Brooke Nevils Speaks Out on Matt Lauer in ‘Unspeakable Things’: NPR
Brooke Nevils, a former producer for NBC’s Today Show, has recently shared her experiences with Matt Lauer in her new memoir, Unspeakable Things: Silence, Shame, and the Stories We Choose to Believe. Nevils grew up in St. Louis, where she idolized the show’s hosts, particularly Lauer, Couric, Curry, and Roker.
Career Journey and Notable Events
Nevils transitioned from a fan to a producer after studying journalism. She joined NBC’s page program, which led her to work on Today. A significant moment in her career came in 2014 when she traveled to Sochi, Russia, to support NBC’s coverage of the Winter Olympics. There, she assisted host Meredith Vieira and interacted closely with Lauer.
The Incident in Sochi
During her time in Sochi, Nevils recounted a night of celebration that turned traumatic. After drinking vodka shots with colleagues, Lauer invited her to his hotel room, where she alleges he sexually assaulted her. This incident marked the beginning of a series of complex interactions between them.
The Aftermath and Reporting
Nevils initially refrained from reporting the incident, fearing for her career. However, as the #MeToo movement gained traction, she felt compelled to speak out. By 2019, her allegations were included in Ronan Farrow’s book, Catch and Kill, which documented sexual harassment in the media.
Reflections on Power and Responsibility
Nevils discussed the power imbalance she faced while working with Lauer. She articulated how the dynamics between powerful figures and their subordinates create an environment where saying no is often not an option. “When you work with talent, their opinions can impact your career,” she remarked.
Confronting Fear and Healing
In her memoir, Nevils explores the emotional turmoil following her assault. She expresses concern for her children, hoping they can learn from her experiences. “It’s my job to prepare them for the hard things in life,” she stated. This process of disclosure provided Nevils with a platform to discuss the complexity surrounding sexual assault.
Changing the Narrative on Sexual Assault
Nevils noted the challenges in using language around sexual violence. She hesitated to use the term “rape” as it often conjures specific, misleading images. Instead, she preferred “sexual assault” to better reflect her reality. The evolution of her understanding illustrates the difficulty in processing trauma.
Through her memoir and public discussions, Brooke Nevils aims to shine a light on the nuances of sexual assault, encouraging a dialogue that transcends simplified narratives. Her journey underscores the importance of speaking out and the responsibility society has to listen.
