POLITICO spoke with political consultants, legal experts, religious leaders, media gurus, crisis managers and branding mavens to get their take on how the former Democratic presidential candidate can rehab his reputation and build a new life. It won’t be easy, but here’s what they recommend:

1. Paging Oprah

Picture this: Edwards, with tears in his eyes, sits across from a trusted TV interviewer as he pours out his heart about his personal life and career — and begs for forgiveness from the public.