In the premiere episode of her new podcast “Archetypes Presents: Confessions of a Female Founder,” Meghan Markle revealed a deeply personal and rarely discussed medical complication she faced after giving birth postpartum preeclampsia.
Speaking with Bumble founder Whitney Wolfe Herd, Markle shared that both women had experienced the condition following childbirth, highlighting how isolating and dangerous it can be.
“We both had very similar experiences – though we didn’t know each other at the time – with postpartum, and we both had preeclampsia. Postpartum preeclampsia,” Markle said. “It’s so rare and so scary. And you’re still trying to juggle all of these things, and the world doesn’t know what’s happening quietly.”
Wolfe Herd added, “I mean life or death, truly.”
Postpartum preeclampsia is a serious condition marked by high blood pressure and potential organ damage. It typically develops within days after delivery and can be fatal if untreated. Markle did not clarify whether the complication occurred after the birth of her son, Archie, or daughter, Lilibet.
In addition to discussing her health experience, Markle reflected on the challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. Now building her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, she emphasized the importance of being present for her children while running a business from home.
“I don’t leave the house to go to an office; my office is here,” she said. “She [Lilibet] only has a half day in preschool. If she wakes up and wants to find me, she knows where to find me… She’ll be sitting there on my lap during one of these meetings… I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Markle also spoke candidly about the emotional weight of parenting while pursuing her professional goals. “You’re building something while your child’s going through potty training… and both are just as important.”
Wolfe Herd noted how digital tools have transformed the parenting experience for working mothers. “Technology is a beautiful tool for parents because you can dial in and be present and do a great job on the call while you sit in the carpool line.”
The podcast, produced in collaboration with Lemonada Media, will feature eight episodes spotlighting the real-life experiences of women juggling leadership, innovation, and family. The project follows Markle’s previous podcast, Archetypes, which debuted in 2022 and explored the labels placed on women in society.
As Markle expressed, “They’re opening up, sharing their tips, tricks (and tumbles)… It has been absolutely eye-opening, inspiring… and fun!”