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Phil Black discusses the strategies and tactics that will help your child earn: (1) service academy appointments, (2) ROTC scholarships, and (3) acceptances to their top-choice colleges. If your child... more
FAQs about ServeWell Podcast:How many episodes does ServeWell Podcast have?The podcast currently has 110 episodes available.
August 30, 2026Ep. 109 | DoDMERB: A cautionary taleIn this week's podcast, I review what DoDMERB is and how to avoid the pitfalls it may present.When your child applies to a service academy or ROTC program, they will eventually be prompted to complete an online medical questionnaire.Do not let them do this alone.One wrong click or misrepresentation could lead to a medical disqualification.Please listen to this episode first.For those with younger students, listen to this episode now to make sure that any injuries from here on out are handled appropriately....more17minPlay
August 23, 2026Ep. 108 | 5 Nothing-Burger Activities to AvoidIn this week's podcast, I review the 5 biggest nothing-burger extracurricular activities that you should not include in your applications - unless you have no choice.You might be surprised by the list.Even though some of the activities/organizations sound legitimate, more often than not, they are a waste of time, energy, and money.Don't get caught chasing the wrong cars....more20minPlay
August 15, 2026Ep. 107 | Ethan vs RomanIn this week's episode, I compare the trajectory of two similar students as they transition into college. [Though inspired by real-world stories, these students are fictitious and the outcomes are for illustration purposes only.]One student (Ethan) decided to take the more traditional pathway by attending a well-respected, liberal arts college where he would study economics.The other student (Roman) decided to take a less traditional route and attended the United States Naval Academy to study mechanical engineering.I tracked their progress from age 18 - 35.If you're interested to see where their lives ended up, please tune into this week's show....more20minPlay
August 09, 2026Ep. 106 | The service academy interviewIn this week's episode, I review how to prepare for a service academy interview.Last week, my youngest son sat down with his Blue & Gold officer for his official USNA interview. It was the fourth time the Blue & Gold officer has been to our house.Listen to this podcast to find out:how to preparewhat to expectcommon questionsdress codetimingTune in if you want the inside scoop on how this important part of the application process goes down....more23minPlay
August 02, 2026Ep. 105 | Shouldn't every student consider the service academies?In this week's episode, I wonder why every high school student doesn't apply to a service academy and/or ROTC program....more20minPlay
July 26, 2026Ep. 104 | Is an SAT tutor worth it?In this week's episode, I discuss whether it's worth it to invest in an SAT or ACT tutor....more21minPlay
July 19, 2026Ep. 103 | 3 Critical HabitsIn this week's episode, I reflect on the last few months of 1-on-1 consulting sessions I've had with several ServeWellers.With few exceptions, many students were guilty of the following poor habits:Not taking notesNot creating outlines prior to writingNot calling adults by their namesPlease have a listen and discuss this topic with your child.These habits will pay long-term dividends well after the college admissions process is over....more14minPlay
July 12, 2026Ep. 102 | Work-Life BalanceIn this week's episode, I react to a comment left on one of my Instagram reels suggesting that maritime academies weren't ideal because they often required long stretches at sea (3-6 months) which is not ideal for maintaining a work-life balance.Come again?Is the new rule that every college graduate should expect:a guaranteed jobmaking $100K/yrwith work-life balance?Tune in to hear my thoughts on this comment....more12minPlay
July 06, 2026Ep. 101 | TED Talk RouletteIn this week's episode, I review the origin story of "TED Talk Roulette" and how it can be implemented in your child's life.This activity is designed to help students who claim that they "just aren't interested in anything."If your child finds it difficult to articulate what they are interested in, what college might be a good fit (e.g. traditional, service academy, ROTC), or a possible career path, it's time to play TED Talk Roulette. Feel free to reach out with any questions....more10minPlay
June 28, 2026Ep. 100 | What makes college students successful (Part 3)This week, I offer the third and final installment of our 3-part series that tries to answer the question:What makes college students successful?In review:- Part I (feedback)- Part 2 (structure)- Part 3 (challenge)Feel free to reach out with any questions....more11minPlay
FAQs about ServeWell Podcast:How many episodes does ServeWell Podcast have?The podcast currently has 110 episodes available.