Podcast Summary: The Jim Acosta Show Episode: EXCLUSIVE: EPSTEIN SURVIVOR JESSICA MICHAELS, AND LATER HARRY DUNN
Release Date: August 1, 2025

Introduction

In this powerful episode of The Jim Acosta Show, host Jim Acosta engages in a profound conversation with Jessica Michaels, a 1991 Jeffrey Epstein survivor, and later brings in Harry Dunn to discuss the broader implications of the Epstein case and its intersection with political dynamics in the United States.

Spotlight on Jessica Michaels (00:01 - 34:35)

Jessica's Story and Early Involvement (00:01 - 08:25)

Jim Acosta introduces Jessica Michaels, emphasizing the often-overlooked long timeline of Epstein's activities, which dates back to the early 1990s, far earlier than public awareness suggests. Jessica shares her harrowing experience of being recruited by a fellow professional dancer who was already involved with Epstein six months prior. She highlights a systemic pattern of behavior that predates Ghislaine Maxwell's involvement.

Jessica Michaels [01:39]: "I am a 1991 Jeffrey Epstein Survivor... I'm just the earliest publicly known survivor."

Understanding Trauma and PTSD (04:43 - 06:10)

Jessica delves into the psychological impact of sexual assault, emphasizing that survivors experience higher rates of PTSD compared to other traumas. She underscores that trauma extends beyond the event itself to the absence of an empathetic witness.

Jessica Michaels [05:34]: "Sexual assault survivors experience higher rates of post traumatic stress disorder than any other tragedy."

Institutional Betrayal and Negligence (07:30 - 11:55)

Discussing the failure of institutions to protect and support survivors, Jessica criticizes the systemic negligence that allows perpetrators to evade justice. She references Maria Farmer, the first whistleblower in 1996, whose attempts to report were ignored.

Jessica Michaels [10:09]: "We're dealing with institutional cowardice that doesn't want to deal with the lack of safety."

Demand for Empathy and Justice (12:16 - 17:47)

Jessica voices her frustration over the lack of genuine support and understanding for survivors. She criticizes Donald Trump's potential pardoning of Ghislaine Maxwell as a betrayal that undermines the fight for justice.

Jessica Michaels [16:13]: "It's another example of protecting the people that caused harm and ignoring the survivors."

Healing and Resilience (27:37 - 34:35)

Reflecting on her journey, Jessica shares insights into her seven-year trauma therapy and the resilience required to heal from such deep wounds. She emphasizes the importance of institutional accountability and cultural shifts to support survivors.

Jessica Michaels [28:00]: "Seven years of trauma therapy has been the bravest thing I've ever done."

Conversation with Harry Dunn (35:40 - 57:49)

Connecting Epstein's Case to Broader Political Issues (35:40 - 40:22)

Jim Acosta transitions the discussion to Harry Dunn, drawing parallels between the Epstein scandal and the political maneuvers surrounding the January 6th events. Harry emphasizes the need for empathy toward all traumas and criticizes those who fail to support victims effectively.

Harry Dunn [37:49]: "Survivors did everything right. They went to the authorities."

Rewriting History and Institutional Accountability (43:16 - 49:54)

Harry expresses concern over attempts to erase significant historical events, such as removing references to Trump's impeachments from the Smithsonian. He underscores the importance of preserving authentic historical narratives to honor the sacrifices of victims and survivors.

Harry Dunn [43:52]: "This is the literal definition of rewriting history."

Resilience and Advocacy (54:09 - 57:49)

Highlighting the importance of resilience, Harry shares his efforts in training police officers and advocating for systemic change. He praises Kamala Harris for acknowledging the broken state of politics and emphasizes the need for collective action to mend societal fractures.

Harry Dunn [56:00]: "If people that want to fix it don't participate, then where are we just conceding that we're just going to accept the way that it is?"

Closing Remarks (57:50 - End)

Jim Acosta wraps up the episode by reinforcing the themes of resilience and hope discussed by both Jessica and Harry. He challenges lawmakers to uphold accountability and resist attempts to distort historical truths. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to remain steadfast in the pursuit of justice and integrity.

Jim Acosta [57:38]: "We have to make sure that we are resilient. We have to show resilience."

Key Takeaways

• Long-Term Impact of Trauma: Jessica Michaels highlights that sexual assault has enduring psychological effects, often exacerbated by institutional negligence.
• Systemic Failures: Both guests criticize the inability of institutions to protect and support survivors, advocating for greater accountability.
• Erosion of Historical Integrity: The conversation underscores the dangers of rewriting or whitewashing historical events, emphasizing the need to preserve accurate narratives.
• Resilience and Advocacy: The episode stresses the importance of personal and collective resilience in overcoming trauma and driving societal change.

Notable Quotes

• Jessica Michaels [05:34]: "Sexual assault survivors experience higher rates of post traumatic stress disorder than any other tragedy."
• Harry Dunn [37:49]: "Survivors did everything right. They went to the authorities."
• Jim Acosta [57:38]: "We have to make sure that we are resilient. We have to show resilience."

Conclusion

This episode of The Jim Acosta Show offers a compelling exploration of the lingering effects of Epstein's actions on survivors and the broader political landscape. Through Jessica Michaels and Harry Dunn's testimonies, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the systemic issues that perpetuate trauma and the imperative for resilience and institutional reform.

Connect with Jessica Michaels and Harry Dunn:

• Jessica Michaels: Engage with her advocacy and insights on trauma and healing.
• Harry Dunn: Follow his efforts in police training and political advocacy for systemic change.

For more insights and updates, visit Jim Acosta's Substack.