Send us a text

What does it take to transform a 170-year-old social service organization while honoring its rich legacy? Steve Gunther knows the answer better than most. As the President and CEO of Maryvale—Los Angeles' first orphanage—Steve has masterfully guided this historic institution through its most significant evolution in over a century.

What makes Steve's approach to leadership truly exceptional is his remarkable self-awareness and humility. During our conversation, he shares a pivotal career moment when he voluntarily stepped down from directing a new program because he recognized he wasn't the right person for that role—even without another position lined up. This level of integrity and organizational commitment exemplifies the servant leadership that has characterized his forty-year career.

Under Steve's guidance, Maryvale has navigated substantial transformation, particularly during the pandemic. Faced with closing their residential treatment program in 2020—representing half of their operation—Steve led a comprehensive strategic planning process that resulted in innovative new services, including Seton House for single mothers with young children. One mother's simple words capture the program's impact perfectly: "I can breathe."

Steve's integration of faith with professional practice offers profound lessons for leaders in any sector. By knowing your values, making decisions consistent with those principles, and surrounding yourself with capable team members you trust, you create an environment where mission and purpose can flourish even through difficult transitions. As Maryvale expands its services and deepens its community connections, Steve demonstrates how honoring tradition while embracing innovation can transform both organizations and lives.

Ready to find your own leadership purpose? Subscribe to the Los Angeles Leaders Podcast for more inspiring conversations with visionaries making a difference in our community.

📌 ABOUT OUR GUEST:
🔹 Name: Steve Gunther
🔹 Title: President & CEO
🔹 Organization: Maryvale
🔹 Guests Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-gunther-msw-b8619922/

🎧 New episodes every Monday. (Dark in July & December)

🎓 Powered by Los Angeles Leaders Workshops – advancing leadership through immersive learning experiences.

🌐 Learn more at: https://www.losangelesleaders.com/workshops
Let’s build a city of leaders — one story at a time.

🌟 SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Want to sponsor a future episode or provide gifts for our guests?
👉 Email cluna@losangelesleaders.com

🔗 CONNECT WITH LOS ANGELES LEADERS
🌐 Website: www.LosAngelesLeaders.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/losangelesleaders/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/los-angeles-leaders/
🐦 Twitter: https://x.com/laleadersx
📧 Email: cluna@losangelesleaders.com

🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from leaders shaping Los Angeles and beyond.

#LosAngelesLeaders #LeadershipPodcast #Networking #LosAngelesBusiness #PodcastInterview #Entrepreneurship #LeadershipDevelopment #BeyondNetworking #ChristopherLuna

Leading Los Angeles - Real stories. Real leaders. Real impact.