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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].

Are you considering a career in the Navy's Information Warfare Community? As a former cryptologic officer, I'm here to provide an insider's perspective on this rapidly evolving field.

In this episode, I break down the various designators within the Information Warfare Community, with a special focus on opportunities for those interested in cyber operations. From meteorology to intelligence, and from cryptologic warfare to the newly established Maritime Cyber Warfare Officer (MCWO) role, we explore the diverse paths available.

Key Insights:

• Understanding the differences between cryptologic warfare, MCWO, and cyber warfare engineer (CWE) roles
• The recent shift of Information Warfare from restricted line to direct line community
• Deployment expectations and career progression for each designator
• Understanding the Cyber Mission Force and its components that MCWOs will be a part of

What You'll Learn:

• How the Navy is adapting to meet the growing demand for cyber specialists
• The pros and cons of each Information Warfare designator
• What to expect in terms of education, training, and daily responsibilities
• How recent changes might affect commissioning opportunities at the Naval Academy

Whether you're a midshipman weighing your service assignment options or a high school student with an interest in military cyber operations, this episode provides valuable insights to help guide your decision-making process.

Remember, if you're looking for fleet experience and deployments, cryptologic warfare might be your best bet. But if you're set on focusing solely on cyber operations, the MCWO path could be your ideal route.

Have questions about the Information Warfare Community? Reach out, and I'll connect you with current officers who can provide even more detailed information about their experiences.

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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].

In this episode of the Academy Insider podcast, we dive deep into the art of developing a robust leadership philosophy with Eric Dyson, a 1983 graduate of the United States Naval Academy.

Eric shares invaluable insights from his time as a midshipman, his career as a Naval officer, and his experiences in the civilian world. He breaks down his seven-step leadership philosophy, offering practical advice for aspiring leaders at every stage of their journey.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of defining and refining your purpose
• Strategies for identifying and nurturing talent within your team
• How to set and maintain a standard of excellence
• The power of recognition and positive reinforcement
• Ways to inspire and motivate those under your command

Highlights from the Discussion:

• Eric's journey from a curious teenager to a submarine officer
• The evolution of leadership philosophy from midshipman to civilian life
• Real-world examples of effective leadership in high-pressure situations
• The critical role of training and providing the right tools for success
• How to balance discipline with encouragement in leadership

Whether you're a current midshipman, a junior officer, or simply interested in honing your leadership skills, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice. Eric's candid stories and hard-earned wisdom provide a roadmap for developing a leadership style that's both effective and authentic.

Eric leaves us with a compelling case for considering a service academy education, emphasizing the unparalleled leadership training and personal growth opportunities it provides. He encourages listeners to reach out and connect with academy graduates to learn more about this unique and rewarding path.

Join us for an engaging conversation that will challenge you to reflect on your own leadership journey and inspire you to make a positive impact on those you lead.

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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].

Are you curious about the inner workings of military leadership and the valuable lessons that can shape a young officer's career? In this episode of the Academy Insider Podcast, I sit down with Mark C. Fava, author of the soon-to-be-released book "Lessons from the Admiral," to explore the unique insights gained from his time as a flag aide.

Mark's experience offers a fascinating perspective on leadership development for junior officers navigating the complexities of military life. We delve into the critical role of a flag aide and the competitive nature of this position, shedding light on how it can open doors and build invaluable connections.

Key Leadership Lessons Explored:

• Understanding your boss and aligning with their priorities
• The profound impact of punctuality in military and civilian life
• Navigating the delicate balance between loyalty and integrity
• The art of not panicking under pressure
• Embracing teamwork and acknowledging others' contributions

Mark shares captivating stories from his time as a flag aide, including a humorous anecdote about a haircut that teaches an important lesson about discretion. We also discuss the critical importance of building strong relationships with chiefs and how their guidance can shape a young officer's career.

Takeaways for Aspiring Leaders:

1. Learn to ask for help when needed – it's a sign of strength, not weakness
2. Understand the small but impactful ways to be a great team player
3. Recognize the value of serving others and the unique opportunities the military provides
4. Develop strategies for maintaining composure in high-pressure situations
5. Cultivate meaningful relationships across all ranks to enhance your leadership effectiveness

Whether you're a midshipman, a junior officer, or simply interested in military leadership, this episode offers valuable insights that can be applied both in and out of uniform. Join us as we unpack these lessons and explore how they can shape the next generation of military leaders.

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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].

Warning: Today's episode will discuss very sensitive topics, including death by suicide.

In this powerful episode of the Academy Insider podcast, we tackle a crucial yet often overlooked topic: mental health and suicide awareness within the Naval Academy community. 

Our guest, Tonia Lott, courageously shares her personal journey following the loss of her son, Julian, a Naval Academy graduate and submarine officer, to suicide.

Tonia discusses her mission to "heal out loud" and her book, "My Beautiful Black Son Died by Suicide." Her journey offers valuable lessons for parents, friends, and loved ones of Naval Academy midshipmen and service members.

We highlight the extensive mental health resources available at the Naval Academy, including:

 - Battalion chaplains
 - Midshipman Development Center
 - Emergency services

This episode serves as a crucial reminder to check in on the mental well-being of our loved ones, especially those in high-pressure environments like the Naval Academy. 

Tonia hopes that by sharing her story it will bring awareness to the importance of asking direct questions about mental health and understanding that success doesn't preclude struggles

Join us for this important conversation as we work to create a more supportive and aware community for our midshipmen and service members.

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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].

Are you a midshipman wondering how to prepare for life after the Naval Academy? Or perhaps you're a junior officer contemplating your next steps? In this episode of the Academy Insider podcast, I sit down with Brendan Aronson, Naval Academy graduate, Marine Corps veteran, and now CEO of The Military Veteran.

We explore the unique value that veterans bring to the civilian workforce and discuss strategies for a successful transition from military to civilian life. Brendan shares insights from his journey, from his time at the Academy to his current role in executive search and venture capital.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of focusing on being an excellent officer while in service
• How to navigate the non-linear nature of civilian careers
• The power of networking and building authentic relationships
• Why an MBA might be a valuable step for some veterans
• The lasting impact of the Naval Academy experience

Advice for Current Midshipmen:

• Build genuine connections with classmates and alumni
• Embrace the unique opportunities the Academy offers
• Develop adaptability and resilience
• Start thinking about long-term career goals early

Whether you're a current midshipman, a transitioning veteran, or simply curious about the Naval Academy experience, this episode offers valuable insights into the journey from military service to civilian success.

"Your reputation in the military and at the academy follows you. Be a good person to your classmates at all times."

Join us for an honest conversation about the challenges and opportunities that await Naval Academy graduates in the civilian world. Learn how to leverage your military experience and academy network to thrive in your post-service career.

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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].

Discover the transformative power of sleep with insights from Dr. John Cordle, a Naval Academy graduate and former nuclear surface warfare officer. Dr. Cordle shares his journey from unexpected Academy acceptance to becoming a leading advocate for sleep management in the Navy. Explore the cultural shift within the Navy, moving away from glorifying sleep deprivation to understanding its catastrophic impact on performance and safety. Learn how tragic incidents catalyzed significant policy changes, underscoring the necessity of prioritizing crew endurance and effective watch rotations.

Uncover how wearable technology is revolutionizing sleep awareness and management, even within the demanding 24/7 operations of the Navy. Hear how devices like the Oura ring highlight the effects of alcohol on sleep and aid in optimizing crew performance. Despite the challenges, a new generation of officers is embracing improved sleep practices, promising a healthier and more efficient fleet. Dr. Cordle's experiences illuminate the importance of quality rest and offer strategies for establishing a sleep-friendly routine amidst modern distractions and systemic challenges.

This episode also emphasizes personal responsibility and accountability, essential traits for both individual and organizational growth. Listen to engaging anecdotes and practical tips that highlight the role of sleep in maximizing both physical and mental performance. From military training to athletic endeavors, we explore how better sleep elevates learning, immunity, and overall health. Join us in advocating for wellness and support within the naval fleet and discover how prioritizing sleep can transform both personal and professional lives.

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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].

What if military sports could unlock leadership potential and foster international diplomacy? Join us as we uncover this intriguing prospect with our special guest, Eli Bremer, an accomplished Air Force Academy graduate, Olympian, and Military World Games competitor. We explore Eli's captivating journey from a two-sport athlete at the Academy to earning global recognition. Together, we shine a light on the often-overlooked avenues for service academy graduates to extend their athletic dreams beyond their academic years, through remarkable programs such as the Armed Forces Sports Program.

The World Military Games aren't just about sports—they're a grand spectacle of camaraderie and competition on a scale that rivals the Olympics. Imagine military athletes from 141 nations coming together to display their prowess. This episode unpacks the historical and strategic importance of these games, organized by CISM, and the unique challenges faced by American military athletes in preparation. With personal anecdotes and insights from past competitions in Wuhan, China, we highlight the pressing need for enhanced support and recognition for these athletes who represent the U.S. on the world stage.

As we look ahead to the 2027 World Military Games in Charlotte, there's much excitement in the air. Plans are underway to present a world-class event featuring awe-inspiring ceremonies and an international military expo. This is more than just a sporting event; it's a chance for the U.S. to showcase its hospitality and strength. Additionally, we explore the profound impact of sports on military leadership, evidenced by successful figures like Chad Senior and the integration of sports in military duties in countries like Lithuania. We wrap up with heartfelt gratitude to our Academy Insider audience, encouraging feedback to make our podcast a continuous source of inspiration and information for the Naval Academy community.

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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].

Join us as Rex Willis, a Naval Academy graduate and former cyber operations major, takes us on his inspiring journey from College Park, Georgia, to Harvard Business School. Through the Fleet Scholar Education Program (FSEP), Rex exemplifies how a service academy education can unlock unparalleled educational and career opportunities—even while serving as a surface warfare officer. We highlight the transformative impact of these initiatives, illustrating how they enable personal and professional growth beyond traditional military pathways.

We shine a light on the importance of effective leadership and mentorship within the Navy, drawing from Rex's personal experience of supporting a sailor’s career advancement. By fostering a supportive environment and advocating for career progression, leaders can not only fulfill individual aspirations but also retain top talent within the service. We also explore the process of "fleeting up," which allows junior officers to advance to higher roles while maintaining continuity within commands—enhancing both their personal growth and the operational stability of their units.

Rex's story illustrates the profound benefits of the FSEP, from covering graduate education costs to offering diverse career trajectories. We discuss the broader implications of a service academy education, emphasizing the importance of academic excellence, mentorship, and networking for maximizing career opportunities. With personal anecdotes and insights, we underscore the generational impact of such an education, providing transformative opportunities not only for individuals but also for their families.

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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].

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. Hear how her parents' visit to the Naval Academy ignited a passion that led her to Annapolis and beyond. As one of the pioneering women enrolling at the Academy in the late '90s, Suzanna has navigated a traditionally male-dominated institution with resilience and poise, offering invaluable insights into seizing leadership opportunities and embracing diverse career paths.

Join us as we unravel the complexity of the FAO role in the Navy. These global strategic operators are vital in crafting and executing international plans. Suzanna discusses the essential components of being a FAO, including language training and cultural immersion, and shares her on-the-ground experiences as the U.S. Naval Mission Chief in Colombia. Discover the intricate dance of international cooperation and the strategic importance of partnerships with allies in enhancing security efforts worldwide.

Aspiring to become a FAO? We've got you covered. Dive into the selection process, from mastering languages through the Defense Language Institute to understanding the Navy's strategic needs. The episode also highlights the unique career transitions available to Naval Academy graduates, underscoring the importance of gaining operational experience before embracing a FAO role. Suzanna offers guidance for midshipmen pondering this path, emphasizing networking and strategic career moves to set themselves on a successful trajectory. Whether you're interested in a military career or just curious about the inner workings of international military operations, this episode is packed with stories, advice, and a look at the future for naval officers.

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 and the USNA Property Network 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 boutique residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community PCSing to California & Texas.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
Academy Insider Facebook Page

If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].