What does it take to redefine leadership beyond the battlefield? 

In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, former CH-53E helicopter pilot, Marine Corps veteran, and MCFA Project Leader Steve Kempa sheds light on his transformative journey from Marine to mentor. 

Steve shares how his time in the military helped shape his understanding of leadership and how transitioning to the civilian world pushed him to embrace empathy, emotional intelligence, and the power of collaboration. He also offers insight into the “mission first, people always” mantra that he learned during his career as a Marine, reflecting on the importance of balancing goals with compassion. 

From earning his MBA while on active duty to championing veterans' mental health through November, Steve opens up about overcoming personal challenges, staying grounded through martial arts, and finding purpose in mentoring the next generation. 

This conversation is essential listening for veterans, mentors, and anyone seeking to reimagine leadership beyond titles and rank!

Key Points From This Episode:

•   How he found new challenges and professional growth after 10 years in the Marines.

•   How he earned an MBA while on active duty, focusing on marketing, innovation, and design.

•   The challenges of adapting military leadership skills to civilian environments.

•   Why inclusion, emotional intelligence, and coaching rather than leading are key.

•   Shifting from hierarchical, rank-based leadership to collaborative, empathy-driven leadership.

•   The value of building trust and motivating teams by connecting their tasks to larger goals.

•   The power of leveraging the veteran network for guidance and opportunities.

•   Reasons to stay active, seek fulfilling endeavors, and focus on personal growth.

Quotes:

“Having empathy [and] understanding that you never know what someone else might be going through – is so crucial because as much as we need to get the mission done, something that I learned – during my time in the military is ‘mission first people always’.” — Steve Kempa 

“As flawed as I may be, I still find purpose and value in mentoring young men and helping other people out.” — Steve Kempa 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Steve Kempa

Steve Kempa on LinkedIn

The Challenge Center

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change

Movember

The Unforgiving Minute: A Soldier's Education

With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa by E. B. Sledge

Sons Youth

Leadership Blueprints Podcast

MCFA

MCFA Careers

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn