From Survivor to Storyteller and Life Coach

Kadri Vent

Kadri Vent is a survivor who turned pain into purpose, inspiring others to reclaim their lives. In 2020, she made history in Estonia with a national TV interview, sharing her healing journey and shedding light on childhood sexual abuse. The impact sparked a wave of support groups across the country. Since then, she has transitioned from marketing to life coaching, guiding survivors beyond survival into empowerment. Through storytelling and one-on-one coaching, she helps others reclaim agency and rewrite their stories. Still on her own healing journey, she is here to inspire hope, transformation, and the courage to thrive.

Before you became the business titan you are today, enlighten us about the thrilling adventures of your pre-business life.

I’ve lived and traveled across Europe, but my true journey began after returning to Estonia from studying in Israel. Despite climbing the career ladder and settling into small-town life, my unhealed past caught up with me. My health was failing, and I hit a wall—I had to choose: start healing or give up. I chose to heal, and it was the hardest fight of my life.

Statistics show that many survivors of childhood sexual abuse struggle at the start of their healing journey, and I lived that reality. But I made a vow: I would share my story with anyone who needed to hear it. Surviving for a second time, I quit my job and started my own business, initially focusing on marketing and coaching—skills I knew well. But my true calling lay in helping others heal. Over time, I transitioned into life story coaching, guiding survivors to reclaim their lives.

In the midst of it all, I sold my apartment, built a van, and hit the road with my two amazing dogs, Kira and Elli. For the past year and a half, I’ve traveled Europe full-time, combining speaking engagements with online coaching. While I’m still healing, I’m living fully, rewriting my story as I help others do the same. My journey is proof that transformation is possible—and I’m here to inspire others to take that first step.

Could you elaborate on the nature of your initiative/business/current role, highlighting its purpose and the ways it benefits people?

Survivors of big-T trauma often complete therapy and return to seemingly normal lives, but many hit a plateau—stuck in survival mode while life passes by. Outwardly, everything looks fine, but inside, thriving feels out of reach. Drawing from personal and professional experience, I help people reclaim agency and rewrite their life narratives after trauma and therapy—because taking back the pen is the key to truly living.

This is the heart of all my coaching and speaking engagements. I guide survivors toward empowerment, helping them transform from passive participants in their own stories to active authors of their futures. Every life deserves to be lived to its fullest—leaving it to fate is simply not enough.

What has been the response of the users/consumers towards your venture? (You can also talk about your recognitions/achievements here.)

The outpouring of support has been incredible, as has the growing demand for coaching. I’ve received countless messages from people who deeply resonate with my core message, and it’s been both humbling and eye-opening. While I’m profoundly grateful for the opportunity to guide others on their transformation journeys, it’s also a stark reminder of how much unspoken trauma lingers in our pasts.

Yet, amidst this sadness lies a powerful truth: discovering how to reclaim agency over our stories and write brand-new chapters is profoundly liberating—a beacon of hope for what’s possible.

Having a strong support system is essential for your well-being. We would love to know who your biggest supporter is. Share with us and let’s celebrate the amazing people in our lives who make a positive impact.

A strong support system makes all the difference! My closest friends are my greatest inspirations, and endless reflective conversations with my fellow vanlifer, Daniela, have been instrumental in bringing this coaching business from a dream to a reality.

Strangers, both online and in real life, have also sparked inspiration and motivated me to take action. I’m deeply grateful for every divine moment my path has crossed with another like-minded soul. And, of course, my two dogs, Kira and Elli, have been my constant companions and the best therapists on my own healing journey. My heart overflows with gratitude.

As a woman entrepreneur, what changes do you hope to see in the world, and what opportunities are you seeking?

I believe it’s essential to keep the waters stirred. By that, I mean we, as a society, have grown complacent in our contentment. While progress has been made for women, and conditions are better than ever before, there remains a significant journey ahead. We cannot afford to settle—we must continue pushing for meaningful change.

Women now stand shoulder-to-shoulder with men in the workplace, breaking through glass ceilings to reach the top. What are your thoughts on women’s leadership today?

Women are becoming more empowered every day, and it’s incredible to witness. However, I believe it’s also time for men to step up as allies for women. This isn’t about suggesting women can’t succeed on their own—it’s about fostering mutual respect and shared responsibility.

At times, certain aspects of radical feminism may have unintentionally hindered progress, but the real goal should be collaboration and understanding. Supporting one another, regardless of gender, should be as natural as women uplifting women. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, but standing up for others must become a cornerstone of 21st-century society.

Empowering women is best achieved through mutual support. Your work is truly inspiring. Would you like to nominate another female leader for this interview?

I would love to nominate another inspiring woman, but I would need to take some time to select the right candidate.

Share your Website and Social Media Handles.

  • Instagram (Vanlife Adventures): @kadrivent
  • LinkedIn (Inspiration, Cooperation, and Coaching): Kadri Vent
  • Blog (A mix of travel, healing, and empowerment): kadri.blog