Shows
The Beirut BanyanREMAINING with Monika Borgmann, Katia Jarjoura & Edouard EliasIntroducing the Remaining Photo Exhibition - a signature project of the Lokman Slim Foundation, with photography by Edouard Elias and curated by Katia Jarjoura. Through Elias’s photographs, the exhibition documents political assassinations since 2005 and resists the erasure of victims and their loved ones, as well as the traces and sites of violence, from collective memory.
The exhibition documents political assassinations since 2005 and resists the erasure of victims and their loved ones, as well as the traces and sites of violence, from collective memory.
Over months of work, the project team met with the victims’ families and survivors, photographing their port...
2026-02-0721 min
The Beirut BanyanIran, U.S., and how they view Lebanon | George Wardini with Ronnie ChatahGeorge Wardini sits down with Ronnie Chatah for a special conversation—one shaped by years of friendship and a shared curiosity about politics, both local and global.
With Ronnie Chatah’s grasp of international affairs and his sharp reading of Lebanese politics, the discussion asks: What is next for the region?
How does the United States view Lebanon and the Middle East?
How does Iran view Lebanon—its people, its politics, and its internal balance?
George Wardini — Co-founder and Director of Polyblog.
Ronnie Chatah — Host of The Beirut Banyan podcast, writer, and political analyst.
2026-01-141h 16
The Beirut BanyanTo Aaliya's - with Nadia Tabbara, Brother Michael, Wael Taleb, Ronnie Chatah & William DobsonWords shared on the closing evening of Aaliya's Books.
With Nadia Tabbara, Brother Michael, Wael Taleb, Ronnie Chatah & William Dobson.
For Niamh Fleming-Farrel, William Dobson & the Aaliya's community.
The podcast is only made possible through listener and viewer donations.
Please 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 YouTube channel and your preferred audio platform.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter:
@thebeirutbanyan
And check out our website:
www.beirutbanyan.com
Timestamps
0:00 Intro
0:09 Nadia Tabbara
5:59 Brother Michael
12:45 Wael Taleb
17:57 Ronnie Chatah
28:31...
2024-12-2135 min
The Beirut BanyanDecades Apart - An interview by Marie Jo Sader on the End of the Assad RegimeAn interview by the gifted Marie Jo Sader, a Paris and Beirut-based independent journalist and 2023 Lokman Slim Prize winner for her investigative work on the circumstances of Lokman Slim's assassination.
A discussion on the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, a retrospective on anti-Assad protests that shaped Lebanon in 2005 and wider implications for Lebanon, Syria and the region.
Follow Marie Jo Sader on X [at]mariejosader
The podcast is only made possible through listener and viewer donations.
Please help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https...
2024-12-2119 min
The Beirut BanyanDominant Narratives & Ideologies - hosted by Ralph Baydoun w/George Wardini & Ronnie Chatah (Ep.410)Recorded Thursday, 5 December 2024. Three days before the Assad regime's fall.
An episode for Syria & Lebanon. Hosted by Ralph Baydoun (founder of Influeanswers) with George Wardini (director of PolyBlog) and Ronnie Chatah (host of The Beirut Banyan).
Ralph Baydoun leads the discussion and posits 'resistance'-focused counter narratives to neutrality and sub-state disarmament discourse. The conversation includes the potential for Israeli settlements in southern Lebanon, communities allegedly abandoned by the state, liberation as a so-called just means for continued armed struggle, the Lebanese army's limits in offensive and defensive measures, and how ideology and misinformation leads to false assumptions.
Make sure to...
2024-12-091h 24
REEL TALK with Daizy GedeonS2|E4 - Lebanon's BIGGEST Problem is NOT What You Think - Ronnie ChatahJoin us for an eye-opening discussion with Ronnie Chatah where he tells us his journey of attachment to Lebanon. From the story of his father's assassination to the deep impact Hezbollah has had on the country, the conversation takes us through the complexity of the country and WHY we find ourselves in a war today.*Disclaimer* - THIS PODCAST WAS FILMED IN AUGUST, 2024_______________For some people, if your father is brutally assassinated, turning to the darkside and seeking revenge are understandable. But for Ronnie Chatah, whose father, Lebanese economist, diplomat and former...
2024-10-031h 24
Apocalypse Now?3: Dispatch from BeirutBeirut local Ronnie Chatah talks to 90 Seconds to Midnight about the latest developments on the ground in Lebanon and how likely an all-out war is between Israel and Hezbollah. Ronnie also explains whether Israel's motives are different against Hezbollah compared to Hamas and the shadowy role and aims of Iran in this escalating conflict that is threatening to engulf the Middle East. Producer: Max Bower Editor: Chelsey Ranore Executive Producer: Bella Soames Production Manager: Vittoria Cecchini Host: David Patrikarakos Learn more about your ad c...
2024-09-2734 min
The Beirut BanyanNeutrality & Lebanon by Mohamad ChatahFrom a panel that took place in late November 2013, with the presence of Switzerland and Austria’s then-ambassadors to Lebanon.
Including some of my father’s last words on the fundamental need for neutrality, 1701’s necessity, what neutralization actually means and how it worked (albeit briefly) in the 1950s & 60s.
We should have no role in regional war other than shielding ourselves from its rippling effects.
There are ideological voices today ranging from frustrated academics with fringe access to politics to propaganda-fuelled journalists blinded by hate that are insisting our fate should remain tied to Gaza while making their case for He...
2024-08-0210 min
The Beirut BanyanWestern Double Standards & The Question of Criticism: Israel & HamasPOINT COUNTERPOINT - a new miniseries for The Beirut Banyan podcast.
An exchange on political affairs impacting Lebanon and the Middle East, from a unique vantage point in Beirut.
Co-hosted by Bashshar Haydar (professor of philosophy at AUB) and Michael Young (senior editor at Carnegie’s Middle East Center and editor of Diwan) - Beirut-based analysts sharing their nuanced perspectives while honing in on particular disagreements.
Moderated by Ronnie Chatah.
Episode 1 hones in on two issues: (1) Western double standards vis-a-vis foreign policy and humanitarian intervention, and (2) the question of criticism during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
Stay tuned for mo...
2024-06-051h 00
The Beirut BanyanTOM FLETCHER - Remembering Mohamad ChatahReflections on Mohamad Chatah with former UK Ambassador to Lebanon Tom Fletcher.
Make sure to watch 'TEN YEARS' that includes conversations with family, friends and colleagues that reflect on Mohamad Chatah's life and career, a decade after his assassination:
https://youtu.be/_jAM77Vz7bk?si=69WFPNc6MDKIY-yT
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:02 Business of diplomacy
2:13 Fellow diplomat
3:17 Showing off vs transactional
4:56 Influence towards outside players
6:26 Stability
10:17 Beyond the next corner
12:28 Risks involved
14:11 International Contact Group for Lebanon
15:39 Ambassadors & influence
16:53 Twitter
18:06 How would you describe him?
19:15 Pushing back against standard narrative
20:44 Gap he leaves behind
2024-01-1321 min
The Beirut BanyanJEFFREY FELTMAN - Remembering Mohamad ChatahReflections on Mohamad Chatah with former US Ambassador to Lebanon Jeffrey Feltman.
Make sure to watch 'TEN YEARS' that includes conversations with family, friends and colleagues that reflect on Mohamad Chatah's life and career, a decade after his assassination:
https://youtu.be/_jAM77Vz7bk?si=69WFPNc6MDKIY-yT
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:02 Looking back
3:04 Stopping by
5:08 July 2006 War
7:15 Bigger picture
8:52 Dinners vs Masterclass
12:37 UNSCR 1701
15:34 Strategic Vision
17:15 Day of assassination
18:27 Principled & integrity
19:44 Serving in vs serving for Lebanon
2024-01-1220 min
The Beirut BanyanFOUAD SINIORA - Remembering Mohamad ChatahReflections on Mohamad Chatah with former Prime Minister Fouad Siniora.
Make sure to watch 'TEN YEARS' that includes conversations with family, friends and colleagues that reflect on Mohamad Chatah's life and career, a decade after his assassination:
https://youtu.be/_jAM77Vz7bk?si=69WFPNc6MDKIY-yT
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:45 Central Bank Vice Governor & Lebanese Ambassador to U.S.
6:10 Senior Advisor for Foreign Affairs
12:51 STL & UNSCR 1701
21:34 July 2006 War
25:57 2006 - 2008
29:51 Assassinations, Doha Agreement & Finance Ministry
42:32 Months leading up to assassination
55:29 Aftermath
2024-01-111h 01
The Beirut BanyanMALEK MROWA - Remembering Mohamad ChatahReflections on Mohamad Chatah with Malek Mrowa, member of the Democratic Renewal Movement (Tajaddod).
Make sure to watch 'TEN YEARS' that includes conversations with family, friends and colleagues that reflect on Mohamad Chatah's life and career, a decade after his assassination:
https://youtu.be/_jAM77Vz7bk?si=69WFPNc6MDKIY-yT
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:02 Nassib Lahoud
2:45 Common cause
5:00 Civil society
13:40 Mathematical equation
15:08 Shared history
2024-01-1018 min
The Beirut BanyanMICHEL SLEIMAN - Remembering Mohamad ChatahReflections on Mohamad Chatah with former President Michel Sleiman.
Make sure to watch 'TEN YEARS' that includes conversations with family, friends and colleagues that reflect on Mohamad Chatah's life and career, a decade after his assassination:
https://youtu.be/_jAM77Vz7bk?si=69WFPNc6MDKIY-yT
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:02 Looking back
3:53 Problem-solving
9:04 Buildup to Baabda Declaration
12:24 Pursuing neutrality
15:35 On his own?
17:49 Characterization
21:00 Months leading up to assassination
24:11 How would you describe his loss?
26:16 Any comparison in history?
2024-01-0929 min
The Beirut BanyanSAMY GEMAYEL - Remembering Mohamad ChatahReflections on Mohamad Chatah with Kataeb Party leader Samy Gemayel.
Make sure to watch 'TEN YEARS' that includes conversations with family, friends and colleagues that reflect on Mohamad Chatah's life and career, a decade after his assassination:
https://youtu.be/_jAM77Vz7bk?si=69WFPNc6MDKIY-yT
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:02 Looking back
3:26 Role within March 14
5:48 Problem-solving
8:24 Aligned positions
11:04 His thought process
13:49 Seeing through the problem
15:57 Any comparison?
20:13 Characterization
2024-01-0824 min
The Beirut BanyanSAMIR GEAGEA - Remembering Mohamad ChatahReflections on Mohamad Chatah with Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea.
Make sure to watch 'TEN YEARS' that includes conversations with family, friends and colleagues that reflect on Mohamad Chatah's life and career, a decade after his assassination:
https://youtu.be/_jAM77Vz7bk?si=69WFPNc6MDKIY-yT
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:09 Looking back
7:12 Friendship
8:55 Shared interpretation
10:55 His role in March 14
14:42 International relations
17:00 Mountain, valley & coast
21:28 Letter to Rouhani
24:16 Any comparison?
27:25 Last words
2024-01-0728 min
The Beirut BanyanEp.340 (Video): Loss in Time with Nina Chatah & Gabrielle EliaThis 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.
2022-12-2730 min
The Beirut BanyanEp.339: Time (Video)In memory of Mohamad Bahaa Chatah
7 March 1951 - 27 December 2013
https://youtu.be/-jQlvqrh2CQ
2022-12-2600 min
Bukra with GinoThe Beirut Banyan's Ronnie ChatahRonnieh Chatah is the creator and host of The Beirut Banyan, and a good friend and fellow activist.When situations get sticky, Ronnie hops on a call and we usually end up having a live conversation to flesh out what the problem is and what we each think could help move forward.This is the audio from our conversation on Instagram Live. You can watch it on the link below on The Beirut Banyan:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gw0T0eCEkvoand follow The Beirut Banyan on IG:https://www.instagram.com/thebeirutbanyan/
2022-08-231h 51
The Beirut BanyanJUSTICE for LebanonRecorded 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 w...
2022-08-032h 07
The Beirut BanyanTHE HAPPY HOUR (Video): Reflecting on lost sovereignty and capturing the momentMy 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 chan...
2022-02-241h 29
The Beirut BanyanEp.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.
2021-12-2607 min
The Beirut BanyanEp.292 (Video): Eight Years with Nina Chatah0:00 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...
2021-12-211h 34
Kerning CulturesThe Things That Can't SpeakRonnie Chatah started giving his walking tours of Beirut in 2008, during a period of stability for the city. He would guide tourists through the city, telling stories of Phoenician ruins, French architecture and Ottoman houses. He'd also talk about Lebanon's civil war, and the problems that came to follow it. These were always stories about other people, other eras and other lives, until December of 2013, when Ronnie's own life was sucked into the political unrest that he'd spent years talking about on his tour.This episode originally aired in August 2018.This episode is brought to...
2021-06-1018 min
Reflections with Jad GhosnRonnie Chatah : Narratives from the post 8th and 14th of March Lebanon - Episode 6To support the channel: www.patreon.com/jadghosn
Ronnie Chatah, the son of late finance minister Mohamad Chatah assassinated in December of 2013, is the host of @The Beirut Banyan podcast and the founder of the WalkBeirut tour.
In this debate we debate on the issues of violence and conflict in Lebanon, how to deal of the HEZB question best, the conflict of narratives between the 8th/14th of March story and the 17th of October story.
Chapters:
00:00 – Pre-interview promo
01:07 – Into
03:05 – The reasons for leaving Lebanon and returning to it
04:51 – Learning about the assassination of your father
09:37 – The tragedy of coping with tragedies...
2021-05-061h 39
Marketplace DiscussionsSharing the Story | Ronnie Chatah (The Beirut Banyan)This talk is part of the Marketplace Lecture Series in an attempt to bridge the gap between academia and industry hosted by @decafquest.
Sixth talk: Ronnie Chatah (The Beirut Banyan) | Sharing the Story
Bio: Ronnie Chatah hosts The Beirut Banyan podcast, a series of storytelling episodes and long-form conversations that reflect on all that is modern Lebanese history. Topics range from political and economic reform to the arts, architecture and collective memory.
He also leads the WalkBeirut tour, a four-hour narration of Beirut’s rich and troubled past. WalkBeirut has been featured in Th...
2021-01-311h 38
The Beirut BanyanEp.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
2020-12-2610 min
The Beirut BanyanEp.212 (Video): Perpetual Return with Sara Mourad0:00 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...
2020-09-1854 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.211 (Video): International Protection & Neutrality with Drew Mikhael & Nadim Shehadi0:00 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...
2020-09-111h 47The Beirut BanyanEp.210 (Video): Covering the Story with Dalal Mawad0:00 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...
2020-09-091h 09The Beirut BanyanEp.209 (Video): Personal & Political Pressure with Dion Nissenbaum0:00 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...
2020-09-0828 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.208 (Video): Shared & Personal Pain with Mike Azar0:00 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...
2020-09-021h 02The Beirut BanyanEp.207 (Video): A Reporter's Reflections with Houshig Kaymakamian0:00 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...
2020-08-2354 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.206 (Video): The Verdict with Emile Hokayem0:00 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.
...
2020-08-191h 07The Beirut BanyanEp.205 (Video): Covering the Moment with Julie Kebbi4:03 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...
2020-08-171h 06The Beirut BanyanEp.204 (Video): 'The Fire These Times' with Joey Ayoub0:00 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...
2020-08-142h 09The Beirut BanyanEp.203 (Video): Forced Change with Nafez Zouk0:00 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...
2020-08-111h 20The Beirut BanyanEp.202 (Video): HostageFor 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:
...
2020-08-1014 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.201 (Video): Le Chef with Charbel BassilFor 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...
2020-08-0829 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.200 (Live Video): Beirut Needs Your Help, Part 2Click 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...
2020-08-072h 47The Beirut BanyanEp.199 (Video): Beirut Needs Your HelpLinks 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...
2020-08-0616 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.198 (Video): The Special Tribunal for Lebanon with Olga Kavran0:00 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...
2020-08-051h 50The Beirut BanyanEp.197 (Video): Pushing through the Moment with Carmen Geha0:00 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...
2020-08-021h 05The Beirut BanyanEp.196 (Video): A Multitude of Perspectives at Once with Tamer Aboul-Hosn0:00 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...
2020-08-011h 18The Beirut BanyanEp.195 (Video): Five Pillars with Maha Yahya2:00 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...
2020-07-281h 49The Beirut BanyanEp.194 (Video): Nationalism, Identity & Fairuz with Deeba Shadnia0:00 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...
2020-07-241h 17The Beirut BanyanEp.193 (Video): Podcasting with the Lebanese Politics Podcast0:00 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...
2020-07-241h 32Marketplace DiscussionsDecafQuest #32 - The Beirut Banyan (Ronnie Chatah)Joint Episode with Ronnie Chatah from The Beirut Banyan.
https://youtu.be/bSQjOWIdKQk
Ronnie Chatah is a Master of Science (2017) graduate in literature and creative writing at the University of Edinburgh. His previous degrees include a Master of Arts (2012) in Middle East Studies from the American University of Beirut and a Bachelor of Arts (2003) in Political Science and Psychology from George Mason University.
Ronnie conducts a history and political walking tour of Beirut called WalkBeirut, which initially ran from 2009 – 2013. The tour has been featured in...
2020-07-232h 53The Beirut BanyanEp.192 (Video): Saving the State with Alain Bifani & Henri Chaoul0:00 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...
2020-07-221h 24The Beirut BanyanEp.191 (Video): Self-Reflection with Mazen El-Hassan0:00 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...
2020-07-1853 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.190 (Video): Proxy Wars at Home with Deeba Shadnia0:00 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...
2020-07-1655 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.189 (Video): Telecoms & Tech with Georgio Nicolas0:00 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...
2020-07-1444 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.188 (Video): BanyanQuest with Mahmoud Rasmi0:00 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...
2020-07-111h 34The Beirut BanyanEp.187 (Video): El Mina & More with Alison Meuse0:00 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:
...
2020-07-101h 03The Beirut BanyanEp.186 (Video): Society Sustains the State with Mona Salem0:00 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...
2020-07-091h 01
The Fire These Times34/Remembering Through Storytelling in Times of Hardship in Lebanon (with Ronnie Chatah)This is a conversation with Ronnie Chatah, host of 'The Beirut Banyan' podcast and organiser of the Walk Beirut tour.
We spoke about Ronnie's experience with storytelling and his desire to maintain the memory of those we have lost in Lebanon such as Samir Kassir, the journalist and historian assassinated 15 years ago, and his father Mohammad Chatah, the Lebanese diplomat who was assassinated in December 2013. We of course touched upon the current crisis in Lebanon since it has worsened beyond most predictions.
You can follow the podcast on Twitter @FireTheseTimes.
If you like...
2020-07-051h 21The Beirut BanyanEp.185 (Video): The Octopus with Nasser Yassin0:00 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...
2020-07-031h 04The Beirut BanyanEp.184 (Video): Begin the Begin with Walid Sinno0:00 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...
2020-07-0159 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.183 (Video): Public Health & Reform with Fatima Al Sayah0:00 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...
2020-06-301h 22The Beirut BanyanEp.182 (Video): Resignation & Responsibility with Henri Chaoul0:00 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...
2020-06-261h 16The Beirut BanyanEp.181 (Video): Policies & Aspirations with Jomana Qaddour0:00 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...
2020-06-251h 02The Beirut BanyanEp.180 (Video): Defending Human Rights with Aya Majzoub0:00 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...
2020-06-241h 10The Beirut BanyanEp.179 (Video): "Lebanon & its Multiple Challenges" by Mohamad ChatahI 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...
2020-06-2206 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.178 (Video): "The Baabda Declaration Revisited" by Mohamad ChatahI 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...
2020-06-2030 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.177 (Video): Accountability & Alternatives with Mike Azar0:00 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...
2020-06-181h 00The Beirut BanyanEp.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, c...
2020-06-1405 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.175 (Video): Rioting, Rapid Inflation & Splintering Protests with Mohamad Faour & Wael Atallah0:00 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 en...
2020-06-1447 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.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 E...
2020-06-1206 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.173 (Video): "False (and Sometimes Dangerous) Ideas" by Mohamad ChatahI 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...
2020-06-1131 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.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 i...
2020-06-1005 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.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 o...
2020-06-0907 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.170 (Video): Al WadiClick 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 g...
2020-06-071h 33The Beirut BanyanEp.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
a...
2020-06-0404 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.168 (Video): Revolution...Pandemic...Revolution with Lina Mounzer0:00 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...
2020-06-041h 21The Beirut BanyanEp.167 (Video): Fifteen YearsI 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.
2020-06-0238 min
The Beirut BanyanEp.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 f...
2020-06-0206 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.165 (Video): Compromised Agreements with Waël AtallahWe'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 th...
2020-06-021h 15The Beirut BanyanEp.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 t...
2020-05-3008 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.163 (Video): Bailout Basics with Mohamad FaourWe'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...
2020-05-3056 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.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 h...
2020-05-2807 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.161 (Video): Electricity Reform with Jessica Obeid0:00 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...
2020-05-2656 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.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 t...
2020-05-2605 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.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...
2020-05-2306 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.158 (Video): "In Between Life and Death" with Joseph Bahout0:00 Intro
12:42 Immediate vs Long-Term Political & Economic Issues
26:05 Time Constraints & Potential for a "Third" Option
35:51 Revolutionary Demands vs Needs for Reform
45:57 Life & Death
We're back with Joseph Bahout for Episode 158 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/9t0XRKl6xSA
We discuss his recent Diwan / Carnegie Middle East Center piece “In Between Life and Death”, innovation needed among protestors continuing to push for political change, what negotiations with the IMF means for the ruling regime and civil society, and Covid-19’s impact on the uprising.
Joseph Bahout is a nonresident fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
Help s...
2020-05-2251 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.157 (Video): "On the Move" - Public Space (#5)Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/KPu51o8a14U
Part 5 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber focuses on the disadvantages surrounding lack of shared space, mismanaged or otherwise non-existant public transport and the challenges of bringing people together whether in times of protest or relative calm.
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 t...
2020-05-2106 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.156 (Video): Latin American Diaspora with Sergio JalilWe're back with Sergio Jalil for Episode 156 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/jrxnyrd--cM
We discuss Lebanese descendants in Latin America today, their initial waves of emigration dating back to the mid-late 19th century, and how they came to represent Lebanon's largest diaspora community.
Sergio is the founder and Director of CELIBAL – Latin American Center for Lebanese Studies. From 1990 until 2005 he was Senior Vice President for International Business Development at Interaudi Bank in New York .
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut
Or donating through our Patreon page:
https://ww...
2020-05-201h 02The Beirut BanyanEp.155 (Video): "On the Move" - Work (#4)Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/0fW0PEmCCrs
Part 4 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber focuses on the job market, unemployment and wasta, and the difficulties of pursuing a professional career following graduation.
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 E...
2020-05-1906 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.154 (Video): Argentina, Venezuela & Lebanon with Sergio Jalil0:00 Intro
3:55 Hyperinflation
13:09 Reflecting on Argentina's Recurring Financial Woes
27:12 Prerequisites Needed Prior to IMF Bailout
37:57 Argentina vs Lebanon
40:27 Lebanon vs Venezuela
42:06 Two Basic Choices for Lebanon
56:14 The Comeback Kid
We're with Sergio Jalil for Episode 154 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/ySFkn5JLl1Y
We compare previous financial crises in Argentina and Venezuela, and the first steps needed for a potential IMF package to alleviate the economic collapse in Lebanon.
We also discuss the history of Argentina's protestor demands with Lebanon's October 17 Uprising, and why Venezuela's current economic woes may be more challenging than Lebanon's.
Sergio is...
2020-05-161h 04The Beirut BanyanEp.153 (Video): "On the Move" - Transparency (#3)Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/DA2AblmsJ4I
Part 3 of "On the Move" with Elia Haber focuses on political theatrics, and how the current four-day shutdown due to a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases impacts her own immediate family.
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 t...
2020-05-1506 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.145 (Video): "True or False?" by Mohamad ChatahI read one of my father's previous blog posts, "True or False?" for Episode 145 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/ZOSF5O5dpxs
And I reflect on what political reform should look like in light of economic decisions underway.
The previous interview I shared of my father in March 2013 can be viewed in full below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iChW3GUpqIY&t=2137s
My father's blogspot page is:
http://mohamadchatah.blogspot.com
VIDEO INTERVIEW FOOTAGE USED WITH PERMISSION BY © MTV Lebanon, ‘Beirut Al Yawm’, 2 March 2013
Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal:
https...
2020-05-0122 minThe Beirut Banyan(Video): "Arafat then Assad then Nasrallah" by Mohamad ChatahVIDEO INTERVIEW FOOTAGE © MTV Lebanon, Beirut Al Yawm, 2 March 2013
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/6SSP6a42xPQ
I share an interview with my father on MTV Lebanon / ‘Beirut Al Yawm’, including one of his last tweets posted five days before his assassination.
The full interview video can be viewed here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iChW3GUpqIY&t=2137s
My father's twitter handle is:
@mohamad_chatah
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.y...
2020-04-2924 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.143 (Video): "Déjà vu" by Mohamad ChatahI read one of my father's previous blog posts, "Déjà vu" for Episode 143 of The Beirut Banyan.
Click to watch:
https://youtu.be/OOVyJCG0eaU
And I share reflections on the Lira's rapid devaluation and the 'broken record' that matters most.
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, In...
2020-04-2723 minThe Beirut BanyanEp.138 (Video): Five Facts and a Conclusion by Mohamad ChatahWatch the following episode on our YouTube channel via the following link:
https://youtu.be/paJRa0TvIAg
I read one of my father's previous blog posts, "Five Facts and a Conclusion" for Episode 138 of The Beirut Banyan.
And I share reflections on The Bristol Hotel's closing, the "Bristol Meeting" in late 2004 and why that political gathering still matters.
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...
2020-04-2030 minThe Beirut Banyan(Video) - "Remembering Basil Fuleihan" by Mohamad ChatahWatch the following episode on our YouTube channel via the following link:
https://youtu.be/wi0ofe69Bo0
"Remembering Basil Fuleihan" by Mohamad Chatah. Narrated by Ronnie Chatah.
And listen back to Episode 10 with Yasma Fuleihan:
https://soundcloud.com/thebeirutbanyan/episode-10-yasma-fleihan-bassel-fleihans-legacy
Basil Fuleihan, 10 September 1963 – 18 April 2005
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 ou...
2020-04-1805 min
The Beirut BanyanEp.137 (Video): "But Can The Frog Still Jump Out?" by Mohamad ChatahWatch the following episode on our YouTube channel via the following link:
https://youtu.be/A9hdz33DUQU
I read one of my father's previous blog posts, "But Can the Frog Still Jump Out?" for Episode 137 of The Beirut Banyan.
And I share some reflections on an irreplaceable friendship.
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...
2020-04-1732 min
The Beirut BanyanEPISODE 19: Uprising 2019 with my mom, Nina Mikati ChatahWe're joined by my mom, Nina Mikati Chatah, for Episode 19 of The Beirut Banyan. We hear her hope for continued momentum and hesitations with the length of time it may take for state leaders to resign. We also hear her firm belief that this uprising is unique, and perhaps a final chance in her lifetime to see a better Lebanon.
If you're enjoying these episodes, help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing to our Patreon page:
https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanyan
And subscribe to our podcast from your preferred podcast platform.
Follow us on Instagram: thebeirutbanyan
Twitter: beirut_banyan
Facebook...
2019-10-2453 min
Inside Asia PodcastLebanon: Asia's Wild, Wild WestThis week’s episode brings us to Lebanon, a country of six million people precariously situated between arch rivals - Israel to the south and Syria to the north. It’s also a part of what some say is a re-emergent region of Western Asia.
Lebanon sits at the heart of the Mediterranean basin. And that very fact poses both promise and peril. Promise, because of its rich and diverse culture that when combined with expertise in trade and finance, could earn for Lebanon its rightful place. Peril, because Lebanon is – as it has always been – subjugated by unwan...
2019-04-2634 min
A Better BeirutEPISODE 7 - Heritage - Walking & Talking Beirut with RonnieRonnie Chatah, the ponytailed dude behind Walk Beirut, the first walking tour of Beirut. Now based between Beirut and New York, Ronnie tells us how the tours started, how they’ve fluctuated over the years, and the new narrative they’ve taken on after his personal life became part of the story.
www.walkbeirut.com
https://kerningcultures.com/the-things-that-cant-speak
Beirut in the 1920s: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JZoIlKE8pw
2019-02-0542 min
Kerning CulturesThe Things That Can't SpeakRonnie Chatah started giving his walking tours of Beirut in 2008, during a period of stability for the city. He would guide tourists through the city, telling stories of Phoenician ruins, French architecture and Ottoman houses. He'd also talk about Lebanon's civil war, and the political unrest that came to follow it. But these were stories about other people, other eras and other lives. Until December of 2013, when Ronnie's personal life was sucked into the tapestry of Beirut's history.Kerning Cultures is a Kerning Cultures Network production. Support this podcast on Patreon for as little as $1 a month.
2018-08-3119 min
Fares Center EventsInterview with Ronnie ChatahThe Fares Center’s Sam Bollier interviews Ronnie Chatah.
2017-11-1600 min