Deborah Meaden joined the British television series Dragon's Den in 2006, replacing Rachel Elnaugh.
Meaden is an English businesswoman and investor who became one of the programme's most enduring Dragons. Her first appearance came in the show's third series, after Elnaugh's departure. She became known for direct questioning about sales, margins, distribution and the practical route from a promising idea to a scalable business.
Her investment background includes leisure and family businesses, and she has also invested in a wide range of consumer products and services through the programme. Her role is often associated with commercial discipline: a strong pitch still has to demonstrate realistic numbers and a credible plan.
Meaden is sometimes confused with later female Dragons such as Hilary Devey, Kelly Hoppen or Sara Davies. Those investors joined in different years. The specific replacement of Rachel Elnaugh in 2006 identifies Deborah Meaden.