However, "Archetypes" quickly encountered criticism and backlash from the public and the media. Meghan was accused of being hypocritical, self-indulgent, and out of touch with reality. The podcast also faced legal challenges when Meghan attempted to trademark the word "Archetypes" for her podcast and related products and services. Unfortunately, her trademark application was denied by the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in January 2023.
The rejection was based on the grounds that there was a likelihood of confusion with an existing trademark held by a US-based company called Project Miracle IP Holdings. This company had registered the word "Archetypes" in 2018 for various purposes, including blogs, online publications, books, and articles, primarily in the self-help genre. The USPTO informed Meghan's production company that her proposed trademark was identical in appearance, sound, and meaning to the one already held by Project Miracle IP Holdings. The similarity in the goods and services offered by both parties could potentially confuse consumers.
Meghan had until April 2023 to respond to the refusal, either by extending the application or abandoning it. However, before she could take any action, another setback occurred in June 2023. Spotify, the streaming platform that had signed a multi-million dollar deal with Archewell Audio in 2020, announced the termination of its partnership with the Sussexes, resulting in the removal of their podcast from the platform.
The decision was reportedly made due to the podcast's poor performance, low ratings, negative feedback from listeners, and complaints from advertisers. Spotify issued a statement indicating that the decision to part ways with Archewell Audio was mutual and wished them well in their future endeavors. However, insiders revealed that Spotify was disappointed and frustrated with the Sussexes for failing to deliver the promised quality and quantity of content and for causing more trouble than benefit for the platform.
Following Spotify's announcement, Meghan withdrew her trademark application for "Archetypes" in September 2023, effectively abandoning her podcast project. The USPTO confirmed the acceptance of her request to withdraw the application. The podcast debacle served as another example of Meghan's unsuccessful attempts to establish herself as a global influencer and a champion of women's rights. It highlighted issues of originality, creativity, and respect for intellectual property, as she sought to appropriate a word already in use by another entity.
Additionally, it revealed a disconnect between her public persona of breaking stereotypes and empowering women and her actions that seemed to reinforce negative stereotypes and alienate women with an attitude perceived as arrogant and entitled. Meghan Markle's podcast misadventure served as a lesson, emphasizing that fame and fortune alone are insufficient for a successful and meaningful podcast, and genuine substance and dedication are essential to make a lasting impact.