Deborah Meaden first became a Dragon on the British TV show Dragon's Den in 2006.
She joined the programme for its second series, after the first series had established the BBC format and its initial investor panel. Meaden quickly became one of the most prominent Dragons because of her direct questioning, commercial experience and willingness to challenge entrepreneurs about valuation and sales.
Before television, Meaden had built experience in business and investment, including involvement in family leisure businesses. Her career on Dragon's Den made her one of Britain's best-known female business investors.
The year is often confused with 2005, the year the British version launched. That was the programme's first year, but Meaden was not part of the original launch panel. Her arrival in 2006 is the relevant distinction.