WHO WE ARE
Michael "Tony" Steptoe
Tony is a dedicated community servant with a passion for helping returning citizens (ex-felons). For the past 15 years, he has traveled the world, speaking in over 500 prisons, celebrate recovery programs, homeless shelters, schools, and conferences. Tony is also an Associate Minister at Union Bell Baptist Church in Falmouth, VA, under the leadership of Pastor Clarence E. Mays, and currently serves in the outreach ministry.
Tony is no stranger to overcoming adversity. While serving a 10.5-year prison sentence, he made the life-changing decision to turn things around. He went on to complete college, earned more than 20 certifications, and wrote 3 business plans, all of which came to fruition after his release on January 15, 2008.
Upon his release, Tony became the first African American male to graduate from Ohio State School of Esthetics. His unique communication skills make him an invaluable asset to any organization. Tony is often quoted for his powerful phrase, “The question is not if there is more for your life, but how bad do you want it?” He passionately speaks about the importance of choices and how one decision can change the course of your life forever.
Tony is married to Nicole Steptoe, and together they have three amazing children. They are the founders of two businesses: Family Food Palace Food Truck and Lead Strong Inc. Tony’s real-life experiences captivate audiences as he shares his journey of triumph over tragedy and how he bounced back stronger than ever.
Nicole Steptoe
Nicole is an Associate Minister at Union Bell Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Clarence E. Mays. She accepted the call to preach the gospel in 2010 and currently serves as the Assistant to the Pastor and in the Outreach Ministry.
Nicole has preached at many churches and spoken at various conferences, schools, and leadership seminars. Her passion lies in serving young adults, single mothers, and those who have been outcasted. This calling stems from her own experience as a single mother for 8 years, where she had to overcome numerous hardships.
She is married to Michael “Tony” Steptoe, and together they have founded two businesses: Family Food Palace Food Truck and Lead Strong Inc. Nicole is also the proud mother of two amazing children. Her son is a licensed Minister and Realtor, and her daughter is an actress, singer, and model. Nicole currently manages her daughter’s career.
Reverend Steptoe graduated from Old Dominion University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice, minoring in Sociology with an emphasis on child welfare. She also earned her Associate Degree in Ministry in 2010 and a Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity in 2012 from Triangle Bible Institute in Triangle, Virginia. Nicole is a certified life coach and holds a certificate in Mental Health Advocacy.
