#18: On being an innovative communication facilitator: Harnessing narrative journalism and entrepreneurial vision. A talk with Daniel Vaarik (Founder of Levila, Estonia)

In this compelling episode of the ScreenMe Podcast, host Ulrike Rohn from Tallinn University's Baltic Film, Media and Art School dives into the world of narrative journalism and media entrepreneurship with Daniel Vaarik, a well-known innovator in the media industry in Estonia. Daniel is the founder of Levila, a groundbreaking media channel that produces investigative stories, documentaries, and podcasts, all rooted in a mission to tell stories that engage and inform audiences without polarizing them. With an impressive portfolio of initiatives and activities, Daniel has consistently been at the forefront of finding new ways of facilitating communication in Estonia.In their discussion, Ulrike and Daniel explore how Levila operates as a media laboratory, embracing experimentation to create impactful content that resonates deeply with audiences. They delve into Daniel’s vision of journalism as a space for immersive storytelling that bridges societal divides, fostering empathy and understanding. Daniel shares his insights into connecting with younger audiences—often described as disengaged from traditional media—by meeting them where they are, with authentic, meaningful content.The episode touches on the transformative power of narrative journalism in creating long-lasting impact, the innovative projects that Levila has pioneered, from documentary filmmaking to real-time streaming experiments, as well as the challenges of balancing passion with practicality. Daniel shares his journey which is a testament to the enduring value of creativity, risk-taking, and the pursuit of meaningful storytelling in the evolving media landscape.Daniel Vaarik's bio: Daniel Vaarik is a visionary communication strategist and entrepreneur, dedicated to bridging cultures, disciplines, and societal divides. As the co-founder of Levila, an Estonian media channel, he spearheads impactful investigative stories, documentaries, and podcasts that challenge conventional narratives. His entrepreneurial journey includes founding Tuleva Pension Funds, a mutual pension initiative disrupting Estonia’s financial sector. With a rich career spanning roles like advising Estonia’s Prime Minister and overseeing strategic initiatives for the country’s e-residency program, Daniel combines creativity and pragmatism. From co-creating a theatrical fake political party to authoring a white paper on Estonia's digital ideology, his work consistently redefines boundaries to foster innovative communication and societal progress.Quote: “We started as a media laboratory, giving ourselves the license to experiment. If we fail, it’s a lab experiment—we tried new things, and we learned.”Link: https://www.levila.ee/ Host: Ulrike RohnSound: Tanel Kadalipp (episode 1-14), Sangam Panta (episode 15 -https://bfmentrepreneurhub.tlu.ee/screenme-podcast/