The Devil Wears Prada workplace: Toxic or timeless?

In this episode of Rapid Response, host Bob Safian explores the enduring cultural and business legacy of 'The Devil Wears Prada' as a new sequel hits theaters. Joining him are Janice Min, CEO of The Ankler and former editor of Us Weekly, and Sarah Ball, editor-in-chief of WSJ Magazine and former editor at GQ and Vanity Fair. The conversation unpacks the film’s portrayal of toxic workplace dynamics, the cult of personality around editorial leaders like Anna Wintour, and the evolution of power, ambition, and gender in publishing. They reflect on how the fear-based leadership of Miranda Priestly—epitomized by the iconic 'gird your loins' scene—has given way to more transparent, accountable, and boundary-conscious workplaces. The episode examines shifts in fashion industry power—from top-down gatekeeping to bottom-up influence via social media and influencers—and questions whether the film’s message about sacrifice, resilience, and self-discovery still resonates in today’s uncertain job market. The discussion also touches on the film’s impact on body image, the rise of AI, and the changing role of partners in high-ambition careers. Ultimately, the episode suggests that while the film’s specific world may be outdated, its core themes of growth, identity, and navigating power remain deeply relevant. Key takeaways include: 1) Leadership today values psychological safety over fear-based control; 2) The fashion industry has shifted from top-down taste-making to bottom-up influence driven by social media; 3) The 'work hard, sacrifice everything' ethos is no longer universally accepted, especially among younger workers; 4) Personal growth often comes from enduring difficult experiences, even if the environment was toxic; 5) The film’s legacy lives on not in its portrayal of perfection, but in its reflection of a bygone era of media power and ambition. The episode ends with a call to embrace discomfort and continuous learning, echoing the film’s central message that growth comes from stepping into the unknown.