In the competitive realm of royal-themed podcasts, the game has officially changed.
When most people think of podcasts tied to royalty, names like Meghan Markle's Archetypes or Queen Camilla's The Reading Room come to mind. Now, Queen Mary of Denmark has entered the scene with a project that offers substance and genuine value—a podcast addressing loneliness among young people, a pressing issue in today's society.
Queen Mary recently shared her excitement on Instagram, posting a photo of herself dressed in sleek black trousers and a matching turtleneck. With stylish glasses and earphones, she looked both regal and relatable, sitting on a cream-colored sofa surrounded by books. Her casual hairstyle and perfectly balanced makeup added to her approachable elegance. In her caption, she expressed her enthusiasm: “I’m extremely excited to be listening to a podcast. Some days I’m in the mood for entertainment, and other days I use it to gain knowledge and new perspectives.” She then introduced her own podcast, Lonely Youth, a three-episode series delving into the mental health challenges faced by young people today.
Unlike projects that feel like mere vehicles for self-promotion, Queen Mary’s podcast takes on a real-world issue with depth and sincerity. It’s backed by data and personal stories, shining a light on an epidemic that affects many. A recent study, Loneliness in Denmark, revealed that an astonishing 73% of 16- to 19-year-olds experience loneliness even when surrounded by peers, and 17% of 16- to 24-year-olds report feeling profoundly isolated. These hard-hitting statistics illustrate the critical nature of the issue Queen Mary is addressing.
Her efforts stand in sharp contrast to Meghan Markle’s Archetypes, which launched in August 2022 amid much fanfare. Billed as a podcast dissecting and subverting stereotypes that hold women back, it often came across as a prolonged monologue about Markle’s own struggles. Following the end of her Spotify deal in 2023, Markle signed with another media company, but the focus on personal grievances has left many listeners disengaged. There’s only so much self-reflection an audience can endure before it feels tedious.
Queen Mary, by comparison, uses her platform to amplify the voices of others and tackle meaningful issues. Her Mary Foundation, established in 2007, has always been dedicated to supporting marginalized communities, giving a voice to those who feel excluded or alone. Her podcast reflects these values, aiming to create a tangible impact rather than serving as a vanity project.
While other royals like Queen Camilla and Princess Eugenie have also ventured into socially conscious podcasting, Queen Mary’s work is distinguished by its depth and authenticity. Her efforts are rooted in a genuine desire to make a difference, not to boost her public image. This contrast highlights the substance of her initiatives compared to those that sometimes feel like public relations exercises.
Queen Mary’s dedication to her causes extends far beyond podcasting. Fluent in multiple languages and deeply engaged with various cultures, she has worked tirelessly to address pressing issues. Her foundation, launched with 1.1 million Danish Kroner raised in Denmark and Greenland as a wedding gift in 2004, has been uplifting marginalized communities ever since. This is not a celebrity trying to leverage royal status for personal gain—this is a queen with purpose.
If you’re seeking a podcast that prioritizes real impact over self-indulgence, Lonely Youth by Queen Mary is a must-listen. It’s a refreshing departure from the superficial narratives often associated with celebrity-driven projects. Queen Mary embodies leadership with grace, substance, and a commitment to meaningful change—proving that true influence lies in making a difference, not just making an appearance.
