Ever felt underestimated or out of place in your career?
Wondering how to build confidence, overcome setbacks, and thrive in male-dominated industries?
This episode is exactly what you need!
I’m Limor Bergman Gross, Executive Coach for Women in Tech and host of From a Woman to a Leader. In this episode, I sit down with Ivana Nikolik, a global business leader recognized as one of Europe’s 40 Under 40. Her story is filled with resilience, courage, and career lessons that can transform how you approach your professional growth.
What You’ll Learn:
👉 How to build confidence—even when you feel out of place
👉 Ways to overcome career setbacks and push past self-doubt
👉 Why continuous learning is the secret weapon for long-term success
👉 How to succeed in male-dominated industries with boldness and strategy
👩💻 About Ivana Nikolik:
Ivana started her career working for the Macedonian government, convincing international companies to invest in her country—all while being one of the youngest women in the room. Today, she’s a Forbes Executive Member, keynote speaker, and business mentor making waves in tech and leadership.
Follow Ivana on LinkedIn: [ Ссылка ]
🎧 Listen on the Go:
Apple Podcasts:[ Ссылка ]
Spotify: [ Ссылка ]
Podcast Website: [ Ссылка ]
Don’t forget to:
👍 Like this video if you found it helpful
💬 Comment with your biggest takeaway!
📢 Share this with someone who needs career inspiration!
📲 Connect with Me:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/limorbergman
Newsletter: [ Ссылка ]
Let’s unlock your potential and build the career you’ve always dreamed of!
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction:
Limor shares her personal story of being the only woman in tech meetings and introduces Ivana Nikolik.
02:32 - Welcome & Getting Started:
Limor welcomes Ivana to the podcast and sets the stage for the conversation.
03:30 - Ivana’s Early Career & Family Support:
Ivana shares her upbringing, family values, and how her ambition was nurtured from a young age.
06:45 - Choosing Business as a Career Path:
Ivana’s decision to pursue economics and international business despite societal expectations.
09:14 - Winning an International Business Competition:
How participating in and winning a European-level business competition inspired Ivana’s career in business and leadership.
12:00 - Breaking into the Macedonian Government:
Ivana’s experience working in the Macedonian government, negotiating with international companies, and overcoming political stereotypes.
15:27 - Facing Challenges as a Young Woman:
How Ivana overcame being underestimated and viewed as a threat in a male-dominated environment.
21:36 - Building Career Confidence:
Ivana shares how she built confidence through preparation, resilience, and a growth mindset.
26:25 - Embracing Challenges for Growth:
Why challenges fuel career growth and how overcoming obstacles builds strength and experience.
28:50 - Lifelong Learning & Career Development:
Ivana discusses the importance of continuous learning, from formal education to industry conferences and certifications.
31:39 - Mastering Public Speaking:
How Ivana built her public speaking skills through consistent practice and experience.
35:37 - Recognition & Career Milestones:
Ivana’s journey to being named one of Europe’s 40 Under 40 and her reflections on personal growth and career success.
38:55 - Knowledge as a Career Asset:
Why your knowledge and experience are your greatest professional assets—and no one can take them from you.
40:35 - How to Connect with Ivana:
Where listeners can find Ivana online and her upcoming speaking engagements.
45:35 - Conclusion & Next Episode Preview:
Limor wraps up the conversation and previews the next podcast episode featuring Merve Hocamp.
