In this compelling podcast episode, Gemma Morgan, a former British Army officer, speaker, writer, and leadership coach, delivers a powerful keynote speech on the profound impact that culture can have on our performance and well-being. Through her personal experiences, she sheds light on the hidden struggles faced by individuals within organizational cultures that perpetuate gender bias and trauma.
Gemma's journey in the military shaped her identity and instilled in her a belief that toughness equaled safety. However, this perception masked the underlying gender bias and sexual assault she encountered during her service. The military culture normalized inappropriate behavior, leading to desensitization and a lack of safe spaces for individuals to address their distress.
Despite her accomplishments, including recognition as the best young officer and captaining her country at a World Cup, Gemma grappled with the psychological and emotional aftermath of her trauma. The nightmares, unwanted recollections, and feelings of isolation intensified, leading to a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Leaving the military was a daunting prospect for Gemma, as she had left behind her civilian community and faced the challenge of adapting to motherhood while battling her trauma. The transition to civilian life brought forth new struggles, as her military-honed traits were perceived as too aggressive and forthright in the civilian world.
Gemma's story highlights the double bind faced by individuals who fail to conform to societal expectations. The shame and self-blame associated with not living up to the ideal soldier image compounded her struggles. This emotional turmoil led to years of hiding and concealing her veteran status.
Gemma's powerful message underscores the urgent need for organizational cultures that foster safety, inclusivity, and support for individuals who have experienced trauma or discrimination. Her experiences serve as a reminder that high performance cannot be achieved at the expense of individual well-being and that true success lies in creating environments where everyone can thrive.