Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky: Olivia Munn Episode Summary

Release Date: February 18, 2025
Host: Monica Lewinsky
Guest: Olivia Munn

1. Introduction and Friendship

Monica Lewinsky invites listeners to join her longtime friend Olivia Munn on the show. They reminisce about their decade-long friendship, rooted in shared interests like crystals and astrology.

Notable Quote:

• Monica Lewinsky (00:30): "We just got into deep, real conversation really quickly, which is kind of the way I like to do it."

2. Early Experiences with Bullying and Feistiness

Olivia shares her childhood experiences growing up in a military family, moving frequently, and facing bullying at school. These challenges fostered a feisty and protective nature in her.

Notable Quotes:

• Olivia Munn (03:40): "There are times where, if you looked on paper, it would seem like by the accolades I might have gotten in school, that life was easy, but there was enough bullying that it really changed how I think I approached adulthood."
• Olivia Munn (08:16): "When I was 13, that's when the bullying happened, and I became really feisty and fought back a lot, physically fighting."

3. Coping with Public Life and Social Media

Olivia discusses her early career on the G4 network and how interacting with fans and critics on platforms before Twitter shaped her approach to handling public criticism. She reflects on the influence of media figures like Howard Stern and the evolving landscape of social media.

Notable Quotes:

• Olivia Munn (09:53): "People would criticize every little thing about you and call you names, and I would just throw it back."
• Olivia Munn (11:55): "There is this uprising of people on social media who want justice for things and want to see the full picture."

4. Standing Up Against NDAs and Reclaiming Her Voice

Olivia recounts a pivotal moment during the MeToo movement when she was offered a seven-figure settlement to accept an apology with a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Choosing to prioritize her voice over financial gain, she refused the NDA, a decision that later aligned with California's ban on such agreements.

Notable Quotes:

• Olivia Munn (22:11): "I know this is a lot of money to you, but it is not a lot of money to me to lose my voice."
• Olivia Munn (22:29): "I felt proud when I walked out."

5. Olivia's Breast Cancer Journey

a. Diagnosis

Olivia details her experience with breast cancer, starting with the decision to undergo a lifetime risk assessment test that revealed a high risk. Following this, diagnostic MRIs and ultrasounds confirmed her condition.

Notable Quotes:

• Olivia Munn (34:21): "I scored 37.3%. So she said, go get an MRI."
• Olivia Munn (35:21): "So I go into her office, and I said, is it cancer? It's the first thing out of my mouth. And she says, it is."

b. Surgery

She describes the emotional and physical challenges of undergoing a double mastectomy, including unexpected complications during surgery and the shock of viewing her body post-operation.

Notable Quotes:

• Olivia Munn (37:19): "I still remember that feeling. I just was like, I was in shock."
• Olivia Munn (44:07): "It was a personal journey that I had to go through in that moment."

c. Coping with Aftermath

Initially choosing to keep her diagnosis private to avoid overwhelming others, Olivia later embraced sharing her story. She participated in a Skims campaign to proudly display her mastectomy scars, aiming to empower other women.

Notable Quotes:

• Olivia Munn (51:54): "We have to do this."
• Olivia Munn (52:03): "It made her feel really good."

d. Public Advocacy and Skims Campaign

Olivia's decision to showcase her scars in a Skims ad became a powerful statement of reclaiming her body and identity. This move not only boosted her confidence but also resonated deeply with many women facing similar battles.

Notable Quotes:

• Olivia Munn (53:31): "She said, if you need anything, you were so sweet. You kept offering that."
• Olivia Munn (53:51): "I've gone through experiences in my life that I feel could reach out to other people."

6. Personal Growth and Reclaiming the Present

Olivia reflects on her journey of overcoming anxiety and embracing the present moment. She emphasizes the importance of living fully in each day, especially as a mother balancing the needs of her children.

Notable Quotes:

• Olivia Munn (69:24): "Whenever I feel tired... I think about being 80."
• Olivia Munn (72:45): "I do often think and I try and I do, it comes into my mind really instantly."

7. Final Thoughts and Closing

Monica and Olivia conclude their conversation by discussing the importance of presence, resilience, and supporting one another. Olivia shares her ongoing work and commitment to helping others reclaim their lives.

Notable Quotes:

• Olivia Munn (73:37): "Sometimes when I can't help the insecure thoughts that come in... I push them out right away."
• Monica Lewinsky (74:54): "Thank you so much, Olivia."

Key Takeaways

• Resilience Against Adversity: Olivia's experiences with bullying and breast cancer highlight her unwavering strength and determination to reclaim her voice and identity.

• Empowerment Through Advocacy: By publicly sharing her cancer journey and participating in empowering campaigns, Olivia inspires and supports other women facing similar challenges.

• Importance of Presence: Olivia emphasizes living in the moment and prioritizing what truly matters, balancing personal well-being with motherhood.

Final Note

Monica Lewinsky encourages listeners to utilize available resources, such as breast cancer risk assessments, to take proactive steps in their health journeys.

Closing Quote:

• Monica Lewinsky (last part): "Maybe you also wanna, too. Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky is hosted and executive produced by me, Monica Lewinsky..."

This episode of Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky offers a profound and inspiring conversation with Olivia Munn, delving deep into personal struggles, triumphs, and the ongoing journey of reclaiming one's life and identity.