A Life of Service: Leadership, Community, and the Ripple Effect with Kenneth Spivey
In the latest episode of The Filling Station Podcast, host Mary Ann LeRay sits down with Kenneth Spivey, a board member of The Filling Station and a lifelong servant-leader whose story reflects the quiet power of commitment, humility, and community impact.
Kenneth shares his journey from 20 years in the United States Marine Corps to a 24-year career with the Craven County Department of Social Services, where he worked closely with individuals and families in need, including mentoring people with disabilities. Though his roles have changed over time, his purpose has remained the same: to serve others.
As a graduate of Leadership Jones, Kenneth reflects on how leadership training reshaped his perspective — not just in professional settings, but in everyday life. He speaks candidly about conflict resolution, critical thinking, teamwork, and the idea that leadership is not reserved for titles or positions, but is a learned skill available to anyone willing to grow.
The conversation also highlights Kenneth’s hands-on involvement with The Filling Station, where he serves on multiple committees, coordinates volunteers for major community events, and consistently shows up behind the scenes. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork, gratitude for volunteers, and the often unseen work that keeps community efforts moving forward.
Throughout the episode, Kenneth returns to a core belief: leadership creates a ripple effect — influencing families, neighborhoods, and future generations. His story is a reminder that service doesn’t end with retirement, and leadership doesn’t stop at the workplace.
This episode is both an encouragement and a challenge — to serve where you are, lead with intention, and invest in the people around you.
