Meghan Markle is embracing humor and honesty as she reflects on her personal and professional journey in the latest episode of her popular podcast, “Confessions of a Female Founder.” During a heartfelt and lighthearted conversation with close friend and IT Cosmetics founder Jamie Kern Lima, the Duchess of Sussex joked about her A positive blood type, linking it to her “over-achieving” personality.

“Even my blood is over-achieving,” Meghan quipped, eliciting laughter and setting the tone for a candid conversation about ambition, vulnerability, and growth.

Oprah Winfrey Gave Meghan Markle Crucial Business Advice Before Launching ‘As Ever’

Meghan opened up about the pivotal role Oprah Winfrey played in her journey as an entrepreneur, sharing that Oprah encouraged her to align her upcoming lifestyle brand, As Ever, with her core values and personality.

“She said, ‘Once you figure out how to encapsulate your essence, then you’ll know,’” Meghan recalled. The advice helped her ground the brand in authenticity.

Meghan Markle on Starting Small: ‘I Was Playing Small Because I Was Scared’

The duchess revealed that her brand As Ever was originally inspired by her love of making homemade jam. Initially, Meghan planned to sell small batches locally under a California Cottage License, but later realized she was limiting herself out of fear.

“I had to step back and ask: Am I playing small because I want to play small—or because I’m scared?” she shared.

Jamie Kern Lima Helped Meghan Markle Launch ‘As Ever’ Intentionally

Meghan credited Lima for pushing her to rethink her rushed timeline and embrace a more intentional brand launch. At first, Meghan wanted to launch the brand in just a few months—but Lima encouraged her to wait.

“Even if I didn’t want to hear it, it was the thing I needed,” Meghan said, describing Lima’s advice as a “seed” that gave her the grace to take her time.

Meghan Markle Reflects on Perfectionism and Online Pressure

The conversation also explored the pressure of social media comparisons and the illusion of perfection. Meghan emphasized that behind the curated success stories lies a messy, emotional process.

“The process can be painful and riddled with self-doubt. Not just about your business—but about yourself,” she explained.

Meghan Markle’s Ambitious Year: Podcast, Netflix Show & Lifestyle Brand

So far, 2025 has been a milestone year for Meghan. She returned to Instagram, launched her Netflix series “With Love, Meghan,” debuted the As Ever lifestyle brand, and kicked off her new business podcast.

During her speech at the TIME100 Summit, Meghan reflected on the whirlwind year:

“We were launching three projects at the same time… it’s been incredibly ambitious,” she said. “But you try to give yourself space to make mistakes and grow.”

Key SEO Takeaways:

• Meghan Markle jokes about her A positive blood type symbolizing ambition.

• Oprah Winfrey’s advice helped her define the essence of her brand.

• As Ever started as a jam-making passion project before growing into a business.

• Meghan faced fear of failure, perfectionism, and external pressure.

• She has had a high-profile 2025, launching a podcast, brand, and Netflix series.