E2 Steve Roberts on Creating Community

Steve’s passion for skateboarding and art dates back to his teenage years when he discovered skateboarding and was drawn to the culture surrounding it. His involvement with the Channel 1 skate shop, a black-owned skate shop, marked a pivotal moment in his life. The shop becomes a haven for skateboarding, hip hop, and art, instilling a sense of belonging and purpose in Steve’s life. Through this experience, he realized the power of representation and community, especially when someone from a similar background leads the way.

We also discuss how Steve’s career path diverged from the traditional corporate trajectory after college. Despite obtaining a degree in advertising and public relations, he chose a different route, venturing into community organizing and later working in the culinary industry. This career journey underscores the importance of following one’s intuition and passion, even when it deviates from societal expectations. Steve’s approach to success doesn’t just think about financial stability but also derive fulfillment from work, and the ability to indulge in leisurely pursuits.

This lead to the formation of Push to Start, a program that teaches skateboarding to the youth of New Haven and promotes civic engagement. What begins as a chance encounter with a library director, blossoms into weekly skateboarding lessons for the local children. Steve’s dedication, coupled with the support of allies from the Yale community results in providing a safe space for kids to engage in skateboarding activities.

In our conversation, Steve emphasized the significance of building and nurturing a community. For him, community is about people bringing their unique gifts together to serve others, fostering a sense of togetherness and support. Through his work, Steve has been instrumental in creating a space where young individuals can find belonging, develop their skills, and experience the joy of skateboarding.

Throughout the conversation, Steve highlights the role of mentors and a strong support system. He credits his mentors, friends, and colleagues for offering guidance, inspiration, and constructive feedback, helping him navigate challenges and stay true to his vision. His advice for those feeling stuck in unfulfilling jobs resonates with the wisdom of saving money, being willing to work for free to pursue passion, and surrounding oneself with a supportive network of individuals.

My conversation with Steve Roberts sheds light on the transformative power of skateboarding, art, and community engagement. His story serves as a testament to the profound impact individuals can have when driven by passion, guided by mentors, and supported by a nurturing community. As we strive towards our own purpose, Steve’s journey inspires us to seek authenticity, community, and the courage to carve our own paths.

To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform.