The Podcast About the Naval Academy Journey
What is the Academy Insider Podcast?
The Academy Insider podcast is for you to get an insider's view of all things related to the United States Naval Academy. Academy insider has grown to over 14,000 followers and this podcast is listened to by thousands of people seeking a peek into life at the Naval Academy. I get questions from people all over the world about the Naval Academy, it's traditions, the unique terms, the language that we use, how to get in, what it's like and what the midshipman experience is like on a daily basis. Subscribe so you don't miss an episode. Thank you for letting the Academy Insider team be your guide to the United States Naval Academy!
LATEST EPISODES
#081 Foreign Area Officers - the Hidden Gem of Military Officer Careers!
December 15, 2024
"Captain Suzanna Brugler's journey from a small Ohio town to a distinguished career as a Foreign Area Officer (FAO) is nothing short of inspirational."
#080 A Comparison of West Point and Annapolis: The Transformative Path of a Service Academy Education
December 8, 2024
"Ever wondered what life is really like West Point or Annapolis? Join us as Captain Kelvin White, a proud West Point alum and Army Ranger, shares his unique experiences, from football fields to the battlefield.".
#079 Military Service to Defense Innovation: Insights into the Power of the Service Academy Network
December 1, 2024
"Discover the grit and resilience that define the transition from military service to the entrepreneurial realm, particularly within the defense industry. We share lessons learned from embracing failure and criticism, paralleling the challenges of startup life with military training. ".
#078 Big Decks: Behind the Scenes of a Military Comedy Classic
November 24, 2024
"Join us on the Academy Insider Podcast as we welcome back Rylan, the comedic genius behind "Big Decks." This episode promises a hearty laugh as Rylan recounts the hilarious journey of his latest video project. ".
#077 Learn About the Company Mate of the Deck (CMOD) at the Naval Academy
November 20, 2024
"Join us in the exciting kickoff of season two of the Academy Insider Podcast, where we weave together the experiences of Naval Academy graduates and the community connected to it. ".
#076 Insights from Command Master Chief Anthony Amato on Forging Future Naval Leaders
November 17, 2024
"Command Master Chief Anthony Amato joins us for an insightful discussion on the Academy Insider Podcast, where we uncover the essential dynamics between junior officers and senior enlisted leaders in the Navy. ".
#075 Behind the Scenes of the Service Assignment Process at the US Naval Academy
November 10, 2024
"Have you ever wondered how midshipmen choose their career paths in the Navy? This episode promises to unravel the layers of service assignment, providing a behind the scenes look directly from the source! ".
#074 Ask G 05 - What is the Back Shaft?? Learn more Bancroft Hall Terminology!
November 6, 2024
"Curious about why upper-class midshipmen at the Naval Academy prefer the elusive "back shaft" rooms in Bancroft Hall? Uncover the secrets behind this unique living preference as we answer Rachel's question from Massachusetts. ".
#073 Pro-Know!! Learn about the Professional Knowledge Program at the United States Naval Academy
November 3, 2024
"Brayden Scharfe, USNA '26, shares insight into the power of professional knowledge, or "pro-know," as we explore its impact on shaping resilient, informed military leaders. Discover how the Naval Academy's rigorous exams and training opportunities serve as a launching pad for future military careers, setting the stage for lifelong learning and friendships. ".
#072 Inside the Naval Academy Varsity Sailing Team Experience
October 30, 2024
"Ready to navigate the thrilling world of Naval Academy sailing? Join us as we unravel the opportunities and adventures that await those who become part of this elite team. Listener Nick Veldhouse from Boise, Idaho has questions about his daughter's new commitment to the Naval Academy's offshore sailing team, and we’ve got the answers. ".
#071 EXAM WEEK!! Six and Twelve Week Exams at the U.S. Naval Academy
October 27, 2024
"Learn about Academic Reserve Weeks at the United States Naval Academy as we explore the intricacies of the Academy’s unique examination structure. Join us alongside Langston Goldenberg, a midshipman first class and the brigade operations officer, who shares his insight into this unique aspect of life in Annapolis. ".
#070 Ask G 03: Standing Watch at the Naval Academy: Roles, Responsibilities, and Realities
October 23, 2024
"Ever wondered what it truly means to "stand watch" at the Naval Academy? Join us on a fascinating journey as we uncover the intricate responsibilities that come with this military duty. ".
#069 The Profession of Leadership: David Albritton's Journey of Leadership and Resilience at the Naval Academy
October 20, 2024
"What pivotal lessons can transform a young person into a distinguished Naval Academy graduate and successful civilian leader? Join us for an inspiring conversation with David Allbritton, a 1988 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, as he recounts his journey from Philadelphia to achieving significant milestones in both military and corporate sectors.".
#068 Semper Deep: Insight into Life as a Navy Submarine Officer
October 13, 2024
"Ever wondered what life is truly like beneath the ocean's waves? Join us as we feature Andrea Howard, an esteemed submarine officer and influential member of the Academy Insider Advisory Board.".
#067 Top Gun Maverick Behind the Scenes: Inside Information from a Navy Jet Pilot
October 6, 2024
"Get ready to explore the life of a Navy jet pilot with Amy's vivid portrayal of deployment challenges, the thrill of catapult launches, and the camaraderie that defines naval aviation.".
#066 From Naval Academy to City Hall: Mayor Phillip Jones's Journey of Leadership
September 29, 2024
"How does a Naval Academy graduate go from the Marine Corps to leading a large city? Mayor Phillip Jones of Newport News shares his remarkable journey on this episode of Academy Insider.".
#065 Commanding the Best Damn Ship in the Navy: Reflections on a Combat Deployment
September 22, 2024
"Ever wondered what it's like to command one of the most powerful warships in the world? Join us as Captain Hill, callsign Chowdah, takes us on a gripping journey from his days in the ROTC program at Tufts University to leading the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.".
#064 Varsity Athletics at the Naval Academy: An Insight into the Life and Schedule of Varsity Athletes
September 15, 2024
"How do varsity athletes at the United States Naval Academy juggle the relentless demands of sports, academics, and military training? Join Shakir Robinson, a former Navy football player, as he sits down with me, a former basketball player, and Crystan, a former track and field athlete, to unravel the complex tapestry of their daily lives.".
#063 Ask G 002: Bancroft Hall Terminology: Understanding the Midshipmen Living Area
September 13, 2024
"What is the layout of Bancroft Hall? I hear the terms wing, deck, and P-way amongst others, but I really don't know what that means." If you've ever wondered or asked that question then check out this episode!!.".
#062 Spirit Spot Update: Direct from Rylan Tuohy
September 11, 2024
What does it take to gather nearly $43,000 in just one week? Discover the incredible journey of Rylan Tuohy, the "King of Spirit Spots" and Naval Academy Class of 2016 graduate, as he shares the exhilarating progress of his latest Spirit Spot Kickstarter campaign.".
#061 The Classroom Experience at the Naval Academy: Insight into USNA Academics
September 8, 2024
Ever wondered what a day at the Naval Academy looks like? Join us as we walk through the disciplined structure of a typical day, starting with the 0755 first period start time.".
#060 Ask G 001: Insight into Midshipmen Ranks at the US Naval Academy
September 4, 2024
Curious about the Rank Structure at the United States Naval Academy? In this episode we answer Bonnie's question: "Can you explain the Midshipmen ranks? Are there are any differences from the Navy Ranks?".
#059 Creating Naval Academy Spirit: Rylan Tuohy's Journey to being King of the Spirit Spot
September 1, 2024
What if you could turn a simple idea into a beloved tradition that unites an entire community? Join us as we chat with Rylan Tuohy, the creative genius behind the Naval Academy's iconic Spirit Spots.
#058 Inside PLEBE YEAR: Learn about Plebe Signature Sheets with Nicki DeGuzman
August 25, 2024
Did you hear your Plebe say they have to complete their signature sheet and you have no idea what that means? Join Nicki DeGuzman and I as we unravel the humor and camaraderie behind this quirky tradition.
#057 Finding Identity and Purpose Through the Storm at the Naval Academy
August 18, 2024
From navigating the rigorous demands of Plebe Summer to leading with compassion and resilience, Cam Kinley’s journey from Memphis to the Pacific Northwest is nothing short of inspiring. This episode features Cam, a former Navy football player and current Navy intelligence officer, as he shares his unique experiences at the Naval Academy.
#056 Transforming Leaders: Inside the Naval Academy's Leadership and Ethics Development Program with Jim McNeal
August 11, 2024
Unlock the secrets behind the transformative leadership development program at the United States Naval Academy with our remarkable guest, Jim McNeal, a 1986 Naval Academy graduate. Jim brings a wealth of knowledge from his military career as a supply corps officer to his civilian role in executive search, and now, as an adjunct professor teaching ethics and leadership.
#055 Navigating Leadership: Insights about the Naval Academy's Sailing Program with Andrew Shea
August 4, 2024
Have you ever wondered how sailing can shape future Navy leaders? This episode promises to show you the behind the scenes of how the United States Naval Academy's comprehensive sailing program trains midshipmen.
#054 Inside the Naval Academy: An Insight into Gray Space During Plebe Summer
July 28, 2024
Ever wondered what "gray space" is and how it fits into the life of a midshipman at the Naval Academy? Join Christian Blanchard, Jeremiah Harding, and me as we peel back the layers of our Navy journey, bringing you an inside look at the unscheduled yet pivotal moments of Plebe Summer.
#053 From Marine Corps Drill Instructor to the Naval Academy: Learning About Drill with First Sergeant Beth Abbott
July 21, 2024
What if mastering military drill could transform you into a more disciplined and confident leader? Tune in to our enlightening discussion with First Sergeant Beth Abbott, better known to me as Gunny Abbott, as she shares her inspiring journey from Blanchard, Michigan to becoming the brigade drill master at the United States Naval Academy.
#052 Inside Plebe Summer: Understanding Plebe Summer Terminology Pt 3
July 14, 2024
What exactly is "gray space" and why does it have such a profound impact on a plebe's daily life? In this episode, we uncover the origins of this term, tracing it back to Excel spreadsheet color-coding, and explore its implications through firsthand accounts.
#051 Blue and Gold
July 10, 2024
Ever wondered what it’s like to transition from a novice plebe to a seasoned leader at the Naval Academy? Get ready to learn from the experiences of Jake, a Naval Academy graduate and current P-8 pilot, who takes us through the cherished tradition of "blue and gold" sessions during Plebe Summer.
#050 Inside Plebe Summer: Understanding Plebe Summer Terminology Pt 2
July 7, 2024
Can you imagine the profound impact a simple posture correction technique can have on discipline? This episode dives into the physical and emotional rollercoaster of "bracing up," reveals the secrets behind the mnemonic "ditties," and decodes the meaning of "sticking out a paw."
#049 Inside Plebe Summer: Understanding Naval Academy Terminology Pt. 1
June 30, 2024
Ever wonder what the heck your son or daughter is talking about in their letters home or during phone calls as a Plebe at the Naval Academy? Join us as we break down the unique terminology and traditions that define this intense initiation period, Plebe Summer.
#048 Leadership and Resilience: Captain Gervy's Journey as a Surface Warfare Officer
June 23, 2024
In this episode of the Academy Insider Podcast, Captain Gervy shares his captivating journey from his roots as the son of a Navy Chief to attending the Naval Academy to commanding three different warships.
#047 A Parent's Journey Through the Naval Academy w/ Karl Smith
June 16, 2024
How do you navigate the emotional roller coaster of parenting a midshipman? Karl Smith, a two-time Service Academy parent, shares his heartfelt journey with us.
#046 I-day at the Naval Academy - Preparation and Advice for Parents with AN Shine
June 9, 2024
This episode of the Academy Insider Podcast promises to offer invaluable insights and heartfelt advice from Annie Shyne, a mother of two Naval Academy graduates.
#045 NAPS Preparation and Advice with PJ Roach '23
May 28, 2024
Preparing for and Navigating Life at the Naval Academy Prep School (NAPS) with PJ RoachThis episode of the Academy Insider podcast features host Grant Vermeer and guest PJ Roach, a class of 2023 Naval Academy graduate and former battalion commander at the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS).
#044 Inside the Naval Academy's Drum and Bugle Corps with Andrea Howard
May 26, 2024
In this episode, Andrea Howard, former commander of the Naval Academy's Drum and Bugle Corps, joins us to recount her musical journey and leadership at this prestigious institution.
#043 Learning and Understanding the Plebe Summer Organization at the Naval Academy
May 21, 2024
Sail with us down memory lane as my dear friend Christian Blanchard, a fellow Naval Academy alumnus, and I recount the transformative experience of Plebe Summer.
View episode here
#042 Generational Changing Opportunity - The United States Naval Academy
May 19, 2024
In this special episode of the Academy Insider Podcast, host Grant Vermeer is joined by Troy Thompson, a class of '17 graduate, for a deep dive into the transformative impact of the United States Naval Academy on its midshipmen and graduates.
View episode here
#041 The Herndon Climb: A History Lesson about the end of Plebe Year at the Naval Academy
May 14, 2024
Rear Admiral James McNeal joins me to narrate the saga of the Naval Academy's Herndon Climb. The Herndon Climb has long been seen as a milestone event for fourth class midshipmen (freshmen or “plebes”) at the Naval Academy.
View episode here
#040 Explaining the role of Senior Enlisted Leaders and the Enlisted Footprint at the United States Naval Academy with Jeff Kirby
May 12, 2024
In this episode of the Academy Insider Podcast, the host is joined by Jeff Kirby, a retired Command Master Chief who served at the Naval Academy.
View episode here
#039 The Purpose of Plebe Summer at the Naval Academy
May 07, 2024
Step inside the rigorous world of Plebe Summer with Commander Mike Murnane as we unravel the threads of leadership and mentorship that define the Naval Academy's transformational journey.
View episode here
#038 Varsity N Star Sweaters and the Army Navy Star Series with John Carter '22
May 05, 2024
This episode of the Academy Insider podcast, hosted by Grant from The Vermeer Group, kicks off its second season focusing on the life and experiences at the United States Naval Academy.
View episode here
#037 Preparing for Plebe Summer at the United States Naval Academy
April 30, 2024
This episode of the Academy Insider podcast focuses on providing insights, advice, and sharing experiences related to plebe summer at the United States Naval Academy.
View episode here
#035. Drum and Bugel Corps with Andrea Howard '15
May 27, 2020
I'm joined by Andrea Howard who is a class of 15 graduate from the United States Naval Academy and currently serves as a submarine officer. Andrea was an Arabic and Political Science major at the academy.
View episode here
#034 - The Herndon Climb Tradition with James R McNeal '86
May 12, 2020
He joins Grant on the podcast and tells the story of the Herndon monument and most specifically the tradition of the climb which he considers the Naval Academy's greatest tradition.
View episode here
#033 - Margaret "Peg" DeLuca Klein '81, Rear Adm, U.S. Navy, Retired - 82nd Commandant of the United States Naval Academy
April 28, 2020
She joins Grant on the podcast and tells the story of what brought her to the naval academy in 1977 only one year after the academy began accepting women.
View episode here
#032 - Angela Bailey - Protocol Advisor to the Commandant of Midshipmen and Brigade Social Instructor
April 14, 2020
Angela shares, when you are a Midshipman, you are an “ambassador of the United States, and of the United States Naval Academy, and the United States Navy once you’re in the fleet.”
View episode here
#031 - Marine Corps 101 with Major Lowell Krusinger
March 31, 2020
This podcast is the audio recording of a video interview with Major Lowell Krusinger. Major Krusinger was the officer representative on the men's basketball team when I was at the academy. He is a great mentor to me.
View episode here
#030 - Caroline Johnson '09 - Jet Girl
March 16, 2020
She began her military career at the United States Naval Academy in 2005, bristling against the strict rules but loving the friends she met along the way.
View episode here
#029 -The First Female Blue Angels Pilot - Katie Cook '08
March 03, 2020
This is a great episode with an incredibly bright, funny and wise Marine Officer. We learn so much about Marine Aviation, the Blue Angels, life and leadership. She has an incredible message and I was inspired by her and her story.
View episode here
#028 -Brigade Boxing with Stephanie Simon '17
February 26, 2020
I'm joined by Stephanie Simon who is a class of 17 graduate from the United States Naval Academy and currently serves as a United States Marine Corps Officer. Stephanie was a general science major at the academy.
View episode here
#027 - Discussing the book Sex in the Hall with Ricky Conlin '99
February 11, 2020
My guest is author Ricky Conlin. Ricky returns to the podcast as one of my most popular guests ever. He is a proud member of the mighty class of 1999, was an economics major and a member of the sixth company.
View episode here
#026 - David Marquet '81 - Submarine Captain and Best Selling Author - Leadership is Language
February 04, 2020
In this episode, we discuss leadership through the lens of his time at the academy, his time in the fleet and his subsequent career as a New York Times best selling author, keynote speaker, and leadership consultant
View episode here
#025 - Ship Selection Night with Jarred Reid-Dixon '17
January 21, 2020
In this episode, Jarred takes us through the what the night is like for Mids and much of the behind the scenes stuff that parents never see.
View episode here
#024 -Outdoor Adventures and Summer Trainings for Midshipmen with Rob Roy '11
January 13, 2020
This episode will answer your questions about what are some of the things available to Mids who love the outdoors and have the adventure-bound spirit like Rob.
View episode here
#023 - The Naval Academy Conduct System with Rob Roy '11
January 1, 2020
This episode will answer your questions about what the conduct system is and different unique aspects of the conduct system. This episode will answer your questions about what the conduct system is and different unique aspects of the conduct system. We explain terms like getting "fried" and what an adjudication is.
View episode here
#022 - Leadership with Captain D. Michael Abrashoff '82
December 23, 2019
In this episode, we discuss leadership through the lens of his time at the academy, his time in the fleet and his subsequent career as a New York Times best selling author, keynote speaker, and leadership consultant.
View episode here
#021 - Army Navy Game Ball Run - 13th Company with Guest Rebecca Richmond '16
December 10, 2019
Rebecca who is a 2016 graduate of the Naval Academy, joins the podcast while serving as a Navy pilot out of Virginia Beach flying the E2-C. She was in the 13th Company and a systems engineering major with an focus in robotics.
View episode here
#020 - Army Week at the United States Naval Academy with Captain Eddie Pilcher '96
December 9, 2019
Captain Pilcher joins the podcast while serving as the Commanding Officer of the Naval Air Facility, Washington - Joint Base Andrews. He was in the 31st Company and an ocean engineering major. He is from Tigard, Oregon.
View episode here
#019 - Army Navy Game with Dishan Romine '17, Calvin Cass Jr. '17 & Alex Barta '17
December 5, 2019
The Army-Navy game is the most celebrated rivalry in college football. It is frequently attended by sitting U.S. presidents and it is well known to be a "bucket list" item for sports fans.
View episode here
#018 - A Parent's Journey at USNA with Karl Smith - Anchored in Tradition
November 26, 2019
Karl is a great conversationalist, storyteller, and dedicated parent. He is honest, authentic and funny and shares so much tremendous wisdom and insight for everyone around navigating the academy journey. View episode here
#017 - Jesse Iwuji '10 - Navy LT and NASCAR Driver
November 12, 2019
Jesse is an extremely impressive individual. This opportunity to talk with him was a ton of fun. We share insight on a broad variety of topics about the Naval Academy and life after the Naval Academy. . View episode here
#016 - Coast Guard Academy Exchange with Matt Meltzer '17 USN
November 5, 2019
In this episode, Matt takes us through the opportunities for USNA Midshipmen to spend a semester at the other service academies.. View episode here
#015 - Halloween at USNA with Jeremiah Harding'17 USMC
October 29, 2019
In this episode, we give a peek of what Halloween is like at the Academy for a Mid. Do we decorate our rooms? Do we wear costumes (other than those Navy costumes we wear each day)?. View episode here
#014 - Andrea Howard '15 - Marshall Scholar and Submarine Junior Officer
October 22, 2019
I'm joined by Andrea Howard who is a class of 15 graduate from the United States Naval Academy and currently serves as a submarine officer. Teresa was an Arabic and Political Science major at the academy. View episode here
#013 - The Black N with Ricky Conlin '99 - The Secret Society of Bad Boys of the Naval Academy
October 15, 2019
My guest is author Ricky Conlin. He is a proud member of the mighty class of 1999, was an economics major and a member of the sixth company. View episode here
#012 - Life of a Surface Warfare Junior Officer (SWO) with Guest Teresa Meadows '16
October 8, 2019
I'm joined by Teresa Meadows who is a class of 16 graduate from the United States Naval Academy and currently serves as a surface warfare officer. Teresa was in 28th company and a history major.
View episode here
#011 - The Daily Life of a Plebe with Guest Matt Meltzer '17
October 1, 2019
Matt provides great insight from something that he will mention in the podcast as the "NARP" perspective or the non-athletic regular person, where I come from a varsity athlete perspective. View episode here
#010 - Patty Lutton - USNA MID MOMS!!! (and DADS!) Facebook Page Founder
September 22, 2019
Patty and Grant talk about the unique challenges of being a service academy parent, many of the questions and concerns that come up for academy parents and even their favorite ice cream in Annapolis.
View episode here
#009 - Signatures Sheets with Guest Nicki DeGuzman '16
September 01, 2019
Nicki joins the podcast while serving in the information warfare community. He was in the 4th Company and a computer science and IT double major. He is from the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. View episode here
#008 - Temporary Assigned Duty at the USNA with Guest Tilman Dunbar '16
August 25, 2019
Grant and Tilman talk about Tilman's experiences as a student at the naval academy and later as an ensign helping out for activities like PEP, swimming, boxing, and the rock climbing wall. View episode here
#007 - Tango Company with Guest Chrishad Broadway '16
July 23, 2019
Grant and Chris talk about what the little talked about Tango company is, their schedule, where they live in Bancroft Hall, where they eat in King Hall and all that goes into helping them discern if they want to stay or leave the Naval Academy. View episode here
#006 - Julie Haller - 2023 BLB Parents Facebook Moderator and Experienced USNA Mom
June 24, 2019
She shares so many words of wisdom with us on NAPS, plebe summer, parenting mids and so much more. Julie is amazing and gives so much service to parents through her facebook page and the advice and counsel she provides. Julie is warm, funny and wealth of information about the academy. View episode here
#005 - Being Excellent with Guest Jon Bangsal '15 USMC
May 19, 2019
In this episode, your host Grant Vermeer speaks with United States Marine Corps officer Jon Bangsal '15 about his experiences and struggles to get into the academy and his lessons learned in Annapolis.
View episode here
#004 - Plebe Summer Series: Guest Sarita Condie '17 Liked Plebe Summer
May 18, 2019
In this episode, your host Grant Vermeer speaks with United States Navy officer Sarita Condie '17 about her experience during plebe summer, being one of the best basketball players ever at the naval academy and her time as the honor and character liaison on the staff during plebe summer. View episode here
#003 - Plebe Summer Series: Being Your Best Every Day with Guest Troy Thompson '17 USN
May 16, 2019
Troy was a standout midshipman and there are not many more people I respect more in the world than Troy who is dedicated to excellence in everything he does. He is a Lieutenant Junior Grade in the United States Navy, currently located in Sasebo, Japan. View episode here
#002 - Plebe Summer Organization with guest Christian Blanchard USNA Class of 2017
May 15, 2019
Grant served as the regimental commander during plebe summer for the class of 2020 and Christian chose to be a platoon leader. During the academic year that followed Grant served as the Sixth battalion commander and Christian was his executive officer (XO). View episode here
#001 - The Purpose of Plebe Summer with Commander Mike Murnane
May 14, 2019
Commander Murnane is a leader Grant holds in the highest esteem and considers him a mentor. Their conversation and stories about the behind the scenes of running plebe summer give a great insight into plebe summer and the naval academy. View episode here
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