#10 - From Iron Maiden to Whole Human Leadership: Victoria Pelletier on Resilience, Authenticity & Redefining Success

What does it take to rise to executive leadership at just 24, navigate personal adversity, and transform from being known as the “Iron Maiden” into a leader celebrated for empathy and authenticity? In this episode of The Resilient Club Podcast, host Mishaal Patel sits down with Victoria Pelletier; an executive, speaker, author, and champion of diversity and inclusion, for a deeply insightful conversation on resilience, leadership, and living authentically. Victoria shares her powerful journey: from overcoming early trauma to stepping into a C-suite role decades younger than her peers, and the masks she felt she had to wear as a young, queer woman in corporate America. She opens up about what resilience really means—beyond simply “pushing through” and why “healthy resilience” requires processing challenges instead of burying them. You’ll hear how Victoria transformed her leadership style from command-and-control to whole human leadership, embracing vulnerability, compassion, and storytelling as tools for influence. She explains why authenticity builds trust, how leaders can step into discomfort to unlock growth, and the importance of creating true belonging in the workplace. Along the way, Mishaal and Victoria discuss: The lessons behind her nickname evolution; from Iron Maiden to Turtle 🐢 Why diversity, equity, and inclusion must be more than just a checkbox. How to build a personal brand rooted in impact, legacy, and authenticity. The power of vulnerability in shaping trust and connection. Practical advice for C-suite leaders and aspiring change-makers alike. Whether you’re a seasoned executive, an emerging leader, or someone on your own journey of resilience, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you show up, not just as a professional, but as a whole human. Tune in and discover how embracing your imperfections and lived experiences can unlock not only personal growth but also extraordinary leadership.