Project Runwayjudge and formerTeen Vogueeditor in chief Elaine Welteroth has written an inspiring new memoir,More Than Enough.
She chatted with EW about the books messages and what she hopes readers take away.
I stepped away fromTeen Vogue, but I did not leave those readers behind.
Credit: Viking
I feel like I carry them with me with every project that I take on.
It is so inspiring and empowering.
Not just the career aspects, but also the personal aspects, the family dynamics, the racial-identity piece.
At 30, I was at the head of the table.
And now I want to build my own table.
You arent afraid to delve into the times that you didnotfeel strong or authentic.
At the heart of every journalist is a truth-teller.
And I certainly employed that muscle when writing my own story.
My mom always says, What comes from the heart touches the heart.
I have a really clear conscience about how I was able to tackle the hardest parts.
You are honest about what really goes on behind the scenes at magazines.
My goal in writing this book was to light torches, to lead the trail a little bit.
Ive been held up as a trailblazer, because of the accomplishments in my career.
it would be such a disservice if I were to sanitize the story or left out the complicated parts.
If anything, I think people will see themselves in the story and the struggle.
In what sense?There is no success story thats complete without struggle.
This was never intended to be a fluff book; I dont have that in me.
Its not fluffy, its real and its also funny and lighthearted.
So I think theres a nice mix of experiences, and it takes you on an emotional roller coaster.
It goes high, it goes low, and comes back up again.
There are unexpected twists and turns, and it ends on a really triumphant note.
I actually have a really clear conscience about the way I tackled the harder things, interpersonal workplace dynamics.
Microaggressions and pay disparities, dealing with negotiations, imposter syndrome and burnout unfortunately theyre universal experiences.
Honest, vulnerable storytelling has the power to break down stigmas around some of these harder issues.
Thats the big takeaway that Id like to offer to anyone who reads this book.
Has Michelle [Obama] read?
Fingers crossed shell read it and it will get her blessing.
I really hope she gives it to her daughters, Sasha and Malia.
Id love to have a little book club with them.
This interview has been edited and condensed.
