How Quiet Leadership Transformed Bulgaria’s Policy Landscape With Svetla Kostadinova

In this episode of Atlas Network with Michael Caruccio, we sit down with Svetla Kostadinova, Executive Director of the Institute for Market Economics (IME) in Bulgaria.For over two decades, Svetla has led IME in pushing groundbreaking policy reforms — from abolishing minimum capital requirements for businesses to preserving Bulgaria’s 10% flat tax. But what truly sets her apart? A leadership style that is calm, quiet, yet powerfully influential.We discuss:How IME became Bulgaria’s most respected think tankThe secret to influencing politicians from all partiesLessons from growing up through hyperinflationHow being a mother shaped Svetla’s leadership styleWhy listening is more powerful than speakingThe impact of Atlas Network on global freedom movementsTimestamps 00:00 Introduction to Atlas Network00:33 Meet Svetla Kostadinova01:16 IME's Role and Impact in Bulgaria04:32 Leadership and Motivation10:47 Significant Achievements of IME15:11 Influencing Public Opinion17:36 Personal Journey and Education22:42 Partnership with Atlas Network32:31 Advice for Future Leaders36:35 Balancing Personal and Professional Life38:04 Final Thoughts and ConclusionWhether you're a policy nerd, liberty advocate, nonprofit leader, or just curious about how real change happens — this conversation is for you.Learn more about IME: https://ime.bgVisit Atlas Network: https://www.atlasnetwork.org