Service, Grit, and Leadership as an Act of Care

Steve Palmer describes a hospitality career built from the ground up, beginning as a dishwasher at thirteen and progressing through nearly every food-and-beverage role imaginable. He speaks openly about choosing learning over titles, saying he often selected roles for “the next step in learning and opportunity,” even when compensation did not increase. Steve shares that hospitality resonated deeply because he is “a people pleaser by nature,” and he found meaning in realizing that taking care of others could be both noble and fulfilling. For him, leadership emerged from that same instinct to serve.

He emphasizes that “leadership is an act of service,” grounded in empowering others rather than exercising authority. Steve contrasts inspiring leadership with ego-driven leadership, explaining that his role is to ensure teams feel “empowered, supported, inspired,” and then to get out of their way. He discusses transparency, trust, and communication as cultural cornerstones, alongside a deep commitment to mental health and wellness. Through his own recovery journey and the founding of Ben’s Friends, Steve underscores that caring for people must extend beyond the workplace and into their lives.

‍Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “Leadership is an act of service.”
• “I’m a people pleaser by nature.”
• “I never saw serving other people as a second-class job.”
• “You have to take care of yourself first.”
• “Don’t quit the day before the miracle happens.”

‍Closing Reflection

Steve’s journey reflects how grit, humility, and service can shape enduring leadership. His story encourages choosing people over ego, caring deeply, and trusting that persistence and purpose will carry you forward.