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What happens when the person who tries to block your teaching dreams accidentally launches your career?

For years, Vikki Petraitis lived a double life. By day, she was a teacher in a prestigious private school, shaping young minds and paying the bills. By night, she was deep in cold cases—researching, investigating, and writing true crime stories driven by a fierce desire to see justice served.

What began as a side passion grew into something far bigger: twenty books, a loyal podcast audience, and a thriving community of writers.

And yet, within the very institution she worked, Vikki found herself repeatedly overlooked. Despite her qualifications, her publishing record, and her growing public profile, she was told she wasn't qualified enough to teach senior English.

But instead of shrinking, she expanded. She enrolled in a PhD and quietly proved—to herself as much as anyone—that her value was never up for debate.

Her PhD novel The Unbelieved went on to win the inaugural Allen & Unwin Crime Fiction Prize and was later adapted for television as Dustfall, starring Anna Torv and premiering on the ABC in 2026.

Today, Vikki is a full-time writer, podcaster, speaker, and workshop facilitator, still devoted to the power of story but now working in a world that recognises her worth.

This is a story about what can happen when you refuse to be defined by the limits other people place on you.

For more information about Vikki, head to her website or follow her on Instagram @vikkipetraitis.

⚠️ Our episodes contain conversations about difficult life experiences. Some episodes include coarse language and themes such as childhood trauma, sexual assault, infant loss and references to suicide. Please take care while listening and prioritise your wellbeing.

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Production assistance from John Hresc at Sydney Sound Brewery