Some journeys are filled with twists, turns, and leaps of faith that most wouldn’t dare to take. In Season 2, Episode 3 of Baltic Boss Babes, we meet Anastasija Mocane, a woman who’s made a career out of seizing the moment and smashing every barrier in her way. From her start in Riga to becoming a leader in manufacturing projects across the globe, Anastasija’s story is one of resilience, learning, and constant evolution.
Here’s how this powerhouse has built her career, brick by brick, and what we can all learn from her journey.
Taking the Road Less Traveled: A Career Built on Bold Moves
Anastasija didn’t follow a traditional path—and that’s exactly what makes her story so compelling. She started her career in her family’s factory, working as early as 14 to earn her own money. Her love for manufacturing led her to the UK, where she took on a summer job at a factory, and before long, she was offered the chance to stay and pursue a degree in Manufacturing Systems Engineering.
That opportunity was one of many bold moves in Anastasija’s career. At every stage, she leaned into the challenges and made sure she was never afraid to ask for what she deserved. Even when her manager doubted that a woman could become an engineer at a small UK company, Anastasija saw it as fuel to find a better, more diverse environment where her talents would be valued.
From the Factory Floor to Leadership: Learning from the Best
When Anastasija accepted a position in Thailand, she stepped into her first leadership role as a Quality Director. But even with all her experience, she quickly realized that leadership wasn’t something you could figure out on your own. Fortunately, Anastasija had the support of an incredible team—three senior women with decades of experience—who guided her through the complexities of managing people.
"They didn’t just see me as their boss," Anastasija recalls, "they decided to teach me how to be a better manager."
This theme of teamwork and mentorship is central to her success. Anastasija emphasizes the importance of collaboration and leaning on the experience of others to become a better leader. Her story is a powerful reminder that, no matter how accomplished we are, there’s always room to learn.
The Power of Pivoting: From Stagnation to New Beginnings
In a world that loves stability, Anastasija isn’t afraid to shake things up. After returning to Latvia, she found herself stuck in a country where she couldn’t find opportunities that matched her qualifications. But instead of settling, she kept pushing for something bigger—entering the startup world, leading a drone manufacturing company, and eventually heading up her own projects.
Her advice? Keep moving, keep changing, and keep learning. Staying stagnant in one role or one industry won’t push you forward—it’s the willingness to pivot, adapt, and take risks that leads to real success.
"I always say, if you're stuck in a place that doesn’t fit, don’t waste time there. Go somewhere else and keep growing."
Facing Setbacks: From Burnout to Breakthrough
But even for someone as driven as Anastasija, the road to success is never smooth. After years of grinding through high-pressure projects, Anastasija hit a wall. In this episode, she opens up about her physical and emotional breakdown, a moment where she realized she had pushed herself to the limit.
"I thought I could never break down, but I did," she shares. "The important thing is how you come back from it—and I came back stronger."
This turning point marked a significant shift in her approach to work and life. Anastasija shares how taking time to recover, reflect, and rebuild was essential to not only reclaiming her energy but also gaining a new perspective on balance, well-being, and her future career.
Resilience, Risk, and Real Leadership: Why This Episode Matters
Anastasija’s journey is a masterclass in what it means to build a career on your own terms. From battling through male-dominated industries to learning from failure and burnout, her story is one of resilience, adaptability, and fearless ambition. Whether you’re a young professional trying to find your way or a seasoned leader looking for inspiration, Anastasija’s insights into leadership, growth, and finding your path will resonate.
So, if you’re ready for a no-holds-barred look at what it takes to rise through the ranks in some of the toughest industries, this episode is for you.
Listen now to Season 2, Episode 3 of Baltic Boss Babes and get ready to be inspired by Anastasija’s unstoppable journey.
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