I’m thrilled to introduce Cassie Pierre, a friend who goes beyond her Instagram influencer status to share a story that’s both inspiring and challenging. Our journey with Cassie starts from her bold decision, at just 17, to join the Marine Corps, and how her recruiter became the father figure she needed, crafting a newfound family in the marines.

But it’s not all marching bands and service ribbons. Cassie gets real with us about her silent battle with bulimia and the stigma of eating disorders in the military community—a topic that, I'll admit, I was pretty oblivious to. From the pressure-cooker of military standards to her treatment in a Virginia facility, Cassie peels back the curtain on the grueling process of confronting and managing her eating disorder.

So, as we gear up for a discussion about the intertwining of physical and mental health, the critical support of command environments, and the way forward through therapy and open conversation—brace yourselves. It’s a conversation that might just change the way you look at the uniform.

Follow on Instagram @meech.speaks @cass.pierr