I'm not gonna lie, watching Meghan Markle's second podcast launch has been like watching someone try to parallel park a Ferrari with their eyes closed. Fascinating, painful, and you can't look away.
After that BRUTAL Spotify fallout (remember when teh exec called her and Harry "f***ing grifters"?), she's back with "Confessions of a Female Founder" and desperately tapping her multi-millionaire California girl squad to save this thing.
The First Episode Was... Whelming
Episode one dropped April 8th featuring Whitney Wolfe Herd - Bumble founder and supposedly "one of Meghan's closest friends." I listened twice and... well... critics weren't wrong calling it "no substance." It peaked at #19 on Spotify's US charts, which is pretty sad considering her last podcast snagged an $18 million payout.
God. Remember when Meghan had that £18M Spotify deal that crashed and burned after just 31 episodes? My editor bet me $20 that this new Lemonada podcast wouldn't make it past 10 episodes. I'm starting to worry I'll lose that bet.
Who's Left in Meghan's Circle?
What's fascinating is how Meghan's friendship circle has completely transformed since ditching the UK. Gone are the Suits co-stars, her childhood bestie Ninaki Priddy (who was literally her maid of honor at wedding #1), and Jessica Mulroney (that friendship implosion was MESSY).
Instead, she's surrounded herself with a California wellness-obsessed power posse. Think Gwyneth Paltrow vibes but with even more money.
The Tennis GOAT Who's Been There Since Day One
Serena Williams is probably the most genuine friendship in Meghan's circle. They met at a Super Bowl party back in 2010, way before royal life. Worth about £260 million, Serena appeared on Archetypes and seems to genuinely adore Meghan.
Just last month, Meghan posted that adorable video of Lilibet playing Candy Land with "auntie" Serena. That clip felt surprisingly authentic - not the usual polished royal-adjacent content we get from her.
Wait... Isn't She Feuding With Gwyneth?
The supposed Gwyneth Paltrow beef is hilarious to me. For months, gossip columns have been churning out stories about their "war to be US lifestyle queen" - especially after Meghan launched her As Ever brand that looks suspiciously Goop-adjacent.
Then suddenly they appear together in an Instagram video where Gwyneth says: "I was raised to see other women as friends, not foes. I think there's always more than enough to go around."
Listen. That video had all the natural chemistry of two people who just met in an elevator. But with Gwyneth's £150M empire, I wouldn't be shocked if Meghan's trying to get her on the podcast.
The Skincare Mogul Next Door (Literally)
Vicky Tsai might be my favorite of Meghan's new crew. She founded Tatcha skincare and sold it to Unilever for a casual £380 MILLION in 2019. She lives right around the corner from the Sussexes' Montecito mansion in her own £10M estate.
Meghan's been plugging Tatcha products since before her royal days. In 2015, she told Allure: "I really love the Tatcha Rice Enzyme Powder. It just sort of foams on your face and gives you a really subtle exfoliation."
I feel stupid now for buying it after reading that quote years ago. It cost me like $65 and my face felt exactly the same.
The Friend Who Received Jam #3
Poor Kelly Zafjen. Most people know her as "the friend who got jam #3" when Meghan sent out those 50 numbered jars of homemade jam to influencers last year. But their friendship seems deeper than preserves.
Kelly lost her 9-year-old son to Covid and meningitis in 2022, and apparently Meghan was genuinely supportive during that unimaginable time. Her husband Julian is an entertainment lawyer, which probably explains how they initially connected when Meghan was married to Trevor Engelson.
The Oil Heiress Who Maybe Introduced Her to Harry
Fashion designer Misha Nonoo is widely rumored to be the mystery matchmaker who set up Harry and Meghan. Her husband Mikey Hess is heir to a £1.45 BILLION oil fortune, so they definitely run in the same tax bracket.
Meghan even wore Misha's "Husband Shirt" (subtle, right?) during her first public appearance with Harry at the Invictus Games. That's some next-level product placement.
Can These Rich Friends Save Her Podcast?
After that Spotify disaster (his response: "already updating my resume"), Meghan needs this podcast to work. The question is whether these ultra-wealthy friends can bring enough authenticity to make people actually want to listen.
I've heard from Montecito sources that most of these women genuinely like Meghan, but there's always that Hollywood question hanging in the air - is this a real friendship or a strategic alliance?
My bet? A little of both. Just like that awkward Gwyneth video.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is royalty?
Royalty refers to individuals who are members of a royal family, holding specific titles and privileges, often associated with governance and ceremonial roles within a state or nation. This includes kings, queens, princes, and princesses.
How does one become a member of royalty?
Membership in royalty is typically hereditary, passed down through bloodlines. In some cases, individuals may marry into royal families, gaining titles and privileges associated with their spouse's lineage.
What is the historical significance of royalty?
Historically, royalty has played a pivotal role in shaping nations, influencing laws, and establishing social order. Monarchs often acted as mediators in conflicts and were seen as embodiments of their nation's identity and unity.
How do different cultures view royalty?
Different cultures have varied views on royalty, often shaped by history, religion, and societal norms. In some cultures, royalty is revered and seen as divine, while in others, it may be viewed with skepticism or as outdated.
What are the financial aspects of royalty?
The financial aspects of royalty can include income from state funds, personal investments, and inherited wealth. Some royal families also own extensive properties and assets that contribute to their financial status.
How do royal weddings differ from regular weddings?
Royal weddings typically feature grand ceremonies with significant media coverage, elaborate attire, and extensive guest lists that include dignitaries and members of the aristocracy. They often adhere to traditional protocols and customs unique to royal families.
What are the different types of royalty?
There are several types of royalty, including constitutional monarchs who have limited powers defined by a constitution, absolute monarchs who hold complete authority, and ceremonial monarchs who perform symbolic duties without governing powers.
Statistics
- In Spain, the monarchy was restored in 1975 after the dictatorship of Francisco Franco, and the current king, Felipe VI, ascended to the throne in 2014.
- In Thailand, the monarchy is deeply respected, with laws that prohibit criticism of the royal family, making it one of the strictest in the world regarding royal defamation.
- Some modern monarchs, such as Norway's King Harald V, have chosen to live modestly, with their annual income being largely funded by the state.
- Royal weddings often attract massive global audiences, with the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018 drawing an estimated 29 million viewers in the United States alone.
- The global fascination with royal families is evident, as books, films, and documentaries about them frequently top bestseller lists and viewership ratings.
- About 90% of monarchies today are constitutional, where the monarch's powers are limited by law or a constitution.
- In Sweden, the monarchy has been a constitutional institution since 1809, with King Carl XVI Gustaf serving since 1973.
- The British Royal Family, one of the most recognized royal families, has an estimated annual expenditure of around £100 million.
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How To
How To Appreciate Royal Art and Architecture
Appreciating royal art and architecture involves understanding their historical and cultural contexts. Begin by visiting royal palaces, museums, and galleries that house collections of royal art. Focus on the stylistic elements, themes, and techniques used in the artworks, often reflecting the values and tastes of the time. Research prominent artists and architects associated with royal commissions to gain insights into their contributions. Attend exhibitions or lectures that explore the significance of royal collections and architecture. Engaging with art historians or joining art appreciation groups can also deepen your understanding and enjoyment of royal art and architecture.
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