The Academy Insider Podcast - Your Guide to The Naval Academy Experience

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Can you imagine the profound impact a simple posture correction technique can have on discipline? Brace yourselves as Ricky, Troy, and I unpack the unique terminologies and practices of Plebe Summer at the United States Naval Academy. 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." Our discussion sheds light on how these seemingly small practices play a critical role in the midshipman experience.

Prepare to be learn about all the different definitions and contexts surrounding the word "rate" and the accountability it enforces. We also tackle the notorious "chow calls" — an experience that’s part alarm clock, part performance test — detailing how plebes navigate the high-pressure environment of memorizing menus and making constant announcements. Through Ricky and Troy's personal anecdotes, you'll get an insider's look at how these challenges build camaraderie and resilience, painting an authentic picture of life at the Naval Academy.

For any real estate questions, please text me at 650-282-1964

To stay most up to date with Grant, Naval Academy updates, and real estate insights, follow him on LinkedIn

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

This podcast is independently produced and reflects the views and opinions of its creators. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the United States Naval Academy or its affiliates.

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 matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country.  Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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

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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. 

With insights from Troy Thompson, a 2017 graduate and active duty Naval officer, and Rick Conlin, a 1999 graduate and author, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving language and customs that have shaped the Plebe experience over the past three decades. From Troy's tales as a former football player and cyber major to Rick's reflections on his Navy days, we aim to make you feel like an insider.

Get ready to learn about the intricacies of Plebe life, starting with the terms "alpha code" and "bulkhead" and their crucial role in daily routines. Discover the disciplined practice of hitting the bulkhead, standing at attention, and maintaining "bearing"—the stoic composure required at all times. Delve into the creative punishments like the "bearing bear" and the significance of collective responsibility, where the entire company faces consequences for an individual's mistake. Our lively discussion highlights the mental fortitude and camaraderie that these traditions foster among the midshipmen.

As we wrap up, immerse yourself in the rigorous routines and humorous mishaps that define Plebe Summer. From the brisk pace of "chopping" and "squaring corners" to the memorable practice of "sir sandwiches," our personal stories capture the humor and intensity of these traditions. You'll hear about the importance of maintaining bearing during inspections and the amusing challenges plebes face. We hope you enjoy this episode filled with laughter, insights, and a genuine appreciation for the disciplined environment of the Naval Academy. Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to your feedback!

This episode will answer:

• What is an alpha code and what does it mean?
• What is a bulkhead? 
• What is bearing?
• What does it mean to get dropped or put on your face?
• What are chow calls?
• What does it mean to sound off?
• What is chopping mean at the Naval Academy?
• What does it mean to square your corners?
• What does it mean when my child says they have to stick out their paw?
• What is a sir or ma'am sandwich?
• What is bracing?
• What are common punishments during Plebe Summer?

For any real estate questions, please text me at 650-282-1964

To stay most up to date with Grant, Naval Academy updates, and real estate insights, follow him on LinkedIn

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

This podcast is independently produced and reflects the views and opinions of its creators. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the United States Naval Academy or its affiliates.

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 matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country.  Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
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Send us Fan Mail

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.  Captain Gervy outlines his path marked by leadership, resilience, and a deep sense of duty.  Listen to how his experiences commanding multiple warships and mentoring junior officers (JOs) have shaped his perspective on service and leadership.  Plus, get a rare glimpse into the emotional rollercoaster of being a midshipman parent, as he reflects on his daughter's recent graduation from the Academy.

Ever wondered what drives someone to choose the Surface Warfare Officer (SWO) path? Captain Gervy reveals the practical considerations and personal preferences that led him to this career.  Through these stories, you'll gain insights into the crucial role of mentorship in overcoming the the initial hurdles of the SWO journey.

Navigating the challenges of a Navy career requires more than just skill; it demands humility, a willingness to learn, and relentless resilience.  Captain Gervy emphasizes these qualities as he recounts the rigorous training at the Naval Academy and the real-world challenges faced in the fleet. From managing time and priorities as a young ensign to the emotional journey of seeing his daughter thrive at the Academy, he offers invaluable lessons on leadership and personal growth. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for midshipmen, future officers, and their families, underscoring the profound impact of finding purpose within the Navy.

For any real estate questions, please text me at 650-282-1964

To stay most up to date with Grant, Naval Academy updates, and real estate insights, follow him on LinkedIn

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

This podcast is independently produced and reflects the views and opinions of its creators. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the United States Naval Academy or its affiliates.

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 matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country.  Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
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Send us Fan Mail

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.  From his son Noah's intense Plebe Summer at the Naval Academy to his current role as a Lieutenant JG on the USS Florida, Carl provides a reflective and invaluable perspective. We also draw comparisons with his daughter Katie's experiences at the Air Force Academy. Tune in as Carl opens up about the evolving dynamics between parents and their midshipman children and the importance of personalized support.

Every family's story is unique, and Karl's insights underscore that truth.  He offers powerful advice on handling the highs and lows, such as not making permanent decisions based on temporary emotions.  From the pride of watching a child captain a boat at Fleet Week to the anxiety of potential expulsion, Karl's experiences are a testament to the resilience required in supporting loved ones at military academies. Learn how preparedness and experience can be your best allies in these demanding environments.

We also explore the contrasting experiences between the Naval Academy and the Air Force Academy, highlighting the more inclusive nature of events like I-Day and Herndon at the Naval Academy.  Karl's projects, including his blog, My Kid the Mid, his book "Anchored in Tradition," and his soon to be released book, "Flying High and Diving Deep," aim to provide new parents with valuable insights and support.  With authenticity at its core, this episode stresses the importance of understanding and embracing each midshipman's unique journey at the academy.  Join us for an episode full of wisdom, authenticity, and heartfelt stories.

He answers questions such as: 

- How did you balance the selflessness of not being a burden on your son
but also staying involved, engaged, and interested in his experience at the Naval Academy?
- How would you describe the Naval Academy journey as a parent?
- How different has the experience been between the Air Force Academy (USAFA) and the Naval Academy (USNA)?

Buy Anchored In Tradition: https://www.amazon.com/Anchored-Tradition-unofficial-collection-figures/dp/1724662155

For any real estate questions, please text me at 650-282-1964

To stay most up to date with Grant, Naval Academy updates, and real estate insights, follow him on LinkedIn

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

This podcast is independently produced and reflects the views and opinions of its creators. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the United States Naval Academy or its affiliates.

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 matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country.  Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
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Send us Fan Mail

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. With her unique perspective, Annie guides us through the emotional rollercoaster of I-Day, Plebe Summer, and beyond, sharing personal anecdotes and practical strategies that every Naval Academy parent can benefit from.

Throughout our conversation, Annie, the author of "A USNA Mom's Journal," illustrates the importance of letting go and allowing children to self-advocate—a crucial skill for their future roles in the Navy. We delve into the logistics of preparing for the commissioning ceremony, the emotional shifts parents might witness in their children, and the significance of creating memorable family experiences before they embark on their Naval Academy journey. Whether you're grappling with the initial emptiness at home or planning out the big day, Annie's wisdom will resonate deeply.

But the journey doesn't stop there. Annie also highlights the enduring bond between parents and midshipmen, emphasizing the role of community support and parent clubs. From humorous Plebe Summer stories to coping strategies for distressing letters, this episode is packed with emotional, practical, and inspirational guidance. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of being a Naval Academy parent, and discover the strength found in shared experiences and the power of a supportive network.

In this episode we answer the following questions:

• How should I prepare for I-day at the United States Naval Academy?
• How do I support my child who is a midshipman?
• How should I prepare as a parent for the Naval Academy journey?
• What are practical strategies that can help me as a Naval Academy parent?
• Am I going to experience any kind of sadness or missing feeling the following day/weeks after I-day?
• What resources should I use to stay connected to the Plebe Summer experience?

Get a copy of A USNA Mom's Journey (Dad's Need This Too!): https://www.amazon.com/USNA-Moms-Journal-through-Commissioning-ebook/dp/B093FWWNQZ

For any real estate questions, please text me at 650-282-1964

To stay most up to date with Grant, Naval Academy updates, and real estate insights, follow him on LinkedIn

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

This podcast is independently produced and reflects the views and opinions of its creators. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the United States Naval Academy or its affiliates.

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 matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country.  Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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 ar...

Send us Fan Mail

Preparing for and Navigating Life at the Naval Academy Prep School (NAPS) with PJ Roach

This 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). The discussion provides insight into the experiences at NAPS, including the indoctrination process for midshipman candidates, leadership lessons, and how NAPS prepares students for life at the Naval Academy. Roach shares his personal journey from being influenced by his sister and family's Navy background to attending NAPS, leading as a battalion commander while at the USNA, and his current pursuit of a master's in information security at Carnegie Mellon University. 

Key advice for future NAPSters includes maintaining an open mindset, the importance of balancing athletics with academics and military duties, and the value of seeking mentorship. The episode underscores the transformative impact of NAPS and the Naval Academy on fostering leadership and personal growth.

00:00 Welcome to Season Two: Uniting the Naval Academy Community

00:46 Sponsor Spotlight: The Vermeer Group's Support

01:15 Special Guest Introduction: PJ Roach's Naval Academy Journey

01:20 Deep Dive into NAPS: Insights and Experiences

02:48 PJ Roach's Personal Journey: From Midshipman to Graduate School

08:16 Leadership Lessons: Becoming the NAPS Battalion Commander

25:26 Advice for Future Midshipmen: Preparing for NAPS and Beyond

29:31 Gratitude and Reflections: Shoutouts and Closing Thoughts

For any real estate questions, please text me at 650-282-1964

To stay most up to date with Grant, Naval Academy updates, and real estate insights, follow him on LinkedIn

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

This podcast is independently produced and reflects the views and opinions of its creators. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the United States Naval Academy or its affiliates.

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 matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country.  Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
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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. Listen as we peel back the curtain on D&B.

Andrea takes us through the high notes of her tenure—performing at international spectacles and rousing sporting events, where the D&B's presence amplifies the spirit of competition. Her stories of Mardi Gras parades and the Navy-Notre Dame game in Ireland shine a light on the dedication and pride woven into every melody played by these academically minded musicians.

Leadership, often a symphony of challenges and triumphs, is a central theme as we chat with Andrea about her role as Corps Commander. From orchestrating logistics for performances to nurturing both the academic and physical aspirations of her fellow midshipmen, her insights give us a masterclass in leadership—Naval Academy style. Join us for a conversation that's as much about the beats of the drums as it is about beating the odds and leading with heart and harmony.

For any real estate questions, please text me at 650-282-1964

To stay most up to date with Grant, Naval Academy updates, and real estate insights, follow him on LinkedIn

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

This podcast is independently produced and reflects the views and opinions of its creators. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the United States Naval Academy or its affiliates.

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 matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country.  Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
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Send us Fan Mail

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. Our conversation charts the course of the program's evolution, the impact of more intimate company sizes, and the intimate bonds that last a lifetime. Whether you're a proud parent of a midshipman or simply fascinated by the culture of the Naval Academy, this episode offers a rare glimpse into a world where civilians morph into leaders of the sea.

Christian explains the role of each military organization & unit, and then weighs in on the mantle of a company commander and the delicate dance of fostering Navy traditions while nurturing the individual spirit of each plebe. We also shed light on the humorous escapades that provide levity to the demanding days.

Closing on a note of wisdom, we impart essential advice to future plebes through the lens of Christian's experiences and the sage words of Captain Green. It's a testament to the academy's ethos of teamwork and collective achievement, sowing the seeds for personal growth and unity.  Join us for these stories and more, as we anchor in the lessons of the past to chart a course for the future.

For any real estate questions, please text me at 650-282-1964

To stay most up to date with Grant, Naval Academy updates, and real estate insights, follow him on LinkedIn

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

This podcast is independently produced and reflects the views and opinions of its creators. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the United States Naval Academy or its affiliates.

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 matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country.  Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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

Connect with Grant on Linkedin
Academy Insider Website
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If you ar...

Send us Fan Mail

Generational Changing Opportunity - The United States Naval Academy

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. They share their personal experiences, touching on the challenges and rewards of life at the academy, the power of the Naval Academy network, and the generational opportunities it provides. 

From discussing the importance of mentorship and leadership lessons to exploring the financial stability and global experiences afforded to junior officers, this episode encapsulates the essence of what it means to be part of the Naval Academy community.

Highlighting stories of influential figures within the network, such as Vice Admiral Mel Williams, the podcast encourages current and future midshipmen to lean into their experiences, embrace the academy's mission, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

00:00 Welcome to Season 2: Unveiling the Naval Academy Experience

01:19 Diving Deep with Troy Thompson: A Naval Academy Journey

10:10 The Power of Mentorship and Leadership at the Naval Academy

22:11 Life After the Academy: The Junior Officer Experience

26:38 Maximizing Financial Opportunities in the Navy

27:59 Investment Strategies and Real Estate Ventures

28:35 Setting Financial Systems for Success

35:12 The Power of the Naval Academy Network

43:29 Advice for Future Naval Academy Students

54:07 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

For any real estate questions, please text me at 650-282-1964

To stay most up to date with Grant, Naval Academy updates, and real estate insights, follow him on LinkedIn

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

This podcast is independently produced and reflects the views and opinions of its creators. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the United States Naval Academy or its affiliates.

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 matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country.  Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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 ar...

Send us Fan Mail

The Herndon Climb Tradition at the United States Naval Academy

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. Demonstrating the teamwork and perseverance they have learned during their first year at the academy, the plebes build a human pyramid to remove the “dixie cup” cover (hat) at the top of the vegetable shortening-covered monument and replace it with an upperclassman’s cover. After successfully completing the Herndon Climb, the freshmen are no longer called plebes but “fourth class midshipmen.”

Together, we peel back layers of history to uncover the spirit and camaraderie that this storied event embodies. Admiral McNeal, bringing a treasure trove of anecdotes from his comprehensive history of the climb, gives us an intimate portrayal of this physical and mental challenge that binds midshipmen in an unforgettable rite of passage.  I reflect on my own experiences, weaving personal stories into today's conversation.

We delve into the creation of Admiral McNeal's book, revealing the meticulous process that captures the essence of the Herndon Climb through the voices of diverse graduates, including groundbreaking narratives from women graduates of the '80s. The Naval Institute Press plays a pivotal role, bringing the Admiral's diligent research and heartfelt stories to a wider audience, offering a window into the enduring legacy of the Herndon Climb.

Share in the reflections on leadership that hinge on the Academy's core principles, as we discuss the role it plays in shaping the midshipmen into leaders of integrity and vision. We tap into the wisdom of military leaders like Admiral Carter and highlight the bonds formed at the Academy that form a lifelong network of support. For those with a keen interest in Navy traditions, aspiring applicants, or anyone who values the intersection of history and leadership, this episode sheds light on why the Naval Academy remains a beacon of excellence and camaraderie. 

For any real estate questions, please text me at 650-282-1964

To stay most up to date with Grant, Naval Academy updates, and real estate insights, follow him on LinkedIn

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

This podcast is independently produced and reflects the views and opinions of its creators. It is not officially affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the United States Naval Academy or its affiliates.

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 matches service academy families with trusted real estate teams all across the country.  Text (650) 282-1964 with any real estate questions.

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 ar...