In recent days, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have found themselves back in the headlines, but not for reasons that would bring them joy.
New accusations have surfaced, alleging a toxic work environment surrounding their various business ventures.
The couple’s much-anticipated American Riviera Orchard Project is now under scrutiny, with reports indicating a troubling atmosphere that has driven many employees to leave.
Insiders describe a workplace rife with dysfunction, where staff members feel overwhelmed by high demands and a lack of support.
This discontent has resulted in a significant turnover of personnel, including the abrupt departure of their chief of staff, Josh Klerr, who only lasted three months.
Such a rapid exit raises eyebrows about the couple’s management practices and their ability to maintain a stable workforce.
Throughout their careers, Meghan and Harry have faced numerous allegations regarding their behavior.
Meghan, in particular, has been no stranger to claims of difficult management.
During her time as a working royal, she was the subject of bullying accusations that prompted an investigation by Queen Elizabeth II.
While the findings of that inquiry were never disclosed, the shadow of those allegations still looms over Meghan, complicating her efforts to reshape her public persona.
Reports suggest that the couple’s recent endeavors have suffered due to this internal strife.
The American Riviera Orchard, which aimed to promote organic products, began with lofty ambitions but now appears to be faltering.
The initial excitement surrounding the project has given way to concerns about halted operations and a revolving door of staff exits, leaving its future uncertain.
Insiders attribute some of these challenges to poor leadership, particularly criticizing Meghan for her reluctance to accept guidance from experienced professionals.
This has led to a series of public relations blunders, further destabilizing the venture.
The sheer number of resignations is alarming, with nearly 20 employees reportedly leaving their positions, suggesting a widespread sense of dissatisfaction within the organization.
Former staff members have even banded together to create what they call the “Sussex Survivor Club,” sharing their experiences of working under conditions they describe as toxic and unmanageable.
These testimonials paint a picture of Meghan and Harry as demanding leaders with little regard for their team’s well-being, often leaving employees feeling undervalued and overworked.
Josh Klerr’s resignation has been particularly detrimental, occurring just before a major tour was set to take place.
His swift exit highlights the couple’s ongoing struggle to cultivate a reliable team, as more former employees depart after short tenures.
This pattern raises serious questions about their ability to foster long-term professional relationships.
Adding to this narrative of instability is the couple’s history of severing personal ties when they no longer serve their interests.
Meghan has faced backlash for distancing herself from family members, including her estranged father, Thomas Markle.
Reports indicate that friends have also been cut off once deemed unnecessary, reinforcing the perception that Meghan is challenging to work with on both personal and professional fronts.
The couple’s business struggles are compounded by ongoing public relations difficulties.
Despite enlisting top PR experts, Meghan’s hesitance to heed their advice has played a significant role in their challenges.
Former employees have expressed frustration at the couple’s unwillingness to listen to seasoned professionals, leading to repeated setbacks in their business ventures.
These latest troubles come in the wake of similar criticisms during their time as working royals, where allegations of Meghan’s difficult behavior resurfaced during her tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey.
Although she denied any wrongdoing, the lingering claims continue to cast a shadow over her attempts to reinvent herself in the United States.
What was once envisioned as a fresh start with the American Riviera Orchard, akin to Gwyneth Paltrow’s successful lifestyle brand, is now teetering on the brink of failure.
Poor management has led to operational issues and employee dissatisfaction, thwarting hopes that this venture would solidify their financial independence and allow them to make a positive impact.
With rumors of dysfunction swirling around them, it remains unclear how Meghan and Harry will tackle these mounting issues.
The allegations of a toxic work environment and high employee turnover reflect deeper problems that have followed the couple since stepping back from royal duties.
Their American dream seems increasingly precarious, raising questions about the viability of their business ventures and their ability to reshape their public image.
If significant changes aren’t made in their leadership approach and public relations strategy, the Sussexes may find themselves facing even greater challenges ahead.
As they navigate this turbulent chapter, the path to success appears fraught with obstacles, leaving many to wonder what the future holds for this high-profile couple.