Monica Lewinsky Reflects on Life Beyond Scandal at The Atlantic Festival

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Monica Lewinsky took center stage at The Atlantic Festival on September 21, 2023, sharing critical lessons she learned after being thrust into the national spotlight in the 1990s. During a candid discussion with Atlantic staff writer Sophie Gilbert, Lewinsky remarked, “If you can’t laugh at yourself, you are so fucked.”

The 50-year-old anti-bullying activist and podcast host recounted her experiences as a 24-year-old intern at the White House, where her relationship with President Bill Clinton turned into a global scandal that marked her for life. Despite the overwhelming shame and scrutiny, Lewinsky has transformed her story into one of resilience.

“I tried to live a ‘normal’ life,” Lewinsky said, referencing her time in graduate school following the scandal. “I was stepping into my anger and starting a decade of healing work.” She noted a pivotal moment when she learned about Tyler Clementi, an 18-year-old who took his own life after being publicly shamed, which sparked her desire to speak out as a survivor of public humiliation.

During their conversation, Gilbert highlighted the changing landscape for women in media, referencing other figures like Britney Spears and Amanda Knox. Lewinsky expressed appreciation for the younger generations who now approach her story with fresh eyes. “They look at this and say, ‘How is it that the 24-year-old person with the least power had the largest consequences?’”

Lewinsky emphasized the invisible thread that connects all women who suffer from public shaming, stating that shared experiences of humiliation ultimately lead to collective healing. She called for empathy and understanding towards women, advocating for a narrative where they can present themselves on their own terms.

As cultural perceptions shift, Lewinsky is crafting her own narrative as a producer and host of the podcast, Reclaiming, where she engages in meaningful conversations about personal growth. “It’s important to reclaim our stories,” Lewinsky stated. “Moving forward means excavating the past, sometimes painfully.”

The former intern is adamant that sharing her story, despite the pain, empowers women across generations. As she continues to advocate for empathy and healing, Lewinsky remains a symbol of resilience, embracing her past while focusing on the future.

“You can insist on a different ending to your story,” Lewinsky concluded, underscoring her optimism as she moves forward into this new chapter of her life.