Are you a Naval Academy family struggling with the high costs of visiting Annapolis for special events? Or perhaps you're a midshipman looking for a safe place to stay during your travels? The Academy Families Travel Network might be the solution you've been searching for.

In this episode, we sit down with Marnie and Paula, the creators of this incredible service that connects Academy families across the nation. They share how this network of generous hosts has become a lifeline for midshipmen, cadets, and their families, offering free accommodations and support during travels, emergencies, and special events.

What You'll Discover:

• How the Academy Families Travel Network began and grew to over 800 host families worldwide
• The types of support hosts can offer, from a simple airport pickup to multi-day stays
• How the network ensures safety and vets both hosts and travelers
• Real-life stories of how this network has helped Academy families in need
• The process for becoming a host or utilizing the network as a traveler

Why This Matters:

The Academy Families Travel Network is more than just a free place to stay. It's a community of support that extends the spirit of the sponsor family program beyond the Academy walls. For families struggling with the financial burden of attending special events like Commissioning Week, this network could make the difference between being there for those precious moments or missing out.

Key Takeaways:

• The network is open to midshipmen, cadets, graduates, and their families from all service academies
• Hosts can offer as much or as little as they're comfortable with, from a meal to a week-long stay
• The network has been crucial during emergencies, helping stranded travelers and those facing unexpected situations
• Joining as a host is flexible - you can specify your availability and preferences

If you're part of the Academy community, whether as a current midshipman, a graduate, or a family member, this episode highlights a valuable resource you won't want to miss. Learn how you can benefit from or contribute to this amazing network of support.

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 specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community with nationwide consulting and connection.

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: podcast@academyinsider.com.

Ever wondered what it's like to be part of a world where college life meets military discipline? Welcome to the unique realm of the United States Naval Academy, where tradition, education, and service blend seamlessly.

In this episode, we peel back the layers of the Naval Academy experience, offering you an insider's view of this extraordinary institution. From the bustling campus known as "the Yard" to the intriguing history behind the term "midshipman," we're covering it all.

The Naval Academy: More Than Just a Campus

Discover how the Naval Academy functions as both a prestigious college and a military base. We'll explore:

• • The vibrant campus life, including Division I sports and summer camps
• • The connection between the Academy and the Naval Support Activity Annapolis
• • The unique blend of civilian and military faculty and staff

Decoding the Midshipman Experience

What exactly is a midshipman? We'll unravel this mystery, touching on:

• • The active duty status of midshipmen
• • The origins and evolution of the term "midshipman"
• • How the midshipman experience differs from other military training programs

Key Takeaways:

• 1. Understand the dual nature of the Naval Academy as both a college and a military installation
• 2. Learn about the facilities and training opportunities available to midshipmen
• 3. Gain insight into the unique status and responsibilities of a midshipman
• 4. Discover the historical significance of the term "midshipman"
• 5. Appreciate the distinctive blend of college life and military discipline at the Academy

Whether you're a future midshipman, a proud family member, or simply curious about life at the Naval Academy, this episode provides a foundation for understanding this extraordinary institution. Join us as we navigate the waters of this one-of-a-kind experience!

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 specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community with nationwide consulting and connection.

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: podcast@academyinsider.com.

As a Naval Academy graduate, I've experienced firsthand the transformative power of this institution. In this episode, I share insights on what makes the Naval Academy truly exceptional, especially in light of current world events that may be causing anxiety for incoming plebes and their families.

Drawing from my personal journey - from nearly leaving during Plebe summer to embracing the unique opportunities the Academy offers - I explore three key factors that set the Naval Academy apart:

The Power of Being a Midshipman

Learn how the challenging Midshipman experience shapes character and builds resilience. Discover the importance of:

• Pushing your limits and overcoming adversity
• Building strong bonds with classmates
• Accessing mentorship from experienced Navy and Marine Corps leaders

The Adventure of Being a Junior Officer

Explore the profound responsibility and impact of junior officers, including:

• Leading sailors and Marines in high-stakes situations
• Managing emotions and supporting others during challenging times
• Making a meaningful difference in people's lives at a young age

The Influence of the Naval Academy Network

Understand the long-term benefits of joining this prestigious alumni network:

• Lifelong connections with like-minded individuals
• Opportunities for success across various fields post-service
• Access to a supportive community throughout your career

This episode offers a candid look at the Naval Academy experience, emphasizing the growth, challenges, and rewards that come with choosing this path. Whether you're an incoming plebe, a current Midshipman, or a family member, you'll gain valuable insights into the unique journey that lies ahead.

Are you ready to embrace the power, responsibility, and influence that comes with being part of the Naval Academy? Listen now to discover how this decision can shape your future and impact the lives of others.

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 specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community with nationwide consulting and connection.

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: podcast@academyinsider.com.