Eliot Hamlisch (Amtrak, AMC Theatres & Wyndham Hotels) How To Be Promoted Every Two Years, The Cost of Comfort Zones & Staying Connected with Family During Travel Seasons #034

In this episode of CEOs & ABCs, Kevin sits down with Eliot Hamlisch, Chief Commercial Officer at Amtrak, to explore what it really means to lead with humanity, at work and at home. From transforming customer experience at some of the world’s biggest brands to raising two children while balancing a demanding executive career, Eliot shares the mindset shifts, rituals, and values that have shaped both his leadership and fatherhood. Together they unpack why success without happiness isn’t success at all, how to compartmentalize work to become more present with family, and why some of the best leaders are simply great listeners. Eliot also reflects on career-defining moments that pushed him far beyond his comfort zone, including being unexpectedly asked to lead teams and functions he’d never managed before. This conversation is a masterclass in leadership, optimism, parenting, resilience, and building a life you actually enjoy living. In this episode: Why customer experience starts with understanding human psychology The surprising rituals Eliot uses to stay connected to his children while travelling How to compartmentalize work and be fully present at home The importance of helping children build resilience through adversity Why making your boss’s life easier accelerates career growth Lessons from leading transformation at legacy brands like Amtrak The power of optimism and choosing happiness as a measure of success How ambitious professionals can pursue balance without sacrificing family Key Takeaways: The work will always be there. Presence with family won’t. Happiness may be the most important definition of success. Growth often comes from saying yes before you feel fully ready. Children learn values less from what we say and more from what we consistently model. Leadership at home and leadership at work require many of the same skills: listening, patience, empathy, and resilience. About Eliot Hamlisch:Eliot Hamlisch is the Chief Commercial Officer at Amtrak, where he is leading a customer experience transformation rooted in hospitality and human connection. Throughout his career, including leadership roles at American Express, Wyndham, AMC Theatres, and Deloitte, he has built a reputation for understanding consumer psychology, driving growth, and leading through change. Chapters (00:00:00) - Guest Background and Introduction(00:02:29) - Customer-Centric Leadership at Amtrak(00:08:22) - Navigating Career Growth and Promotions(00:11:13) - Balancing Work and Family Life(00:13:32) - Compartmentalizing Work and Family(00:23:24) - Preparing Children for Success(00:28:26) - Career Growth and Mobility(00:33:52) - The Source of Drive and Ambition(00:39:57) - Instilling Values in Children(00:42:54) - Self-Care and Maintaining Optimism(00:46:41) - Finding Balance in Life