Some careers are safe. Some decisions change everything.

In this episode of The Constructive Criticism Podcast, we sit down with Kayla Palmer, President and Co-Founder of Palmer Construction & Marine Company LLC, to tell the real story behind the company — the leap away from a stable role in tribal administration, the decision to bet on herself, and the uphill fight to build a construction business in an industry that doesn’t make it easy for Native women.

Kayla shares what doesn’t usually get talked about:

• Walking away from security to build something of her own
• Starting Palmer Construction without a safety net
• The reality of being a Native female business owner in construction
• Navigating credibility, bias, and expectations in a male-dominated industry
• Learning federal, tribal, and commercial construction the hard way — in real time

This isn’t a polished origin story. It’s about pressure, doubt, persistence, and the moments where quitting would’ve made sense — but wasn’t an option.

We talk honestly about what it takes to build trust, win work, and grow a company when you don’t fit the industry’s default mold, and why representation in construction leadership actually matters when it’s earned, not handed out.

If you’ve ever thought about betting on yourself, leaving something comfortable, or building a business where the odds aren’t stacked in your favor — this episode will hit home.