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. With a family deeply rooted in military service, Jake’s journey to the Academy is both inspiring and enlightening. Listen in as he shares his unique perspective on mentorship, leadership, and the invaluable life lessons gained during his time as a Plebe Summer detailer.

Jake recounts the transformative process of moving from a plebe to a leadership role, shedding light on how impactful figures like XO Ryan Iverson can shape one’s development. From the significance of daily routines and emotional support to the complexities of recognizing prior enlisted members, Jake’s stories provide a compelling look at the inner workings of the Academy. We also explore the vital role of feedback and mentorship, where even small acts of kindness can leave a lasting impression on both plebes and their leaders.

Our discussion touches on essential topics such as personal care, mail delivery, and the powerful 'thought of the day' practice, which helps gauge plebe morale. With heartwarming anecdotes and humorous moments, Jake's motivational speech during the Blue and Gold phase is a testament to the spirit and resilience of midshipmen. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone curious about life at the Naval Academy, offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs faced by those who serve. Don’t miss this engaging and informative episode of the Academy Insider Podcast!

The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.

Grant Vermeer your host is the person who started it all. He is the founder of Academy Insider and the host of The Academy Insider podcast. He was a recruited athlete which brought him to Annapolis where he was a four year member of the varsity basketball team. He was a cyber operations major and commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community. He was stationed at Fort Meade and supported the Subsurface Direct Support mission.

He separated from the Navy in 2023 and now owns The Vermeer Group, a residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community with nationwide consulting and connection.

We are here to be your guide through the USNA experience.

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