Meghan Markle is getting candid about public perception, personal growth, and reclaiming her narrative. In a highly anticipated episode of Aspire with Emma Grede, airing Tuesday, June 17, the Duchess of Sussex reflects on her journey from actress to royal to entrepreneur — and what she wishes she could change if given the chance.
“I Would Ask People to Tell the Truth”
In a preview clip shared by Vanity Fair, Meghan, 43, is asked by host Emma Grede, 42 — CEO of Good American and founding partner of SKIMS — whether she would rewrite any part of her public story. Without hesitation, Meghan responded, “Yes, I would ask people to tell the truth.”
The Duchess acknowledged the stark difference between being recognized as an actress on Suits versus becoming one of the most scrutinized public figures after marrying Prince Harry in 2018. “It is very different,” she said with a laugh, sharing a rare moment of levity in an otherwise emotional conversation.
Reflecting on Life Beyond the Palace
Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Meghan and Prince Harry have been outspoken about the challenges they faced within the royal institution and the intense media attention that followed them. They first shared their perspective during a 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, followed by the 2022 Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan and Harry’s 2023 memoir, Spare.
Now settled in California with their two children — Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4 — the couple has shifted their focus to building a private and fulfilling life rooted in family and creative ventures.
Embracing Her Voice and Ventures
The podcast episode also highlights Meghan’s growing role as a businesswoman and content creator. She discusses the journey behind her lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard, formerly announced as As Ever, and opens up about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. From selling scrunchies as a young girl to launching a global brand, Meghan shares insights into her evolving identity beyond royalty.
“I’m just grateful that now, being back on social as well, I have a place where I can share it on my own terms,” she said, referring to her return to Instagram earlier this year after a five-year hiatus. Her reappearance on social media marked a significant step in reclaiming her voice after years of silence imposed by royal protocol.
A Viral Moment Revisited
The episode also touches on Meghan’s now-viral “baby mama dance” video, which she reposted to Instagram as a tribute to Princess Lilibet’s birthday on June 4. Originally filmed in the delivery room before Lilibet’s birth in 2021, the video reflects Meghan’s desire to share authentic moments with the world — in her own time and on her own terms.
“That was four years ago,” Meghan noted, highlighting the importance of living a life outside the public eye. “With all the noise… there’s still a whole life — a real, authentic, fun life — that’s happening behind the scenes.”
