Jelena Makovičić
Episode · #340
MISLIŠTE Jelena Makovičić
Guest Jelena MakovičićHosted by Sandro KraljevićMay 3, 2026
Jelena Makovičić
About this episode
What you'll hear in this conversation
Jelena Makovičić, an actress by training, found her entrepreneurial path when a bank director called, seeking help with stage fright. What began as a personal request became the foundation of Komunikacijski Umjetnik, her venture that translates acting and stage techniques into practical public speaking skills for professionals. She blends her background in political science and classical acting to teach leaders how to command attention, articulate clearly, and connect authentically with an audience. This conversation explores how the principles of performance—from posture and breath to vocal delivery—are not merely tools for the stage, but essential elements for anyone looking to make a genuine impact in business.
Insights from the conversation
What to take from this episode
01
"I thought someone was playing a joke on me," is how Jelena Makovičić describes the call from a bank director suffering from stage fright, who became her very first client. Your most viable market isn't always one you planned for; sometimes it simply calls you.
02
Jelena Makovičić’s public speaking program progresses like a set of dominoes, starting with physical posture via the Alexander technique, then deep abdominal breathing, followed by voice work, and only then moving to content preparation. True mastery of communication isn't just about what you say, but a methodical, physical build-up from how you stand and breathe.
03
Authenticity in public speaking, Jelena Makovičić explains, means "really being yourself," which requires accepting your physical presence and putting yourself "in service of the message." True natural presence isn't a lucky trait; it's a disciplined act of self-acceptance and a clear focus on the content, rather than on how you are perceived.
04
Even in her acting career, Jelena Makovičić describes an innate "need to create something of her own," leading her to found a drama studio and produce original plays. Entrepreneurship isn't always a planned career pivot; it's often an impulse to build and create, which manifests regardless of the chosen field.
05
Jelena Makovičić highlights the UK tradition, where even political figures like Margaret Thatcher trained with voice coaches, and argues that dramatic arts should be taught from elementary school. The real benefit of dramatic training extends beyond the stage; it's a fundamental skill for building confidence and overcoming the deeply rooted cultural fear of appearing foolish in public.
06
Many people would rather break a leg than give a ten-minute presentation, Jelena Makovičić notes, because they forget they are "in a role." Much of public speaking anxiety stems from feeling personally exposed, rather than understanding that your professional function itself acts as a shield.
07
Overcoming stage fright, Jelena Makovičić insists, isn't about "pumping yourself up" or denying discomfort. It's about accepting the fear and preparing methodologically. True confidence in public speaking doesn't come from forced positivity; it comes from acknowledging your natural anxiety and then systematically preparing to address its physical and mental manifestations.
08
People dread public speaking, Jelena Makovičić observes, but "it means you're successful. It's a celebration." Being asked to speak publicly isn't a burden; it's a clear validation that your expertise is valued and that others genuinely want to hear what you have to say.