In this From Fear to Fire interview, Heather Hansen O’Neill speaks with Eleni Kelakos about charisma as an innate quality rooted in authenticity and presence, not performance. Eleni describes charismatic presence as a dynamic life force that draws people in when we are fully present, grounded, and real. Through her experiences as an actress and speaker, she explains how fear and self-doubt can dim this natural spark, and how reconnecting to the moment allows charisma to re-emerge naturally.

The conversation also reframes fear as a powerful teacher rather than a limitation. Eleni shares practical tools for accessing charisma, including grounding the body, regulating breath, setting intention, and shifting limiting beliefs. She emphasizes that people feel our energy before they hear our words, and that true influence comes from emotional alignment and connection. Ultimately, the interview highlights that charisma is strengthened through practice, self-awareness, and the courage to show up fully, even in life’s most challenging moments.

This is the place where real people share real challenges. Where you can find a common bond and uncommon wisdom through their stories. Use tips from the breakthroughs of others to jump-start your success. Speaker, author, adventurer, and host Heather Hansen O’Neill takes you on the journey from fear to fire.  Today, we explore how charisma is an innate, learnable presence that grows when we meet fear with authenticity, self-awareness, and intentional connection.

Eleni Kelakos CSP®, The Speaker Whisperer®, uses performance techniques to help executives worldwide be more relatable and magnetic as speakers and leaders. When she’s not coaching individuals or facilitating training at companies like GM or Allstate, Eleni practices what she preaches, empowering audiences with her signature keynote presentations.

A graduate in both Theater Arts and Semiotics from Brown University, Eleni is a past president of the National Speakers Association of Michigan. She has recorded four critically acclaimed CDs of original songs, and released three award-winning, bestselling books: Touch The Sky, Claim The Stage, and Charismatic Presence.

Website: The Eleni Group

LinkedIn: Eleni Kelakos, CSP

Visit the home page of my website and sign up for my 5 Ways To Minimize Stage Fright, Amp Up Your Presence, And Wow Any Audience free ebook.

“Charisma is a sparkle in people that money can’t buy. It’s an invisible energy with visible effects.” ~Marianne Williamson

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