Michael Deibert is a seasoned journalist and author whose work stands out for its depth, nuance, and unwavering commitment to shedding light on some of the world’s most complex, overlooked regions and providing a voice to the voiceless…
His podcast, Notes from the World, serves as an extension of his written work, offering listeners a front-row seat to his sharp analysis and firsthand experiences in places like Haiti, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mexico. With a career spanning decades, Deibert brings a rare blend of on-the-ground reporting and historical insight, making both his podcast and his books essential resources for anyone seeking to understand the interplay of politics, culture, and human resilience in crisis zones.
Deibert’s expertise on Haiti, in particular, is nothing short of remarkable. Having spent significant time in the country, including his stint as Reuters’ correspondent in Port-au-Prince from 2001 to 2003, he has cultivated an intimate understanding of its tumultuous history and ongoing struggles.
This experience shines through in his podcast, where episodes often delve into Haiti’s current events—like the 2024 armed group uprising under the “Viv Ansanm” banner—with a clarity that only comes from years of immersion. Deibert doesn’t just report; he contextualizes, weaving together threads of colonial legacies, political corruption, and grassroots resistance to paint a fuller picture.
His interviews, whether with figures such as late Haitian President Jovenel Moise, gang leader Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier or literary icon Frankétienne, reveal a journalist who listens as intently as he observes, giving voice to perspectives rarely heard in mainstream discourse.
This depth of knowledge is equally evident in his books, which form a compelling body of work on Haiti and beyond. His debut, Notes from the Last Testament: The Struggle for Haiti (2005), is a gripping blend of reportage and social critique, chronicling the chaos and hope of Haiti’s post-Aristide era. Critics have lauded it as a “powerfully documented exposé,” and it remains a foundational text for understanding the country’s modern political landscape.
Deibert followed this with Haiti Will Not Perish: A Recent History (2017), a moving and meticulously researched account of Haiti’s resilience in the face of natural disasters, foreign intervention, and internal strife. Drawing on hundreds of interviews—from political leaders to ordinary citizens—it’s a testament to his ability to capture both the macro and micro dynamics of a nation in flux.
While Haiti is a cornerstone of his work, Deibert’s scope extends far beyond it. His podcast and books like The Democratic Republic of Congo: Between Hope and Despair (2013) and In the Shadow of Saint Death: The Gulf Cartel and the Price of America’s Drug War in Mexico (2014) showcase his versatility, tackling conflict and power struggles across continents.
In Notes from the World, he seamlessly connects these global threads—discussing everything from Ukraine’s war to Puerto Rico’s political limbo—while maintaining a conversational tone that’s accessible yet never oversimplified.
What sets Deibert apart is his refusal to parrot establishment narratives. Whether in his podcast or his writing, he challenges assumptions, digs into primary sources, and amplifies marginalized voices. His prose is vivid and engaging, reflecting a deep affection for the places and people he covers, while his analysis remains unflinchingly honest.
For anyone interested in Haiti or the broader human condition, Michael Deibert’s Notes from the World podcast and his books are not just recommended—they’re indispensable. He’s a storyteller and truth-seeker rolled into one, and his work resonates long after the final page or episode ends.
