The Viall Files – Episode E963: Going Deeper with Kaja Sokola
Release Date: July 9, 2025
Introduction
In this deeply moving episode of The Viall Files, host Nick Viall is joined by Kaja Sokola, a model and psychologist who courageously shares her harrowing experiences as a victim of sexual assault by the infamous Hollywood producer, Harvey Weinstein. Alongside Nick is co-host Dylan Joyce, who facilitates the conversation with empathy and support. This episode delves into Kaja's personal journey, the betrayal by her family, her legal battles, and her path toward healing and advocacy.
Kaja's Background and Early Life
Kaja opens up about her childhood in Poland, describing a family dynamic that lacked emotional warmth. Her mother, an ambitious biologist and professor, was not very emotional, forcing Kaja to suppress her own emotional nature. This environment led her to find solace in acting, performance, and poetry as expressive outlets.
Kaja [04:54]: "I grew up in Poland. My parents were from a little bit different generation that we are right now... I am a goofball and a very emotional person."
Her father, whom she fondly remembers as emotional and supportive, passed away in 2023. Despite her sister being twelve years her senior, Kaja felt isolated during her formative years, which later influenced her relationships and self-image.
Entry into Modeling and Acting
Kaja's foray into modeling was unexpected. Her mother and sister submitted her photos for modeling competitions, leading to a rapid and overwhelming introduction to the modeling world. At 16, she moved to New York to pursue her career, experiencing the harsh realities of the industry firsthand.
Kaja [07:30]: "I never really wanted to model. It happened really overnight because I won a competition contest... it's really hard to function on these level of intensiveness."
Her transition into acting did not go as planned, and she encountered numerous challenges, including an encounter with Harvey Weinstein that would profoundly impact her life.
Encounter with Harvey Weinstein
Kaja recounts her first meeting with Harvey Weinstein at a club in Poland, where he expressed interest in her potential as an actress. Initially, she felt comfortable and saw him as a mentor figure, unaware of his predatory nature.
Kaja [12:35]: "We met in a club called Butter... I thought, 'What can go wrong?'"
However, the situation quickly deteriorated when Weinstein pressured her into an abusive and non-consensual situation. This traumatic event marked the beginning of her long and painful battle against him.
Kaja [16:11]: "He told me to take my clothes off. And then he made me touch him with my hand, and he touched me. It's not called rape. It's called sexual assault."
Legal Battle and Personal Struggles
Years later, amid the #MeToo movement, Kaja found the courage to come forward. She detailed her struggles within the legal system, facing not only Weinstein's manipulation but also betrayal from her own family.
Kaja [23:07]: "I was scared that if I would say this to someone... they will say, 'Oh my God, she's a slut.' I truly really took the guilt on me."
Her legal battles were further complicated by her sister's deceitful actions, including falsifying evidence and attempting to undermine her testimony. This betrayal from a close family member added another layer of trauma to her already painful journey.
Kaja [36:47]: "She stole a lot of money from my bank account. She went behind my back with my ex-husband... she falsified medical documents."
Impact on Personal Life and Healing
Kaja discusses the profound impact these experiences had on her personal life, particularly her marriage. Her ex-husband's aggressive and abusive behavior pushed her to escape the toxic environment to protect herself and her son.
Kaja [33:00]: "My husband was extremely physically and emotionally aggressive... I couldn't continue this."
Despite the immense challenges, Kaja found strength in her son, who became a central figure in her healing process. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on personal growth, creativity, and maintaining a positive outlook.
Kaja [68:58]: "I have my son... loving him gives me love."
Advocacy and Future Plans
Kaja is not only a survivor but also an advocate for others facing similar traumas. She speaks passionately about the need for systemic changes in the legal system to better support victims of sexual assault.
Kaja [52:12]: "Being able to share it is already, I think, very important."
Looking ahead, Kaja plans to continue her advocacy work while also focusing on her career in the entertainment industry. She is set to release a book in 2026 titled Overcoming Trauma Through Self-Forgiveness, which chronicles her journey and offers insights into healing from personal trauma.
Kaja [77:23]: "My book should be out in 2026... it's about overcoming trauma through self-forgiveness."
Additionally, she is actively involved in her production company and has recent projects in post-production, signaling a promising future filled with creative endeavors and continued support for fellow survivors.
Conclusion
Kaja Sokola's story is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering strength. Her willingness to share her painful experiences not only sheds light on the pervasive issue of sexual assault but also serves as a beacon of hope for others who have suffered in silence. Through her advocacy and personal achievements, Kaja exemplifies the power of overcoming adversity and inspiring change.
Nick Viall [75:57]: "It really sounds like everything you've been through and... you can focus on your son and focus on your career and your production company. And you must be very excited just to move things forward."
As Kaja moves forward, her journey underscores the importance of speaking out, supporting one another, and striving for a world where justice and healing are accessible to all survivors.
Notable Quotes
- Kaja [04:54]: "I grew up in Poland... I am a goofball and a very emotional person."
- Kaja [07:30]: "I never really wanted to model... it's really hard to function on these level of intensiveness."
- Kaja [16:11]: "He told me to take my clothes off... It's not called rape. It's called sexual assault."
- Kaja [23:07]: "I was scared that if I would say this to someone... they will say, 'Oh my God, she's a slut.'"
- Kaja [36:47]: "She stole a lot of money from my bank account... she falsified medical documents."
- Kaja [52:12]: "Being able to share it is already, I think, very important."
- Kaja [68:58]: "I have my son... loving him gives me love."
- Kaja [77:23]: "My book should be out in 2026... it's about overcoming trauma through self-forgiveness."
- Nick Viall [75:57]: "It really sounds like everything you've been through and... you can focus on your son and focus on your career and your production company."
Resources
For listeners who may be inspired by Kaja's story or seeking support, the episode provides resources and encourages reaching out to supportive groups and professionals.
Closing Remarks
Kaja’s participation in this episode exemplifies the transformative power of vulnerability and storytelling. Her narrative not only highlights personal triumph over adversity but also contributes to the broader dialogue on sexual assault and survivor support. The Viall Files continues to provide a platform for important conversations, fostering understanding and empowerment among its listeners.