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Episode 576: Lindsay Peoples

Longform

2024/04/24
Longform

Longform

2024/04/24
Lindsay Peoples, editor-in-chief of The Cut, reflects on her journey through fashion journalism—from early curiosity and grassroots hustle to leading one of the most culturally resonant publications in media.
Peoples traces her path from childhood creativity and formative TV influences to a hard-earned career built on freelance work, resilience, and mentorship. Her groundbreaking 2018 report 'Everywhere and Nowhere' exposed racial inequity in fashion, catalyzing both personal liberation and her historic appointment as Teen Vogue’s youngest and only Black editor-in-chief. At The Cut, she redefined fashion media by centering vulnerability, community, and cultural storytelling—launching thematic weeks like Divorce Week and prioritizing inclusive, non-commercial narratives. Cover choices, such as featuring America Ferrera, reflect intentional authenticity over celebrity convention. While she now enjoys greater creative freedom, Peoples remains acutely aware of the heightened scrutiny placed on her as a young Black woman leader—balancing caution with bold editorial risk-taking. Her leadership emphasizes mentorship, especially for young people of color, and cultivates a solutions-oriented, collaborative team culture committed to systemic change—not just representation.
05:35
05:35
A professor applied for her Teen Vogue internship in 2010—and she got it
22:53
22:53
She was named Teen Vogue’s youngest and only Black editor-in-chief a month after 'Everywhere and Nowhere' was published.
29:10
29:10
They spent 10 years in daily meetings at Teen Vogue, spreading its message and proving young voices matter in politics
47:47
47:47
Choosing America Ferrera for the cover was a deliberate rejection of predictability in favor of authentic storytelling
50:01
50:01
As a 33-year-old Black woman, I feel I have only one shot in this job