Pamela Barnum: The Trust Agent

Trust and body-language keynote speaker Pamela Barnum teaches organizations how to decode deception, build credibility and communicate confidently using insights from her undercover law-enforcement career.

Quick Facts:

  • Highlights:
    • Former undercover narcotics officer with expertise in deception detection
    • Federal prosecuting attorney with deep behavioral-analysis experience
    • Specialist in trust-building, body language and high-stakes communication
    • Speaker on resilience, adaptability and leadership under pressure
  • Formats: Keynote speaker on trust, body language, deception detection, communication, adaptability and high-stakes decision-making.
  • Audiences: Corporate leaders, sales teams, law enforcement groups, HR professionals, negotiation teams, finance, legal fields and audiences seeking stronger communication and trust-building capabilities.
  • Outcomes:
    1. Practical tools for recognizing nonverbal cues and spotting deception with greater accuracy.
    2. Strategies for building rapid rapport and increasing trust in high-pressure or uncertain environments.
    3. Enhanced communication skills that improve influence, collaboration and decision-making.
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (4 reviews)
Rated 5 out of 5
  • Travels from: Calgary, AB
  • **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000

Talent Services

Keynote Topics:

3D Communication Strategies for Powerful Results 

More than fifty percent of our communication is nonverbal; we miss more than half of the conversation when we fail to pay attention. Learn the secret second language reserved for communication experts and law enforcement to communicate confidence, elevate influence, and improve negotiation outcomes. 

Display calm confidence in every situation. Learn when to move toward, not away from, conflict and when silence is the most effective negotiating tactic. 

Decode nonverbal cues with certainty. Understand what is being said, regardless of the words used.

Detect deception with greater accuracy using science-backed techniques. Confidently assess verbal and nonverbal misrepresentation indicators, bluffing, and lies in real-time.

Trust is in crisis, and earning trust has never been more imperative than it is now. Trust solves risk problems, improves culture, and increases innovation to prepare for an uncertain future; without trust, there is no transaction. 

Create a culture of trust with:

Transparent communication. Establish stability and security in times of uncertainty without overcommunicating or micromanaging.  

Respect for self and others. Eliminate uncertainty and fear to increase productivity, profits, and appreciation for others with more than words. 

Undercover tactics anyone can use to increase rapport and decrease conflict anywhere, anytime.

Sincere and authentic nonverbal cues. Discover how to communicate trust with more than words consistently.

Take ownership while exercising tact and diplomacy in challenging situations. Learn how to deliver bad news and provide critical feedback in a way that strengthens your reputation and repairs relationships.

The Superpower for Leaders

Tactical Influence is vital to gaining trust, aligning efforts to pursue goals, inspiring positive change, and significantly increasing revenue. Using proven LIFE skills to enhance essential outcomes, learn how to:

Leverage talent with intentional communication cues for increased collaboration and quicker decisions.

Inspire intrigue. Uncover how to increase productivity, creativity, and happiness with the power of curiosity and when best to utilize it.

Fearlessly communicate confidence and maintain a strong executive presence in times of uncertainty. Use fear and doubt to supercharge insight and eliminate imposter syndrome.  

Empower with empathy. High-empathy-based environments have performance levels three times higher than low-empathy environments. Discover the often-overlooked strategy that builds a stronger, more productive, and more engaged culture.

Talent Short Bio

Pamela Barnum is a former undercover narcotics officer, federal prosecuting attorney and trust-building expert whose real-world experience brings unmatched depth to the fields of communication, body language and deception detection. Her career required her to assume false identities, infiltrate high-risk criminal networks and make split-second decisions where trust, clarity and credibility determined survival. These extraordinary experiences now fuel her dynamic keynote programs, where she equips audiences with practical tools for reading people, navigating uncertainty and communicating with confidence.

During her years working undercover in the Drug Enforcement Section, Pamela mastered the art of blending into dangerous environments, earning trust from individuals who lived by manipulation, secrecy and deception. She developed a highly refined ability to observe behavior, interpret nonverbal cues and identify hidden intentions—skills that translate powerfully to leadership, negotiation and workplace communication.

Pamela’s background also includes years as a federal prosecutor, giving her a dual perspective on human behavior—from covert operations to courtroom strategy. She draws on thousands of hours of real-life, high-stakes interactions to break down complex psychological concepts into practical, actionable methods teams can apply immediately.

Pamela Barnum, a seasoned professional who has honed her skills in building trust and interpreting body language through real-world experiences that few can imagine. With a career steeped in danger, intrigue, and the art of deception detection, Pamela brings a unique perspective to the realm of keynote speaking. As an undercover operative in the Drug Enforcement Section, Pamela lived a life of constant uncertainty, relying on her expertise to navigate treacherous situations and emerge victorious.

Pamela Barnum’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Imagine living every day under a veil of secrecy, assuming a false identity, and infiltrating the inner circles of some of society’s most dangerous individuals. For Pamela, this was not just a job; it was a way of life. With meticulous attention to detail and a keen understanding of human behavior, she seamlessly blended into her surroundings, earning the trust of those she sought to apprehend.

Pamela Barnum is a master at cultivating trust in situations where the stakes couldn’t be higher. Through her real-world experiences, she has developed a deep understanding of the factors that contribute to building rapport and establishing credibility, even in the most challenging circumstances.

With a keen eye for detail and years of hands-on experience, Pamela has become adept at deciphering the subtle cues and gestures that reveal hidden truths. Her expertise in body language interpretation is invaluable for anyone seeking to enhance their communication skills and gain insight into the thoughts and intentions of others.

In the world of undercover operations, deception is a constant threat. Pamela Barnum’s ability to detect lies and uncover deceit has been honed through years of practice in the field. She offers invaluable insights into the strategies and techniques used by skilled deceivers and provides practical advice for spotting deception in any context.

Working undercover required Pamela to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and think on her feet in unpredictable situations. She developed resilience, resourcefulness, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty—a mindset that serves her well both in her former career and as a keynote speaker. Pamela inspires audiences to embrace change, overcome adversity, and thrive in the face of uncertainty.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

Overview of User Reviews for Pamela's Keynote Speaking Engagement

Pamela received overwhelmingly positive feedback from her recent keynote speaking engagements. Reviewers highlighted her energetic delivery, engaging content, and immediate actionable steps, which resonated well with participants. Many attendees appreciated her ability to connect with the audience through relatable examples and a humorous approach, making the sessions not only informative but also enjoyable.

Strengths noted include:

  • High Energy and Enthusiasm: Many reviewers commented on her captivating presentation style that kept the audience engaged.
  • Practical and Actionable Content: Attendees found the strategies presented to be immediately applicable in their professional lives.
  • Relatability and Humor: Her unique personality shone through, making her a memorable speaker.

The only minor weakness mentioned was the overwhelming amount of content, which some felt was packed into the sessions, suggesting a need for a more streamlined approach in future presentations.

Overall, Pamela is highly recommended for her ability to inspire and…

Was this profile helpful?

Talent FAQ's

Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

You may be interested in...

  • (19)
Dr. Brian Glibkowski

Dr. Brian Glibkowski is a pioneering force in the realm of business communication, best known as the creator of Answer Intelligence (AQ)™. His groundbreaking work on the role of questions and answers in business and society has revolutionized how leaders, teams, and organizations approach problem-solving, decision-making, and strategy formulation. With a passion for enhancing communication […]

  • Travels from: Chicago, IL
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • (13)

Eileen McDargh is the CEO (Chief Energy Officer) and founder of the consulting firm, McDargh Communications and The Resiliency Group. Since 1980, she has helped organizations and individuals transform the life of their business and the business of their life through conversations that matter and connections that count. She believes that resiliency is a critical […]

  • Travels from: Dana Point, CA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (6)
Abbie Maroño

Dr. Abbie Maroño is a renowned behavioral scientist whose deep expertise in human behavior, decision-making, and non-verbal communication has revolutionized the field of psychology and behavioral science. She combines her academic research with practical applications, making her an authority in areas such as persuasion, influence, and trust-building. As a keynote speaker, she engages audiences with […]

  • Travels from: Orlando, FL
  • Behavior Speakers
  • (30)
  • (1)
Kathy Cleveland Bull

Kathy Cleveland Bull is a highly regarded professional speaker, trainer, and consultant. Her company, N~Compass Consulting, has helped clients on three continents “Navigate the Art and Science of Change.” Kathy has appeared with Dr. Phil McGraw and Deepak Chopra where she delivered her powerful change message to an audience of over 7,000 people. Kathy conducts […]

  • Travels from: Columbus, OH
  • Change Speakers
  • (55)
Joseph Teti

Joseph Teti is a name synonymous with excellence and resilience in the realm of special operations. With a distinguished career spanning decades, Teti has emerged as a highly decorated combat veteran, renowned for his expertise and unwavering commitment to duty. From the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan to other global hotspots, Teti’s journey exemplifies the […]

  • Travels from: Charlotte, NC
  • Military Speakers
  • (6)
Deirdre Van Nest

Deirdre Van Nest is the undisputed, go-to expert in the insurance and financial services industry on the topic of speaking! She is the creator of the Crazy Good Talks™ Blueprint, a system that teaches financial professionals how to build their brands and bring in business through the power of speaking. She is the host of […]

  • Travels from: Edina, MN
  • Finance Speakers
  • (29)
  • (7)
Sterling Hawkins - Image 21 (January 29, 2026)

Sterling Hawkins is a transformative figure in the realm of organizational culture and business innovation. Known for his groundbreaking work on creating cultures of innovation and resilience, Hawkins has emerged as a preeminent speaker and thought leader. His signature speech, “No Matter What,” encapsulates his philosophy of overcoming challenges and fostering an environment where innovation […]

  • Travels from: Denver, CO
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (12)
  • (3)
Dominic Thurbon

Dominic Thurbon has cracked the code for making change happen, with the ultimate formula to drive innovation, future-proof your workforce and design brands that really matter. Dom is an internationally engaged speaker and facilitator who helps individuals and organisations drive behaviour change in the face of external disruption. He is a Partner in the Climate […]

  • Travels from: Sydney, NSW
  • Artificial Intelligence
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

AI Assistant
Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.