Declaration
1:02:11 Federalism
1:25:24 Intellectual Journey
We're with Hicham Bou Nassif for Episode 273 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss lost sovereignty, the necessity for a foreign policy of neutrality including examples from the late 1950s and 60s, and the wider debate on decentralization and federalism in Lebanon.
Our conversation includes false equivalence when it comes to comparing political parties with a militia, the 2012 Baabda Declaration's limited impact on local attempts at disassociation, and Hicham's intellectual curiosity and journey when it comes to political science and Lebanese history.
Hicham Bou Nassif is an Associate Professor of Government at Claremont McKenna College - California.
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
Subscribe to our p…
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Aug 22, 2021
Ep.272 (Video): Crossroads with Tala Ramadan
0:00 Intro
4:39 The Last Few Weeks
11:55 Crossroads
15:08 Dysfunction
29:10 Determination
33:24 Iran's Needs
42:38 False Equivalencies
1:01:26 Warzone
1:08:14 Salvageable System?
1:22:55 Departure
We're with Tala Ramadan for Episode 272 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss the immense challenges over the past few weeks and rampant dysfunction making daily life enormously difficult in Lebanon.
Our conversation includes a reflection of Iran's security needs in Lebanon, disagreement over what I consider false equivalencies and whether Lebanon would be better described as a war-zone.
We also talk about the governing system's viability with or without geopolitical conflict and the departure of too many friends and relatives from Lebanon.
Tala Ramadan is a Beirut-based journalist and reporter for L'Orient Today.
The education-related piece briefly mentioned in this episode is linked below:
https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1272303/pursuing-education-in-lebanon-in-the-midst-of-a-finan…
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Aug 3, 2021
Ep.271 (Video): 6:08 by Mike Azar
In memory of the victims of the August 4 blast.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/x7v4ktFV21Q
Written and narrated by Mike Azar. Music by Marc Codsi.
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Jul 18, 2021
Ep.270 (Video): 'Heritage and Roots' with Charles al-Hayek
0:00 Intro
2:40 Storyteller
10:59 School Years
18:06 Instagram
27:57 Liberating
32:52 Modern Beirut
42:12 Focus of Beirut
49:07 Diaspora
1:02:54 'Lebanese'
1:10:20 Nahda
1:18:46 National Narrative
1:44:20 Phoenicia
1:57:35 Collateral
1:59:55 Saydet el Bzez
We're with Charles al-Hayek for Episode 270 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/4Io4GQGssdY
We discuss the importance of storytelling, history education and the 'liberation' that comes with learning from our collective past.
Our conversation includes all that is modern Beirut, from rapid economic growth in the late 19th and early 20th century and the cosmopolitanism that defined us, to an exploration of Lebanese identity, national narrative and myth.
We also talk about the Nahda's impact on Beirut, why certain words bring out particular sensitivities and a brief discussion on fertility cults including 'Saydet el Bzez'.
Charles al-Hayek is a history instructor.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing v…
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Jul 12, 2021
'Reflection with Jad Ghosn' (Intro)
Previously unpublished introduction to my conversation with Jad Ghosn from his podcast, 'Reflection with Jad Ghosn'.
For the full episode:
https://youtu.be/2-UV_y30tPQ
We discuss the July 2006 war, why I started my WalkBeirut tour and The Beirut Banyan podcast, and a general background to storytelling.
A special thanks to Jad Ghosn for letting my publish the introduction to our episode.
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Jul 11, 2021
Ep.269 (Video): The Chain Effect with Elena Haddad & Zeina Hawa
0:00 Intro
1:52 Erosion
9:18 Safety Issues
18:05 Incentives
26:18 Biking Today
33:50 Corruption
We're with Elena Haddad and Zeina Hawa for Episode 269 of The Beirut Banyan.
Video:
https://youtu.be/x1EzebEJM20
We discuss incentives needed to position the bicycle as a serious alternative to car usage as well as corruption impacting all things public sector.
Our conversation includes lack of pedestrian access and viable public transport in Beirut and across Lebanon.
Elena Haddad and Zeina Hawa are co-founders of The Chain Effect.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Jul 4, 2021
Ep.268 (Video): A Reporter's Story with Matthew Kynaston
0:00 Intro
1:28 Part of the Story
9:04 Intimidation
14:52 Crux of the Issue
22:04 Covering Lebanon
We're with Matthew Kynaston for Episode 268 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/KBaDJHgPihw
We discuss his recent interrogation, wider consequences of intimidation and what it's like for a reporter to become part of the story covered.
Our conversation includes Matthew's character-driven storytelling craft and his personal journey to Lebanon.
Matthew Kynaston is a multimedia journalist for NOWLebanon.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Jun 27, 2021
Ep.267 (Video): Greater Lebanon in Retrospect with Chloé Kattar
0:00 Intro
2:45 Accomplishments & Ageing
10:40 A Way to Express
18:57 Birth Pangs of Greater Lebanon
27:34 Comparing Trends
39:32 Tools Needed to Shield
54:18 Sectarianism
1:00:52 Federalism
1:08:25 1975-82
We're with Chloé Kattar for Episode 267 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/SW0_voCRSiM
We discuss emotions accompanying completion of a PhD in Lebanese history overlapping with the October 17 uprising and continued economic collapse and political paralysis.
Our conversation includes re-examining the 'birth pangs' of Greater Lebanon, comparing foundational aspects of state structure with later geopolitical conflict that spilled into Lebanon, and questions about the evolution (and emotions) of words including sectarianism and federalism.
Chloé and I also talk briefly about her dissertation and the wider role of intelligentsia during conflict.
Chloé Kattar is a PhD in History graduate at the University of Cambridge. Follow her on IG: @leb.historian
Help su…
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Jun 21, 2021
The Written Word by Tala Ramadan - Ep.3
Chaker Khazaal is a reporter, speaker, and author. His work includes an acclaimed trilogy 'Confessions of a War Child, Lia, and Sahara', 'Tale of Tala' and 'OUCH!', penned following the Beirut port blast.
Follow Chaker on social media: IG: chakerkhazaal; FB: @ChakerKhazaalPage; Twitter: @ChakerKhazaal
From long-form analysis to in-depth essays and books covering wide terrain, Tala Ramadan shares her appreciation for the written word.
Each episode will jump into a select work, reflecting on the topic at hand. Guests will include featured authors.
Tala Ramadan is a Beirut-based journalist focusing on scientific, social, humanitarian and educational issues. Her articles have appeared in news outlets including Annahar, Al Arabiya, The New Arab, SMEX, and Beirut City Guide.
Available across audio podcast platforms. Simply search for The Beirut Banyan.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
http…
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Jun 21, 2021
Ep.266 (NOWLebanon): Tension & Turf
This week's article is "Tension & Turf", accessible via the following link:
https://nowlebanon.com/tension-and-turf/
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Jun 15, 2021
The Written Word by Tala Ramadan - Ep.2
The Written Word by Tala Ramadan, Ep.2
'Borderline Love in Beirut' with Majd Zaher
Majd Zaher is a Lebanese author who nurtured a profound interest in reading and writing his entire life. Majd has written many short stories and participated in numerous competitions.
His book 'Borderline Love in Beirut' is a collection of love stories often concealed under the pretext of norms and culture. This novel takes the reader on a roller-coaster of contradictions and emotions.
Follow Majd on social media: IG: @majdzaherr; FB: @majed.zahr.9
Website: www.majdzaher.com
Available across audio podcast platforms. Simply search for The Beirut Banyan.
From long-form analysis to in-depth essays and books covering wide terrain, Tala Ramadan shares her appreciation for the written word.
Each episode will jump into a select work, reflecting on the topic at hand. Guests will include featured authors.
Tala Ramadan is a Beirut-based journalist focusing on scientific, social, humanitarian and educationa…
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Jun 14, 2021
Ep.265 (Video): The Tipping Point with Yasmine Masri
0:00 Intro
4:56 What happened?
11:11 'Tfeh 3leik'
19:29 A Way Out
24:09 Action
We're with Yasmine Masri for Episode 265 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/aF6T-JNDKrU
We discuss yesterday's verbal and physical attack between Yasmine and Gebran Bassil's security team, the fallout following national media coverage and wider reflections on where the October 17 uprising stands at this immensely difficult stage for Lebanon.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Jun 13, 2021
Ep.264 (NOWLebanon): The Anarchist & The Dinosaur
Happy to announce that I'll be contributing a weekly opinion column for NowLebanon. New pieces will be narrated here on the podcast.
This week's article is "The Anarchist & The Dinosaur", accessible via the following link:
https://nowlebanon.com/the-anarchist-and-the-dinosaur/
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Jun 8, 2021
The Written Word by Tala Ramadan - Ep.1
The Written Word by Tala Ramadan
Episode 1 - Tala discusses predictive text technology, its impact on journalism and how wider issues surrounding AI affect Lebanon.
The article referenced in this piece, 'The Next Work by John Seabrook' is accessible via the following link:
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2019/10/14/can-a-machine-learn-to-write-for-the-new-yorker
Available across audio podcast platforms. Simply search for The Beirut Banyan.
From long-form analysis to in-depth essays and books covering wide terrain, Tala Ramadan shares her appreciation for the written word.
Each episode will jump into a select work, reflecting on the topic at hand. Guests will include featured authors.
Tala Ramadan is a Beirut-based journalist focusing on scientific, social, humanitarian and educational issues. Her articles have appeared in news outlets including Annahar, Al Arabiya, The New Arab, SMEX, and Beirut City Guide.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://w…
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Jun 6, 2021
Ep.263 (Video): A Way to Communicate with Ali Baroudy
0:00 Intro
6:34 Dialogue
15:35 Public Space
22:04 Reaching Conclusion
32:45 Hezbollah
42:45 Built-in Prejudice
54:21 Starting Somewhere
1:07:48 Protest Demands
1:15:37 Beyond the Bars
1:27:30 Cultural Center
We're with Ali Baroudy for Episode 263 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/aJWvRUQrU_U
We discuss the importance of dialogue, better methods of communication and ways of focusing on shared grievances.
Our conversation includes addressing built-in prejudice and the fundamental need to start somewhere when it comes to political reform and a wider positive outlook 'beyond the bars'.
Ali Baroudy is a member of Minteshreen.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music…
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Jun 3, 2021
Ep.262 (Video): The Cost of Impunity with Olga Kavran
0:00 Intro
3:14 Fait Accompli?
10:09 Why is this happening?
17:30 Explanation Problems
22:09 Missing from the Story
26:32 Port Blast
32:35 Narrowness
We're with Olga Kavran for Episode 262 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/hpo11X6FtjU
We discuss the cost of impunity, budgetary constraints and the potential shutting down of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon.
Olga Kavran is former Head of Legacy & Outreach at the Special Tribunal for Lebanon.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Animation & illustration by Sana Chaaban.
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Jun 1, 2021
The Written Word by Tala Ramadan - Intro
A new weekly mini-series for The Beirut Banyan.
The Written Word by Tala Ramadan
Available across audio podcast platforms and YouTube. Simply search for The Beirut Banyan.
From long-form analysis to in-depth essays and books covering wide terrain, Tala Ramadan shares her appreciation for the written word.
Each episode will jump into a select work, reflecting on the topic at hand. Guests will include featured authors.
Tala Ramadan is a Beirut-based journalist focusing on scientific, social and educational issues. Her articles have appeared in news outlets including Annahar, Al Arabiya, The New Arab, SMEX, and Beirut City Guide.
Music by Marc Codsi.
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May 30, 2021
Ep.261: A Lot to Talk About with Kareem Chehayeb
0:00 Intro
2:35 Covering the Story
9:27 Investigative Process
19:01 The Public Source
31:34 Avoiding the Usual?
38:52 The Gap
47:13 Impossible to Reform
53:17 Getting Worse?
We're with Kareem Chehayeb for Episode 261 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/8Vx3HBjADk4
We discuss the current media landscape, investigative journalism and the role of independent outlets like The Public Source.
Our conversation includes reflecting on failed attempts at reform, possibilities for positive change at a later stage and the capabilities of alternative outlets to reclaim "public space" while offering a platform for disenfranchised and marginalized groups.
Kareem Chehayeb is a Beirut-based journalist, researcher, and political analyst.
Follow Kareem on Twitter: @chehayebk
And check out The Public Source: https://thepublicsource.org
The articles referenced in this episode are listed below in order of appearance:
The Killing of Omar Tayba: A Visual Investigation of a Protest…
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May 23, 2021
Ep.260 (Video): Fading Illusions with Albert Kostanian
0:00 Intro
1:48 Optimism
12:25 Hope in the Future
18:26 Foundation
24:52 Sectarianism
33:29 Missed Opportunity
38:35 Economics
43:48 Sovereignty
1:00:08 An Independent Voice
1:06:52 Kulluna Irada
We're with Albert Kostanian for Episode 260 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/wMzOpwbCP0A
We discuss nuanced optimism when it comes to the future of Lebanon and a wider calling for political agency and shared destiny.
Our conversation includes examining illusive pillars that are gradually fading, missed opportunities at addressing reform and the power of independent voices emerging on alternative and mainstream media.
Albert Kostanian is the host of Vision 2030 on LBCI and board chairman for Kulluna Irada.
For more information on Kulluna Irada:
http://kulluna-irada.org
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
Subscribe to our podcast fro…
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May 16, 2021
Ep.259 (Video): The Story of our Time with Mona Fawaz
0:00 Intro
2:47 Storytelling
6:14 Difficulty of the Moment
10:27 Change
26:49 Repetition
43:20 Academia
50:55 A Path Forward
We're with Mona Fawaz for Episode 259 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/hjUradkdq_U
We discuss how we met on my WalkBeirut tour in 2009, a shared passion for storytelling and Mona's illustrious career in urban planning and political activism.
Our conversation includes the immense difficulty of the moment, a theory of change for Lebanon and the ability for academia to take the classroom to the street - in a literal sense during the first weeks of the October 17 Uprising and in shaping protest movement discussions on issues ranging from political and economic reform to local urban matters.
Mona Fawaz is a Professor in Urban Studies and Planning and the Coordinator of the Graduate Programs in Urban Planning and Design at the American University of Beirut.
The article discussed in this episode is linked below:
https://tcf.org/content/report…
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May 9, 2021
Ep.258 (Video): Online Markers & Caution with Aya Iskandarani
0:00 Intro
2:17 Online Markers
7:38 Online Caution
15:41 Larger Problem
22:49 Part of the Story
30:03 Information
37:07 Misinformation
We're with Aya Iskandarani for Episode 258 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/xoCRIGTgvNY
We discuss the nine month marker following the Beirut port blast, and the challenge of 'marking' without justice. Our conversation includes the difficulty of open debate online - including Clubhouse - and the precautions taken when covering Hezbollah-related issues in Lebanon.
We also talk about the emotions involved when covering a story at home, and the challenge journalists face when confronting misinformation with fact-based reporting.
Aya Iskandarani is a correspondent at The National.
Follow Aya on Twitter: @Aya_Isk
The articles discussed in this episode are listed below (in order of appearance):
'Lebanon: Hezbollah critics report threats on Clubhouse app':
https://www.thenationalnews.com/mena/lebanon/lebanon-hezbollah-critics-repo…
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May 2, 2021
Ep.257 (Video): Political Psychology & Lebanon with Ramzi Abou Ismail
0:00 Intro
2:16 Pursuits Abroad
7:23 Common Identity
13:46 Social Pact
22:34 Higher Interest of the States
40:02 Institutionalized Country
51:52 October 17
1:02:21 Groups & Individuals
We're with Ramzi Abou Ismail for Episode 257 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/QC4vgX8Jby4
We discuss political psychology within the Lebanese context and dive into issues related to shared identity, Lebanon's social pact and a lacking higher interest of the state.
Our conversation includes the role of institutions when examining common destiny, politics born out of October 17 and the relationship between groups and individuals and a sense of belonging.
Ramzi Abou Ismail is a Political Psychologist and Doctoral Researcher at University of Kent.
Follow Ramzi on Instagram: @the.political.psychologist
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
Subscribe…
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Apr 21, 2021
Ep.256 (Video): 'Halfway There' with Abby Sewell
0:00 Intro
3:24 Collapse
9:21 Coverage
25:04 Halfway to Hell
31:48 Long-Form
We're with Abby Sewell for Episode 256 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/lo7ECcK0bBU
We discuss three of her recent L'Orient Today pieces covering collective memory and Haret Hreik, renewable energy and the power sector, and the black market surrounding fuel shortages and smugglers in North Lebanon.
Our conversation includes the wider role of journalism and storytelling, and an appreciation for long-form analysis and the written word.
Abby Sewell is a journalist at L'Orient Today.
The three articles we cover are accessible below, in order of appearance:
More than a ‘Hezbollah stronghold’: The complicated past and present of Haret Hreik
https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1254383/more-than-a-hezbollah-stronghold-the-complicated-past-and-present-of-haret-hreik.html
EDL’s struggle to stave off darkness exposes a huge missed opportunity in the renewable energy sector
https:…
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Apr 18, 2021
Ep.255 (Video): 'We Were There' with Zeina Saab
0:00 Intro
2:23 Inspiration
9:49 Poetic Justice & Resistance
17:22 All we can expect?
22:17 Political Power
32:17 A tribute to Beirut?
37:02 Nawaya
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/kvTYg3n9Q40
We're with Zeina Saab for Episode 255 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss her book project: 'We Were There: A Book About the Beirut Explosion' and reflect on the pursuit of poetic justice through preserving and honoring collective memory.
Our conversation includes the wider role of civil society in the aftermath of the port blast, grassroots-led movements seeking political power and real inspiration at a time of tragedy and prolonged uncertainty.
Zeina Saab is the Founder and Director of Nawaya and Co-Founder at SE Factory.
To help support the book project, click below:
http://weweretherebeirut.com
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
Subscribe to our podcast…
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Apr 11, 2021
Ep.254 (Video): Falling into Place with Amb. Frederic C. Hof
0:00 Intro
2:12 1999-2000
8:37 Post-War Sovereignty
18:03 Certainty
27:19 The Wider Story
40:10 Memories of My Father
We're with Amb. Frederic C. Hof for Episode 254 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Yt93xZ3KML0
We discuss his recent Newlines Magazine piece: 'Assad: The Shebaa Farms Are Syrian, Whatever Hezbollah Claims' and revisit previous US efforts at securing a peace deal between Syria and Israel.
Our conversation includes Lebanon's position during these talks, and why post-civil war sovereignty never in fact took hold. We also reflect on Amb. Hof's memories of my father while he was mediating between Lebanon and Israel over offshore oil reserves.
Ambassador Frederic C. Hof is Diplomat in Residence at Bard College and Former Director and Distinguished Fellow at the Atlantic Council's Rafik Hariri Center for the Middle East. He was also Former US Special Envoy to Syria.
The article referenced in this episode is accessible below:
https://newlinesmag.com/fi…
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Apr 11, 2021
Ep.253 (Video): Clubhouse Conversation with Tala Ramadan
0:00 Intro
1:22 Echo Chamber
5:13 Socialization
11:59 Podcast Popularity
19:22 Privacy
26:40 Long-Form
41:21 Experts
We're with Tala Ramadan for Episode 253 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/SEGiDXxWgP4
We discuss Clubhouse's appeal in Lebanon and the Middle East, advantages at discussing with opposing sides over Twitter's more familiar echo chamber and attempts at state censorship over the audio exchange platform.
Our conversation includes increased popularity of podcasts and long-form conversations, and how journalists turn to these platforms for information and storylines when reporting through mainstream outlets.
Tala Ramadan is a Beirut-based journalist.
The article referenced in this episode is accessible below:
https://smex.org/clubhouse-the-popular-audio-only-app-gets-banned-in-mena/
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanya…
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Apr 4, 2021
Ep.252 (Video): Corruption in Context with Majd Harb
0:00 Intro
1:28 Background
5:06 First Step
7:41 Individual Level
12:21 Failed State
19:44 Paralysis
30:46 Pre-Civil War
39:09 Opposition Leverage
50:43 Personal
We're with Majd Harb for Episode 252 of The Beirut Banyan.
We put corruption in context and discuss the first steps necessary in addressing state failure. We also examine Lebanon's legal text as it stands and the strength of our constitution.
Majd pinpoints political reasons for our ongoing political paralysis and reflects on an individual lawyer's work at proving that Lebanon is currently a failed state. We further reflect on what political opposition could look like in years to come as well as the fundamental need to pursue justice at all costs.
Majd Harb is a Partner at Harb Law Firm.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us o…
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Mar 28, 2021
Ep.251 (Video): Crossing Paths with Gilbert Doumit
0:00 Intro
1:24 Background
12:39 2011
20:18 Civil to Political
30:20 Hezbollah
42:32 The Last Time We Spoke
53:32 The Question
01:01:55 Roles Reversed
We're with Gilbert Doumit for Episode 251 of The Beirut Banyan.
We reflect on crossing paths on the streets of Beirut, from distributing aid kits during the July 2006 War until a chance encounter last week in Gemmayze.
We discuss the political evolution of civil society following the Syrian army's withdrawal in 2005, and Gilbert's own career in pushing for state reform. We also touch on points of friction aired out during this episode, and at the end of our conversation we flip roles as Gilbert asks me several questions.
There are moments of coming to terms in this episode and a reconsidering of preconceived notions that stood out to me. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did.
Gilbert Doumit is a founding and managing partner of Beyond Reform & Development Group.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
ht…
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Mar 19, 2021
Ep.250 (Video): March 14 Revisited with Sara Assaf
0:00 Intro
2:00 False Comparison
11:36 Buildup
17:45 Sectarian Story
26:05 National Unity
32:10 Familiar
39:10 Reconsider
44:54 Principle
53:15 Repeated Decision
59:32 October 17
We're with Sara Assaf for Episode 250 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/8my2ZQojRJg
We reflect on sixteen years since the March 14 2005 protests that paved the way for the Syrian army's withdrawal from Lebanon.
We discuss the buildup to that date and the political failures since. Our conversation includes the ultimate derailing of Lebanon's sovereignty and the price of repeated assassinations that targeted March 14 figures.
Sara Assaf is a political commentator.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirut…
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Mar 14, 2021
Ep.249 (Video): Zero Fear with Monika Borgmann
0:00 Intro
1:25 Disbelief
4:08 Rage
6:28 Shared Passion
9:55 A Part of Ourselves
13:03 Heal Wounds
20:44 1989
26:23 Impunity
31:30 Justice
34:52 Too late?
41:08 Ghobeiri
48:44 Storytellers
55:34 A Way Out
We're with Monika Borgmann for Episode 249 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss UMAM Documentation & Research's contribution to collective memory and the wider power of storytelling.
We also reflect on Monika's relationship with Lokman Slim, the aftermath of his assassination and the consequences of impunity.
Our conversation includes a shared pursuit for justice against all odds.
Monika Borgmann is Co-Founder and Co-Director of UMAM Documentation & Research.
The article referenced in this episode is accessible below:
https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1247158/we-should-not-mourn-justice.html
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
Subscribe to o…
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Mar 12, 2021
A Clubhouse Conversation with Mike Azar
Mike Azar interviews me on Clubhouse about storytelling, my WalkBeirut tour and podcasting.
We debate fundamental obstacles facing stability and long-term reform in Lebanon.
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Feb 27, 2021
Ep.248 (Video): Compromised Sovereignty with Mouafac Harb
0:00 Intro
3:04 Are the big answers outside?
16:04 Multiple Assassinations
21:23 Sovereignty
30:12 Long-Term Investment
40:01 What can be done?
55:21 Media
1:07:53 My Father
We're with Mouafac Harb for Episode 248 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/qlObTi8-s5Y
We discuss his recent The Daily Star piece "Victory Lap for Tehran in Lebanon" and lay out domestic components to the current political and economic crisis vs regional and international posturing that may be conducive to restoring Lebanon's sovereignty.
We also talk about Iran's long-term investment vis-a-vis Hezbollah, the shifting media landscape from conventional outlets to independent voices, and reflections of Mouafac running into my father weeks before his assassination.
Mouafac Harb is an advisor to MTV Lebanon and a contributor to The Daily Star.
The article referenced in this episode is accessible below:
https://www.dailystar.com.lb/Opinion/Commentary/2021/Feb-22/517681-virtual-victory-lap-by-t…
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Feb 24, 2021
Ep.247 (Video): Doctor's Orders with Zakia Dimassi
0:00 Intro
3:35 Getting the Vaccine
9:50 mRNA
24:42 Basic Differences
29:18 Corruption
38:11 Misinformation Campaign
44:45 Numbers Today
49:12 Bizarre Policies
55:39 Precautions
We're with Zakia Dimassi for Episode 247 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/SiOF9q6KvfA
We discuss the experience of getting vaccinated for COVID-19, basic differences among various vaccines, and the basics of mRNA technology.
We also discuss the misinformation / disinformation campaign doctors and scientists are battling against, where the infection / mortality rates in Lebanon stand today, and necessary precautions that need to be taken post-vaccination.
Zakia Dimassi is a Physician and Assistant Professor at Saint George University.
The article referenced in this episode is accessible below:
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/science/coronavirus-vaccine-tracker.html
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating throu…
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Feb 15, 2021
Ep.246 (Video): Lost in the Narrative with Hani Hassan
0:00 Intro
4:52 Fed Up
10:03 Historic Story
15:18 Classroom to Street
21:57 Fondness to Disgruntled'ness'
30:31 Struggling
38:52 Focus on Truth
47:49 False Narrative
59:30 Worst Version of Falsehood
1:08:55 Knowing the Truth
1:18:00 The Need to End War
We're with Hani Hassan Episode 246 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/1IAiOMJKyVs
We discuss competing mythologies and historical narratives, the communal comfort of false logic and a determination to focus and empower truth over falsehood.
We also talk about taking conversations from the classroom to the street, the pendulum swinging between hope and despair since the October 17 Uprising, and a firm belief in the need to end political violence.
Hani Hassan is a Civilization Studies and Philosophy Instructor at The American University of Beirut.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanya…
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Feb 13, 2021
Ep.245 (Video): The Void with Ghena Hariri
0:00 Intro
2:48 Void
16:21 Driving the Story
20:48 Last Name
25:28 Shielding Emotions
35:32 Trying not to Think
40:28 The Crime Itself
44:29 Pointing the Finger
57:13 Make Peace
We're with Ghena Hariri Episode 245 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/5Z_je2kTzi0
We discuss the feeling of void that comes with untimely and unjust loss, and shared tragedy that brings victims of political assassinations together.
We also talk about emotions that resurface when news of new assassinations take hold, narrative battles that take hold within minutes of learning of the targeted individual and a shared commitment to pursuing justice and holding criminals to account.
Ghena Hariri is a PhD researcher at Birkbeck, University of London.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Fac…
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Feb 12, 2021
Ep.244 (Video): Scar Tissue
I share my thoughts on attending Lokman Slim's funeral, meeting his family and the scar tissue we live with.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/GWBx1cezxDM
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Logo design by Sara Tarhini.
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Feb 10, 2021
Ep.243 (Video): System Failure with Bachar El Halabi
0:00 Intro
3:40 Six Month Marker
7:14 Paralysis
11:04 Curtailed Progress
17:28 Chernobyl Moment
27:56 Core Issue
40:12 Assassination
52:02 Will of the People
We're with Bachar El Halabi Episode 243 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/R06-xHrrj9w
We discuss the six month marker following the Beirut port blasts, the limbo / paralysis state we're living through and a "Chernobyl Moment" for Lebanon.
We also talk about core issues impacting reform, Lokman Slim's assassination and a firm belief in the will of the people and a constant battle to preserve freedom of expression.
Bachar El Halabi is a research analyst focusing on geopolitical issues impacting Lebanon and the region.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And…
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Feb 5, 2021
Ep.242 (Video): Paralysis
I share my thoughts on the assassination of Lokman Slim, state paralysis and the only way forward for Lebanon.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/9aYQPYv2hcY
I also read a section of my father's 'Open Letter to Rouhani', released two days following his assassination (see link below):
https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702304483804579286723620835720
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Logo design by Sara Tarhini.
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Feb 4, 2021
Ep.241 (Video): Marker & Murder
0:00 Intro
0:34 Dalal Mawad
10:36 Joey Ayoub
25:50 Carmen Geha
38:36 Samer Makarem
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/KJLAvaeGNMQ
We're joined by Dalal Mawad, Joey Ayoub, Carmen Geha and Samer Makarem for Episode 241 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss the sixth month marker following the Beirut blasts, and the assassination of Lokman Slim.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Logo design by Sara Tarhini.
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Feb 2, 2021
Ep.240 (Video): Battling Misinformation with Dr. Hanina Abi Nader
0:00 Intro
1:50 Misinformation
5:11 Win this Battle
8:10 Messaging
13:29 Policies
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/FXLQn4ws274
We're with Dr. Hanina Abi Nader Episode 240 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss COVID-19, the need to continue to take precautions and battling widespread misinformation against vaccines.
Dr. Hanina Abi Nader is a general practitioner.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Logo design by Sara Tarhini.
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Jan 29, 2021
Ep.239 (Video): 1958, Then & Now with Jeffrey Karam
0:00 Intro
3:32 Foreign Policy
19:33 Neutrality
28:16 Fouad Chehab
39:20 Army & Presidency
44:46 France
54:37 United States
1:05:24 Current Protest Movement
1:21:43 Political Violence
We're with Jeffrey Karam for Episode 239 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/jRFHlmn8Zmg
We discuss 'The Middle East in 1958', that year's impact on Lebanon and relationship to the October Uprising. We also talk about France's relationship to Lebanon, US foreign policy towards the region and US-Lebanese relations today.
Jeffrey is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the Lebanese American University and Associate at Harvard University’s Middle East Initiative. His work has been published in both academic and public outlets, including Intelligence and National Security, the Arab Studies Journal, The Washington Post, H-Diplo and ISSF, the Daily Star Lebanon, Megaphone, Jadaliyya, and other venues.
He is the editor of The Middle East in 1958: Reimagining A Revolutionary Ye…
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Jan 19, 2021
Ep.238 (Video): A Peaceful Farewell
I record a followup to Ep.237: Affo and reflect on tranquility through painless departure, and my relationship and friendship with my grandmother.
In memory of Afaf Dabboucy Mikati.
21 December 1932 - 14 January 2021
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/rtyNxexahd4
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Jan 18, 2021
Ep.237 (Video): Affo
I’m joined by grandmother, Afaf Dabboucy Mikati, for Episode 237 of The Beirut Banyan.
For the video edition along with English and Arabic subtitles please click on the following link then CC button:
https://youtu.be/K53Ag1A94ZU
I love you, tayta. Rest in peace.
Afaf Dabboucy Mikati
21 Dec 1932 - 14 Jan 2021
Special thanks to Sara Hamzeh for quickly putting the subtitles together.
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Jan 14, 2021
Ep.236: We Should Not Mourn Justice
I share a piece I recently wrote for L'Orient-Le Jour / L'Orient Today on the principles that matter most.
Click below to read the articles in French or English:
L'Orient-Le Jour:
https://www.lorientlejour.com/article/1246487/ne-faisons-pas-le-deuil-de-la-justice.html
L'Orient Today:
https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1247158/we-should-not-mourn-justice.html
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Graphics by Sara Tarhini.
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Jan 11, 2021
Ep.235 (Video): Daraj Media with Diana Moukalled
0:00 Intro
3:03 Suspension, Censorship & Principles
9:03 Traditional Media's Evolution
16:10 Determined
23:22 Sensitive Issues
30:37 Calculated Move?
34:29 Cost-Effective
45:00 No Click-Bait
48:54 Built-In Pressure
57:29 Intimidation
1:02:52 Ultimate Burden
We're with Diana Moukalled for Episode 235 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/GO_lcr0Vl0Q
We discuss Daraj Media, her three-decades long career as a journalist and the current state of freedom of expression in Lebanon,
We also talk about her start at Future TV and an illustrious career beginning in 1993 tackling underreported issues including gender and minority rights. Our conversation includes systemic state failure and challenges when pushing for accountability, traditional media's advantages and disadvantages in the digital age, and where alternative media stands in an otherwise chaotic media climate.
Diana is a cofounder of Daraj Media.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https:/…
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Dec 26, 2020
Ep.234 (Video): Nabad (Pulse)
For Dad.
Your heart beats through mine, that day and today. And that, they’ll never take away.
Mohamad Chatah
7 March 1951 - 27 December 2013
Music by Marc Codsi. Arabic subtitles by Sara Hamzeh.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/JlNzNMRRxwQ
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Dec 20, 2020
Thank you
A short thank you to everyone who watched and listened to the podcast this year. You kept me together.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/FofmSvL-9EQ
One final episode (wrapping up 2020) is set for release on Saturday, 26 December at 5pm Beirut time. A special episode marking a difficult occasion.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel and receive a notification upon its release.
See you in 2021!
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Dec 12, 2020
Ep.233 (Video): Minteshreen with Samer Makarem
0:00 Intro
1:43 End of 2020
5:13 Permanent Change
9:46 Ideals vs Individuals
11:59 Narrative
17:56 March 14
26:53 Violence
32:15 Support vs Silence
43:51 'Possiblist'
1:01:59 Inclusivity & Principles
1:10:51 Bubble
We're with Samer Makarem for Episode 233 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/pfClAib3MUM
We discuss Minteshreen, permanent changes following the October Uprising, and a 'possiblist' perspective when it comes to political and economic reform.
We also talk about perceived justice, ideals vs individuals & a reflection of what March 14 2005 meant to both of us. Our conversation includes challenging violence, and pursuing an inclusive political agenda that also addresses sovereignty and state security issues that can no longer be ignored.
Samer Makarem is a member of Minteshreen.
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
Subscr…
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Dec 7, 2020
Ep.232 (Video): Polarization with Heiko Wimmen
0:00 Intro
4:10 Main Stumbling Block
11:17 Long Term
18:25 Unstable State
26:26 Primary to Breakdown
36:31 Lebanese Position
45:05 Macron Approach
52:26 Immediate Strategy
58:41 State Monopoly
1:06:12 Unicorn
We're with Heiko Wimmen for Episode 232 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/2bhBuerTMQk
We discuss the recent International Crisis Group briefing, "Avoiding Further Polarization in Lebanon" and reflect on the immediacy of avoiding state collapse. We also address wider issues of economic reform and debate the urgency of addressing sub-state weaponry.
Our conversation includes a healthy exchange over Hezbollah's role in the deterioration of the Lebanese state, and a back and forth over expectations given continued political paralysis and a crippling financial crisis.
Heiko Wimmen is the International Crisis Group Project Director for Iraq, Syria, Lebanon.
The briefing referenced in this piece is accessible via the following link:
https://www.crisisgroup.org…
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Dec 3, 2020
Ep.231 (Video): 'Let's Play' Initiative with Nada Borgi & Sandra Richani
0:00 Intro
2:54 Purpose
8:00 Gap
15:30 Initial Three Schools
18:01 Big Toys
23:20 Ground Painting
30:58 Shading Canopies
35:32 Urgency
We're with Nada Borgi and Sandra Richani for Episode 231 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/_bqb-BLDj9k
We discuss their 'Let's Play' Initiative, aiming to restore and design three playgrounds in three different schools destroyed by the August 4 port blasts.
Their crowdfunding campaign aims to raise $45,000 by the end of this year. The GoFundMe link is accessible below:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/beirut-schools-playgrounds-design-project?utm_source=whatsapp-visit&utm_medium=chat&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet
Our conversation includes citizen-driven initiatives and volunteer efforts that help create a positive environment for children returning to their schools post-lockdown.
Nada Borgi and Sandra Richani are architects and urban planners / designers.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypa…
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Nov 29, 2020
Ep.230 (Video): 'Wine and War' with Michael Karam
0:00 Intro
3:12 The Moment
13:28 Entrepreneurial Spirit
16:20 Importance of Lebanon
19:50 Serge Hochar
25:19 Yves Mourad
28:17 Father Joseph Fahed
30:02 Neila Bitar
32:12 Sandro Saadé
35:07 Ramzi Ghosn
37:37 Elizabeth Gilbert
44:41 Identity
We're with Michael Karam for Episode 230 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/8O2mRYdS73s
We discuss the recently released film 'Wine and War', the wider story of Lebanese wine and entrepreneurial spirit interwoven in our history and identity.
Our conversation includes reflections of wine producers mentioned in the film and the background conflicts that define our modern era.
Michael Karam is a wine writer and author of 'Wines of Lebanon'.
Click on the following link to watch the movie
https://wineandwar.com
All proceeds go to the pediatric unit at Saint George Hospital in Beirut. You can also donate directly to Saint George Hospital via the following link:
https://www.stgeorgehospital.org
Help support The Beirut Banyan b…
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Nov 28, 2020
Ep.229 (Video): 'Unfinished Revolution' with Rima Majed
0:00 Intro
2:00 Paralyzed
7:28 Stacked Against You
14:44 Fluid
20:04 The Region
25:26 Monetary
32:06 'Revolutionary'
35:44 Neoliberalism
43:43 Organization
51:11 Youth
We're with Rima Majed for Episode 229 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/JRPZRHl6BWg
We discuss her recent Middle East Eye piece, 'Lebanon's unfinished revolution: Where next?' and reflect on the underpinnings of what Rima refers to as sectarian neoliberalism.
Our conversation includes domestic and regional considerations, comparing recent attempts at reform, defining what 'revolutionary' means and a need for political opposition to organize.
Rima Majed is Assistant Professor of Sociology at the American University of Beirut.
The article referenced in this piece is linked below:
https://www.middleeasteye.net/opinion/one-year-lebanon-marks-unfinished-revolution
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
http…
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Nov 25, 2020
Ep.228: Influencing the Moment with Gino Raidy
0:00 Intro
1:16 Independence Day 2020
6:25 Back to 2008
14:50 Gradual Organization
21:00 Claim Power
27:16 Identity
36:34 Life Story
47:32 Phone
56:11 Weapons
1:12:03 Minteshreen
1:19:57 Freedom of Expression
1:27:50 'Bukra'
We're with Gino Raidy for Episode 228 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/3K30QInfQAQ
We discuss citizen journalism and political activism, and reflect on the current political paralysis and economic crisis engulfing Lebanon.
Our conversation includes grassroots civil engagement going back to 2008, newfound Lebanese identity, the powerful use of social media and a citizen-led fight to maintain freedom of expression.
We also talk about Minteshreen, Gino's personal commitment to Lebanon and his new online show, 'Bukra'.
Gino is a citizen journalist and political activist. Check out his website:
www.ginosblog.com
And subscribe to his new show 'Bukra' via the following link:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/inducing-bukra-43088101
Help support…
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Nov 20, 2020
Ep.227 (Video): 'The Tragedy of Doing Nothing' with Amer Bisat
0:00 Intro
2:22 Paralysis
11:01 Utter Incompetence
14:24 Waiting Game
17:13 Balance of Payments
22:35 Public & Private Debt
26:52 Banking Sector
34:18 Public Sector
42:11 Assistance without Reform
45:54 Threat of Violence
We're with Amer Bisat for Episode 227 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/tiMYIRS_BbM
We discuss his recent Carnegie / Dispatch piece 'The Tragedy of Doing Nothing' and the ongoing political and economic paralysis eroding Lebanese society.
Our conversation includes political class incompetence, nonchalance and a mismanaged hard landing collapsing the economy by stealth.
We also look at fears of political and economic breakdown resulting in inter-communal violence, and compare the current situation to previous factors that led to civil strife.
Amer is a senior fund manager at a global asset management company and a former senior economist at the International Monetary Fund.
The article referred to in this episode is linked below:
https://carn…
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Nov 19, 2020
Ep.226 (Video): Embrace with Mia Atoui
0:00 Intro
1:47 Taboo
4:57 Tipping Point
8:18 Hotline
16:16 Taking Time
19:30 Escape
21:36 Aftermath
27:12 Primary Step
29:40 Positive Change
We're with Mia Atoui for Episode 226 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Cx2pM8kPlcE
We discuss Embrace and the wider work of raising mental health awareness in Lebanon.
Our conversation includes confronting the stigma too often associated with mental health illness, grassroots level work at tacking previously taboo subjects and the inception of Embace's suicide prevention hotline (1564).
Mia Atoui is the cofounder and vice president of Embrace.
Check out their website: https://embracelebanon.org
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutban…
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Nov 17, 2020
Ep.225 (Video): Biden & The Middle East with Firas Maksad
0:00 Intro
2:10 The Broad Story
10:09 Anxiety
15:45 Personality
23:20 Vacuum
33:26 US Policy Towards Lebanon
39:30 Memories of My Father
We're with Firas Maksad for Ep.225 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/kHLwHcH-WZc
We discuss the incoming Biden administration and general trends in US foreign policy over the past twelve years.
We compare Trump's maximum pressure campaign against Iran with Obama's JCPOA / Iran nuclear deal, and how a Biden administration may approach American interests in the region.
Our conversation includes looking at policy vs personality, and areas of consistency and divergence between the outgoing Trump administration and incoming Biden White House. We also examine potential policy changes towards Lebanon.
Firas Maksad is an adjunct professor at George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs.
The articles referenced in this episode include:
'For the Middle East, Biden is no Obama':
https://www.thenationalnews…
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Nov 17, 2020
Ep.224 (Video): Coat Check
I share encounters with Walid Muallem while living at the Lebanese embassy in Washington, DC.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/sTM_eeEhy-c
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
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our YouTube channel and stay updated with new releases.
Audio-only episodes available on Apple, Spotify, Souncloud, Stitcher & iHeart Radio. Simply search for The Beirut Banyan.
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Nov 15, 2020
Ep.223 (Video): Skyline & Shore
I share my interactions with Robert Fisk for this storytelling episode.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Cc7VCB96eeg
Check out the associated article featured in Newlines Magazine:
https://newlinesmag.com/argument/robert-fisk-a-conscience-adrift/
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
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our YouTube channel and stay updated with new releases.
Audio-only episodes available on Apple, Spotify, Souncloud, Stitcher & iHeart Radio. Simply search for The Beirut Banyan.
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Nov 7, 2020
Ep.222 (Video): Explaining the Story with Larissa Aoun
0:00 Family Name & Intro
2:26 Personal Interaction with the Story
8:30 Alleviating Minority Concerns
12:16 Part of the Story
16:11 Fundamental Issue
19:08 Corruption
24:46 A System that Doesn't Work
28:10 Perpetual Paralysis
31:27 Mentality
37:46 US Policy Shift
39:30 American Engagement
48:56 Lack of Organization
54:30 Balance
We're with Larissa Aoun for Episode 222 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/aYbCNZlLguA
We discuss covering the US elections vs the current Lebanese political and economic landscape, and a reporter's personal interaction with the story itself.
We talk about attempts at alleviating state rights through the US Electoral College and Senate and whether there's an appropriate comparison to preserving 'minority' / sectarian concerns within a potential Lebanese senate.
Our conversation includes Larissa's reporting on maritime border issues with nostalgia for a regional rail network still visible from Naqoura. We also discuss rampant corruption w…
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Oct 29, 2020
Ep.221 (Video): Return of the Rabbi with Elie Abadie
0:00 Intro
3:53 A Potential Return to Beirut?
7:18 A Historic Moment?
11:52 Side Effect to Normalization
15:21 The UAE's Jewish Community
18:00 Peoples & Governments
30:15 Social Media
33:31 The Next Five?
40:00 A Family Tradition
We're with Elie Abadie for Episode 221 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss his upcoming move to the UAE as a Senior Rabbi and his hopes to return to Lebanon in the years to come.
We talk about the Abraham Accords and whether or not its impact goes between standard government relations to healing divides in the region. Our conversation includes Elie Abadie's rabbinical lineage dating back to the 15h century and the role social media plays in an increasingly interconnected world.
Elie Abadie is Senior Rabbi in Residence of the Jewish Council of the Emirates. He is also a doctor.
The National article discussed in this episode is accessible here:
https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/government/refugee-who-left-middle-east-as-a-boy-returns-to-uae-as-senior-rabbi-…
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Oct 23, 2020
Ep.220 (Video): L'Orient Today with Michel Helou
0:00 L'Orient Today & Intro
2:40 The Lifeline for Traditional Media
9:03 Subscribers Abroad
13:24 Timing
23:11 Digital-Friendly Content
27:06 Fact-Checking
35:33 Objectivity
47:14 Principles
57:46 Intimidation
1:03:54 Aspirations
We're with Michel Helou for Episode 220 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/e6qiNvERtbs
We discuss L'Orient-Le Jour's place in the Lebanese media landscape, and the newspaper's evolution with the digital age.
Our conversation includes the recent launch of L'Orient Today - an English-edition alternative - and why paid subscriptions are the financial backbone for traditional outlets.
We also talk about recent security intimidation against reporters and the newspaper's commitment to free expression in Lebanon.
Michel Helou is the Executive Director of L'Orient-Le Jour.
Check out L'Orient Today and subscribe by clicking here:
https://today.lorientlejour.com
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/…
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Oct 20, 2020
Ep.219 (Video): 'The Lebanese Predicament' with Bashshar Haydar
6:21 One Year Marker
22:35 Appetite for Change
35:31 Prisoner's Dilemma
54:10 Easier to Challenge?
1:06:45 The IRA Example
We're with Bashshar Haydar for Episode 219 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/JBRahiGFwkA
We discuss his recent Center for Global Policy piece 'The Lebanese Predicament' and examine why voters repeatedly elected the same parties and leaders into power.
Our conversation looks at the 'prisoner's dilemma' facing Lebanese and the role communal insecurities play in prolonging the status quo. We also reflect on the one year marker of the October 17 Uprising.
Bashshar Haydar is a Professor of Philosophy and the Mohammad Atallah Chair in Ethics at the American University of Beirut.
The Center for Global Policy article - 'The Lebanese Predicament' is accessible below:
https://cgpolicy.org/articles/the-lebanese-predicament/
And the 'Al Modon' 'piece referenced can be viewed here:
https://www.almodon.com/media/2019/10/30/نجل-الشهيد-محمد…
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Oct 16, 2020
Ep.218 (Video): A Year in Review with Jean Kassir
0:00 Intro
2:32 Anniversary
4:11 Long-Term Goals & Grassroots Activity
13:07 A Late Stage
18:44 Both Sides Fighting for Survival
22:03 Megaphone Today
26:47 Social Pact Discussion
34:15 A Year from Now
We're with Jean Kassir for Episode 218 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/S5gXhJTmHHs
We discuss the one-year anniversary of the October 17 Uprising and reflect on accomplishments and setbacks since the protests began.
Our conversation includes politics at the grassroots level and wider debates over a new social pact. We also talk about both sides - the political establishment and protest movement - fighting for survival.
We talk about Megaphone's evolution and alternative media entering the mainstream.
Jean Kassir is a co-founder and managing editor of Megaphone.
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
Subscribe to our podcast fro…
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Oct 12, 2020
Ep.217 (Video): US Policy Towards Lebanon with Nicholas Noe
0:00 Intro
3:20 Dearborn
22:42 Foundational Flaw
41:47 Fundamental Disagreement
59:55 Force & Pressure
1:05:52 Biden Campaign
1:10:13 Direct or Indirect Support
1:24:48 Coup D'Etat
We're with Nicholas Noe for Episode 217 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/A84uohN9HIg
We discuss US foreign policy towards Lebanon, and reflect on potential changes should the Biden campaign win the upcoming US elections.
We also talk about Hezbollah's political and military role in Lebanon and the region and debate the Trump administration's recent positions towards Lebanon.
Our conversation unpacks disagreements we share over Hezbollah's role in Lebanese affairs.
Nicholas Noe is a political advisor (currently on leave) at the Geneva-based Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue. He is a 2020 Fellow at the School of Transnational Governance, European University Institute, and co-founder of MideastWire.
The article we discuss in the episode is accessible here:
https://cadmus.eui.eu/bitst…
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Oct 9, 2020
Ep.216 (Video): Poetry & Prose with Zeina Hashem Beck
0:00 'Pilgrim' & Intro
6:27 Storytelling
26:53 Our Homes Are Broken
37:18 Betting On The Future
49:18 Paralysis
55:42 Tripoli
1:17:33 Back To Beirut
We're with Zeina Hashem Beck for Episode 216 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Jp7RsErQ_Z8
We discuss a shared passion for storytelling, and the emotional inspiration and injury when trying to share Beirut's current pain.
We talk about our respective childhoods in Tripoli and our earliest memories during the civil war. We also reflect on why we continue to consider Beirut home, and the difference between longing from abroad and detachment through diaspora.
Our conversation includes a reflection on the current political and economic paralysis facing Lebanon and a bet on the youth and future. Zeina also reads an unpublished poem 'Pilgrim' at the start of the episode.
Zeina Hashem Beck is a poet and author. Check out her website:
http://www.zeinahashembeck.com
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayP…
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Oct 6, 2020
Ep.215 (Video): Marketplace Philosophy with Mahmoud Rasmi
0:00 Intro
5:18 Late Summer 2020
10:55 Pissed Off
27:00 Rigorous Argument
46:17 Going Rogue
56:12 Joe Rogan
1:06:29 Self-Publishing
1:25:00 What to Think
1:31:33 Tricksters & Joe Rogan
1:43:88 Sardonically Speaking
We're with Mahmoud Rasmi for Episode 215 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/JAhxZP_35h0
We discuss taking philosophy - and other academic endeavors - to the marketplace, and examine the benefits and disadvantaged of self-employment and self-publishing.
We also talk about mutual appreciation for stand-up comedians and unfiltered music, and why podcasters like Joe Rogan elevate the art of long-form conversation.
Our conversation includes a look at Mahmoud's recent Medium Piece: Put Your Work Out There:
https://medium.com/@mahmoud.rasmi/put-your-work-out-there-cc2aa00658ba
and a deep dive into 'Sardonically Speaking' - his recent self-published book on marketplace philosophy, rap music and stand-up comedy. Fans of the podcast receive a 40% discount o…
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Oct 2, 2020
Ep.214 (Video): Prospects for State Reform with Alia Moubayed & Jessica Obeid
0:00 Intro
2:00 Last Chance for Serious Reform
10:23 Affecting Change in Lebanon
18:36 Early 1990s
25:21 Real Possibility for Breakdown
32:15 Can Anything Else Be Done?
37:58 External Players & Reform
45:37 Persistent Pressure
We're with Alia Moubayed and Jessica Obeid for Episode 2143 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/YcPGpKJM5Co
We discuss key components necessary for reform and compare the current political and economic crisis to the early 1990s as Lebanon emerged from civil war.
We examine the geo-economic factors related to unlocking CEDRE funds and a potential IMF bailout. We also talk about the survivability of the political class and whether - in the long run - time is on Lebanon's side.
Alia Moubayed is an economist and Jessica Obeid is an energy consultant.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeiru
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast…
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Sep 29, 2020
Ep.213 (Video): The Issue of Partition with Joseph Kéchichian
0:00 Intro
2:26 Macron's Speech
13:35 Expiration
22:35 Demons
39:33 1970
1:05:21 Financial Incentive
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Y8ixcsXGsvU
We're with Joseph Kéchichian for Episode 213 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss his recent Foreign Policy piece, "Partition is the Only Solution to Lebanon's Woes" and what in his mind is an inevitable consequence should the Lebanese state continue down its current path.
We talk about fallout from Macron's recent speech and condemnation of the political class across the board, and what Joseph refers to as post-1920 'demons' Lebanese citizens must address.
I also challenge Joseph's personal view on the intertwining of religion and political dogma.
Joseph Kéchichian is a Senior Fellow at the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies.
The Foreign Policy article referenced in this episode can be accessed via the following link:
https://foreignpolicy.com/2020/09/18/partition-is-the-only-solution-to-lebanons-woes/
Help support Th…
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Sep 17, 2020
Ep.212 (Video): Perpetual Return with Sara Mourad
0:00 Intro
4:49 Paralysis
13:38 Justice
22:05 Irrational Optimism
30:44 'We Wait for their Return'
43:59 Resilience
We're with Sara Mourad for Episode 212 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss her recent AlJumhuriya and Rusted Radishes personal essays and reflect on the cycle of prosperity and ruin that came to define modern Lebanon. The conversation delves into the aftermath of the recent Beirut blasts, the persistent demands of protestors and a post-war generation dealing with tragedy once more.
We also talk about 'perpetual return', 'irrational optimism' and the constant search for passion, hope and home.
Sara Mourad is an Assistant Professor of Media Studies at the American University of Beirut and co-directs the Women & Gender Studies Program.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on…
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Sep 11, 2020
Ep.211 (Video): International Protection & Neutrality with Drew Mikhael & Nadim Shehadi
0:00 Intro
5:49 Sanctions
24:54 Beyond Symbolic Gestures
32:21 Irreversible
44:05 Model Paralysis
1:08:04 Neutrality & Lebanon
1:20:42 Neutrality in Perspective
1:34:12 Bleak Trajectory
We're with Drew Mikhael and Nadim Shehadi for Episode 211 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/CVPKblGRCsk
We discuss US sanctions against Lebanese officials and French involvement in pushing for local reforms. We also talk about state paralysis and the political and economic consequences of national unity governments.
The conversation includes a wider take on international protection and neutrality in foreign policy, using other countries as examples where neutrality took hold.
Drew Mikhael is a 'pracademic' and a research fellow at Queens University. He has done extensive work on ethnic conflict, management, refugees & violent extremism.
Nadim Shehadi is the Executive Director of Lebanese American University's New York campus and previously served as Director of the Fares Cente…
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Sep 8, 2020
Ep.210 (Video): Covering the Story with Dalal Mawad
0:00 Intro
3:24 Sanctions
14:41 Reforming the State
18:14 Organization & Structure
32:52 Deeply Embedded
40:00 Letting Go
44:48 Purpose
50:52 A Feminist Movement
56:15 Optimism
1:02:58 Away from the Story
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Q4xHAl6Tlbw
We're with Dalal Mawad for Episode 210 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss recent US sanctions against Lebanese politicians and the wider domestic and regional obstacles to reforming the state. We also talk about the protest movement's lack of organization and structure and potential stepping stones to eventual progress.
The conversation includes Dalal's career in journalism and how purpose guides our commitment to Lebanon.
Dalal Mawad is a Senior Producer and Correspondent for The Associated Press.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on F…
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Sep 7, 2020
Ep.209 (Video): Personal & Political Pressure with Dion Nissenbaum
0:00 Intro
2:22 Personal Well-Being
4:43 The Bubble
8:45 A Unique Tragedy
12:08 Beirut's DNA
16:52 Political Pressure
We're with Dion Nissenbaum for Episode 209 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/rowid3IXogw
We discuss his recent essay reflecting on the Beirut blasts and how reminders of the tragedy persist.
We also talk about US foreign policy vis-a-vis sanctions and a wider push for political reform.
Dion Nissennbaum is Beirut-based reporter for The Wall Street Journal.
The two pieces authored by Dion and referred to in this episode are accessible below:
The Family Scars Left by the Beirut Blast
https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-family-scars-left-by-the-beirut-blast-11599141470
U.S. Prepares Sanctions Against Hezbollah’s Allies in Lebanon
https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-prepares-sanctions-against-hezbollahs-allies-in-lebanon-11597234311
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our P…
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Sep 2, 2020
Ep.208 (Video): Shared & Personal Pain with Mike Azar
0:00 Intro
4:45 No Return
19:09 Shared Pain
32:58 Autopilot
45:19 Collective Loss
51:10 Post-War Perspective
We're with Mike Azar for Episode 208 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss public and personal pain in the aftermath of the Beirut blasts, and how collective loss is shaping the post-civil war generation.
We also talk about going into 'autopilot' following shock, dealing with trauma and an inability to accept tragedy without justice.
Mike Azar is a finance advisor and a friend.
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
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Graphics by Sara Tarhini.
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Aug 23, 2020
Ep.207 (Video): A Reporter's Reflections with Houshig Kaymakamian
0:00 Intro
4:09 Surprise and Disappointment
15:45 Wider Story of Accountability
24:33 International Investigation
29:58 Expectations
34:43 Subsidies
43:36 Silver Lining
We're with Houshig Kaymakamian for Episode 207 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/gACljKIAxVE
We discuss three of her most recent The Daily Star pieces that reflect on the aftermath of the Beirut blasts, the government's resignation and the STL's verdict.
We also discuss subsidies, the economic calamity and measured expectations for any incoming government.
Houshig Kaymakamian is a reporter at The Daily Star.
Click below to donation links for NGOs involved in the aftermath of Tuesday's Beirut blasts.
Lebanese Red Cross:
https://www.supportlrc.app/donate/
Impact Lebanon / Just Giving:
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lebanon-relief?utm_term=re7R78DA2/
Ahla Fawda:
https://www.just-help.org/c/AhlaFawda/
Beit El Baraka:
https://beitelbaraka.net/donation/pay/
Lebanese Food Bank
https://l…
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Aug 18, 2020
Ep.206 (Video): The Verdict with Emile Hokayem
0:00 Intro
2:24 Justice
17:33 Decisions Made Early On
27:20 The Regional Story
37:20 Accountability
47:58 Too Late For Reform
We're with Emile Hokayem for Episode 206 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/FMBK8reqySU
We reflect on the STL's verdict issued earlier today and the pursuit for justice following Rafik Hariri's death. We also discuss the decisions made early on in the UN investigation and the regional story at play since 2005.
Emile shares his thoughts on accountability and reform, the immense pain of the moment - especially following the recent Beirut blasts - and the need to look within Lebanon for answers.
Emile Hokayem is a Senior Fellow for Middle East Security at the International Institute for Strategic Studies.
Click below to donation links for NGOs involved in the aftermath of Tuesday's Beirut blasts.
Lebanese Red Cross:
https://www.supportlrc.app/donate/
Impact Lebanon / Just Giving:
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lebanon-relief?utm…
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Aug 17, 2020
Ep.205 (Video): Covering the Moment with Julie Kebbi
4:03 Tipping Point
18:12 Paralysis
31:50 Accountability
42:05 Get them Out
47:48 Reporting on the Ground
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/HDdoKkgyf_U
We're with Julie Kebbi for Episode 205 of The Beirut Banyan.
We reflect on the Beirut blasts last week and whether this is the tipping point for systemic change in Lebanon. We also discuss state paralysis and protestor frustrations, and the durability of corrupt political figures.
Julie shares her thoughts on widespread desperation for accountability and justice, the long-term role of civil society and the inability to force more political figures to resign. Our conversation wraps up with the challenges facing reporters on the ground covering the multiple crises facing Lebanon.
Julie Kebbi works at L'Orient-Le Jour's international news desk.
The article referenced in the episode is accessible below:
https://www.lorientlejour.com/article/1229221
Click below to donation links for NGOs involved in the aftermath of Tuesday's Beiru…
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Aug 14, 2020
Ep.204 (Video): 'The Fire These Times' with Joey Ayoub
0:00 Intro
3:28 Reflections from Afar
18:00 Symbolic Shock
42:48 'Chernobyl Moment'
1:02:53 Thirty Years Ago
1:11:58 Lebanon's Curse
1:40:11 Forget Resiliency
1:51:06 Principled Views
We're with Joey Ayoub for Episode 204 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/5A3rUTcG3nE
We share reflections on the Beirut blasts from afar, and the complicated emotions of shared suffering at a distance from the tragedy. We discuss the symbolic shock of the mushroom-cloud effect and expand on whether this is Lebanon's 'Chernobyl Moment'. We also talk about civil war legacy that persists until today, and whether Lebanon is cursed to failed state status despite the persistent push by protestors for the better.
This is Joey's third appearance on The Beirut Banyan. We also reflect on friendship born over the moment despite never having met in person, and how long-form conversations can bring strangers together searching for shared understanding over the difficult moment we're going throu…
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Aug 10, 2020
Ep.203 (Video): Forced Change with Nafez Zouk
0:00 Intro
1:55 Beirut Blasts
9:49 Forced Change
21:38 Oligarchy of Dictators
32:33 Identity & Citizenship
38:08 The Aftermath
44:35 The Problem
55:48 'Chernobyl Moment'
1:02:53 Thirty Years Ago
We're with Nafez Zouk for Episode 203 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/f63C1t-ME4o
We address the weekend protests that culminated in the Prime Minister's resignation earlier today. We also discuss the political aftermath of the Beirut blasts last Tuesday, the idea of forced change in recent Lebanese history and whether this is Lebanon's 'Chernobyl Moment'.
Nafez Zouk is a lead economist at Oxford Economics.
Click below to donation links for NGOs involved in the aftermath of Tuesday's Beirut blasts.
Lebanese Red Cross:
https://www.supportlrc.app/donate/
Impact Lebanon / Just Giving:
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lebanon-relief?utm_term=re7R78DA2/
Ahla Fawda:
https://www.just-help.org/c/AhlaFawda/
Beit El Baraka:
https://beitelbaraka.net/donation/pay/
Le…
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Aug 9, 2020
Ep.202 (Video): Hostage
For Episode 202, I reflect on the aftermath of Tuesday's blasts, the protests taking place in Martyrs Square and across downtown Beirut and the hostage-like situation facing Lebanon.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/D9WnzAill3E
Click below to donation links for NGOs involved in the aftermath of Tuesday's Beirut blasts.
Lebanese Red Cross:
https://www.supportlrc.app/donate/
Impact Lebanon / Just Giving:
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lebanon-relief?utm_term=re7R78DA2/
Ahla Fawda:
https://www.just-help.org/c/AhlaFawda/
Beit El Baraka:
https://beitelbaraka.net/donation/pay/
Lebanese Food Bank
https://lebanesefoodbank.org/donate/
Live Love Lebanon:
https://www.givingloop.org/livelove/
Caritas Lebanon:
http://www.caritas.org.lb/get_involved/donate/
Lebanon Needs:
https://www.lebanonneeds.org/donate/
Embrace Lebanon:
https://embracelebanon.org/donors-and-partners/
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating thr…
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Aug 7, 2020
Ep.201 (Video): Le Chef with Charbel Bassil
For Episode 201 I speak with Charbel Bassil, owner of Le Chef restaurant in Gemmayze.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/hSMFr_6e88Y
Charbel shares his experience surviving the blast while at Le Chef and the injuries he sustained. He also expresses the immense difficulties and shared pain of Beirut's residents.
We share memories of Le Chef and what the restaurant means to Beirut.
If you'd like to donate and help Charbel repair Le Chef from damages sustained, please use the PayPal link below and note 'Le Chef' in the comments section:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
And I will forward all donations his way. He is in need of repair works, and if you are able to assist get in touch with me directly:
banyan@bebeirut.org
And I will forward Charbel's contact details.
For other NGOs involved in the aftermath of the Beirut port blasts, see below:
Lebanese Red Cross:
https://www.supportlrc.app/donate/
Impact Lebanon / Just Giving:
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lebanon-relief…
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Aug 6, 2020
Ep.200 (Live Video): Beirut Needs Your Help, Part 2
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/CGjfd0U3pGg
Links referenced in this episode to help donate to the victims of yesterday's explosions in Beirut.
Lebanese Red Cross:
https://www.supportlrc.app/donate/
Impact Lebanon / Just Giving:
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lebanon-relief?utm_term=re7R78DA2/
Ahla Fawda:
https://www.just-help.org/c/AhlaFawda/
Beit El Baraka:
https://beitelbaraka.net/donation/pay/
Lebanese Food Bank
https://lebanesefoodbank.org/donate/
Live Love Lebanon:
https://www.givingloop.org/livelove/
Caritas Lebanon:
http://www.caritas.org.lb/get_involved/donate/
Lebanon Needs:
https://www.lebanonneeds.org/donate/
Embrace Lebanon:
https://embracelebanon.org/donors-and-partners/
4:12 Esin Efe
40:12 Farrah Berrou
1:14:20 Andrew Mikhael
1:41:02 Nadim Shehadi
2:10:54 Alexandra Talty
2:28:53 Deeba Shadnia
For Episode 200 I reflect with friends on the aftermath of yesterday's explosions that destroyed Beirut's port and tore through the city. The guests inclu…
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Aug 5, 2020
Ep.199 (Video): Beirut Needs Your Help
Links referenced in this episode to help donate to the victims of yesterday's explosions in Beirut.
Lebanese Red Cross:
https://www.supportlrc.app/donate/
Impact Lebanon / Just Giving:
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lebanon-relief?utm_term=re7R78DA2/
Ahla Fawda:
https://www.just-help.org/c/AhlaFawda/
Beit El Baraka:
https://beitelbaraka.net/donation/pay/
Live Love Lebanon:
https://www.givingloop.org/livelove/
Caritas Lebanon:
http://www.caritas.org.lb/get_involved/donate/
Lebanon Needs:
https://www.lebanonneeds.org/donate/
Embrace Lebanon:
https://embracelebanon.org/donors-and-partners/
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/pOTyn4bnEck
For Episode 199 I reflect on the aftermath of yesterday's explosions that destroyed Beirut's port and tore through the city.
For Faysal Itani's New York Time Opinion piece referenced in this episode, 'Lebanon’s Mushroom Cloud of Incompetence', click below:
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/05/opinion/beirut-explosions.html
Help support Th…
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Aug 5, 2020
Ep.198 (Video): The Special Tribunal for Lebanon with Olga Kavran
0:00 Intro
2:46 Explosions in Beirut
11:06 Back to the Beginning
21:50 Expectations
38:09 Hesitation?
1:00:11 Disappointment
1:09:27 Incentive
1:19:35 A Long Time
1:24:43 The Lesser Known
1:33:04 Personal Loss
1:40:25 Memories of my Father
We're with Olga Kavran for Episode 198 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Z9EqQInrBtM
We address the explosions that shattered Beirut's port, nearby neighborhoods and large swathes of the city. Our conversation addresses accountability, international criminal law, justice and the upcoming judgement this Friday of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon.
Olga Kavran was generous with her time in the immediate aftermath of the explosions. She is the Head of Outreach and Legacy at the Special Tribunal for Lebanon. In this episode she is not speaking on behalf of The Tribunal.
Lebanon needs your help. Please consider a donation to:
The Lebanese Red Cross:
https://www.supportlrc.app/donate/
or any of the local Lebanese NGOs listed on t…
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Aug 1, 2020
Ep.197 (Video): Pushing through the Moment with Carmen Geha
0:00 Intro
1:30 Catching up with Carmen
7:42 Day to Day Life in Beirut
19:20 Cancer
23:39 Neoliberal Capitalism
25:23 Structural Racism
29:20 Politics of Fear
33:47 Day by Day Mode
40:26 IMF Negotiations
47:36 Confessional Power Sharing
59:28 Lecturing in time of Covid
We're back with Carmen Geha for Episode 197 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss her recent 'The New Arab' pieces tackling the Lebanese government's handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and wider issues that link the pandemic to rampant corruption and the ongoing economic crisis.
Carmen reflects on her personal 'politics of hope' and overcoming political fear. We talk about a potential silver lining in failed IMF negotiations and how issues of structural racism tie in to a dysfunctional state's inability to implement laws that protect vulnerable groups including domestic workers.
Carmen Geha is an Associate Professor with Tenure at the American University of Beirut.
The pieces referred to in this episode are accessible bel…
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Aug 1, 2020
Ep.196 (Video): A Multitude of Perspectives at Once with Tamer Aboul-Hosn
0:00 Intro
1:50 Day to Day Routine
6:54 Personal Evolution
24:38 The Wider Story
39:00 'Uniqueness'
54:45 Political Reform
1:00:54 Localism
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/XNfcJ-Db5mk
We're with Tamer Aboul-Hosn for Episode 196 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss his recent Medium piece "On the Arab Identity and Its Discontents: A Personal Reflection and a Survey of Christian Perspectives" and dive into the wider story of political autonomy, pluralism and competing narratives that helped shape Lebanon's minorities relationship to the state, in particular the Maronite Christian experience.
Tamer shares his own political evolution and the literature that helped shape his views on Arab nationalism and Lebanese nationalism, and an appreciation for non-Arab languages and communities in the Middle East. He also reflects on his personal curiosity of other minorities' insecurities, and his belief in localism and local expression as opposed to centralized governance and pan-Arab persuasion.…
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Jul 28, 2020
Ep.195 (Video): Five Pillars with Maha Yahya
2:00 Day to Day Life in Beirut
8:24 Back to 2005
10:20 Taef Accord
46:08 The Banking Sector
1:03:56 The Middle Class
1:16:53 Civil War Legacy
1:25:32 Freedom of Expression
1:34:01 Army & Internal Security
1:42:33 Light at the End of the Tunnel
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/1Cq-ftnQyLA
We're with Maha Yahya for Episode 195 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss her recent piece "All Fall Down" that appeared in Carnegie Middle East's Diwan blog and expand on five pillars that sustained post civil war Lebanon.
We reflect on the impact of protests and recurring assassinations from 2005 onwards that contribute to today's events; the civil war's legacy; and recurrent obstacles preventing needed reform. We also share a mutual appreciation for Samir Kassir and reflect on my father's final years.
Maha Yahya is Director of the Carnegie Middle East Center.
The piece referred to in this episode is accessible below:
https://carnegie-mec.org/diwan/82348
Help support The Beirut Banyan by…
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Jul 24, 2020
Ep.194 (Video): Nationalism, Identity & Fairuz with Deeba Shadnia
0:00 Intro
3:17 Memories & Music
24:41 Competing Narratives
32:22 'Lebanonism'
40:00 Arab Nationalism
47:24 Palestine and The Civil War
57:28 Singing the 20th Century
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/AEtfmjqu1i4
We're back with Deeba Shadnia for Episode 194 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss a range of topics that include nostalgia and nationalism, identity and the arts, and how Fairuz' music fits into the backdrop of all that is modern Lebanon. Our conversation includes notions of 'Lebanonism' and Arab nationalism; competing nationalisms that took Lebanon to brief civil war in 1958 and later from 1975-1989. We also talk about Fairuz's ability to attract of multitude of aspirations that are often at odds with one another, and why her music truly resonates beyond Lebanon's borders. We also discuss 20th century ideas that came and went, and how Fairuz's catalogue covers all the complexities of Lebanon.
Deeba Shadnia is a graduate of King's College London and wrote her Master's thesis o…
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Jul 23, 2020
Ep.193 (Video): Podcasting with the Lebanese Politics Podcast
0:00 Intro
2:25 Life in Beirut
10:48 Learning through Podcasting
17:20 Is consensus-driven governance the core problem?
23:04 Reflections
44:28 The Ultimate Stumbling Block
1:01:42 Freedom of Expression
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/sDm5PSdUeOc
We're with the Lebanese Politics Podcast for Episode 193 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss life today in Beirut; the benefits of getting the wider story across through long-form narrative and podcasting; various reflections on the initial days of the October Uprising and developments today; ultimate stumbling blocks that diminished earlier protest movements and curtailed previous attempts at reform following the end of the civil war; the state of freedom of expression today in Lebanon; and a shared appreciation for the podcasting medium and storytelling in all formats.
The Lebanese Politics Podcast team includes Benjamin Redd, Nizar Hassan and Susan Wilson.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/w…
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Jul 21, 2020
Ep.192 (Video): Saving the State with Alain Bifani & Henri Chaoul
0:00 Intro
2:25 Did resignation serve its purpose?
11:34 More dangerous today than 1975?
17:20 Is consensus-driven governance the core problem?
35:35 Is it too late to reform confessional power-sharing?
52:12 What are the conditions today for an IMF deal?
1:06:45 Will you return to your advisory roles?
1:11:05 Memories of My Father
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/fYOQI_nN09s
We're with Alain Bifani and Henri Chaoul for Episode 192 of The Beirut Banyan.
We put their recent resignations in perspective and discuss whether it served its intended purpose; we discuss the pre-civil war Lebanese state and how the current economic crisis may be more catastrophic than the breakdown that came following April 1975; we talk about confessional power-sharing by looking at the Lebanese state's functionality before the civil war and post-1989, and whether the root cause of systemic mismanagement today is in essence Lebanon's consociational governance or other issues left unaddressed from the early…
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Jul 17, 2020
Ep.191 (Video): Self-Reflection with Mazen El-Hassan
0:00 Intro
1:37 How We Met
6:07 Where We Are Today
18:41 Appetite for Change
23:57 Politics as Usual
30:49 Hope
35:38 Special Tribunal for Lebanon
40:51 Secularism & Sectarianism
47:02 Online Tirades
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/1jBBGEq44-Y
We're with Mazen El-Hassan for Episode 191 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss the symbolism of how we met; political developments in recent weeks; whether there remains an appetite for fundamental change; politics as usual vs radical change; hope persisting despite immense economic constraints; the Special Tribunal for Lebanon's upcoming verdict; notions of secularism vs sectarianism; and the benefits and disadvantages of online tirades.
Mazen El-Hassan is a graduate from Kingston University. He is the elder son of Wissam El-Hassan, Lebanon's former Minister of Interior, assassinated on 19 October 2012.
My father and Mazen's are buried side by side in Martyrs Square.
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.payp…
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Jul 15, 2020
Ep.190 (Video): Proxy Wars at Home with Deeba Shadnia
0:00 Intro
1:40 Local Longevity
16:24 Local & Regional Overlap
22:30 Tipping Point
28:46 Caesar Act
38:04 Mystery Attacks
46:40 The Geopolitical Story
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/_JVqd4C3tzQ
We're with Deeba Shadnia for Episode 190 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss the longevity of the Lebanese protest movement; how local aspirations and regional politics overlap; whether Lebanon has crossed a 'tipping point' from crisis to collapse; the immediate and long-term effects of the Caesar Act; the repeated mystery 'incidents' / attacks in Iran; and the wider geopolitical story the region is going through.
Stay tuned for Deeba's return next week where she will discuss music, local vs regional identities and more!
Deeba Shadnia is Middle East & North Africa Analyst at Protection Group International.
The article referenced in this episode is accessible below:
https://encyclopediageopolitica.com/2019/10/28/lebanons-protest-cleaning-up-the-streets/
Help support The Beirut Banyan by con…
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Jul 13, 2020
Ep.189 (Video): Telecoms & Tech with Georgio Nicolas
0:00 Intro
2:45 Telecoms Today
8:55 Field Offices
18:58 Unlocking Bandwidth
23:12 Cryptocurrency
29:20 Bridging the Gap
37:09 Personal Reflection
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/rc-RjXtaKzY
We're with Georgio Nicolas for Episode 189 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss the telecoms sector in Lebanon, and long-term problems associated with reduced bandwidth and slow internet speeds. We also talk about lack of international field offices in Beirut, and inherent obstacles when persuading tech firms to establish a presence in Lebanon.
Georgio shares his research into cryptocurrency, and why it remains a fairly unattractive alternative to local currency in Lebanon and elsewhere. He also addresses insufficient computer science research at Lebanese universities, and adds his own reflections of remote work given electricity and internet constraints.
Georgio Niscolas is a cryptography / security research engineer. Check out his website:
georgio.xyz
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contribu…
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Jul 11, 2020
Ep.188 (Video): BanyanQuest with Mahmoud Rasmi
0:00 Intro
3:50 "Why the hell do you care about Lebanon?"
12:16 Against the Odds
16:26 Personal Quest
19:18 Bel Lebnene
25:53 Bottom Up
32:00 Long-Form Conversations
37:57 How it Started
45:52 Storytelling
53:04 Dawle
53:51Individual Philosophy
1:04:11 Academia
1:15:53 Local & Global
1:20:29 Evolving Thoughts
We're with Mahmoud Rasmi for Episode 188 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/bSQjOWIdKQk
We discuss our shared appreciation for long-form conversations, the wider world of storytelling, and the podcasting medium. We talk about our respective memories of Ras Beirut and the importance AUB played in both our lives. We also reflect on commitment to Lebanon against the odds, and an acknowledgement of immense despair that has overtaken the country.
Mahmoud also shares his passion for philosophy, his work ethic away beyond a university setting, and his love of teaching. Sign up to his online philosophy courses and experience his enthusiasm up front.
Mohamad Rasmi…
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Jul 9, 2020
Ep.187 (Video): El Mina & More with Alison Meuse
0:00 Intro
2:39 Mina Today
19:39 Economic Pain
32:56 The Way Forward
50:37 Vanishing Middle Class
56:45 Commitment to Lebanon
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/k1lHD0U_eLs
We're with Alison Meuse for Episode 187 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss El Mina and the challenges of running a small business today; how differing political views are often 'geographic'; shared economic pain throughout the country and searching for a viable way forward; the country's vanishing middle class; and choosing to report on Lebanon.
Alison Meuse is the Asia Times Middle East editor and correspondent.
The Asia Times pieces references in this episode are accessible below:
https://asiatimes.com/author/alison-meuse/
Please note a minor mistake at 8:43. Alison is a 'partner' of Aristo's Pub. I incorrectly said 'part owner'.
Visit Aristo's Pub Instagram page: @aristospub and mention the podcast if you visit them!
Make sure to take advantage of La Bonne Soupe's generous summer offer of free house wine; a…
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Jul 8, 2020
Ep.186 (Video): Society Sustains the State with Mona Salem
0:00 Intro
2:18 Life Today in Beirut
11:05 The Core Problem
22:30 The Structure
40:08 Societal Constraints
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/h8GDfyegcE4
We're with Mona Salem for Episode 186 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss difficulties of day-to-day life at the moment in Beirut; the core governing and societal factors preventing immediate political change; why the term 'sectarianism' ushers debate and controversy; the history and durability of Lebanon's confessional consociational governing structure; and societal demands - and constraints - for championing disenfranchises groups' rights.
The LSE blog post and FES paper discussed during this episode are linked below:
Breaking the Sectarian Chains: Lebanon Revolts Against its Corrupt Leaders:
https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/mec/2019/10/22/breaking-the-sectarian-chains-lebanon-revolts-against-its-corrupt-leaders/
Queers in Quarantine: Between Pandemics and Social Violence in Lebanon:
https://www.fes-lebanon.org/fileadmin/user_upload/docu…
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Jul 2, 2020
Ep.185 (Video): The Octopus with Nasser Yassin
0:00 Intro
2:44 The Need to Organize
25:48 From Protest to Power
36:16 The Source of the Problem
43:23 Politicians & Population
52:32 Consequences of Covid-19
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/cnnfLhJL2Jg
We're back with Nasser Yassin for Episode 185 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss the necessity for grassroots organization when it comes to transitioning the protest movement into a long-term political force; identifying the "source of the problem" when it comes to implementing much-needed reforms; population hesitancy in pushing for a new social pact; and the immediate consequences of Covid-19.
Nasser is the Interim Director of the Issam Fares Institute at the American University of Beirut.
Make sure to take advantage of La Bonne Soupe's generous summer offer for free house wine; a free glass of Lebanese wine with in-restaurant meals; and a $10 delivery discount off of $30+ orders when using the promo code: BANYAN.
Check out La Bonne Soupe's website for online delivery options an…
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Jul 1, 2020
Ep.184 (Video): Begin the Begin with Walid Sinno
0:00 Intro
2:49 Resignations & Reactions
14:35 The Missing 'Peace'
23:13 Is Sectarianism the Root Cause?
31:37 Diaspora Lifeline
36:37 (Re)creating a Social Pact
45:19 Recent Resignations
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/HSzJq5D8A1E
We're back with Walid Sinno for Episode 184 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss the recent public resignations and reactions; the need for post-civil war reconciliation and establishing a real 'peace'; identifying the root causes for the current economic crisis; financial dependency from the diaspora; and building a lasting social pact.
Walid is an oil and gas engineer.
Make sure to take advantage of La Bonne Soupe's generous summer offer for free house wine; a free glass of Lebanese wine with in-restaurant meals; and a $10 delivery discount off of $30+ orders when using the promo code: BANYAN.
Check out La Bonne Soupe's website for online delivery options and - if you plan to visit - their contact details:
www.labonnesoupe.com
Help support The Beirut…
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Jun 29, 2020
Ep.183 (Video): Public Health & Reform with Fatima Al Sayah
0:00 Intro
6:11 State Response to Covid-19
28:48 Public Response to Covid-19
35:12 Healthcare System Reform
47:07 Recommendations vs Decision-Making
59:29 Covid-19 & Economic Crisis
1:12:14 Contextual Factors & Covid-19
We're back with Fatima Al Sayah for Episode 183 of The Beirut Banyan.
We discuss the Lebanese state's response to the Covid-19 pandemic; public behavior that has changed since the novel coronavirus began spreading earlier this year; Lebanon's healthcare system and state institutions in dire need of reform; severe disconnect between policy papers and decision makers; Covid-19's impact on Lebanon's economic crisis; and contextual factors that matter when comparing different countries' experiences to the pandemic.
Fatima is a Public Health Researcher at the School of Public Health - University of Alberta. She is also a member of 'HealthNERDS'.
Here is the link to the LCPS piece discussed:
https://www.lcps-lebanon.org/featuredArticle.php?id=316
Make sure to take advan…
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Jun 25, 2020
Ep.182 (Video): Resignation & Responsibility with Henri Chaoul
0:00 Intro
2:32 Hyperinflation & Politics as Usual
22:55 Missing Information
34:03 Responsibility
41:43 The Sinking Ship
49:07 Taking Lebanon to Hell
1:06:16 Moving Forward
We're back with Henri Chaoul for Episode 182 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/uvBxkqRT7U4
We discuss his recent resignation letter and his four-months long experience serving as a finance advisor to the Ministry of Finance in its ongoing negotiations with the IMF. We also discuss the desperate need for accountability, transparency and responsibility, and why the public is not provided a full and honest picture of the severity of the crisis.
Henri also shares his belief in the need for a civil state, and why the current political class is unable to deliver proper reform.
Henri Chaoul is a board member of Kulluna-Irada.
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
W…
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Jun 24, 2020
Ep.181 (Video): Policies & Aspirations with Jomana Qaddour
0:00 Intro
3:11 American Policy in the Middle East
23:09 Women & Political Representation
38:17 Sanctions & Impact
47:17 Accountability & Justice
We're back with Jomana Qaddour for Episode 181 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/m0k1bwamCQk
We discuss her experience as a foreign policy advisor to the Pete Butiggieg campaign and American engagement in the Middle East; political demands and aspirations of women in the region; the impact of sanctions vis-a-vis the Caesar Act on Syria and Lebanon's economy; justice for war crimes beyond local borders; and the power of connectivity and shared grievances of protestors across the world holding their respective regimes to account.
Jomana Qaddour is a Nonresident Senior Fellow at Atlantic Council. She and her father, Dr. Jihad Qaddour, founded Syria Relief & Development in 2011, a US-based NGO providing humanitarian relief to Syrian civilians.
Kindly note one mistake: in the episode I incorrectly refer to George Floyd as…
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Jun 23, 2020
Ep.180 (Video): Defending Human Rights with Aya Majzoub
0:00 Intro
2:27 Defamation, Interrogation & Detainment
37:43 IMF Package & Human Rights
45:07 'Kafala' (Sponsorship) System
1:01:59 Refugees & Human Rights
We're back with Aya Majzoub for Episode 180 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/ZUbrWdwCfcY
We discuss several topics pertaining to human rights issues in Lebanon including recent interrogations and detainment vis-a-vis 'anti-defamation' and 'insult laws'; IMF negotiations and shielding disenfranchised groups from further economic pain through potential austerity measures; demands to abolish the 'kafala' / sponsorship system for domestic / migrant workers; and the Palestinian and Syrian refugee populations' vulnerability given the wider economic crisis.
Aya Majzoub is a Lebanon and Bahrain researcher at Human Rights Watch.
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
Watch these episo…
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Jun 21, 2020
Ep.179 (Video): "Lebanon & its Multiple Challenges" by Mohamad Chatah
I share an audio clip by my father at a Brookings Doha Center event on 31 January 2013 titled "Lebanon & its Multiple Challenges".
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/NLp5F3-tYEs
Words about problem solving at a time most needed.
Happy Father's Day, Dad.
My father's blogspot page is:
http://mohamadchatah.blogspot.com
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Graphics by Sara Tarhini.
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Jun 19, 2020
Ep.178 (Video): "The Baabda Declaration Revisited" by Mohamad Chatah
I read one of my father's previous blog posts, "The Baabda Declaration Revisited" for Episode 178 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/_sdqC4TXiG8
And I reflect on the power of overcoming fear, championing free expression against all forms of intimidation, and looking back at a Declaration signed eight years ago yet never implemented, and perhaps the one attempted post-civil war national policy worth championing.
My father's blogspot page is:
http://mohamadchatah.blogspot.com
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Graphics by Sara Tarhini.
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Jun 17, 2020
Ep.177 (Video): Accountability & Alternatives with Mike Azar
0:00 Intro
4:04 Longevity of the Problem
18:26 The Usual Suspects & IMF Negotiations
29:04 Parallel Ideas & Parallel Institutions
40:41 State Sovereignty & Authority
We're back with Mike Azar for Episode 177 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/PC03MMDJMj0
We discuss accountability and lack of transparency across the board in Lebanon and the economic consequences of political decisions made years before the recent protests began. We also talk about 'shadow governance' and what an alternative social pact could look like.
Mike Azar is a finance advisor and a regular contributor to the 'Finance 4 Lebanon' / NERDS blog. He is a former Johns Hopkins SAIS lecturer of International Economics.
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from…
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Jun 14, 2020
Ep.176 (Video): "On the Move" - Anniversaries (#15)
Part 15 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber wraps up her latest mini-series with thoughts on anniversaries and markers worth sharing. Wishing her the best on her blossoming career in science journalism, and hoping to have her voice return to this podcast down the road.
Each episode of "On the Move" tackled a different subject impacting Lebanon that also played a role in her life abroad.
Elia is a recent Master's degree graduate in science journalism from Concordia University. She is the founder of Café Scientifique - Beirut and previously co-hosted this podcast for her "Voices from the Square' series, covering the initial months of the October 2019 uprising in Lebanon.
Follow Elia on her Twitter handle: @EliaHaber
and on Instagram: @elia.haber
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeiru…
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Jun 13, 2020
Ep.175 (Video): Rioting, Rapid Inflation & Splintering Protests with Mohamad Faour & Wael Atallah
0:00 Intro
2:09 Rioting
14:28 Rapid Inflation
26:32 Splintering Protests
We're back with Mohamad Faour and Waël Atallah for Episode 175 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/v_s-CaTFlWw
We discuss the past week's events including the recent rioting in downtown Beirut, the rapid decline in the Lira's value within a two-day period that set off renewed demonstrations, and ways to avoid the splintering of the protest movement like we saw on 6 June - particularly when it comes to addressing sub-state weaponry.
Mohamad Faour is a postdoc fellow at University College Dublin, and Waël Atallah is an economist and engineer. They both contribute to the 'Finance 4 Lebanon' blog.
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred pl…
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Jun 12, 2020
Ep.174 (Video): "On the Move" - Accelerators (#14)
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/GEj9PuA3VYs
Part 14 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber discusses relationship changes with confinement gradually ending, and online connections that 'accelerate' and circle back to Lebanon.
Each episode of "On the Move" tackles a different subject impacting Lebanon that also plays a role in her life abroad.
Elia is a recent Master's degree graduate in science journalism from Concordia University. She is the founder of Café Scientifique - Beirut and previously co-hosted this podcast for her "Voices from the Square' series, covering the initial months of the October 2019 uprising in Lebanon.
Follow Elia on her Twitter handle: @EliaHaber
and on Instagram: @elia.haber
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your pr…
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Jun 11, 2020
Ep.173 (Video): "False (and Sometimes Dangerous) Ideas" by Mohamad Chatah
I read one of my father's previous blog posts, "False (and Sometimes Dangerous) Ideas" for Episode 173 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/k5OZ_n-URCs
And I reflect on the importance of confronting all issues facing Lebanon, and the mistake of avoiding certain topics out of fear, sensitivity or worry that it would diminish the protest movement.
My father's blogspot page is:
http://mohamadchatah.blogspot.com
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Graphics by Sara Tarhini.
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Jun 10, 2020
Ep.172 (Video): "On the Move" - The Gig Economy (#13)
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/6-sVgfrl8sU
Part 13 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber discusses the disadvantages of the gig economy, and how freelance work and other ways of supplementing additional income is a challenge regardless of economic crisis and Covid-19.
Each episode of "On the Move" tackles a different subject impacting Lebanon that also plays a role in her life abroad.
Elia is a recent Master's degree graduate in science journalism from Concordia University. She is the founder of Café Scientifique - Beirut and previously co-hosted this podcast for her "Voices from the Square' series, covering the initial months of the October 2019 uprising in Lebanon.
Follow Elia on her Twitter handle: @EliaHaber
and on Instagram: @elia.haber
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirut…
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Jun 8, 2020
Ep.171 (Video): "On the Move" - The Lebanese Model (#12)
Part 12 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber explores the disadvantages of continuous balancing acts in Lebanon, and other ways of looking at social cohesion and prejudice.
Each episode of "On the Move" tackles a different subject impacting Lebanon that also plays a role in her life abroad.
Elia is a recent Master's degree graduate in science journalism from Concordia University. She is the founder of Café Scientifique - Beirut and previously co-hosted this podcast for her "Voices from the Square' series, covering the initial months of the October 2019 uprising in Lebanon.
Follow Elia on her Twitter handle: @EliaHaber
and on Instagram: @elia.haber
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram &…
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Jun 6, 2020
Ep.170 (Video): Al Wadi
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/MHnUHdz1OQ4
‘Al Wadi’ refers to the Wadi Abu Jmeel neighborhood of downtown Beirut, the city’s old Jewish quarter. This episode brings three Lebanese Jewish voices from different generations together, each sharing their own memory and complex relationship to Lebanon.
‘Al Wadi’ is designed for both the audio and video enthusiast in mind. No need to watch if you prefer to simply listen to the story. And photos / graphics are included on the YouTube version for anyone that prefers to follow visually.
I started working on this episode a few days before Covid-19 became a global pandemic. And I had to make a quick decision whether to postpone altogether or carry on with a new storyline and structure (using Skype audio). I went with the latter, and decided to release this story as Part 1 of a mini-series related to the Lebanese Jewish community. Followup episodes with additional voices will emerge once travel restrictions ease.
I’ve been curiou…
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Jun 3, 2020
Ep.169 (Video): "On the Move" - Educating Ourselves (#11)
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/gI6_11krQKs
Part 11 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber talks about independently educating ourselves and experiences with recommendations sent her way.
Each episode of "On the Move" tackles a different subject impacting Lebanon that also plays a role in her life abroad.
Elia is a recent Master's degree graduate in science journalism from Concordia University. She is the founder of Café Scientifique - Beirut and previously co-hosted this podcast for her "Voices from the Square' series, covering the initial months of the October 2019 uprising in Lebanon.
Follow Elia on her Twitter handle: @EliaHaber
and on Instagram: @elia.haber
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Faceb…
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Jun 3, 2020
Ep.168 (Video): Revolution...Pandemic...Revolution with Lina Mounzer
0:00 Intro
4:08 Reflections on Covid-19
12:11 Emotional Rollercoaster
22:24 Civil War Memories
32:57 'Violence' & Priority
42:33 Hesitation & Reluctance
55:22 Hunger
1:08:38 Ponzi
We're back with Lina Mounzer for Episode 168 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/gpfBdQlNPWY
We compare Covid-19 experiences in Beirut and New York, and dive into her recent LitHub piece about growing up during the civil war and the euphoria following October 17 last year.
We discuss the urgency for political reform in Lebanon, the economic pain we're going through and the serious threat of hunger on the horizon. We also reflect on current protests in the US and the connectivity of the moment.
Lina Mounzer is a writer and translator. The LitHub piece and New York Times op-ed's mentioned in this episode are linked below:
'Letter From Beirut: From Revolution to Pandemic'
https://lithub.com/letter-from-beirut-from-revolution-to-pandemic/
'In Lebanon, a Pandemic of Hunger'
https://www.n…
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Jun 2, 2020
Ep.167 (Video): Fifteen Years
I reflect on fifteen years since Samir Kassir's assassination.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/Y9-Kk13wJOk
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Music by Marc Codsi. Graphics by Sara Tarhini.
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Jun 1, 2020
Ep.166 (Video): "On the Move" - Celebrations (#10)
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/nj1wE79UlUE
Part 10 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber talks about graduating from university in a time of physical distancing and the lack of any urge to celebrate. Elia also shares her reasons for leaving Lebanon and the need to keep positive memories alive.
Each episode of "On the Move" tackles a different subject impacting Lebanon that also plays a role in her life abroad.
Elia is a recent Master's degree graduate in science journalism from Concordia University. She is the founder of Café Scientifique - Beirut and previously co-hosted this podcast for her "Voices from the Square' series, covering the initial months of the October 2019 uprising in Lebanon.
Follow Elia on her Twitter handle: @EliaHaber
and on Instagram: @elia.haber
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
w…
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Jun 1, 2020
Ep.165 (Video): Compromised Agreements with Waël Atallah
We're back with Waël Atallah for Episode 165 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/STtiMATCfho
We discuss the 1969 Cairo Agreement and what that meant for Lebanese state sovereignty, in particular long-term consequences for repeated attempts at political reform.
We also discuss the topic of decentralization within the Lebanese context, and look at local governance beyond communal divisions and sectarian power-sharing as it's understood in modern Lebanese history.
Waël Atallah is an engineer and a regular contributor to the 'Finance 4 Lebanon' blog. He also has a YouTube channel that unpacks current financial problems and also explains the backdrop and aftermath of the Cairo Agreement (discussed in this episode):
https://youtu.be/-TIU7or6k-0
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.yo…
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May 30, 2020
Ep.164 (Video): "On the Move" - Comparing Covid, Part 2 (#9)
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/9lth4m5rxf0
Part 9 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber continues her conversation with Elie Fares, comparing Covid-19 in Lebanon and the US and discussing uncertainty, coping mechanisms and transitioning out of confinement.
Each episode of "On the Move" tackles a different subject impacting Lebanon that also plays a role in her life abroad.
Elia is a recent Master's degree graduate in science journalism from Concordia University. She is the founder of Café Scientifique - Beirut and previously co-hosted this podcast for her "Voices from the Square' series, covering the initial months of the October 2019 uprising in Lebanon.
Follow Elia on her Twitter handle: @EliaHaber
and on Instagram: @elia.haber
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subs…
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May 29, 2020
Ep.163 (Video): Bailout Basics with Mohamad Faour
We're back with Mohamad Faour for Episode 163 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/fDzvL3rlrv8
We discuss the potential IMF bailout for Lebanon, political opportunities and costs for the protest movement demanding fiscal responsibility, and the inevitable choices for the Lebanese regime given the serious risk of mass hunger on the horizon.
We also discuss Iceland and Jamaica's experiences with previous IMF bailouts and why domestic reform and the wider push for transparency and accountability remain paramount for Lebanon to emerge out of its current economic crisis.
Mohamad Faour is a Postdoc Fellow in Finance at University College Dublin and a contributor to the 'Finance 4 Lebanon' blog and a member of N.E.R.D.S. (explained in the episode).
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.you…
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May 27, 2020
Ep.162 (Video): "On the Move" - Comparing Covid, Part 1 (#8)
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/hF6KB4upyOQ
Part 8 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber focuses on Covid-19 in Lebanon, including statistics, testing and strategies on dealing with the pandemic.
Each episode of "On the Move" tackles a different subject impacting Lebanon that also plays a role in her life abroad.
Elia is a recent Master's degree graduate in science journalism from Concordia University. She is the founder of Café Scientifique - Beirut and previously co-hosted this podcast for her "Voices from the Square' series, covering the initial months of the October 2019 uprising in Lebanon.
Follow Elia on her Twitter handle: @EliaHaber
and on Instagram: @elia.haber
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform.
Follow us…
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May 26, 2020
Ep.161 (Video): Electricity Reform with Jessica Obeid
0:00 Intro
5:57 Repetitive Statements without Reform
11:42 Navigating & Adjusting to the Abnormal
21:06 The Core Issue
34:22 Systemic Mismanagement & Lack of Maintenance
42:43 Potential Benefits of Decentralization
49:36 Indulging in Self-Promotion :)
We're back with Jessica Obeid for Episode 161 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/XCf0-X8sZG8
We discuss electricity reform and why the post-civil war political order plays a detrimental role in preventing basic restructuring needed for sustainable energy throughout the country.
We also discuss basic demands of protestors calling for accountability and trust, and why those critical components are necessary for serious change in state institution reliability and functionality in Lebanon.
Jessica Obeid is an energy consultant, former resident fellow at Chatham House and former UN Chief Engineer.
The articles mentioned in this episode are linked below:
https://www.executive-magazine.com/economics-policy/lebanons-ne…
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May 25, 2020
Ep.160 (Video): "On the Move" - Courage & Violence (#7)
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/nywzg8gr0Ak
Part 7 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber focuses multiple forms of violence (from the personal to political, and where they intersect) and the sheer nature of growing accustomed to war.
Each episode of "On the Move" tackles a different subject impacting Lebanon that also plays a role in her life abroad.
Elia is a recent Master's degree graduate in science journalism from Concordia University. She is the founder of Café Scientifique - Beirut and previously co-hosted this podcast for her "Voices from the Square' series, covering the initial months of the October 2019 uprising in Lebanon.
Follow Elia on her Twitter handle: @EliaHaber
and on Instagram: @elia.haber
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
Watch these episodes via our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/c/thebeirutbanyan
Subscribe to our podcast fro…
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May 22, 2020
Ep.159 (Video): "On the Move" - External Validation (#6)
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/XehSE4dvKfA
Part 6 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber focuses on Lebanon's financial crisis, public reaction to the government's response, and a Washington Post Op-Ed making the rounds.
The articles mentioned in this episode include:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2020/05/20/lebanese-prime-minister-coronavirus-is-pushing-lebanon-toward-major-food-crisis/
https://www.almodon.com/media/2020/5/21/حسان-دياب-بالإنكليزية-جائع-وبالعربية-ناجح
Each episode of "On the Move" tackles a different subject impacting Lebanon that also plays a role in her life abroad.
Elia is a recent Master's degree graduate in science journalism from Concordia University. She is the founder of Café Scientifique - Beirut and previously co-hosted this podcast for her "Voices from the Square' series, covering the initial months of the October 2019 uprising in Lebanon.
Follow Elia on her Twitter handle: @EliaHaber
and on Instagram: @elia.…
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