Medea Azouri is not just a name in Lebanese journalism. She is a movement, a voice, and a symbol of resilience. A French Lebanese journalist, editor, radio host, and cultural commentator, Medea has been at the heart of Lebanon’s cultural and political storytelling for over two decades. Through print, radio, podcasts, and public speaking, she has shaped public opinion, challenged the status quo, and inspired countless people across the Arab world.
From Newspaper Columns to National Conversations
For more than 20 years, Medea was a leading columnist at L’Orient Le Jour, Lebanon’s most respected French language daily. Her writing was never just about reporting the news. It was about feeling it. Her columns brought emotion, clarity, and deep thought to the chaos of Lebanon’s political and social realities.
She wrote during Lebanon’s toughest times including the 2019 revolution, the 2020 Beirut port explosion, and the ongoing economic collapse. Essays like Le Liban sépare ceux qui s’aiment and Je ne veux pas vivre comme ça captured the heartbreak and frustration of a generation. Her Lettre ouverte aux dirigeants libanais became a rallying cry for justice and reform. These were not just articles. They were raw expressions of national pain and personal conviction.
Leading a Magazine for Arab Women
In addition to her newspaper work, Medea also took the reins as Editor in Chief of Noun Magazine, a women’s publication with a focus on empowerment. Under her leadership, the magazine shifted its lens to spotlight Arab women’s stories, challenges, and achievements. She encouraged storytelling that went beyond stereotypes, giving voice to underrepresented women in the region.
Her editorial strategy emphasized dignity, visibility, and agency. These are principles she herself embodied throughout her career.
A Radio Star for Generations
Medea’s voice has been a comforting presence in Lebanese homes for decades. With 25 years in radio under her belt, she became a household name through her shows on Radio Liban and Nostalgie Lebanon. Her programs were a mix of music, culture, human stories, and honest conversations.
Listeners did not just tune in for entertainment. They tuned in for connection. Medea had a unique way of making people feel heard, even when she was the one speaking.
The Podcast That Changed Everything Sarde After Dinner
In 2020, Medea took a bold new step by co founding the Arabic podcast Sarde After Dinner with media producer Mouin Jaber. The idea was simple long form conversations over dinner in Beirut, talking about everything that mattered including identity, politics, freedom, exile, love, and resistance.
But the impact was massive.
Sarde quickly became one of the most watched Arabic language podcasts on platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Each episode was a deep dive, unfiltered and raw. Medea and Mouin did not shy away from sensitive topics. They invited guests who challenged norms, from activists to artists to controversial thinkers.
Most Watched Episodes Included
• Mia Khalifa discussing feminism, exile, and freedom of expression
• Hamed Sinno speaking about queer identity and cancel culture
• Bassem Youssef reflecting on satire and Arab politics
• Diana Moukalled on women and the fight for truth in journalism
• Nadine Labaki on filmmaking as activism
• Carlos Ghosn revealing scandal, escape, and corporate power
• Omar AlShogre sharing survival, trauma, and hope after Syrian imprisonment
These were not just interviews. They were cultural moments.
After four groundbreaking years, Sarde ended in June 2024, but its legacy continues to influence conversations in the Arab world.
A Global Voice on Arab Women and Media
Medea’s insights are not limited to Lebanon. She has been invited to speak at many well known institutions including
• Harvard University Arab Conference
• La Sorbonne University in Paris
• Institute of the Arab World in Paris
• ESA Business School Women in Leadership panel
Her talks often focus on the role of Arab women in media, the ethics of storytelling, and the power of independent voices.
On Screen and On Point
Medea has made powerful appearances on Lebanese television, especially on Al Jadeed TV. Whether as a guest, commentator, or cultural critic, her presence is always striking, honest, emotional, intelligent, and unafraid. Her TV contributions reflect the same values she brings to her writing and podcasting such as truth, justice, and empathy.
A Personal Journey Marked by Courage
Beyond the microphones and stages, Medea Azouri’s story is also one of personal strength. As a woman navigating the media world in Lebanon, she faced barriers, backlash, and burnout but kept going. Her lifestyle today is one of balance between public activism and private reflection, between speaking out and listening deeply.
She often shares glimpses of her life, thoughts, and moments from Beirut with honesty and emotion. From cozy coffee breaks to walking the chaotic streets of the city, Medea continues to inspire people through both her presence and her message.
What’s Next for Medea Azouri
After stepping back from Sarde After Dinner, Medea is focusing on new personal and creative projects. Though the details remain private, she has hinted at upcoming writing, possible podcast returns, and mentorship programs to support the next generation of Arab media voices.
For someone who has spent years helping others tell their stories, it seems Medea’s own next chapter is just beginning.
Do follow her on Instagram
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