In this Protocol Conversation, Monica Earley shares a practical list of everyday courtesies that are easy to overlook but make all the difference in how we treat—and are treated by—others. From holding the door to tucking away your phone at the dinner table or respecting people’s time, these small acts of kindness and respect create a lasting impression. With plenty of laughs and real-life stories, Andy and Monica show that manners aren’t just old-fashioned niceties—they’re powerful tools for building relationships, earning respect, and opening doors in life.
Monica Earley has invested the majority of her adult life teaching relationship skills and etiquette. That is a simplified explanation, of course, but as a valuable contributor to Wisdom Harbour, she is the most qualified expert in that field we’ve ever come across!
Monica is the recently retired Chief of Protocol for Air Force Special Operations. In that role, she was directly responsible for protocol support of dignitaries and distinguished visitors from Congress, the Department of Defense, private industry, and international allies. With the U. S. Special Operations Command in Tampa, Florida, she led numerous joint itineraries, ceremonies and events.
Monica was a key expert in the development and validation of the accredited Air Force Protocol Fundamentals Course, the only program of its kind in the government today. With a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management and a diploma from the US Air Force Air War College, Monica is certified in International Protocol and as a Corporate Etiquette Consultant. She is also certified as a Children’s Etiquette Consultant by the Etiquette and Leadership Institute.
Monica lives in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida and is a huge asset for Wisdom Harbour’s school, corporate, and family subscribers. After all, if generals are required to learn from Monica…what might our children become with her instruction?