The Daily Stoic Olivia Nuzzi Knows She Messed Up
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Dec 13, 2025 
Olivia Nuzzi, a sharp political journalist and author of American Canto, reflects on a recent scandal that forced her into deep self-examination. She candidly discusses the weight of small compromises and the importance of accountability in a culture that often prizes shamelessness. Nuzzi explores the tension between guilt and shame, shares insights on support during public dishonor, and critiques the impact of distorted realities in today's media landscape. Her journey highlights the value of compassion and integrity amidst challenges.
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Small Compromises Become Big Failures
- Small compromises accumulate into major moral failures over time.
- Olivia Nuzzi says suspension of critical faculties and repeated minor dismissals made her big mistake possible.
A Sudden Ejection From A Destructive Path
- Olivia describes feeling like "the hand of God came and swatted me off the path" after her scandal.
- She says abrupt ejection from a destructive path gave her gratitude and forced self-assessment.
Rewarded Risks Warp Judgment
- Repeated rewards for risky behavior create a dangerous feedback loop.
- Olivia says success for bending rules misconfigured her view of judgment and risk.
