Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, Discusses Brand Building and Upcoming Netflix Special at Fortune Summit

The Duchess of Sussex addressed leadership, entrepreneurship, and her lifestyle brand As Ever today at the Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit in California, signaling her continued expansion into media and commerce.

Speaking with Fortune’s editor-in-chief Alison Chantell, Meghan described the origins of As Ever as stemming from a period of “nesting and healing” five years ago, initially inspired by homemade jam. The brand quickly gained traction, with initial product drops selling out rapidly, forcing her to quickly learn about supply chains and scaling a business. “You learn fast,” she said, explaining her desire to create products reflecting authentic lifestyles. The success of As Ever demonstrates a growing consumer demand for brands rooted in personal connection and relatable experiences.

Meghan also discussed her renewed partnership with Netflix, operating under a first-look deal, and the upcoming holiday special of her series, With Love, Meghan, set to premiere in November. She highlighted the collaborative relationship with Netflix’s female-led executive team, praising their support for her creative autonomy. “People love thirty-minute shows, but they also want to learn a recipe in two minutes,” she noted, indicating plans to explore shorter digital formats. For more on the evolving media landscape, see Statista’s data on Netflix subscribers.

Throughout the conversation, Meghan emphasized the importance of community and financial literacy, sharing her decision to disable comment sections on As Ever’s online platforms “to protect the community as much as it protects me.” She also spoke passionately about the power of financial independence, stating, “Financial freedom gives you the power of choice,” and encouraged investment in female founders. Her comments align with broader efforts to promote gender equity and economic empowerment.

The Duchess indicated that her team will continue to engage supporters through personalized communication, and she anticipates further expansion of her media and business ventures in the coming months.