Podcast Summary: Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky featuring Miley Cyrus
Release Date: June 10, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky, host Monica Lewinsky engages in an intimate and honest conversation with pop icon Miley Cyrus. The discussion delves deep into themes of fame, personal identity, mental health, family dynamics, and the journey of reclaiming one's narrative amidst public scrutiny. Both Lewinsky and Cyrus share their unique experiences, drawing parallels between their lives and offering profound insights into overcoming societal judgments and personal trauma.
**1. Opening Conversation and Initial Impressions
Timestamp: [00:00 – 01:43]
Monica Lewinsky begins the episode by expressing her excitement about sitting down with Miley Cyrus. She praises Cyrus's new visual album, Something Beautiful, highlighting its mesmerizing quality and the powerful resonance of its title with the podcast's mission.
Notable Quote:
- Monica Lewinsky [01:16]: "Miley's new album that's coming out is mesmerizing."
**2. The Power of Music and Purpose
Timestamp: [01:43 – 03:32]
Miley Cyrus expresses her belief in music as a healing force in a "sick culture and time." She emphasizes that Something Beautiful is not confined to her personal experiences but speaks to universal struggles across generations and societies. Cyrus shares her perspective on being a vessel for something greater, often experiencing what she calls "God moments" where her creativity feels divinely inspired.
Notable Quotes:
- Miley Cyrus [02:49]: "Sometimes I feel like I don't know where music comes from through me. Like it will just arrive."
- Monica Lewinsky [03:32]: "The vessel, yeah."
**3. Navigating Fame and Public Perception
Timestamp: [03:32 – 08:06]
The conversation shifts to the challenges of being a public figure. Monica confesses her unfamiliarity with Miley's early work, especially Hannah Montana, and praises her sense of humor and adventurous spirit. Miley discusses the anxiety that comes with interviews, especially when they delve into her past controversies. She reflects on how public perception can overshadow personal growth and the complexities of being constantly under scrutiny.
Notable Quotes:
- Miley Cyrus [04:24]: "I had to do a lot of work realizing that it's theirs and it's none of my business."
- Monica Lewinsky [06:10]: "I think, like me, you're also a social canvas."
**4. Family Dynamics and Personal Growth
Timestamp: [08:06 – 15:45]
Miley shares intimate details about her family's fragmented relationships, the impact of her parents' divorce, and her role as a middle child striving to be the safe space for her family. She emphasizes the importance of open communication and rebuilding relationships without formal counseling, relying instead on mutual understanding and shared joy.
Notable Quotes:
- Miley Cyrus [09:57]: "I made a choice that has altered my life forever."
- Monica Lewinsky [12:13]: "Did you have to go to, like, family counseling to do that, or was it."
**5. Identity, Personas, and Self-Awareness
Timestamp: [15:45 – 22:00]
The duo explores the concept of personas, with Miley explaining how she consciously creates and evolves different identities to navigate her public and private lives. She contrasts her approach with Monica's experience of being defined by her past actions and public scandals. Both guests discuss the ongoing journey of self-discovery and the impact of societal labels on personal identity.
Notable Quotes:
- Miley Cyrus [17:35]: "If you're into human design, my calling is to be specifically unspecific and vice versa."
- Monica Lewinsky [21:42]: "For me, I felt like I was defined by either so many other people incorrectly or defined by my worst moments."
**6. Mental Health and Healing
Timestamp: [22:00 – 35:25]
Mental health takes center stage as both Monica and Miley discuss their struggles with guilt, shame, and trauma. Miley talks about her experiences with therapy, including EMDR, highlighting its role in alleviating her feelings of guilt and shame. Monica shares her journey through a "dark decade" and the importance of recognizing and integrating different facets of oneself for emotional healing.
Notable Quotes:
- Miley Cyrus [24:18]: "I now have just let myself go because I realized that they actually will become who they're meant to be if I don't assist so much."
- Monica Lewinsky [27:19]: "We've started to recognize and work with the nervous system a lot more."
**7. The Impact of Public Criticism and Online Harassment
Timestamp: [35:25 – 45:00]
Miley opens up about the relentless online harassment she has faced, drawing parallels to Monica's experiences. She discusses strategies for coping with judgment, emphasizing the importance of not internalizing others' negative perceptions. The conversation touches upon the harsh realities of being a young celebrity and the long-lasting effects of early public scrutiny.
Notable Quotes:
- Miley Cyrus [38:05]: "It was hard. And until, you know, this kind of past relationship and I just..."
- Monica Lewinsky [40:03]: "We are our meanest to ourselves."
**8. Reclaiming Personal Narrative and Moving Forward
Timestamp: [45:00 – 67:17]
In the closing segments, both women discuss their ongoing efforts to reclaim their narratives and redefine their public personas. Miley shares her decision to limit her performances to smaller, more intimate settings to prioritize her well-being over mass appeal. She reflects on her artistic journey, the healing power of music, and her aspirations for future creative endeavors. Monica emphasizes the importance of evolving beyond societal labels and embracing personal growth.
Notable Quotes:
- Miley Cyrus [50:49]: "I broke all the zeros and threw them away. I only do 250 max."
- Monica Lewinsky [53:03]: "Reclaiming is a great word for everything that we've discussed."
Conclusion
This episode of Reclaiming offers a profound exploration of the intersection between fame, personal identity, and healing. Through candid dialogue, Monica Lewinsky and Miley Cyrus reveal the vulnerabilities and strengths that define their journeys. Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by public figures and the universal quest to reclaim one's narrative amidst external pressures. The conversation underscores the importance of self-awareness, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of personal truth.
Closing Remarks
Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky continues to foster meaningful conversations that resonate with listeners seeking authenticity and connection. To explore more episodes, follow Reclaiming on the Wondery App, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify.