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].

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. Kelvin opens up about his journey through military training and his upcoming career shift to pursuing an MBA at the University of Notre Dame, offering a rare glimpse into the transformative power of service academy education. 

Prepare to be amazed as we compare the rigorous yet distinct training programs of West Point and the Naval Academy. From weapons qualification and land navigation at Camp Buckner to sailing and seamanship in Annapolis, these institutions forge the leaders of tomorrow through their unique traditions. Personal anecdotes capture the raw shock of the initial training phase and the challenges of balancing academics, athletics, and military obligations.

But it's not all challenges and grit. Discover how the service academy network fosters lifelong connections and mentorship that shape careers and personal growth. Hear about the influential figures who've made an impact on Kelvin's journey, and learn how the network provides invaluable support and opportunities. This episode underscores the enduring bonds and leadership development that come from attending these storied academies, making it a must-listen for anyone curious about military life and leadership.

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].

A West Point grad investing in a Naval Academy grad?! Unearth the secrets of entrepreneurship and innovation within the Service Academy Network as we prepare for the much-anticipated Army-Navy game. Join us as we welcome Brad Harrison, an accomplished West Point graduate and managing partner of Scout Ventures, alongside Paul Lwin, a Naval Academy alumnus and CEO of Havoc AI. These remarkable guests share their journeys from military academies to the forefront of venture capital and defense technology, illustrating how their unique backgrounds and the robust support of the Service Academy Network have paved the way for groundbreaking collaborations in national defense innovation.

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. With insights from mentors like Brad, we delve into the crucial role of guidance and perseverance amidst adversity. This episode provides a firsthand look into the motivation and learning curve involved in my own journey from military service to the demanding world of defense tech innovation.

Celebrate the unparalleled opportunities available through a service academy education, from rigorous academic programs to leadership development. We reflect on the indelible impact of service academies like Annapolis & West Point on personal growth and the formation of lifelong networks. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight the transformational power of these institutions in developing leaders of character who continue to contribute to national defense and global stability through innovation and investment. 

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 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. With clever use of nautical terminology and grounding humor, Rylan’s storytelling captures the unique spirit of the Army-Navy game in a way that's both entertaining and pride inducing. We share the thrill, challenges, and ultimate triumph of this year-and-a-half-long creative endeavor, where Rylan creates the most epic spirit spot of all time.

Ever wondered what it takes to film a high-tech military project on a historic aircraft carrier? Get an insider’s perspective as we explore the behind-the-scenes action of shooting a visually stunning video on the USS Midway Museum in San Diego. Initially planned for a studio with virtual reality backgrounds, his plans shifted, leading to an intense 48-hour shoot that weaves together military unity with a touch of humor. Thanks to a successful Kickstarter campaign and the support of the Midway team, Rylan's production captures the essence of military worlds in a cinematic style, with a fun easter egg hidden for the eagle-eyed viewer. Be part of the celebration and share in the excitement as we gear up for the Army-Navy game, and don’t forget to send your questions for Ryland in future episodes!

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].

Unravel the mysteries of military life as we explore the concept of "CMOD" at the Naval Academy through the concerned eyes of Lorianne, a mother from Boston. CMOD, or Company Mate of the Deck, is more than just an acronym; it's a crucial watch position that plebes hold, introducing them to the vital practice of standing watch. Hear how this role shapes the lives of plebes, equipping them with essential skills for their Naval careers, and why it might sound daunting to outsiders. Through this explanation, we aim to ease the worry and illuminate the structured and disciplined life at the Academy.

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. This episode is part of our Ask G series, offering concise answers to burning questions from listeners. With a mission to build a supportive and informed community, we invite you to engage, ask questions, and gain a clearer understanding of life at the Academy. Thank you for tuning in, and be ready to dive deeper into the stories and insights that define the Naval Academy's journey.

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].

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. Learn how Anthony’s journey from enlisting in 2001 to becoming the Chief of the Boat (COB) on the USS John Warner has shaped his leadership philosophy. He provides a unique perspective on the crucial role of mentorship and communication between the chief’s mess and the wardroom, illustrating how these relationships are pivotal in molding the leaders of tomorrow. Gain exclusive insights into his responsibilities and the collaborative environment that supports midshipmen and junior officers.

Our conversation delves into the process of fostering leadership skills in naval officers. We highlight the indispensable guidance chief petty officers provide to junior officers as they navigate the shift from the Naval Academy’s structured environment to real-world naval operations. By empowering junior officers with decision-making capabilities, we explore how they can develop a profound sense of purpose, positively impacting their sailors while embracing the ethos of servant leadership.

Finally, we share inspiring stories from the submarine force, celebrating the dedication and humility of some incredible officers. The episode captures the transformative experience of serving beneath the waves, where the quest for self-improvement and personal growth is ever-present. Join us as we reflect on the tight-knit community of submariners and the invaluable leadership opportunities that await those who are humble and hungry for success. As we conclude, we express our gratitude to our listeners and invite them to contribute their feedback, ensuring the Academy Insider continues to be a valuable resource for the naval 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].

Discover the intricacies of the United States Naval Academy's service assignment process with two remarkable Navy officers, Tim Leonardi and Max Vidaver. Tim, a 2004 USNA graduate and the current chairman of Officer Accessions and Talent Optimization, walks us through his impressive career from E-2 Hawkeye mission commander to pivotal roles on the USS Ronald Reagan. Max, a 60 Romeo pilot with an intriguing career shift from civil engineering to Navy aviation, sheds light on what it takes to maneuver the complexities of service selection and the diverse Navy communities midshipmen can enter.  Learn about the journey of becoming a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO), Submarine Officer, Navy Pilot, Naval Flight Officer, Navy SEAL, Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Officer, Information Warfare Officer, Supply Corps Officer, Medical Corps Officer, or of course, a United States Marine Corps Officer.

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! You'll gain insight into how midshipmen's preferences are balanced with the Navy's needs and how candidates are assessed on their qualifications and fit for various roles. The stakes are high, and the process is competitive, providing a real-world glimpse into the strategic decisions shaping future Navy and Marine Corps leaders.

We also explore the unique traditions and spirited ceremonies that accompany service assignment notifications, particularly for those aspiring to join the Marine Corps. Experience the camaraderie and pride that come with these time-honored celebrations, as new Marines are welcomed into the fold and communities gather to honor this pivotal moment in a midshipman's career. As you listen, you'll be immersed in the vibrant culture and commitment that define the Naval Academy's mission to develop the next generation of Navy and Marine Corps 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].