Own the Room: How Great Leaders Use Presence and Voice to Drive Organizational Growth with Eleni Kelakos

Episode Overview

Why do so many talented leaders struggle to communicate with confidence when it matters most?

In this episode of Better Experiences by Design, Susan Quinn sits down with Eleni Kelakos—speaker coach, author, and former actress known as The Speaker Whisperer®—to explore why executive presence is less about perfection and more about authenticity.

Eleni’s journey began on stage, where she learned firsthand how self-doubt can derail even the most talented performers. After facing constant criticism early in her acting career, she discovered how quickly limiting beliefs can impact performance in high-pressure moments.

The best leaders create space for every voice—not just the loudest ones in the room.

Eleni reminds us that great communication is a continuous practice. The strongest leaders keep learning, keep stretching themselves, and continue showing up with intention.

Owning the room isn’t about commanding attention—it’s about using your voice with purpose and helping others do the same.

Key Insights

• Why limiting beliefs often undermine executive presence
• How authenticity creates stronger leadership communication than perfection
• Why leaders must create space for quieter voices
• A simple framework for improving presentations and high-stakes conversations
• Why growth happens when leaders step into discomfort

If you want to communicate with more confidence and lead with greater impact, this conversation is worth your time.

About Eleni Kelakos

Eleni Kelakos, CSP, a.k.a. the Speaker Whisperer®, is a presence and presentation expert, and the President of The Eleni Group, established in 2003. She uses performance techniques learned over twenty years as a professional actress and award-winning, nationally touring, singer/songwriter to help speakers and business leaders across the globe speak & present with more authenticity, confidence, and impact. When she’s not coaching individuals or facilitating training at companies like General Motors, Allstate, Little Caesar’s Pizza, and Kubota Tractors, Eleni practices what she preaches, firing up hearts and minds with her signature keynote presentations at conferences nationwide.

Ways to connect with Eleni

• LinkedIn
• Website