Podcast Summary: Throwing Fits – The Nikki Ogunnaike Interview

Episode Details:

• Title: The Nikki Ogunnaike Interview with Throwing Fits
• Host/Author: Throwing Fits
• Release Date: February 12, 2025
• Guest: Nikki Ogunnaike, Editor-in-Chief of Marie Claire Magazine and Host of the Nice Talk Podcast

1. Introduction to Nikki Ogunnaike

The episode begins with the characteristic banter of the Throwing Fits hosts, Lawrence and James, introducing their guest Nikki Ogunnaike with a series of humorous and creative compliments highlighting her prowess in the media industry.

[00:00] Lawrence Schlossman: "She’s the copy queen, first lady of the looks, the article admiral, the EIC MVP putting in that hard work."

[00:39] James Harris: "Incredible. Like, really incredible. That is better than I could have ever imagined."

2. Fit Check and Fashion Insights

The conversation swiftly shifts to fashion, with Nikki and James engaging in a playful "fit check." They discuss their personal styles, favorite accessories, and the importance of maintaining a fashionable appearance even during athletic activities like running.

[01:41] James Harris: "I have 12 piercings, 13 piercings. So the mix is like measuring. There's some 14 carats in here."

[02:35] James Harris: "I feel like everything needs to go together. Like, we had to put the earrings back in."

Nikki emphasizes the balance between personal style and practicality, highlighting how accessories like earrings and watches are integral to her identity.

3. The Role of Editor-in-Chief in 2025

Nikki delves into her role as Editor-in-Chief (EIC) of Marie Claire, discussing the expanding responsibilities in the modern media landscape. She underscores the importance of maintaining the magazine's DNA across various platforms, including print, digital, podcasts, and newsletters.

[11:56] James Harris: "Ultimately, they are sort of the steward of the brand and of the DNA, and they make sure that everything feels cohesive across website, podcast, newsletters, print issues."

Nikki compares the role to iconic EICs of the past, like Tina Brown and Graydon Carter, who were synonymous with their respective brands, illustrating the enduring nature of the EIC position.

4. Marie Claire vs. Other Magazines

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on what sets Marie Claire apart from other women's magazines. Nikki highlights the magazine's commitment to tackling women's rights and world issues, a legacy that dates back over 30 years, which distinguishes it from competitors who have only recently adopted similar stances.

[08:10] James Harris: "We lean heavy into women's world issues, women's rights, abortion rights. We've been doing this for 30 years."

Lawrence probes whether other magazines have shifted their focus in response to societal changes, to which Nikki asserts that Marie Claire has always been ahead of the curve.

5. Challenges and Proudest Moments

Nikki shares her challenges in managing a diverse team, particularly inheriting existing staff versus building her own. She reflects on her proudest achievement—rebranding the Power Play summit from "Power Trip" to extend its reach beyond just travel-focused events.

[22:32] James Harris: "We did this summit called Power Play. I rebranded it from Power Trip to focus on smaller moments that didn’t rely just on the plane."

Nikki describes Power Play as a networking platform designed to connect and empower women across different cities, fostering community and professional growth.

6. Power Play Events and Content Strategy

The hosts discuss the integration of experiential events like Power Play into Marie Claire's media ecosystem. Nikki explains how these events generate valuable content and enhance the magazine’s presence both online and offline.

[24:42] James Harris: "As print becomes sort of in flux, people want to connect in person, have community. That's what we're doing with Power Play."

Lawrence raises concerns about balancing content with experiential aspects, to which Nikki responds by emphasizing that content remains paramount and that events are designed to complement, not overshadow, the magazine’s editorial mission.

7. Social Media and Digital Engagement

Nikki addresses the shift towards digital media and the challenges of maintaining engagement on platforms like Instagram. She notes that podcast clips and video interviews tend to perform better, indicating a preference for deeper, more engaging content over superficial posts.

[15:17] James Harris: "People like the video, they like the interview. They love reels. The reels agenda. People love it."

Nikki advocates for a balanced approach, integrating traditional media strengths with innovative digital strategies to retain and grow readership.

8. Trends in Modern Media and Fashion

The conversation explores the pitfalls of modern media, particularly the fear of oligarchic influences and the struggle to speak truth to power. Nikki asserts that Marie Claire remains steadfast in its mission despite fluctuating engagement metrics.

[35:03] James Harris: "I think it's not necessarily going to do like, It'll get maybe 10,000 uniques versus like 1 million uniques. But that won't stop us from doing it."

The hosts also touch upon fleeting fashion trends and the importance of authenticity over chasing superficial styles, with Nikki advocating for living a fulfilled life and allowing clothing to complement rather than dominate one's lifestyle.

[74:27] James Harris: "I think it's more about just living your life and taking time with your wardrobe, not feeling like you have to buy every single trend."

9. Personal Stories and Reflections

Towards the end of the episode, Nikki shares personal anecdotes about managing relationships and maintaining a balanced life away from the relentless pace of social media. She highlights the grounding effect her long-term relationship has had on her, contrasting it with the often superficial connections prevalent in the media industry.

[82:40] James Harris: "It's grounding because I don't necessarily have to be like, I was talking to you guys."

10. Conclusion and Future Directions

In the closing moments, the hosts and Nikki reflect on the evolving landscape of media and fashion, reiterating Marie Claire's commitment to meaningful content and community-building initiatives. They express enthusiasm for future collaborations and events that continue to empower women in various spheres.

[95:40] James Harris: "We talked to a bunch of stylists who were styling women and getting them ready for the C Suite. And then people talking about their power picks."

The episode wraps up with playful banter, leaving listeners with a sense of warmth and anticipation for upcoming issues and projects from Marie Claire.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership in Media: Nikki Ogunnaike exemplifies modern EIC responsibilities, balancing traditional editorial integrity with digital innovation.
• Commitment to Women's Issues: Marie Claire's enduring dedication to women's rights and substantive world issues sets it apart in the magazine industry.
• Integrating Experiential Events: Initiatives like Power Play enhance community engagement and generate rich content, supporting Marie Claire's multifaceted media presence.
• Navigating Digital Landscapes: Effective use of social media and podcasts is crucial for maintaining relevance and engagement in today's media environment.
• Authenticity Over Trends: Emphasizing authentic living and personal growth over fleeting fashion trends fosters a deeper connection with the audience.

Notable Quotes:

• James Harris on Leadership:

  "[11:56] James Harris: 'Ultimately, they are sort of the steward of the brand and of the DNA, and they make sure that everything feels cohesive across website, podcast, newsletters, print issues.'"

• Nikki Ogunaki on Marie Claire's Mission:

  "[08:10] James Harris: 'We lean heavy into women's world issues, women's rights, abortion rights. We've been doing this for 30 years.'"

• Discussion on Media Pitfalls:

  "[35:03] James Harris: 'I think it's not necessarily going to do like, It'll get maybe 10,000 uniques versus like 1 million uniques. But that won't stop us from doing it.'"

• On Authentic Style:

  "[74:54] James Harris: '...living your life and taking time with your wardrobe, not feeling like you have to buy every single trend.'"

• About Social Media Engagement:

  "[15:17] James Harris: 'People like the video, they like the interview. They love reels. The reels agenda. People love it.'"

This episode provides a comprehensive look into Nikki Ogunnaike's leadership at Marie Claire, her vision for modern media, and her insights into maintaining authenticity and integrity in a rapidly evolving industry.