Moya Lothian-McLean: The Voice Bridging Politics, Culture, and Power in Modern British Media

Moya Lothian-McLean is a dynamic British journalist, broadcaster, and cultural commentator whose work spans politics, identity, and storytelling. Known for her distinctive voice, sharp insights, and fearless commentary, she has carved out a unique space in the UK’s modern media landscape. Her career encompasses everything from investigative podcasts to essays in major publications, all unified by one quality—authenticity.

She represents a new generation of British journalists who challenge traditional narratives while championing inclusivity and nuance. Whether she’s on air, writing for The Guardian, or hosting thought-provoking podcasts, Moya brings depth and emotion to the stories she tells.

Early Life and Background

Born on 16 March 1995 in the United Kingdom, Moya Lothian-McLean grew up in a multicultural family. Her father was of Black Caribbean heritage, while her mother, Jane Lothian-McLean, is white British. Her father left when she was very young and passed away when she was about ten years old—an experience that shaped much of her later reflective writing.

Moya has often spoken and written about her dual heritage, exploring how identity, loss, and belonging intertwine in her life. Her essay “Claiming My Father” became a moving meditation on reconciling with grief and heritage. These formative experiences gave her writing its distinct emotional honesty and cultural depth.

Education and Early Career

Moya attended Hereford Sixth Form College, excelling in History, English Literature, Psychology, and Communication & Culture, earning top grades (A*, A, A*, A). Her intellectual curiosity led her to King’s College London, where she graduated with First-Class Honours in History (2016).

While still a student, Moya began writing for platforms such as VICE Media and The FADER, focusing on youth culture and music. These early experiences gave her both credibility and confidence in navigating the fast-changing media world. After graduation, she joined The Stylist Group as an Editorial Assistant, where she gained recognition for crafting engaging, socially conscious stories.

Professional Journey

Early Roles in Journalism

From 2016 to 2019, Moya Lothian-McLean established herself as one of the most promising young journalists in the UK. At Stylist Magazine, she pitched, wrote, and edited digital and print stories covering gender, politics, and global issues. Her compelling storytelling soon caught the attention of the BBC, where she briefly worked in 2019 as a Broadcast Journalist for BBC Three, producing both short and long-form video features.

Rise at gal-dem and Novara Media

Moya’s big break came at gal-dem.com, where she served first as Acting Political Editor (2020) and then as Politics Editor (2020–2022). Her editorial leadership shaped the platform’s reputation for smart, intersectional political journalism.

In 2022, she joined Novara Media as a Contributing Editor and the host of the acclaimed If I Speak podcast, which was later named one of The Guardian’s Best Podcasts of 2024. The show cemented her reputation as a sharp, fearless interviewer and commentator who connects political thought with personal experience.

Mill Media and Beyond

In 2025, Moya transitioned to Mill Media, initially as Associate Editor and later as Managing Editor. Her editorial approach—bold, intellectually grounded, and empathetic—helped Mill Media become a respected name in digital journalism. She also edited The Glasgow Bell, a publication under Mill’s umbrella, bringing thoughtful, localised storytelling to wider audiences.

Podcasts and Broadcast Work

Human Resources

One of her most celebrated projects is Human Resources, a narrative documentary podcast exploring the legacy of the British transatlantic slave trade. Created with Broccoli Productions, the series earned multiple Ambie nominations and widespread critical acclaim for its historical rigour and emotional impact.

If I Speak

Her current podcast, If I Speak, is a politically charged yet conversational show produced by Novara Media. Moya Lothian-McLean uses this platform to explore contemporary issues—racism, gender, class, and power dynamics—with empathy and wit. Her interviewing style, often described as warm yet incisive, makes complex topics accessible to listeners.

Teaching, Public Speaking, and Media Appearances

Beyond journalism, Moya has emerged as a respected educator and speaker. She has taught features writing at University College London (UCL) and given guest lectures at Cambridge, City, Exeter, and Loughborough universities.

Her engaging communication style also translates to television. Moya regularly appears on BBC Politics Live, Sky News, and Channel 4, offering commentary on political and social issues. Her ability to bring clarity and compassion to complex debates has made her a familiar face to UK audiences.

Writing, Essays, and Commercial Work

Moya Lothian-McLean is not just a journalist; she’s also a storyteller who uses every medium available to her. Her writing has appeared in The Guardian, The New York Times, The i Paper, and TOLKA Journal.

She also runs a Substack newsletter, The Chaff, where she publishes personal essays that blend introspection, humour, and cultural critique. The newsletter showcases her literary side, offering reflections on relationships, identity, and modern life.

Her commercial portfolio includes branded content for respected institutions such as The Wellcome Collection, Arts Council England, and the Institute of Coding. She even co-wrote a bestselling celebrity memoir, demonstrating her versatility as a writer across genres.

Moya Lothian-McLean Instagram and Social Media Presence

Instagram – @moya_lm

Moya’s verified Instagram account @moya_lm has over 38,000 followers. Her posts blend professional updates with personal insights, reflecting her authenticity and humour. She often shares behind-the-scenes looks at her podcasting work, event appearances, and thoughts on media and politics.

She uses the same handle @moya_lm on most platforms, including Linktree, where she shares links to her latest work, Substack essays, and podcast episodes.

Her online tone is conversational yet thoughtful, giving followers both substance and personality. She describes herself as:

“Journalist • you’re laughing??? • follow @get__heated for HEATED updates.”

This playful, self-aware style has helped her build a strong, engaged community.

Personal Life and Relationships

Family and Parents

Moya has openly discussed her parents’ different backgrounds and how this dual identity shaped her worldview. Her mother, Jane, is British, while her father was of Caribbean descent and passed away during her childhood. The emotional complexity of this loss is a recurring theme in her reflective essays.

Partner and Personal Relationships

As of 2025, Moya Lothian-McLean is not married and has no publicly known partner. She has previously written and spoken about past relationships and heartbreak, often weaving personal experiences into her essays with candour and wit. Her transparency about emotional growth resonates strongly with readers, especially women navigating modern relationships.

Recognition and Influence

Moya’s ability to blend political analysis with cultural storytelling has earned her a loyal readership and critical acclaim. She represents a generation of journalists redefining what “political media” looks like—diverse, empathetic, and unafraid to speak truth to power.

Her award nominations, media appearances, and teaching roles all highlight her credibility. But what truly sets her apart is her commitment to telling human stories, whether through journalism, podcasts, or essays.

Moya Lothian-McLean – A Modern Voice in Media

Moya Lothian-McLean’s career is a testament to versatility, courage, and integrity. She moves seamlessly between mediums—print, audio, and television—while maintaining her signature voice. In a media landscape often criticised for superficiality, Moya’s work stands out for its authenticity and depth.

As she continues to shape the conversation around politics, race, and identity in Britain, her voice only grows stronger. Whether as an editor at Mill Media, a podcast host, or a lecturer, Moya Lothian-McLean exemplifies the modern British journalist: bold, insightful, and deeply human.

Quick Facts

Conclusion

In a time when media is both fragmented and fast-paced, Moya Lothian-McLean stands out as a journalist who values depth, truth, and connection. Her work—spanning history, politics, and culture—offers not just commentary, but compassion. Whether in front of a microphone or behind a keyboard, she continues to challenge, inspire, and inform.

FAQs

1. Who is Moya Lothian-McLean?

Moya Lothian-McLean is a British journalist, broadcaster, and editor known for her work on culture and politics. She currently serves as Managing Editor at Mill Media and hosts the acclaimed podcast If I Speak at Novara Media.

2. When was Moya Lothian-McLean born?

She was born on 16 March 1995 (approx.) in the United Kingdom, making her around 30 years old in 2025.

3. Who are Moya Lothian-McLean’s parents?

Her mother, Jane Lothian-McLean, is White British, while her late father was of Black Caribbean heritage. She has written movingly about him in her essay “Claiming My Father.”

4. What is Moya Lothian-McLean’s Instagram account?

Her verified Instagram handle is @moya_lm, where she shares insights into her journalism, podcasts, and personal reflections with more than 38,000 followers.

5. Is Moya Lothian-McLean married or in a relationship?

No. As of 2025, she is not married and has not publicly shared details about a current partner. Her writing often reflects on personal growth and relationships.

NewsDip.co.uk