The Dominance & Decline Of The Condé Nast Magazine Empire

In this episode of Fresh Air, Terry Gross interviews Michael Grynbaum, author of "Empire of the Elite," about the history and influence of Condé Nast publications. Grynbaum discusses the media dynasty's impact on shaping American culture through magazines like Vogue, Vanity Fair, and GQ, detailing how they defined style, celebrity, and luxury. The conversation explores the roles of key figures like Anna Wintour, Tina Brown, and Si Newhouse, examining Condé Nast's financial strategies, its role in creating celebrity culture (including Donald Trump's rise), and the evolution of its magazines in the face of changing media landscapes and the digital age. The discussion also touches on the New Yorker's unique position and success within the Condé Nast empire.