Welcome back to another episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! Join Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA and new host of the show, as he sits down with Pamela DeRitis, executive presence and on-camera coach and founder of Connect and Captivate. 

In this insightful episode, Kyle and Pamela explore the intersection of business communication, emotional intelligence, and authentic human connection—both on and off camera. Drawing from her unique journey from acting in Atlanta’s booming film industry to coaching executives and business professionals, Pamela shares how the Meisner acting technique translates into practical strategies for anyone looking to improve their presence, whether in networking, sales, public speaking, or virtual presentations. 

You’ll learn how foundational acting principles and improv exercises can ease the anxiety of speaking on camera and help even the most business-minded professionals connect more deeply and genuinely with their audience. Pamela also introduces her newest project, Command the Close, which is designed to help sales professionals use EQ to enhance their results. Whether you’re looking to launch a podcast, shine during webinars, or simply make more meaningful connections in your business, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt encouragement.

Key takeaways:

1. Pamela’s coaching embraces the Meisner technique, emphasizing the importance of placing your focus on the other person to foster authentic connections, reduce self-consciousness, and improve both live and virtual communication skills.
2. The foundations program Pamela offers blends actor’s training, improv, and personalized feedback in a structured eight-session format, helping clients baseline and refine their executive presence—no acting experience required.
3. Pamela stresses that developing emotional intelligence (EQ) and human connection skills is valuable in any setting, from sales calls and networking to video marketing and leadership, making these abilities universally beneficial beyond acting.
4. For anyone struggling with nerves on camera or during presentations, Pamela’s top tip is to imagine speaking to one specific person related to your topic, which instantly personalizes your delivery and enhances its relevance and power.
5. Her new Command the Close program adapts EQ and improv skills specifically for sales teams, helping shift the focus from aggressive selling to authentic problem-solving and genuine relationship-building with prospects.

Tune in for practical guidance and a dose of inspiration on how to trust yourself, connect from the heart, and bring more life into your business communications. Whether you’re new to presenting or a seasoned professional, Pamela’s strategies can help you amplify your message and maximize your impact.

Ready to take your financial future into your own hands? Visit us at www.americanira.com to book a call.