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When Monique Smith became a warrant officer in the military, she never expected the battlefield would be within her own unit. As a Black woman and subject matter expert in information systems, she discovered that her greatest challenge wasn't the technical complexities of her job, but the racism and sexism that threatened to undermine her expertise and achievements.

"They don't like to see that a woman knows more than they do, but tap on, the Black woman knows more than the white officer," Monique explains, detailing how male colleagues would deliberately sabotage her systems to make her look incompetent. The constant battle to prove herself pulled her away from her naturally laid-back personality, creating health problems and mental strain that seemed insurmountable.

What makes this conversation with Bree Charles especially powerful is Monique's candid description of her healing journey. After realizing "this is not you," she turned inward, developing spiritual practices that restored her sense of self. Her advice for anyone facing discrimination resonates deeply: "Remember who you are. When you walk in you, they cannot mess with you."

Throughout her 21-year military career, Monique's leadership philosophy evolved into one of nurturing potential rather than punishing mistakes. She shares touching stories of soldiers she mentored – from the suicidal young man who later thrived as a sergeant to the anxious soldier with high blood pressure who's now an E7 in Special Forces. These examples illustrate her profound understanding that "there's no me without us" and that true leadership requires seeing beyond immediate behaviors to recognize underlying struggles.

Now retired and planning to open an assisted living facility, Monique embodies the spirit of resilience and self-acceptance. Her grounding techniques and meditation practices offer practical tools for anyone navigating hostile environments while trying to maintain inner peace. This conversation isn't just about surviving workplace discrimination – it's a master class in reclaiming your authentic self and turning trauma into wisdom that benefits others.

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