Changing the Script: How Storytelling Fuels Personal and Professional Growth

What if the story you tell yourself is holding you back from a more beautiful narrative? In this episode, Rose Claverie sits down with Vika Victoria, the storytelling expert and founder of Stories That Shift, to dive deep into the power of reshaping our personal narratives. Vika, a Moth storytelling champion, now helps leaders and teams rewrite their stories to unlock profound transformation in both life and work. Together, we explore how the stories we tell ourselves can define or limit us—and how we can reclaim that power to live with intention. Along the way, we touch on the complexities of the American Dream, the importance of voice, and the story behind Vika's iconic blue hair.

[3:11] – Kicking Off: Vika shares her personal story, beginning with her family's journey from the former Soviet Union to the United States. How did this pivotal move shape her identity and narrative?

[5:59] – The Moth Victory: Vika recounts her unforgettable experience winning the prestigious Moth storytelling competition in New York. What does this victory reveal about the power of storytelling?

[7:54] – Conquering Public Speaking Fear: Public speaking is ranked as one of the biggest fears—why is that? Vika explains how we can become the hero of our own stories, and why embracing vulnerability is key to transformation.

[11:15] – Self-Sabotaging Stories: Why do we often default to telling negative or limiting stories about ourselves? Vika explores how these harmful narratives develop and how we can begin to dismantle them.

[13:20] – Reframing Your Story: Vika offers practical tips on how to reframe old, limiting stories. How can we break free from the past and craft a more empowering narrative for the future?

[16:50] – Exploring Masculinity: In a deeply personal moment, Vika reflects on a time when she was trapped in a spiral of sadness. This led her to explore masculinity by hosting men’s dinners across the globe—an unexpected path that led to powerful insights.

[22:00] – Identity & Geopolitics: Born in the Soviet Union and of Jewish heritage, Vika shares her unique perspective on navigating a complex geopolitical world. Her core message? The importance of using your voice to free yourself—and others.

[24:00] – Rapid-Fire Tips: Vika shares her top tips for becoming a better public speaker and storyteller.

[25:00] – The Blue Hair Story: Curious about Vika's signature blue hair? She reveals the story behind her bold and vibrant look.

[27:00] – The Art of Storytelling: What is the most important trait of a great storyteller? Vika gives us her take on what makes a story truly resonate with an audience.

[28:00] – The American Dream Revisited: Does the classic story of the American Dream still hold true today? Vika offers her thoughts on its relevance in the modern world.

[33:33] – Cancel Culture & Storytelling: In a world of "cancel culture," should we rewrite stories from the past that no longer align with today’s values? Vika weighs in on this timely debate.

[34:00] – Harvest of the Day: To close, Vika shares a powerful memory of radical connection from her youth—one that shaped her journey in unexpected ways.

To know more about Vika, here is her website.

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Sound editing by @lesbellesfrequences

Technicians in Kaplankaya : Joel Moriasi, Hanan Yasir and team

Music by Chambord

Artwork : Davide d'Antonio

Harvest Series is produced in partnership with Athena Advisers and Capital Partners

The founders of Harvest Series are Burak Öymen and Roman Carel.