From Burgers to Leadership: Lessons in Emotional Intelligence & Growth with Charlie Newcomb

What can 40 years in the food service industry teach us about leadership, resilience, and human connection? In this inspiring episode, Justin welcomes Charlie Newcomb, whose career includes 33 years at McDonald's and more than a decade with its suppliers. Charlie shares how a part-time job turned into a lifelong calling, the mindset shifts that helped him grow, and why learning often comes through mistakes. He opens up about emotional intelligence, the “shadow of a leader,” and the importance of mentors. Charlie also reflects on personal stories that shaped his leadership style, from managing teams to family lessons about change and resilience. His journey is a reminder that true leadership isn’t about titles, but about how we treat people and the example we set.

 

Charlie is a results oriented leader, driven by a passion for providing a best in class customer experience and sales growth. Experienced P&L Management professional skilled in developing talent; strong communication skills including conflict resolution; ability to analyze needs of others; excellent interpersonal relationship skills as well as experience in project Management.

Grab a copy of Charlie’s book: Life, Leadership & Success here: https://www.amazon.ae/Life-Leadership-Success-Purposeful-Strategies/dp/B0F6BKSS68

 

Reach out to Charlie at https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-newcomb-1307b57/

 

Episode highlights:

(1:10) Charlie’s journey from part-time crew to leadership

(5:54) The power of mindset and emotional intelligence

(10:05) The shadow of the leader

(16:04) Spotting and developing future leaders

(20:00) Learning through mistakes and trust in leadership

(23:15) Mentorship and managing change

(31:03) Life lessons from family and resilience

(37:08) Letting go when people move on

(45:31) Charlie’s book and leadership philosophy

(47:17) What being human means to Charlie