Episodes
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Serving with Gratitude and Supporting with Heart - Gary Sinise | Episode 64
My guest, Gary Sinise, has made it his mission to support and serve those who serve — not just in words, but just like our USNA Mids, and Naval and Marine Corps Officers, by taking action. Join me for a wonderful conversation with Gary, who exemplifies the values of the Naval Academy - Honor,...
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50 Years of Women at USNA - Conference Debrief PART 2 | Episode 63
Join me for PART 2 of this incredible conversation centered around 50 years of Women 1976-2026 at military academies, focusing on USNA, with special Alumnae guests, Linda "Postie" Postenrieder '82, USNA Women President; Marie Burris '86, Program Manager For 50 years; Adrienne Maeser Mills '06...
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50 Years of Women at USNA - Conference Debrief PART 1 | Episode 62
Join me for PART 1 of this incredible conversation centered around 50 years of Women 1976-2026 at military academies, focusing on USNA, with special Alumnae guests, Linda "Postie" Postenrieder '82, USNA Women President; Marie Burris '86, Program Manager For 50 years; Adrienne Maeser Mills '06...
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A 50 Year Journey in the Making with Guest Kim (USNA '91) | Episode 61
Join me and my special guest, Kim Parker (USNA '91) as we talk about her Navy journey 35 years in the making, and as we discuss the conference this weekend (April 16-19, 2026) 50 Years of Women at USNA. Based on my book A USNA Mom's Journey available at the MIdstore.…
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Me Mother Was A Mermaid: 50 Years of Women - with Kristi Bickel | Episode 60
Join me for this episode with Kristi Bickel (USNA '2007), as we discuss life on the Yard and in Fleet, her journey as an author, and 50 years of Women at USNA. Don't miss this crucial conversation! You can find Kristi at: https://www.memotherwasamermaidbooks.com/ and on IG at...
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Ziggy Rex and Sondra - The Mid Connection | Episode 59
Based on my book, A USNA Mom's Journal available at the Midstore, I invite you to join me for my episode with the adorable Ziggy Rex and Miss Sondra, as we talk about her job at the Naval Academy Museum, her work as a mentor to Midshipmen, and her past life as an army enlisted soldier in Iraq and...
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The Navy Spouse Life| Episode 58
Join me for this special episode with my friend, Haley, who is a Navy spouse, as she offers insights, advice, on deployments and separation, and life as a Navy spouse, how parents can offer support, and much more! This is a great listen for parents of Firsties to learn about what their Mids will...
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A Path Less Traveled: Med Corps with ENS Mazza | Episode 57
Join me for episode 57 of my USNA MidMoms and More podcast with special guest, '24 Grad, ENS Andrew Mazza, as we explore USNA and the Med Corps Career path. Based on my book, A USNA Mom's Journal: Your Ultimate Playbook to Survive and Thrive Four Years by the Bay - Dads You Need This, Too!…
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Live from The Midstore - PPW | Episode 56
Recorded live while walking on the Yard. Some things to think about during PPW. By AN Shine, based on the bok A USNA Mom's Journal - Your Ultimate Guide to Survive and Thrive Four Years by the Bay. https://usnamidmomsandmore.org
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The Fleet Parent Life with Karl Smith - Part 2 | Episode 54
Join me for an eye opening conversation with my special guest Karl Smith as we talk about how USNA trains parents to transition for Fleet Life. This is Part 2 of a two part podcast. My Mission is to Equip and Empower USNA parents for Success in the Journey. Based on my book, A USNA Mom's Journal…
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The Fleet Parent Life with Karl Smith - Part 1 | Episode 53
Join me for an eye opening conversation with my special guest Karl Smith as we talk about how USNA trains parents to transition for Fleet Life. This is Part 1 of a two part podcast. My Mission is to Equip and Empower USNA parents for Success in the Journey. Based on my book, A USNA Mom's Journal…
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A Look at How it All Began - with AN Shine | Episode 52
Join me as I am interviewed by my husband jeff about my Navy roots and why I "pay it forward" to my Navy family, with special guest AN Shine. usnamidmomsandmore.org
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Preparing for I-Day, Plebe Summer, & More with Katrina & Brandy PART 2 | Episode 51
My podcast is based on my book, A USNA Mom's Journal - Your Ultimate Playbook to Survive and Thrive Four Years by The Bay - Dads Need This, Too! available exclusively at the Mdistore. Join me, AN Shine, for my special episode with guests Katrina McIntosh and Brandy Hoot of the BLB USNA Class of...
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Preparing for I-Day, Plebe Summer, & More with Katrina & Brandy PART 1 | Episode 50
My podcast is based on my book, A USNA Mom's Journal - Your Ultimate Playbook to Survive and Thrive Four Years by The Bay - Dads Need This, Too! available exclusively at the Mdistore. Join me, AN Shine, for my special episode with guests Katrina McIntosh and Brandy Hoot of the BLB USNA Class of...
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Beginning the USNA Journey - with Grant Vermeer | Episode 49
The USNA journey is unique and is not always easy. Join me as I have a candid conversation with Academy Insider, Grant Vermeer, as we discuss the rollercoaster of emotions that is I-Day and the beginning of this transformational path of service. You can also listen to prior episodes #36 & 37 with...
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A Path Forged by the Sea with Scott McBride - PART 2 | Episode 48
Join me for Part 2 of my conversation with Scott McBride, Author of the children's book series, Connor the Cutter, and USNA 1998 grad, as we talk about his service, the twists and turns in his journey and how he faced them, and his sage advice for Mids and parents. Based on my Book, A USNA Mom's...
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A Path Forged by the Sea with Scott McBride PART 1 | Episode 47
Join me for a long awaited new episode! My guest is a USNA grad, U.S. Coast Guard Officer, and Children's Book Author Scott McBride (USNA '98). He tells us about his unique journey from Midshipman, to Naval Officer, to Coast Guard PAO and Children's Book Author. He shares all about his path…
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Live from Notre Dame - TheFirstCall Story Time with AN Shine | Episode 46
in this episode, I am live from Notre Dame, where I am taking summer classes. I read from my book, which is currently sold out, for Plebe parents as they prepare for their First Call. Personal insights and additional anecdotes are added as I read from my manuscript, Section 9 - Getting Ready for...
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Books, Blogs, and More with Karl, Susan, and Steve - Part 1 | Episode 43
Join me for an animated conversation with Karl Smith, Susan Weisberg, and Steve Wade, as we talk about writing, reminisce about our Navy journeys, and ask each other the questions we have always wondered about each other! This is Part 1 of a two part episode. My podcast is based on my book, USNA...
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Books, Blogs, and More with Karl, Susan, and Steve - Part 2 | Episode 44
This is podcast episode 44 - Part 2 of Books, Blogs and More with Karl, Susan and Steve. Join me for the continuing conversation and Q&A. This podcast is based on my book, A USNA Mom's Journal available on my website, at the Midstore, and on Kindle and Apple Books. https://usnamidmomsandmore.org....
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My Prayer for the Next Step in the Journey | Episode 45
The Class of 2024 is on my heart. I remember well that after Commissioning of our second Midshipman this prayer came to me as I looked at what was ahead for newly minted Officers and their parents alike. Now that they are away from the safety of Mother B and in the Fleet or Marine Corps, things...
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Things We don't Talk About but Should with Kabrina and Jennifer | Episode 42
Join me for this episode that is literally close to many hearts as we hear about how the life of one Mid has been instrumental in bringing awareness and saving many other Mids' lives. My special guests are Kabrina (USNA '27 Mom) and Jennifer Carillo (USNA '22 Mom). Find out more about the Duke...
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A Journey of Faith - From USNA to the Fleet and Beyond | Episode 41
Join me for a candid and honest conversation about faith, the role that it plays in the USNA journey, and Robert and Cathy's 16-year journey. You can find out more about my book, A USNA Mom's Journal, on my website - USNA Mid Moms and More. If you are a USNA parent interested in finding out more...
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Easel on Stribling - The USNA Journey in Brushstrokes | Episode 41
Join me for my conversation with USNA Grad Kristin Cronic creator of Easel on Stribling (USNA '11) as we discuss her beautiful artwork of the Yard and life at Navy, what inspires her, life as a Mid and an Officer, and her new book, A Midshipman's Journey. My podcast is based on my book, A USNA...
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There is More Than One Path to USNA | Episode 40
Join me and my very special guest, Tisha Wright, as we explore her Mid's journey from enlisted Marine to Napster to USNA Midshipman, and future Navy/Marine Corps Officer. My podcast is based on my book, A USNa Mom's Journal, available exclusively at the Midstore and on my Etsy shop. Please visit...
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The Navy Parent Life - Deployment Survival Bootcamp with Elaine Brye | Episode 38
After 17 deployments, my special guest, Elaine Brye, author of Be Safe, Love Mom, returns for a second installment of advice and a wealth of information and guidance for parents. This is a MUST listen for Firstie and Fleet parents alike! In honor of this episode, I will be launching my RED line.…
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From Mid to Officer to Civilian with Academy Insider’s Grant Vermeer PART 2 | Episode 37
Academy Insider's Grant Vermeer, is back!! He joins me for a candid conversation filled with invaluable insights, stories, and advice for Mids, Officers, and parents alike. A MUST listen! Based on my book, A USNA Mom's Journal, available exclusively at the Midstore and on my website:...
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From Mid, to Officer to Civilian with Academy Insider’s Grant Vermeer - Part 1 | Episode 36
Academy Insider's Grant Vermeer, is back!! He joins me for a candid conversation filled with invaluable insights, stories, and advice for Mids, Officers, and parents alike. A MUST listen! Based on my book, A USNA Mom's Journal, available exclusively at the Midstore and on my website:...
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You asked, We Answered - What You Should Know about NAPS! | Episode 35
You asked, we answered! Join me and my special guests, Katrina Ahlquist McIntosh (NAPS and USNA)and Nancy Hilden (NASP and Coast Guard Academy) who help me to answer parent questions about NAPS. https://usnamidmomsandmore.org
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Plebe Parent Weekend - Light at the End of the Tunnel | Episode 34
It is finally here - Plebe Parent Weekend! You will get to see and spend precious time with your Plebe. Thoughts about this special time together. https://usnamidmomsandmore.org
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AN’s I-Day Bootcamp Class of 2027 | Episode 33
Join me and my special guests Katrina McIntosh, Karl Smith, Jeff Shyne, and Steve Wade for an in-depth look at I-Day, what to pack, what to expect, what the day is like, what to do or not to do, where to catch a glimpse of your Plebe, the Oath, and much more! Great insights and unique advice from...
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Chester Midshipmouse - The Last Chapter | Episode 32
Join me for a heartwarming conversation with Susan Weisberg, author of the Chester Midshipmouse book series, as we talk about the last third of the Midshipmouse Academy journey. Cliffhangers and insight about what went into writing the last installment of this wonderful, imaginative, and…
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Live from Notre Dame! | Episode 31
AN sends a quick update from the Notre Dame campus. https://usnamodmomsandmore.org
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Commissioning Debrief with 2022 MidMoms - PART 2 | Episode 30
Join me for Part 2 of this must-listen-to series with special guests, USNA 2022 MidMoms Janna, Stacy, and Paula, who offer their advice and insights as 2/C and Firstie parents look toward Commissioning planning, Commissioning Week highlights, and how to handle the unexpected during this special...
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Commissioning Debrief with 2022 MidMoms - PART 1 | Episode 29
Join me for Part 1 of this three part this must-listen-to series with special guests, USNA 2022 MidMoms Janna, Stacy, and Paula, who offer their advice and insights as 2/C and Firstie parents look toward Commissioning planning, Commissioning Week highlights, and how to handle the unexpected…
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Hindsight is 20-20 - What We Wish We Knew - PART 2 | Epsiode 28
Join me for Part 2 of my latest Podcast episode with Micaela Gordon Lee (USNA 2000) and Heidi Huerter Lenzini (USNA '95) as we discuss what they wish they knew going in, what they learned, and how their experience at USNA shaped their lives and their careers. Based on my book, A USNA Mom's…
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20-20 Hindsight - What We Wish We Knew PART 1 | Episode 27
Join me for my latest Podcast episode with Micaela Gordon Lee (USNA 2000) and Heidi Huerter Lenzini (USNA '95) as we discuss what they wish they knew going in, what they learned, and how their experience at USNA shaped their lives and their careers. Based on my book, A USNA Mom's Journal…
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How Time Flies: A Look at 2/C and Firstie Years Part 2 | Episode 26
Join me for Part 2 of a conversation with my good friend, USAFA Alumna, and four-time N*avy Mom, Julie Haller, as we discuss the highlights and what to expect in 2/C and Firstie Years, Commissioning planning, and an overview of service communities in the Fleet and Marine Corps. Based on my book…
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How Time Flies: A Look at 2C and Firstie Years - Part 1 | Episode 25
Join me for Part 1 of a conversation with my good friend, USAFA Alumna, and four-time N*avy Mom, Julie Haller, as we discuss the highlights and what to expect in 2/C and Firstie Years, Commissioning planning, and an overview of service communities in the Fleet and Marine Corps. Based on my book…
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Live Like Duke - Remembering a Remarkable Life | Episode 24
Join me for a conversation with special guest Jennifer Herring Carrillo, USNA Mom of three Mids, classes of USNA '22 and '23. I invite you to listen as she courageously shares her story about her family's indescribable loss, finding hope, and moving forward with the Duke Carrillo Foundation…
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No Greater Duty: A Story of Moral Courage | Episode 23
A great conversation with author Robert Stewart about his new book, No Greater Duty, and the lives of the central characters that intersect at the US Naval Academy and explore Mid-life and life in the Fleet and Marine Corps.
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Finally! Advice for the N*avy Dad Journey | Episode 21
I invite you to join me for a fun podcast with two special guests, USNA and USAFA Dad and author of My Kid the Mid blog, Karl Smith (USNA '20), and my hubby Jeff (USNA'17 & '20), as they discuss their journey from a Dad's point of view and offer advice to USNA Dads on surviving the journey. Based...
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AN’s Commissioning Bootcamp | Episode 22
Join AN for another podcast episode as she gives an overview of Commissioning week - to dos and not to dos, planning tips, and what you need to know to make this a memorable week for you and your Mid! AN's book, A USNA Mom's Journal, Commissioning Resources, and other invaluable information are...
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Billy and the Plebes: What I Learned from I-Day and Plebe Summer - Part 2 | Episode 20
Join me for Part 2 of a great conversation with my good friend Julie, a 2024 Mom who shares all the lessons learned about navigating I-Day, Plebe Summer, Plebe ACYear, and into Youngster year. Invaluable insight and advice based on my book, "A USNA Mom's Journal: Plebe Summer through…
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Billy and the Plebes: What I Learned from I-Day and Plebe Summer - Part 1 | Episode 19
Join me for a great conversation with my good friend Julie, a 2024 Mom who shares all the lessons learned about navigating I-Day, Plebe Summer, Plebe ACYear, and into Youngster year. Invaluable insight and advice based on my book, "A USNA Mom's Journal: Plebe Summer through Commissioning - What…
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A Journey of Finding Purpose | Episode 18
Our Mids are getting ready to Commission or may still be on their journey. Join me for this Episode for fellow N*avy parents about time, finding a new purpose, Tiger Cruises, and More.
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Surviving Deployments, Grunts, and Fleet Life | Episode 17
Join me for this podcast episode as I have a candid and enlightening conversation with my dear friend Jess, a 15-year USMC enlisted spouse, who offers her opinion, insights, and a different perspective on military life. She is a wealth of information on leadership, surviving deployments, and life...
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Words for the Journey - Interview with Steve Wade | Episode 16
Join me for my interview with fellow Navy parent (USNA '19 & '22), blogger, and now fellow N*avy author Steve Wade. Find out the latest about his latest project, his thoughts on the journey, and what he has discovered as a USNA parent that has inspired his heartfelt and wonderful writing.
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Scrambling and Shotgunning - Why do they matter? | Episode 15
So what does the decision to scramble (or shuffle) Plebes (and sometimes Mids) mean for them? Listen to the latest podcast episode based on my blog post "The Deja Vu of Scrambling and Shotgunning... Why do they matter?" available at USNAMidMomsandMore.org/my-blog
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The Dark Ages: Not Just History | Episode 14
Join AN Shine and her special guest, Karl Smith, Navy Dad - USNA '20, author, and blog writer, as they discuss the Dark Ages, what they mean to our Mids and some strategies to bring some sunshine in!