Military & VeteransCoast Guard Veteran Kimberly Young-McLear, PhD — who exposed gross misuse of power in how the Coast Guard handled bullying, harassment, and discrimination allegations and who still endures abuse and criticism because of being a whistleblower — talks about how finding a community of support, enjoying music, and reveling in the company of her little poodle all help her on her journey to heal.
About the author: Kimberly Young-McLear, Ph.D.
Kimberly Young-McLear, Ph.D. served in the United States Coast Guard from 2003 to 2023. In 2014, Commander Young-McLear became a whistleblower when she reported gross and unlawful misconduct within the U.S. Coast Guard. Commander Young-McLear’s advocacy has resulted in more than 30 policy improvements across the Coast Guard making the Coast Guard better reflect of U.S. values and increasing compliance with anti-harassment and anti-discrimination laws.
