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

GRANT VERMEER
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The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.  Through the perspective of a community of former graduates and Naval Academy insiders, this podcast will help you learn about life at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis.  Through our shared experiences, Academy Insider guides families through the anxiety and frustration caused by lack of understanding, misinformation, and confusion.  This platform is designed to better relationships between midshipmen and their loved ones.  This podcast is not affiliated with the United States Naval Academy, the United States Navy or Department of Defense. The thoughts and opinions are exclusively those of your host and his guests. 

  1. #113 Winter Break!

    DEC 14

    #113 Winter Break!

    Send us a text What Happens When Midshipmen Stay Behind During Winter BreakAs we wrap up an incredible 2025 season, I'm reflecting on what an amazing year it's been for the Naval Academy community. From the football team's outstanding achievements to the daily dedication of midshipmen preparing for finals, there's so much to celebrate as we head into winter break. In this final episode of the season, I'm sharing some exciting updates about what's coming next for Academy Insider and how we're planning to serve our community even better in 2026. Whether you're a current midshipman family, preparing for Plebe Summer, or part of our broader Naval Academy community, this episode sets the stage for what's ahead. What We're Covering in This Season Finale Celebrating the Navy football team's remarkable 2025 season and standout performancesBehind-the-scenes reality of winter break at the Naval Academy (yes, some midshipmen stay!)My vision for Academy Insider content in 2026 and beyondHow your feedback directly shapes the episodes we createExciting opportunities for businesses to connect with our engaged communityLooking Ahead: Your Voice Matters One of the most important aspects of this episode is our commitment to creating content that truly serves our community. I'm actively seeking your input on topics you want to explore, from summer training programs to detailed breakdowns of different service communities and career paths. What You'll Gain from This Episode Insight into the realities of Naval Academy life during winter breakUnderstanding of how Academy Insider is evolving to meet community needsInformation about upcoming content series on service communities and training pipelinesOpportunities to influence future episode topics through direct feedbackDetails on how local businesses can connect with our Naval Academy audienceThis episode serves as both a celebration of our community's achievements and a roadmap for the valuable content we'll be creating together. Whether you're navigating the appointment process, supporting a current midshipman, or sta 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. 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 are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: email podcast@academyinsider.com or text Grant at (443) 951-3064

    5 min
  2. #112 Army Week: Now vs Then

    DEC 8

    #112 Army Week: Now vs Then

    Send us a text Why Army Week at the Naval Academy Becomes Pure Chaos Every December Army Week has arrived at the Naval Academy, and if you've ever wondered what all the chaos and excitement is about, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of the most legendary weeks in Annapolis. As someone who lived through the absolute mayhem of Army Week during my time as a midshipman, I'm sharing the inside story of what makes this week so special - and so completely wild. From the tactical pranks in King Hall to the elaborate spirit missions across the Yard, Army Week represents a unique tradition that has evolved significantly over the years. What Makes Army Week So Legendary The historical context behind the week leading up to the Army-Navy gameHow Army Week differs from Air Force Week and why this rivalry runs deeperThe three main areas where Army Week chaos unfolds: King Hall, Bancroft Hall, and the YardWhy this week has always been a time for creative midshipman expressionArmy Week Then vs. Now I'll walk you through some of the most memorable traditions from my era, including the infamous "Princess Leia" prank and the tactical escapes through King Hall. But I'm also addressing how things have changed - including the recent installation of security cameras throughout Bancroft Hall and updated standard operating procedures that govern what's allowed. Stories You Won't Believe Epic chases through King Hall during meal timesThe strategic planning behind successful pranks and escape routesCreative spirit missions involving everything from alarm clocks to water balloonsHow plebes would get "carry on" privileges for the weekModern Army Week Evolution While some of the more destructive traditions have been phased out for safety and appropriateness, midshipmen continue finding creative ways t The Vermeer Group is a residential real company matching military families with trusted real estate teams across the country.  If you have any real estate questions at all, please text Grant at (650) 282-1964 or email grant@thevermeergroup.com 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. 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 are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: email podcast@academyinsider.com or text Grant at (443) 951-3064

    34 min
  3. #111 Inside Naval Academy Medical And Dental Services - On The Yard (006)

    NOV 30

    #111 Inside Naval Academy Medical And Dental Services - On The Yard (006)

    Send us a text What Every Naval Academy Parent Should Know About BMU and Medical Care Worried about what happens if your midshipman gets sick or injured while at the Naval Academy? Concerned about medical care during leave periods? This episode provides essential insights into the comprehensive healthcare system supporting midshipmen throughout their Academy experience. As someone who navigated this system firsthand, I'm excited to share practical knowledge about medical and dental care at the Naval Academy. We'll explore everything from routine checkups to emergency situations, giving you the confidence to understand how your midshipman's health needs are managed. Essential Healthcare Facilities You Need to Know The Brigade Medical Unit (BMU) - your midshipman's primary care headquartersDental facilities providing routine and specialized careOrthopedic clinic for sports-related injuriesMidshipman Development Center for mental health supportPhysical therapy services and referral processes to Walter ReedCritical Procedures Every Parent Should Understand How "sick call" works for immediate medical needsThe SIQ (Sick in Quarters) process and what it means for class attendanceMedical chits for injuries requiring light duty modificationsTransportation arrangements for specialty appointmentsDocumentation requirements and company officer coordinationPractical Takeaways for Families Communication protocols that keep everyone informedFinancial responsibilities for different types of careHow to handle medical situations during breaks without stressThe importance of maintaining complete medical recordsBuilding trust in the Academy's comprehensive healthcare approach The Vermeer Group is a residential real company matching military families with trusted real estate teams across the country.  If you have any real estate questions at all, please text Grant at (650) 282-1964 or email grant@thevermeergroup.com 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. 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 are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: email podcast@academyinsider.com or text Grant at (443) 951-3064

    32 min
  4. #110 The Comma Club: Insight Into Struggling Academically at the Naval Academy. Will You be Okay?

    NOV 23

    #110 The Comma Club: Insight Into Struggling Academically at the Naval Academy. Will You be Okay?

    Send us a text Why Struggling at Annapolis Doesn't Define Your Future Success Struggling academically at the Naval Academy? You're not alone, and this episode proves that your worth isn't defined by your class rank. Stefan Simkovic, Class of 2009, graduated in the "Comma Club" – the very bottom of his class – yet went on to build a thriving international business that's now working with billion-dollar companies. As we approach the 12-week exam period when academic stress peaks, this conversation offers hope and perspective for any midshipman facing academic challenges. Stefan's story demonstrates that the grit and resilience you develop at Annapolis – even while struggling – becomes the foundation for future success. What You'll Learn About Academic Struggles at the Academy  - How failing chemistry plebe year started a cascade of academic anxiety and self-doubt  - The reality of living with constant uncertainty about graduation  - Why some midshipmen need more "soak time" to absorb material than others  - How comparing yourself to high-achieving classmates can rob you of confidence  - The importance of utilizing Extra Instruction (EI) and building relationships with professors Key Takeaways for Struggling Midshipmen and Parents - Academic rank doesn't determine your future potential or leadership ability The Naval Academy network becomes invaluable throughout your career - Pressure and adversity at Annapolis build resilience for entrepreneurial success - Learning to listen to subject matter experts is a crucial leadership skill - Staying present and responding with logic rather than emotion during difficult times - Essential Questions for Parents - When your midshipman calls home struggling academically, consider asking: Have you attended Extra Instruction? Are you getting adequate sleep? - What other factors might be affecting you The Vermeer Group is a residential real company matching military families with trusted real estate teams across the country.  If you have any real estate questions at all, please text Grant at (650) 282-1964 or email grant@thevermeergroup.com 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. 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 are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: email podcast@academyinsider.com or text Grant at (443) 951-3064

    39 min
  5. #109 Learn About the Naval Academy Liberty and Leave Policies. What's the Difference? - On The Yard (005)

    NOV 16

    #109 Learn About the Naval Academy Liberty and Leave Policies. What's the Difference? - On The Yard (005)

    Send us a text Why Naval Academy Midshipmen Can't Simply Take Time Off Like Everyone Else Ever wondered why upperclass midshipmen sprint back to campus at 11:55 PM on Friday nights? In this episode, we break down the crucial distinctions between leave and liberty at the Naval Academy—two terms that sound similar but carry vastly different meanings for midshipmen and their families. As a Naval Academy graduate, I'm excited to share the insider knowledge about how these policies actually work and why they matter so much. We'll explore the three types of liberty, weekend planning requirements, and how these systems prepare midshipmen for fleet life ahead. Key Insights on Naval Academy Liberty Policies The fundamental difference between liberty (time off with accountability) and leave (true vacation time)Three distinct types of liberty: yard liberty, town liberty, and overnight libertyHow liberty privileges expand dramatically from plebe year through first class yearWeekend planning requirements including the "weekend list" and 150-mile radius rulesWhy uniform requirements differ based on class year and locationWhat You'll Gain from This Episode Clear understanding of liberty restrictions and privileges for each class yearInsight into weekend planning strategies and special request proceduresKnowledge of uniform requirements during different liberty periodsPerspective on how these policies prepare graduates for military servicePractical advice for families planning visits and travel The Vermeer Group is a residential real company matching military families with trusted real estate teams across the country.  If you have any real estate questions at all, please text Grant at (650) 282-1964 or email grant@thevermeergroup.com 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. 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 are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: email podcast@academyinsider.com or text Grant at (443) 951-3064

    46 min
  6. #108 Stoicism As a Warrior Philosophy - Interview with William Spears

    OCT 26

    #108 Stoicism As a Warrior Philosophy - Interview with William Spears

    Send us a text Why Good Humans Make the Best Warriors According to Naval Commander Will Spears What happens when ancient philosophy meets modern military leadership? In this fascinating episode, we explore how stoicism serves as a cornerstone of warrior development and ethical leadership at the Naval Academy. I'm joined by Commander William Spears, a Naval Academy graduate, submarine commander, and author of the upcoming book "Stoicism as a Warrior Philosophy." As a prior enlisted sailor who worked his way through the nuclear program to Annapolis, Will brings a unique perspective on how ancient wisdom shapes modern military excellence. Our conversation reveals how stoicism isn't just academic theory—it's a practical framework that has guided military leaders through the most challenging circumstances imaginable, from the classrooms of Annapolis to the prison camps of Vietnam. Key Insights on Stoicism and Military Leadership How Vice Admiral James Stockdale applied stoic principles during his captivity in the Hanoi HiltonThe connection between individual morality and unit morale in military organizationsWhy the four cardinal virtues—wisdom, courage, self-control, and justice—remain essential for modern warriorsThe difference between popular stoicism and its deeper philosophical foundationsHow virtue can be taught and developed through examples of exemplary leadershipTo pre-order Will's book, you can do so here: https://www.amazon.com/Stoicism-Warrior-Philosophy-Insights-Morality/dp/1636246230 The Vermeer Group is a residential real company matching military families with trusted real estate teams across the country.  If you have any real estate questions at all, please text Grant at (650) 282-1964 or email grant@thevermeergroup.com 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. 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 are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: email podcast@academyinsider.com or text Grant at (443) 951-3064

    55 min
  7. #107 Plebe Duties At The Naval Academy (2025) - On The Yard (004)

    OCT 19

    #107 Plebe Duties At The Naval Academy (2025) - On The Yard (004)

    Send us a text From Chopping to Chow Calls: Decoding the Secret Language of Plebes Ever wondered what it's really like to be a plebe at the United States Naval Academy? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the unique aspects of plebe life that go beyond academics and physical training. As a Naval Academy graduate, I'm excited to share insights into the daily rituals, responsibilities, and challenges that shape the plebe experience. We'll explore: Key Elements of Plebe LifeThe concept of "rates" and what plebes are (and aren't) allowed to doUnique traditions like chopping, chow calls, and plebing your coverThe evolution of media restrictions and how they're enforcedThe ongoing tradition of signature sheets and poster boardsFun aspects like plebe dates and bets with upperclassmenWhat You'll Gain from This EpisodeUnderstanding of the daily routines and expectations for plebesInsight into how company culture impacts the plebe experienceIdeas for conversation starters to get your midshipman talking about their experiencesPerspective on how some traditions have evolved over timeInformation on common plebe punishments and remediation tacticsBonus Content I'll also share where you can find more information on "prono" (professional knowledge) and "come arounds" - two other important aspects of plebe life not covered in depth in this episode. Whether you're a current plebe, a parent trying to understand your midshipman's experience, or just curious about life at the Naval Academy, this episode offers valuable insights into the unique world of plebes at Annapolis. Join us as we explore the traditions, challenges, and moments of levity that shape the first year at the Naval Academy! The Vermeer Group is a residential real company matching military families with trusted real estate teams across the country.  If you have any real estate questions at all, please text Grant at (650) 282-1964 or email grant@thevermeergroup.com 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. 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 are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: email podcast@academyinsider.com or text Grant at (443) 951-3064

    34 min
  8. #106 Learn About the Naval Academy Athletic Program - An Interview with the New Navy AD

    OCT 12

    #106 Learn About the Naval Academy Athletic Program - An Interview with the New Navy AD

    Send us a text Ever wonder what it's like to be at the helm of one of the largest athletic departments in the country? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on Navy Athletics with an exclusive interview featuring the new Naval Academy Athletic Director, Michael Kelly. As a Naval Academy graduate myself, I'm thrilled to share an insider's look at how Navy Athletics is evolving to meet the challenges of modern collegiate sports while staying true to its core mission. We explore: Key Insights on Navy Athletics' Impact and Future How the Naval Academy Athletic Association (NAAAA) operates as a privately funded organizationThe unique challenges of balancing 36 Division I sports programsStrategies for competing against larger programs without traditional NIL opportunitiesRecent and upcoming facility improvements across multiple sportsThe vital role of officer representatives and faculty in supporting student-athletesExciting Developments for Navy Sports Fans Updates on football's success and its importance to the overall athletic budgetNew partnerships and revenue-generating initiatives to support all sportsInsights into the recruitment process and how Navy attracts top talentThe impact of recent leadership changes on the athletic department's visionWhat You'll Gain from This Episode Understanding of how Navy Athletics operates financiallyInsight into the decision-making process for facility improvements and sport additionsPerspective on the unique value proposition Navy offers student-athletesInformation on how fans and alumni can support Navy AthleticsWhether you're a current midshipman, proud parent, loyal alum, or passionate Navy sports fan, this episode offers valuable insights into the inner workings of Navy Athletics.  Join us as we explore how the Nav The Vermeer Group is a residential real company matching military families with trusted real estate teams across the country.  If you have any real estate questions at all, please text Grant at (650) 282-1964 or email grant@thevermeergroup.com 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. 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 are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: email podcast@academyinsider.com or text Grant at (443) 951-3064

    49 min
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The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.  Through the perspective of a community of former graduates and Naval Academy insiders, this podcast will help you learn about life at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis.  Through our shared experiences, Academy Insider guides families through the anxiety and frustration caused by lack of understanding, misinformation, and confusion.  This platform is designed to better relationships between midshipmen and their loved ones.  This podcast is not affiliated with the United States Naval Academy, the United States Navy or Department of Defense. The thoughts and opinions are exclusively those of your host and his guests. 

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