Good morning/afternoon/evening! How are you?
I'm Shamontiel, a freelance editor, writer and fact-checker. I've been working in print and digital news since 2005. Before I can peacefully do any of the above, I start my day walking my unemployed security guard (and occasionally other neighborhood dogs). Post-walk, I clear my mind with at least 15 minutes of Pilates or weight training, and 10 minutes of morning meditation. I prioritize plant-based cooking (21-year vegetarian) for breakfast, followed by reviewing the latest trends in politics, news and culture. Then, it's time to grind. Want to know more? Check out some of my posts (below) and my top five.

MOST RECENT SUBSTACK POSTS

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Photo credit: Shamontiel L. Vaughn
1. BLACK GIRL IN A DOGGONE WORLD™: Before Take Your Dog To Work Day, do a test run ~ Even if your dog is socialized, it helps to let the dog get used to jobsite surroundings

2. I DO SEE COLOR: Documentation is key for reporting a racist neighbor ~ From suspicious violations to volatile verbal and written messaging, recognize the signs of gaslighting from condo owners and board members

3. BLACKTECHLOGY: Attorneys, AI may help you in the weakest area of client-attorney relationships ~ Instead of viewing ChatGPT as Unauthorized Practice of Law, consider these eight perks

4. I DO SEE COLOR: 50 questions Black people wish (non-Black) people asked instead of the top 50 Google questions about African-Americans ~ My quick-round honest answers to what ChatGPT says Black people want to be asked

5. BLACK GIRL IN A DOGGONE WORLD™: When your dog's Love Language is not Physical Touch ~ Seven ways to master your dog's brain "set points" for connection and when to give her space
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Photo credit: ChatGPT Photo Generator
​6. WINDOW SHOPPING: Are stretch jeans a waste of money for thick-thighed women? ~ Is fast fashion to blame for inner thigh rips in jeans, or should women be more picky with the brand?

7. I DO SEE COLOR: Could a Stress Journal be the stress reliever Black people need? ~ Moderating worries may be helpful to Black people diagnosed with hypertension

8. BLACK GIRL IN A DOGGONE WORLD™: Mental health enrichment isn't just for humans, it's for dogs too ~ Why a bored, misbehaving dog is the dog owner's fault 99% of the time

9. HOMEGROWN TALES: Upgrade your living room with privacy divider curtains ~ Ceiling-mounted track sets work perfectly for blackout curtains, room dividers and home businesses

10. HOMEGROWN TALES: 30 ways to make the most use out of disposable plastic bags ~ Since plastic bags can take 1,000 years to decompose, may as well try to find the best use of them now