The Oprah Winfrey Show Season 12 Episode 26 Powerful words: How to apologize
- October 26, 1998
In this episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show, titled "Powerful Words: How to Apologize," Oprah delves into the art of apologizing. We've all had to apologize at some point in our lives, but not all apologies are created equal. In this episode, Oprah explores the difference between a good apology and a bad one, and provides tips on how to deliver a truly meaningful apology.
To kick off the show, Oprah sits down with author and relationship expert Iyanla Vanzant, who shares her own struggles with apologizing over the years. Iyanla discusses why some people find it so difficult to apologize, and offers advice on how to approach an apology in an authentic and effective way.
Next, Oprah welcomes Dr. Harriet Lerner, a psychologist and author of the book "Why Won't You Apologize?" Dr. Lerner explains why apologies are so important in our relationships, and reveals common mistakes people make when attempting to apologize. She also provides a step-by-step guide to delivering a heartfelt apology that will be well-received.
Throughout the episode, Oprah plays clips from powerful apologies that have taken place over the years, including public apologies made by politicians and celebrities. She analyzes what makes these apologies effective, and discusses why some apologies fall short.
Oprah also speaks to a panel of guests who have all struggled with delivering meaningful apologies in their own lives. They discuss the mistakes they've made in the past, and work through some hypothetical scenarios to practice delivering effective apologies.
Finally, the episode ends with a moving segment in which Oprah surprises a group of people with a special opportunity to apologize to someone they've wronged in the past. These heartfelt apologies prove that, with a little humility and sincerity, it's never too late to make things right.
Overall, "Powerful Words: How to Apologize" is an insightful and informative episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show that offers practical advice for anyone who has ever struggled with delivering a meaningful apology. Whether you're looking to make things right with a loved one or trying to navigate a challenging public apology, this episode has something to offer for everyone.