In this week's podcast, I review what DoDMERB is and how to avoid the pitfalls it may present.

When your child applies to a service academy or ROTC program, they will eventually be prompted to complete an online medical questionnaire.

Do not let them do this alone.

One wrong click or misrepresentation could lead to a medical disqualification.

Please listen to this episode first.

For those with younger students, listen to this episode now to make sure that any injuries from here on out are handled appropriately.

In this week's podcast, I review the 5 biggest nothing-burger extracurricular activities that you should not include in your applications - unless you have no choice.

You might be surprised by the list.

Even though some of the activities/organizations sound legitimate, more often than not, they are a waste of time, energy, and money.

Don't get caught chasing the wrong cars.

In this week's episode, I compare the trajectory of two similar students as they transition into college. [Though inspired by real-world stories, these students are fictitious and the outcomes are for illustration purposes only.]

One student (Ethan) decided to take the more traditional pathway by attending a well-respected, liberal arts college where he would study economics.

The other student (Roman) decided to take a less traditional route and attended the United States Naval Academy to study mechanical engineering.

I tracked their progress from age 18 - 35.

If you're interested to see where their lives ended up, please tune into this week's show.

In this week's episode, I review how to prepare for a service academy interview.

Last week, my youngest son sat down with his Blue & Gold officer for his official USNA interview. It was the fourth time the Blue & Gold officer has been to our house.

Listen to this podcast to find out:

• how to prepare
• what to expect
• common questions
• dress code
• timing

Tune in if you want the inside scoop on how this important part of the application process goes down.

In this week's episode, I wonder why every high school student doesn't apply to a service academy and/or ROTC program.

In this week's episode, I discuss whether it's worth it to invest in an SAT or ACT tutor.

In this week's episode, I reflect on the last few months of 1-on-1 consulting sessions I've had with several ServeWellers.

With few exceptions, many students were guilty of the following poor habits:

• Not taking notes
• Not creating outlines prior to writing
• Not calling adults by their names

Please have a listen and discuss this topic with your child.These habits will pay long-term dividends well after the college admissions process is over.

In this week's episode, I react to a comment left on one of my Instagram reels suggesting that maritime academies weren't ideal because they often required long stretches at sea (3-6 months) which is not ideal for maintaining a work-life balance.

Come again?

Is the new rule that every college graduate should expect:

• a guaranteed job
• making $100K/yr
• with work-life balance?

Tune in to hear my thoughts on this comment.