The Gap Year Podcasthttps://www.spreaker.com/show/the-gap-year-podcastenEducationCopyright voicEd Radiohttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/79f9df875f4789424232b81954aa136c.jpgThe Gap Year Podcasthttps://www.spreaker.com/show/the-gap-year-podcastSun, 31 May 2026 17:25:21 +0000voicEd RadiovoicEd Radiofeeds@spreaker.comExplore all things gap year through stories and anecdotes by gappers, families and experts. Fun to listen to but also jam-packed with tips and tricks for making the most of your gap year. No matter who you are or where you are on your gap year...falseepisodicADULT GAP YEAR SERIES: When Hard Work Backfires: Reimagining Ambition with Chantaie Alechttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/adult-gap-year-series-when-hard-work-backfires-reimagining-ambition-with-chantaie-alec--72264376
  • https://re-work.ca/ Follow Them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reworkmovement Check them out on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reworkmovement/ 👤Dr. Kristin Neff’s self-compassion resources: https://self-compassion.org 🤗Self-compassion break: https://self-compassion.org/category/exercises/#self-compassion-break 🧘Dr. Sandra Dalton-Smith’s rest quiz: https://restquiz.com   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    
    • ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/7e48dd52-c8f3-39a2-8ee9-5713aacbe7beSun, 31 May 2026 17:14:57 +0000voicEd RadioMichelle Dittmer spoke with Chantaie Alec of Rework about burnout, ambition, and creating a healthier relationship with work. Chantaie shared how her own burnout led to Rework’s mission: helping people pursue “ambition with ease” through rest, play,...
  • https://re-work.ca/ Follow Them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reworkmovement Check them out on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reworkmovement/ 👤Dr. Kristin Neff’s self-compassion resources: https://self-compassion.org 🤗Self-compassion break: https://self-compassion.org/category/exercises/#self-compassion-break 🧘Dr. Sandra Dalton-Smith’s rest quiz: https://restquiz.com   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    
    • ]]>    2047false131full    ADULT GAP YEAR SERIES: Your Standing-Ovation-Worthy Second Act with Shannon Russellhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/adult-gap-year-series-your-standing-ovation-worthy-second-act-with-shannon-russell--72264374
  • Former television producer with a 16-year career in TV
  • Transitioned after becoming a mom
  • Founder of multiple businesses
  • Author of Start Your Second Act
  • Coaches women through career reinvention and entrepreneurship
    • Main Themes
    • Women often follow a “rules-based” path until life changes prompt reassessment
    • Career shifts can happen after motherhood, caregiving, burnout, layoffs, or simple restlessness
    • A non-linear path is not a failure — it’s a stepping stone
    • Reframing change as a new chapter or second act helps reduce fear
    How to Know It’s Time for a Change
    • Ask: Why am I considering this move?
    • Identify what about the next step is exciting
    • Notice whether your current role still aligns with your values, life stage, and needs
    • Consider whether you’ll regret not making the change later
    Practical Advice
    • Do your research before leaping
    • Learn the actual day-to-day of a new role or business
    • Talk to people in the field
    • Understand the financial realities
    • Keep early plans private until you feel confident
    • Start small if needed — a second act does not have to be a giant leap
    Key Takeaway Shannon encouraged listeners to stop waiting for the perfect time and instead move forward with clarity, curiosity, and confidence. Small steps, thoughtful research, and staying connected to your “why” can help make a new chapter feel possible. Website 🎬 Second Act Success: https://secondactsuccess.co/   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/3bc453c1-42fd-3775-96ba-3fbe785bf35bSun, 31 May 2026 17:12:22 +0000voicEd RadioMichelle spoke with Shannon Russell about reinvention, especially for women navigating career and life transitions. Shannon shared her own path from 16 years in television production to entrepreneurship, coaching, and writing, and explained how to...
  • Former television producer with a 16-year career in TV
  • Transitioned after becoming a mom
  • Founder of multiple businesses
  • Author of Start Your Second Act
  • Coaches women through career reinvention and entrepreneurship
    • Main Themes
    • Women often follow a “rules-based” path until life changes prompt reassessment
    • Career shifts can happen after motherhood, caregiving, burnout, layoffs, or simple restlessness
    • A non-linear path is not a failure — it’s a stepping stone
    • Reframing change as a new chapter or second act helps reduce fear
    How to Know It’s Time for a Change
    • Ask: Why am I considering this move?
    • Identify what about the next step is exciting
    • Notice whether your current role still aligns with your values, life stage, and needs
    • Consider whether you’ll regret not making the change later
    Practical Advice
    • Do your research before leaping
    • Learn the actual day-to-day of a new role or business
    • Talk to people in the field
    • Understand the financial realities
    • Keep early plans private until you feel confident
    • Start small if needed — a second act does not have to be a giant leap
    Key Takeaway Shannon encouraged listeners to stop waiting for the perfect time and instead move forward with clarity, curiosity, and confidence. Small steps, thoughtful research, and staying connected to your “why” can help make a new chapter feel possible. Website 🎬 Second Act Success: https://secondactsuccess.co/   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    1377false129full    ADULT GAP YEAR SERIES: Quit Work for a Year Without Quitting (The Deferred Salary Plan)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/adult-gap-year-series-quit-work-for-a-year-without-quitting-the-deferred-salary-plan--72264377
  • Spent 30+ years in HR with three school boards
  • Later worked as an employment advisor helping new immigrants and youth
  • Approves deferred salary leave plans as part of his HR background
  • Took two deferred salary leaves himself
    • What Is a Deferred Salary Leave?
    • A leave of absence funded by saving part of your salary in advance
    • Common structure: “four over five”
      • Work 4 years at 80% pay
      • 20% goes into a trust account
      • Take the 5th year off using those savings
    • Often includes pension/benefit considerations and a contractual return-to-work agreement
    What John Did on His Leaves First Leave
    • Home projects: painting, purging, tidying
    • Family travel to India and Dubai
    • Trips with kids to Broadway/New York and a ski holiday
    Second Leave
    • More household and personal tasks
    • Significant time supporting a close friend going through cancer treatment
    • Some travel as well
    Main Takeaways
    • A year off can be invigorating
    • It can also be humbling — work continues without you
    • Time away helps people see they are not their job
    • It creates balance and makes room for other forms of contribution
    What Holds People Back
    • Financial concerns about living on reduced salary
    • Uncertainty about what the future may hold over a 4–5 year planning period
    • Family changes, life changes, and possible cancellation of plans
    Planning Considerations
    • Budget carefully
    • Think through staffing and who will cover your role
    • Consider family and partner dynamics
    • Balance practical tasks with rest, fun, travel, and connection
    • Use the time to invest in what matters most
    Practical Advice/Next Steps for you
    • Start by talking to your employer or boss
    • Ask your payroll department about the details
    • Review CRA guidance on tax implications
    • Be ready to discuss staffing and return-to-work planning
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/28b5e9ea-f752-30c7-8bdf-44b2c51536bbSun, 31 May 2026 17:10:44 +0000voicEd RadioMichelle spoke with John Cuddie, a retired HR professional with deep experience in school boards, about deferred salary leave plans — a structured way to save for a year off work. John shared how he used the program twice, what he did during his...
  • Spent 30+ years in HR with three school boards
  • Later worked as an employment advisor helping new immigrants and youth
  • Approves deferred salary leave plans as part of his HR background
  • Took two deferred salary leaves himself
    • What Is a Deferred Salary Leave?
    • A leave of absence funded by saving part of your salary in advance
    • Common structure: “four over five”
      • Work 4 years at 80% pay
      • 20% goes into a trust account
      • Take the 5th year off using those savings
    • Often includes pension/benefit considerations and a contractual return-to-work agreement
    What John Did on His Leaves First Leave
    • Home projects: painting, purging, tidying
    • Family travel to India and Dubai
    • Trips with kids to Broadway/New York and a ski holiday
    Second Leave
    • More household and personal tasks
    • Significant time supporting a close friend going through cancer treatment
    • Some travel as well
    Main Takeaways
    • A year off can be invigorating
    • It can also be humbling — work continues without you
    • Time away helps people see they are not their job
    • It creates balance and makes room for other forms of contribution
    What Holds People Back
    • Financial concerns about living on reduced salary
    • Uncertainty about what the future may hold over a 4–5 year planning period
    • Family changes, life changes, and possible cancellation of plans
    Planning Considerations
    • Budget carefully
    • Think through staffing and who will cover your role
    • Consider family and partner dynamics
    • Balance practical tasks with rest, fun, travel, and connection
    • Use the time to invest in what matters most
    Practical Advice/Next Steps for you
    • Start by talking to your employer or boss
    • Ask your payroll department about the details
    • Review CRA guidance on tax implications
    • Be ready to discuss staffing and return-to-work planning
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    1885false128full    ADULT GAP YEAR SERIES: The Courage to Change Your Path With Lori Stephensonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/adult-gap-year-series-the-courage-to-change-your-path-with-lori-stephenson--72264387
  • Founder of My Big Sky — supports students, mid-career professionals, and those approaching retirement
  • Background in leadership development, career coaching, and career transition
  • Former communications and talent development professional at Accenture
  • Coaches individuals on self-awareness, career direction, and how to lead others
    • Key Themes Knowing Yourself Before Making a Move Lori encouraged people to dig into three core areas before pursuing change:
    • Interests — what keeps showing up that you genuinely enjoy?
    • Capabilities — what are you actually good at, separate from what you like?
    • Environment — where do you thrive? Who do you need around you? Do you prefer collaboration or independence?
    Self-Reflection Questions to Get Started
    • What were my peak moments over the last 10–15 years — what was I doing, who was I with?
    • What energizes me? What do I dread?
    • What do people continually thank me or recognize me for?
    • How do I want to contribute?
    • What am I putting off or waiting for — and do I really have to wait?
    Practical Tools
    • Do a peaks and valleys exercise across your career
    • Write everything down — get it out of your head and onto paper
    • Use AI or psychometric tools to help spot patterns you might miss
    • Look for non-negotiables — things you will never compromise on again
    • Pick one small action, give it a deadline, and find someone to hold you accountable
    On Fear and Discomfort Lori referenced the work of Susan David (Emotional Agility): "Discomfort is the price of admission to a meaningful life."
    • Fear is often a signal to pause and consider — not a reason to stop
    • Challenge the stories you tell yourself about why change is impossible
    • Be selective about whose input you take in — limiting perspectives often come from other people's fears, not yours
    Moving from Thinking to Action
    • Stop waiting to have it all figured out
    • Go from big thinking → distilled insights → one concrete step
    • Connect with people in person — buy someone a coffee, ask questions, get out of your own world
    • Ask yourself: If time, money, and approval weren't factors, what would I be doing?
    Lori's Personal Story After 10 years at Accenture, Lori felt misaligned and burned out. She proactively put herself on a restructuring list, took 12–18 months to recover and reflect, and used that time to discover her passion for career coaching. She describes it as one of her proudest decisions — and proof that you don't need to have the full plan before you take the first step. Resources ☀️ My Big Sky: https://www.mybigsky.ca/ 🧠Emotional Agility: https://www.susandavid.com/   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/2d2dbe0e-b871-37c8-aa63-a58599444f4bSun, 31 May 2026 16:50:12 +0000voicEd RadioMichelle spoke with Lori Stephenson, a career coach and leadership developer, about how to navigate life's transitions with curiosity and courage. Drawing on her own career pivot and years of coaching experience, Lori shared practical tools for...
  • Founder of My Big Sky — supports students, mid-career professionals, and those approaching retirement
  • Background in leadership development, career coaching, and career transition
  • Former communications and talent development professional at Accenture
  • Coaches individuals on self-awareness, career direction, and how to lead others
    • Key Themes Knowing Yourself Before Making a Move Lori encouraged people to dig into three core areas before pursuing change:
    • Interests — what keeps showing up that you genuinely enjoy?
    • Capabilities — what are you actually good at, separate from what you like?
    • Environment — where do you thrive? Who do you need around you? Do you prefer collaboration or independence?
    Self-Reflection Questions to Get Started
    • What were my peak moments over the last 10–15 years — what was I doing, who was I with?
    • What energizes me? What do I dread?
    • What do people continually thank me or recognize me for?
    • How do I want to contribute?
    • What am I putting off or waiting for — and do I really have to wait?
    Practical Tools
    • Do a peaks and valleys exercise across your career
    • Write everything down — get it out of your head and onto paper
    • Use AI or psychometric tools to help spot patterns you might miss
    • Look for non-negotiables — things you will never compromise on again
    • Pick one small action, give it a deadline, and find someone to hold you accountable
    On Fear and Discomfort Lori referenced the work of Susan David (Emotional Agility): "Discomfort is the price of admission to a meaningful life."
    • Fear is often a signal to pause and consider — not a reason to stop
    • Challenge the stories you tell yourself about why change is impossible
    • Be selective about whose input you take in — limiting perspectives often come from other people's fears, not yours
    Moving from Thinking to Action
    • Stop waiting to have it all figured out
    • Go from big thinking → distilled insights → one concrete step
    • Connect with people in person — buy someone a coffee, ask questions, get out of your own world
    • Ask yourself: If time, money, and approval weren't factors, what would I be doing?
    Lori's Personal Story After 10 years at Accenture, Lori felt misaligned and burned out. She proactively put herself on a restructuring list, took 12–18 months to recover and reflect, and used that time to discover her passion for career coaching. She describes it as one of her proudest decisions — and proof that you don't need to have the full plan before you take the first step. Resources ☀️ My Big Sky: https://www.mybigsky.ca/ 🧠Emotional Agility: https://www.susandavid.com/   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association   What is Matrescence?
    • The transition to and through motherhood — similar to adolescence
    • Not a one-time event — it is iterative and cyclical, recurring with each new stage of a child's development
    • Universal to all mothers, but unique in how it is experiencedby each individual
    • Largely undiscussed and unsupported, despite being a massive identity and life shift
    The Matrescence Matrix Developed by Nikki McCahon; visualized as a pie chart with 8 domains Domain What It Covers Physical Body changes through pregnancy, birth, and recovery Psychological Identity shifts, sense of self, emotional changes Social How "mom" is perceived and valued in your social circles Cultural Broader societal views and expectations of motherhood Relationships Changes to partnerships, friendships, and family dynamics Career Shifting priorities, career interruptions, work-life alignment Spiritual Legacy, values, religion, purpose Economic Financial impact of maternity leave, career pauses, childcare costs How to Use the Matrix
    1. Map your changes — on the pie chart, mark how much you've shifted in each domain (outer edge = most change, center = least)
    2. Identify what feels "prickly" — those areas likely signal a misalignment with your current values
    3. Explore your values — acknowledge that values shift through motherhood and that's okay
    4. Make decisions from that place — rather than defaulting to pre-motherhood expectations or external pressure
    Key Themes
    • Duality is valid — "I want to grow my business AND be present with my kids" — both can be true
    • Matrescence is cyclical — hard seasons are followed by growth; decisions made now don't have to be permanent
    • Shame and guilt often stem from unacknowledged changes rubbing up against outdated expectations
    • You can't "have it all" in every season — the matrix helps prioritize what matters right now
    Resources & Links       Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/214cd8f9-cffd-33f3-97a6-cf1cec4d6e95Sun, 31 May 2026 16:48:14 +0000voicEd RadioMichelle spoke with Ashley Beatty, a matrescence educator and motherhood coach, about the profound and often unacknowledged transformation women go through when they become mothers. The conversation explored a practical framework — the Matrescence...
  • Trained Matrescence Educator
  • Motherhood and Self-Development Coach
  • 20 years in education
  • Mom of two (ages 7 and 12)
  • Works with women navigating the transitions of motherhood across all areas of life
    • What is Matrescence?
    • The transition to and through motherhood — similar to adolescence
    • Not a one-time event — it is iterative and cyclical, recurring with each new stage of a child's development
    • Universal to all mothers, but unique in how it is experiencedby each individual
    • Largely undiscussed and unsupported, despite being a massive identity and life shift
    The Matrescence Matrix Developed by Nikki McCahon; visualized as a pie chart with 8 domains Domain What It Covers Physical Body changes through pregnancy, birth, and recovery Psychological Identity shifts, sense of self, emotional changes Social How "mom" is perceived and valued in your social circles Cultural Broader societal views and expectations of motherhood Relationships Changes to partnerships, friendships, and family dynamics Career Shifting priorities, career interruptions, work-life alignment Spiritual Legacy, values, religion, purpose Economic Financial impact of maternity leave, career pauses, childcare costs How to Use the Matrix
    1. Map your changes — on the pie chart, mark how much you've shifted in each domain (outer edge = most change, center = least)
    2. Identify what feels "prickly" — those areas likely signal a misalignment with your current values
    3. Explore your values — acknowledge that values shift through motherhood and that's okay
    4. Make decisions from that place — rather than defaulting to pre-motherhood expectations or external pressure
    Key Themes
    • Duality is valid — "I want to grow my business AND be present with my kids" — both can be true
    • Matrescence is cyclical — hard seasons are followed by growth; decisions made now don't have to be permanent
    • Shame and guilt often stem from unacknowledged changes rubbing up against outdated expectations
    • You can't "have it all" in every season — the matrix helps prioritize what matters right now
    Resources & Links   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association   Benefits of a Non-Linear Career
    1. Personal fulfillment — careers that served you at 25 may not serve you at 45; transitions allow you to meet evolving needs
    2. Resilience and adaptability — diverse experience protects against labor market shocks
    3. Transferable skills — the same advice we give young people (keep doors open, diversify experience) applies throughout your entire career
    It's Not Too Late — Reframing Career Age
    • Working lives are getting longer (many now work into their 70s)
    • Someone in their late 30s may have 30+ more years of working life ahead
    • At that stage, you've barely entered the "adult chapter" of your career
    • Key message: Dreams don't have deadlines
    Signs It May Be Time to Consider a Career Change
    • Consistently leaving work feeling drained and depleted
    • Noticing systematic issues with the industry or profession, not just a temporary rough patch
    • Feeling disengaged or going through the motions for an extended period
    • Dissatisfaction that isn't resolved by seasonal changes or minor adjustments
    Best Practices for Making a Career Transition 1. Diagnose the Problem Correctly
    • Track when feelings of frustration or disengagement arise
    • Is it specific tasks? Certain people? Structural conditions of the industry?
    • Fixing the wrong problem leads to the same dissatisfaction in a new role
    2. Prototype in Low-Cost, Low-Risk Ways
    • Talk to people working in fields you're considering
    • Read or listen to content from people in those fields
    • Volunteer, take a course, or build a personal project to test competencies
    • Explore before making a full leap
    The Adult Gap Year Connection
    • An adult gap year is essentially an extended prototyping opportunity
    • Provides time and space for self-exploration that full-time employment rarely allows
    • Can be used to:
      • Explore new career paths
      • Develop new competencies
      • Test interests in a hands-on way
      • Return to a former employer with clarity — or transition into something new
    • Organizational sabbaticals, extended leave, or deferred pay plans can all create this opportunity
    Key Quotes "It's hard to fix the problem if you don't know what it is." "You can prototype things before you actually jump in a big way." "Working lives are getting longer — you may be much younger in your career than you realize." Resources & Links     Takeaway Non-linear careers are not a consolation prize — they are an adaptive, fulfilling, and increasingly strategic way to navigate a changing world of work. Whether you're 28 or 58, it is never too late to reconsider your path, and an adult gap year can be a powerful tool to make that transition thoughtfully and intentionally. Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/36e37695-84b2-37f7-b8d5-96b96cfc9c6dSun, 31 May 2026 16:46:24 +0000voicEd RadioMichelle spoke with Carli Fink, a certified career development practitioner, about the realities of non-linear careers, why people still idealize linear ones, and how to make smart, strategic career transitions. The conversation also made a compelling...
  • Certified Career Development Practitioner
  • Runs Foreseeable Futures — a career counseling practice focused on non-linear careers
  • Also works part-time for a consulting company and teaches career classes at a university
  • Originally trained as a K-12 teacher; her own career has spanned student life, academic advising, career counselling, and workforce development
    • Benefits of a Non-Linear Career
    1. Personal fulfillment — careers that served you at 25 may not serve you at 45; transitions allow you to meet evolving needs
    2. Resilience and adaptability — diverse experience protects against labor market shocks
    3. Transferable skills — the same advice we give young people (keep doors open, diversify experience) applies throughout your entire career
    It's Not Too Late — Reframing Career Age
    • Working lives are getting longer (many now work into their 70s)
    • Someone in their late 30s may have 30+ more years of working life ahead
    • At that stage, you've barely entered the "adult chapter" of your career
    • Key message: Dreams don't have deadlines
    Signs It May Be Time to Consider a Career Change
    • Consistently leaving work feeling drained and depleted
    • Noticing systematic issues with the industry or profession, not just a temporary rough patch
    • Feeling disengaged or going through the motions for an extended period
    • Dissatisfaction that isn't resolved by seasonal changes or minor adjustments
    Best Practices for Making a Career Transition 1. Diagnose the Problem Correctly
    • Track when feelings of frustration or disengagement arise
    • Is it specific tasks? Certain people? Structural conditions of the industry?
    • Fixing the wrong problem leads to the same dissatisfaction in a new role
    2. Prototype in Low-Cost, Low-Risk Ways
    • Talk to people working in fields you're considering
    • Read or listen to content from people in those fields
    • Volunteer, take a course, or build a personal project to test competencies
    • Explore before making a full leap
    The Adult Gap Year Connection
    • An adult gap year is essentially an extended prototyping opportunity
    • Provides time and space for self-exploration that full-time employment rarely allows
    • Can be used to:
      • Explore new career paths
      • Develop new competencies
      • Test interests in a hands-on way
      • Return to a former employer with clarity — or transition into something new
    • Organizational sabbaticals, extended leave, or deferred pay plans can all create this opportunity
    Key Quotes "It's hard to fix the problem if you don't know what it is." "You can prototype things before you actually jump in a big way." "Working lives are getting longer — you may be much younger in your career than you realize." Resources & Links Takeaway Non-linear careers are not a consolation prize — they are an adaptive, fulfilling, and increasingly strategic way to navigate a changing world of work. Whether you're 28 or 58, it is never too late to reconsider your path, and an adult gap year can be a powerful tool to make that transition thoughtfully and intentionally. Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  
    • Find...]]>1680false126fullADULT GAP YEAR SERIES: Wanderlust: Family Edition with Charles Achamponghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/adult-gap-year-series-wanderlust-family-edition-with-charles-achampong--72264380
    • Husband and father of two girls (ages 9 and 12)
    • 20+ years across public, private, non-profit, and philanthropic sectors
    • Focuses on helping communities solve complex problems
    • Now speaks and writes about the power of pausing and intentional living
    • Author of Around the World in Family Days
    How It Started
    • His wife planted the seed on their honeymoon — a dream to take their future family around the world
    • Became a 10-year financial and logistical plan
    • The pandemic reinforced their decision — life is short, and waiting isn't guaranteed
    • Originally planned as an African safari for her 40th birthday; evolved into a full world trip
    Key Barriers They Faced
    • Financial fear — shifting from scarcity mindset to values-based decision making
    • Logistics overwhelm — schooling, travel routes, work; most were solvable
    • Illusion of readiness — there is no perfect moment; you have to interrupt life yourself
    • Identity — letting go of titles, productivity, and career momentum
    • Execution reality — fatigue, missed flights, sibling arguments; growth comes from friction
    Values-Based Decision Making
    • Most pre-trip decisions were default decisions, not deliberate ones
    • The gap year forced the question: What do we value enough to reorganize our lives around?
    • Key family values identified:
      • Quality time together before kids become teenagers
      • Exposing children to the world beyond the classroom
      • Living in alignment, not just in stability
    • Practical exercise suggested:
      • Review your last 3 months of calendar — where is your time going?
      • Review your last 3 months of bank/credit card statements — where is your money going?
      • Do these reflect your actual values?
    Advice for Others
    • "Don't wait until life forces you to pause — practice choosing a pause intentionally."
    • You don't need a full year; even micro-sabbaticals create meaningful disruption
    • The goal is disruption of routine, not just duration
    • Get honest about what's really holding you back — it's usually fear, not logistics
    • Involve your kids (or family) in the planning process
    Resources & Links Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association      ]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/a0310173-8b09-38b3-982f-40c5ca1d63d5Sun, 31 May 2026 16:45:03 +0000voicEd RadioCharles Achampong joined Michelle to share the story of how his family took a year-long trip around the world. What began as a seed of an idea on his honeymoon in Rio de Janeiro became a 10-year plan that ultimately transformed his family's...
  • Husband and father of two girls (ages 9 and 12)
  • 20+ years across public, private, non-profit, and philanthropic sectors
  • Focuses on helping communities solve complex problems
  • Now speaks and writes about the power of pausing and intentional living
  • Author of Around the World in Family Days
    • How It Started
    • His wife planted the seed on their honeymoon — a dream to take their future family around the world
    • Became a 10-year financial and logistical plan
    • The pandemic reinforced their decision — life is short, and waiting isn't guaranteed
    • Originally planned as an African safari for her 40th birthday; evolved into a full world trip
    Key Barriers They Faced
    • Financial fear — shifting from scarcity mindset to values-based decision making
    • Logistics overwhelm — schooling, travel routes, work; most were solvable
    • Illusion of readiness — there is no perfect moment; you have to interrupt life yourself
    • Identity — letting go of titles, productivity, and career momentum
    • Execution reality — fatigue, missed flights, sibling arguments; growth comes from friction
    Values-Based Decision Making
    • Most pre-trip decisions were default decisions, not deliberate ones
    • The gap year forced the question: What do we value enough to reorganize our lives around?
    • Key family values identified:
      • Quality time together before kids become teenagers
      • Exposing children to the world beyond the classroom
      • Living in alignment, not just in stability
    • Practical exercise suggested:
      • Review your last 3 months of calendar — where is your time going?
      • Review your last 3 months of bank/credit card statements — where is your money going?
      • Do these reflect your actual values?
    Advice for Others
    • "Don't wait until life forces you to pause — practice choosing a pause intentionally."
    • You don't need a full year; even micro-sabbaticals create meaningful disruption
    • The goal is disruption of routine, not just duration
    • Get honest about what's really holding you back — it's usually fear, not logistics
    • Involve your kids (or family) in the planning process
    Resources & Links Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association   Programs Discussed Marine Conservation
    • Offered in Thailand and Costa Rica
    • Participants join ongoing research projects
    • Certifications mentioned:
      • PADI scuba certifications
      • SSI / RAID dive training
      • Dive Master opportunities
      • Dive Instructor pathway in Costa Rica
    Game Ranger Course
    • Based near Port Elizabeth, South Africa
    • 8-week immersive course living on a reserve
    • Leads to Field Guide Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) Level 1 qualification
    • Includes conservation work, wildlife learning, and reserve management knowledge
    • Shorter 2–4 week volunteer options are also available
    Support Offered by Gapforce
    • Info calls with Krista
    • Pre-departure portal
    • Document and packing support
    • WhatsApp groups before departure
    • Ongoing communication while participants are abroad
    • Check-ins after the program ends
    Main Themes
    • Conservation work gives participants a chance to contribute to long-term projects
    • Hands-on experience is more meaningful than “symbolic” volunteering
    • Programs build:
      • confidence
      • adaptability
      • cultural exchange
      • practical skills
      • resume value
    Advice Shared
    • Eve: “Don’t panic.”
    • Krista: "Be adaptable and go in with an open mind."
      Gapforce:     https://gapforce.org/ GameRanger Program: https://gapforce.org/trips/south-africa-game-ranger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gapforce   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/7698a037-9683-3634-8cbd-a7356ccd2267Sun, 31 May 2026 16:40:01 +0000voicEd RadioMichelle spoke with two Gapforce representatives about gap year options centered on marine conservation and game ranger training. The conversation covered how the programs work, the support Gapforce provides before and during travel, and the personal...
  • Gapforce is a UK-based gap year provider operating since 1989.
  • Krista is a program advisor based in New York and supports North American applicants.
  • Eve completed Gapforce’s South Africa game ranger course and now works in operations.
    • Programs Discussed Marine Conservation
    • Offered in Thailand and Costa Rica
    • Participants join ongoing research projects
    • Certifications mentioned:
      • PADI scuba certifications
      • SSI / RAID dive training
      • Dive Master opportunities
      • Dive Instructor pathway in Costa Rica
    Game Ranger Course
    • Based near Port Elizabeth, South Africa
    • 8-week immersive course living on a reserve
    • Leads to Field Guide Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) Level 1 qualification
    • Includes conservation work, wildlife learning, and reserve management knowledge
    • Shorter 2–4 week volunteer options are also available
    Support Offered by Gapforce
    • Info calls with Krista
    • Pre-departure portal
    • Document and packing support
    • WhatsApp groups before departure
    • Ongoing communication while participants are abroad
    • Check-ins after the program ends
    Main Themes
    • Conservation work gives participants a chance to contribute to long-term projects
    • Hands-on experience is more meaningful than “symbolic” volunteering
    • Programs build:
      • confidence
      • adaptability
      • cultural exchange
      • practical skills
      • resume value
    Advice Shared
    • Eve: “Don’t panic.”
    • Krista: "Be adaptable and go in with an open mind."
      Gapforce: https://gapforce.org/ GameRanger Program: https://gapforce.org/trips/south-africa-game-ranger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gapforce   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    2012false123full    From Saskatchewan to Germany: How a Gap Year Transformed One Student's Confidencehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-saskatchewan-to-germany-how-a-gap-year-transformed-one-student-s-confidence--72264371
  • https://awaytowork.ca/
  • Canadian Gap Year Association / Gap Year Podcast https://www.cangap.ca/
    • Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/15e2fdbe-0fe1-3f3c-9ebd-8dfff9b6cf47Sun, 31 May 2026 16:35:36 +0000voicEd RadioMadison shared her experience with the International Rural Exchange program, including working in Saskatchewan and then spending time in Germany. She talked about learning to navigate homesickness, language barriers, and uncertainty, and how the...
  • https://awaytowork.ca/
  • Canadian Gap Year Association / Gap Year Podcast https://www.cangap.ca/
    • Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    1915false123full    Take a Liberty Leave with Danica Nelsonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/take-a-liberty-leave-with-danica-nelson--70768137
  • A Liberty Leave is about alignment, not escape. Danica explains that a career break is not just about resting—it is about stepping off autopilot and making more intentional life and work choices.
  • Planning makes the break possible. From her 4P framework to her “freedom formula,” Danica shows how practical steps like budgeting, saving, and creative income planning can turn the idea of a break into a realistic plan.
  • You do not take a break to come back harder. One of Danica’s biggest lessons is that rest should not be used to fuel more burnout. The real goal is building a life that feels sustainable, joyful, and true to you.
    • Key Links ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0ecec2ca-d53f-3031-9f17-5bf52c6b283dThu, 19 Mar 2026 23:34:01 +0000voicEd RadioWhat if taking time off wasn’t a setback, but the smartest move you could make? In this episode, Michelle Dittmer of the Canadian Gap Year Association sits down with Danica Nelson, founder of Liberty Leave, to talk about adult gap years, career...
  • A Liberty Leave is about alignment, not escape. Danica explains that a career break is not just about resting—it is about stepping off autopilot and making more intentional life and work choices.
  • Planning makes the break possible. From her 4P framework to her “freedom formula,” Danica shows how practical steps like budgeting, saving, and creative income planning can turn the idea of a break into a realistic plan.
  • You do not take a break to come back harder. One of Danica’s biggest lessons is that rest should not be used to fuel more burnout. The real goal is building a life that feels sustainable, joyful, and true to you.
    • Key Links ]]>    2075false122full    Pushed Pause on College for the Round the World Encounter: Inside Chloe’s Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pushed-pause-on-college-for-the-round-the-world-encounter-inside-chloe-s-gap-year--70627919https://www.planmygapyear.com/volunteer-around-the-world/ultimate-round-the-world-encounterhttps://www.cangap.ca/quizhttps://www.gapyearassociation.org/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXmPWruvhKQhttps://www.miniretirementsummit.com/]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0675fa8c-b009-3066-843b-15af6d6316beFri, 13 Mar 2026 19:07:48 +0000voicEd RadioWhen a College student realized that College wasn’t the right fit, she went in search of something else. She found a program through CanGap that incorporated her passion for exploration and pushing herself outside of her comfort zone. Listen to her...https://www.planmygapyear.com/volunteer-around-the-world/ultimate-round-the-world-encounterhttps://www.cangap.ca/quizhttps://www.gapyearassociation.org/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXmPWruvhKQhttps://www.miniretirementsummit.com/]]>2533false124fullOutward Bound, Europe & Beyond: Inside Bodhi’s Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/outward-bound-europe-beyond-inside-bodhi-s-gap-year--67304551
  • Check out Outward Bound: https://www.outwardbound.ca/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=13604580362&gbraid=0AAAAADnOPEy_c4A7SgS0s3t5hvtL_vY0b&gclid=Cj0KCQjw-ZHEBhCxARIsAGGN96ImYJ2gdorQJkmkdi3g0m9HCIsM5HgDEurWDqG2q6VZqkLbIFHeeL0aAnYgEALw_wcB 
    •  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/78159368-634a-3f31-a5ae-17aa8381714aFri, 08 Aug 2025 16:52:59 +0000voicEd Radio🌍 What if your Gap Year could be more than just a break—what if it could change your whole outlook on life? In this episode, Bodhi shares his journey from biking in New Hampshire to canoeing canyons in Utah to backpacking solo across Europe. From...
  • Check out Outward Bound: https://www.outwardbound.ca/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=13604580362&gbraid=0AAAAADnOPEy_c4A7SgS0s3t5hvtL_vY0b&gclid=Cj0KCQjw-ZHEBhCxARIsAGGN96ImYJ2gdorQJkmkdi3g0m9HCIsM5HgDEurWDqG2q6VZqkLbIFHeeL0aAnYgEALw_wcB 
    •  ]]>    1800false121full    Earn Money Abroad by Working in Agriculture with AwayToWorkhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/earn-money-abroad-by-working-in-agriculture-with-awaytowork--66386555
  • Learn more and apply: https://awaytowork.ca
    •   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/9b1a642a-6af4-35b2-ab74-03ab4cdfc875Tue, 03 Jun 2025 20:41:05 +0000voicEd Radio🌍 In our latest episode, we’re digging into a unique path to adventure, skill-building, and paid international experience—all through agriculture. Meet Paytten, a Canadian who turned her love for farming and travel into a global journey across the...
  • Learn more and apply: https://awaytowork.ca
    •   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    2770false120full    Why join the Naval Experience Program: A father and son's storyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-join-the-naval-experience-program-a-father-and-son-s-story--65725045
  • Naval Experience Program Info & Application: https://forces.ca/en/ 
    • Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/06271ee6-a960-3eea-8469-97dfea1beb3fFri, 25 Apr 2025 12:49:16 +0000voicEd RadioIn our latest episode, we dive into the Naval Experience Program—an opportunity for young Canadians to build confidence, gain life skills, and explore a career in the military without long-term commitment. Hear from Jonathan, a recent participant, and...
  • Naval Experience Program Info & Application: https://forces.ca/en/ 
    • Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    2147false119full    Top 2 Family Strains During a Gap Year (and How a Family Agreement Can Help)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/top-2-family-strains-during-a-gap-year-and-how-a-family-agreement-can-help--61312011
  • Top 2 Biggest Mistakes: The episode highlights two major mistakes families make during the gap year transition:
    1. Not letting go of childhood expectations and behaviours, 
    2. Failing to communicate expectations clearly on both sides.
    • Independence vs. Responsibility: Michelle discusses the importance of balancing independence with responsibility, ensuring young adults develop the skills they need to thrive after the gap year.
    • Family Contract: Access the downloadable family contract template to help set clear expectations and avoid conflicts by aligning both parent and teen goals.
    • Communication Tips: Michelle provides practical advice on having open, respectful conversations to ensure everyone is on the same page.
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/e97ca46e-32c2-31a7-985f-c67dfe660685Mon, 09 Sep 2024 16:05:29 +0000voicEd RadioIs your teen starting a gap year? Worried about the challenges ahead? Tune into our latest episode to learn how to ease the transition and avoid common pitfalls that lead to family stress and conflict.  Gap Year Expert, Michelle Dittmer explores how...
  • Top 2 Biggest Mistakes: The episode highlights two major mistakes families make during the gap year transition:
    1. Not letting go of childhood expectations and behaviours, 
    2. Failing to communicate expectations clearly on both sides.
    • Independence vs. Responsibility: Michelle discusses the importance of balancing independence with responsibility, ensuring young adults develop the skills they need to thrive after the gap year.
    • Family Contract: Access the downloadable family contract template to help set clear expectations and avoid conflicts by aligning both parent and teen goals.
    • Communication Tips: Michelle provides practical advice on having open, respectful conversations to ensure everyone is on the same page.
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode  ]]>    1600false118full    Funding your gap yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/funding-your-gap-year--61084492www.cangap.ca/quiz Plan your gap year in 4-steps: www.cangap.ca/planner Join our Gap Year Gameplan membership: www.cangap.ca/gameplan Subscribe to our list: https://www.cangap.ca/subscribe]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/c41f5e2a-4fba-3dac-b3b2-00ef29de7c16Mon, 19 Aug 2024 18:17:06 +0000voicEd RadioMany people hesitate to take a gap year, believing it to be too expensive. However, the cost of a gap year can vary widely and can actually be quite affordable! In this episode, Michelle share practical steps and tips to help you plan a...www.cangap.ca/quiz Plan your gap year in 4-steps: www.cangap.ca/planner Join our Gap Year Gameplan membership: www.cangap.ca/gameplan Subscribe to our list: https://www.cangap.ca/subscribe]]>1665false117fullTalking to your Parents about taking a gap yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/talking-to-your-parents-about-taking-a-gap-year--60848820thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/4a46907f-242f-39b3-8ba4-282167fdf628Mon, 29 Jul 2024 15:24:27 +0000voicEd RadioTelling your parents you want to take a gap year can be the hardest part about your decision and can make for a very difficult conversation. In this episode, Michelle Dittmer, President of the Canadian Gap Year Association takes you through all the...1326false116fullA Guide to DEFERRING your University Programhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-guide-to-deferring-your-university-program--60697077
  • What is a deferral and researching the deferral process at your respective institution.
  • The typical process of applying for a deferral.
  • Understanding the fine print and criteria of deferrals. 
  • Effectively explaining your gap year to the University/College. 
  • Weighing your options in the event your deferral application is denied.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/81cbcb61-19c1-314c-92ee-a7abc3796a0aMon, 15 Jul 2024 14:21:32 +0000voicEd RadioThinking of applying to higher education programs now, but still want to take a gap year? This is totally possible by deferring your acceptance! This guarantees you a spot for the following year so you don’t have to worry about applying or getting...
  • What is a deferral and researching the deferral process at your respective institution.
  • The typical process of applying for a deferral.
  • Understanding the fine print and criteria of deferrals. 
  • Effectively explaining your gap year to the University/College. 
  • Weighing your options in the event your deferral application is denied.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association    ]]>    1240false115full    From Skepticism to Support: A Family's Journey Through a Life-Changing Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-skepticism-to-support-a-family-s-journey-through-a-life-changing-gap-year--60554214
  • Hear how Pranav's gap year adventures in Asia helped him gain independence, confidence, and a clearer vision for his future.
  • Discover the vital role of family support in making a gap year successful.
  • Get inspired by the incredible growth and life skills Pranav developed during his travels.
  • Learn valuable tips and advice for families considering a gap year.
    • Tune in to hear this inspiring story of courage, transformation, and the lifelong benefits of taking a gap year! 🎧💪   Topics Discussed
    • Pranav's Gap Year Experience: Pranav discusses his gap year activities, including volunteering, traveling in Asia, and how these experiences prepared him for university.
    • Parents' Perspective: Pranav's parents, initially skeptical and fearful about the gap year, share how they became supportive and recognized the benefits of the experience.
    • Growth and Responsibility: The family highlights Pranav's growth in independence, responsibility, and planning skills, which were evident through his travel and university preparation.
    • Importance of Support and Communication: The episode underscores the value of having a support system, planning, flexibility, and open communication in making a gap year successful.
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/4f62a0d4-8f93-3dc9-b89f-576037e6d4e9Sun, 30 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioIn our latest episode of the Gap Year Podcast, we're breaking new ground with our first-ever family interview! 🎉 Join us as we dive into the transformative journey of Pranav and his parents, Pooja and Ashu. From initial skepticism and fear to becoming...
  • Hear how Pranav's gap year adventures in Asia helped him gain independence, confidence, and a clearer vision for his future.
  • Discover the vital role of family support in making a gap year successful.
  • Get inspired by the incredible growth and life skills Pranav developed during his travels.
  • Learn valuable tips and advice for families considering a gap year.
    • Tune in to hear this inspiring story of courage, transformation, and the lifelong benefits of taking a gap year! 🎧💪   Topics Discussed
    • Pranav's Gap Year Experience: Pranav discusses his gap year activities, including volunteering, traveling in Asia, and how these experiences prepared him for university.
    • Parents' Perspective: Pranav's parents, initially skeptical and fearful about the gap year, share how they became supportive and recognized the benefits of the experience.
    • Growth and Responsibility: The family highlights Pranav's growth in independence, responsibility, and planning skills, which were evident through his travel and university preparation.
    • Importance of Support and Communication: The episode underscores the value of having a support system, planning, flexibility, and open communication in making a gap year successful.
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    1559false114full    Adult Gap Year: Sukaina's Story of Self-Discovery and Cultural Immersionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/adult-gap-year-sukaina-s-story-of-self-discovery-and-cultural-immersion--60396579
  • Embracing Cultural Exploration: Sukaina shares her journey from owning a bakery in Toronto to immersing herself in Portugal, driven by a desire to explore her familial roots and learn the Portuguese language.
  • Impact of Gap Year: Sukaina highlights how taking an adult gap year profoundly shaped her personal growth, offering insights into different cultures, languages, and perspectives beyond conventional education paths.
  • Networking and Support: Michelle and Sukaina discuss the importance of leveraging personal networks and community connections to facilitate affordable and enriching travel experiences, demonstrating how these connections can turn a dream into reality.
  • Lessons in Empathy and Understanding: Living abroad allowed Sukaina to empathize with her immigrant parents' experiences, deepening her appreciation for multiculturalism and broadening her worldview through interactions with diverse individuals.
  • Encouraging Youth and Adults Alike: Michelle and Sukaina encourage both young adults and adults to consider the transformative potential of gap years, emphasizing the value of exploring the world and oneself before committing to career or educational paths.
    •   Resources Mentioned In This Episode   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/4c75cc3d-5db8-385e-bce8-a232fe74ccbaSat, 15 Jun 2024 18:55:45 +0000voicEd RadioOn today’s episode, we dive into the inspiring world of gap years with our fabulous guest, Sukaina. From Toronto to Portugal, her journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and lifelong learning is a testament to the transformative power of taking...
  • Embracing Cultural Exploration: Sukaina shares her journey from owning a bakery in Toronto to immersing herself in Portugal, driven by a desire to explore her familial roots and learn the Portuguese language.
  • Impact of Gap Year: Sukaina highlights how taking an adult gap year profoundly shaped her personal growth, offering insights into different cultures, languages, and perspectives beyond conventional education paths.
  • Networking and Support: Michelle and Sukaina discuss the importance of leveraging personal networks and community connections to facilitate affordable and enriching travel experiences, demonstrating how these connections can turn a dream into reality.
  • Lessons in Empathy and Understanding: Living abroad allowed Sukaina to empathize with her immigrant parents' experiences, deepening her appreciation for multiculturalism and broadening her worldview through interactions with diverse individuals.
  • Encouraging Youth and Adults Alike: Michelle and Sukaina encourage both young adults and adults to consider the transformative potential of gap years, emphasizing the value of exploring the world and oneself before committing to career or educational paths.
    •   Resources Mentioned In This Episode   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association ]]>    1789false113full    Gap Year 2024 Trends: What’s the Word Across Canadahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gap-year-2024-trends-what-s-the-word-across-canada--60069345
  • Community Connection: We explore the power of community and meaningful interactions, both within Canada and beyond, as essential components of a transformative gap year journey.
  • Future Gappers: Listen to expert advice on navigating scholarships, deferrals, and other key aspects of planning a meaningful gap year experience.
  • Parents: Discover why parents across the country are increasingly embracing the idea of a gap year for their children, gaining valuable insights into its benefits and opportunities.
  • Educators: Learn how your peers are increasingly supportive of the gap year pathway, with over 400 professionals attending sessions to better understand and advocate for this transformative experience.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/ec2ab66e-f80e-324c-a16c-0ca2a698f4f8Fri, 17 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioThe Canadian Gap Year Association just wrapped up on their incredible gap year tour! Michelle shares valuable insights from her coast-to-coast travels. Whether you are a highschool student, parent or educator, this episode is packed with gap year...
  • Community Connection: We explore the power of community and meaningful interactions, both within Canada and beyond, as essential components of a transformative gap year journey.
  • Future Gappers: Listen to expert advice on navigating scholarships, deferrals, and other key aspects of planning a meaningful gap year experience.
  • Parents: Discover why parents across the country are increasingly embracing the idea of a gap year for their children, gaining valuable insights into its benefits and opportunities.
  • Educators: Learn how your peers are increasingly supportive of the gap year pathway, with over 400 professionals attending sessions to better understand and advocate for this transformative experience.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    1461false112full    A Parent's Guide to Gap Years: Exploring Outward Bound with Stacyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-parent-s-guide-to-gap-years-exploring-outward-bound-with-stacy--59687019
  • Stacy's Perspective - Gap Year Parents: Gain insights into navigating a gap year as a parent firsthand, as Stacey shares her experiences and reflections on her son's journey.
  • Outward Bound Adventures: Explore the transformative power of wilderness experiences with Outward Bound, discovering how these adventures shape young minds and foster personal growth.
  • Developing Soft Skills: Discussing the importance of soft skills development, including resilience, teamwork, and self-reflection, as Stacey's anecdotes shed light on the invaluable lessons learned during a gap year.
  • Communication and Understanding: Learn about the significance of open communication between parents and children when considering a gap year, fostering understanding and support for each other's perspectives and concerns.
  • Exploring Alternatives to Traditional Education: Discover the potential of gap years as a meaningful alternative to traditional education, offering tailored opportunities for personal growth and exploration aligned with individual interests and aspirations.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/bd172327-e15a-3977-874a-f5b06fa39c4cSun, 28 Apr 2024 18:43:37 +0000voicEd RadioAre you a parent curious about what a gap year can actually look like for your teen? In this episode, we're joined by Stacy who shares her experience navigating her son’s gap year. From wilderness adventures with Outward Bound to unexpected...
  • Stacy's Perspective - Gap Year Parents: Gain insights into navigating a gap year as a parent firsthand, as Stacey shares her experiences and reflections on her son's journey.
  • Outward Bound Adventures: Explore the transformative power of wilderness experiences with Outward Bound, discovering how these adventures shape young minds and foster personal growth.
  • Developing Soft Skills: Discussing the importance of soft skills development, including resilience, teamwork, and self-reflection, as Stacey's anecdotes shed light on the invaluable lessons learned during a gap year.
  • Communication and Understanding: Learn about the significance of open communication between parents and children when considering a gap year, fostering understanding and support for each other's perspectives and concerns.
  • Exploring Alternatives to Traditional Education: Discover the potential of gap years as a meaningful alternative to traditional education, offering tailored opportunities for personal growth and exploration aligned with individual interests and aspirations.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    1769false111full    Parenting Neurodivergent Youth: Navigating Adulthood Transitions with Confidencehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/parenting-neurodivergent-youth-navigating-adulthood-transitions-with-confidence--59435688
  • Navigating Unique Challenges: We discuss the distinct challenges faced by parents of neurodivergent youth transitioning into adulthood, shedding light on the fears and uncertainties of this journey.
    • Empowering Dialogue: It is so important to embrace open communication and understanding between parents and their neurodivergent children, fostering a supportive environment where needs and goals are openly discussed.
    • Community Support: Explore the importance of building a network of caregivers of neurodivergent youth, offering mutual understanding, shared resources, and invaluable tips for navigating this phase of life.
    • Celebrating Resilience: Celebrate the resilience and strengths of neurodiverse individuals, emphasising their worthiness of acceptance, happiness, and fulfillment in a world not always designed for them.
    • Practical Advice: Gain practical advice and recommendations for supporting neurodivergent youth through the transition from adolescence to adulthood, empowering parents to advocate for their children's needs and aspirations.
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0034c51f-8b47-3c3f-b482-b41dc7d1fc2eFri, 12 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioCalling all parents of neurodivergent youth! 🌟 In today’s episode Michelle unravels the unique challenges of guiding your child from adolescence into adulthood. Society's norms may not fit their journey, but CanGap has got your back!  Michelle shares...
  • Navigating Unique Challenges: We discuss the distinct challenges faced by parents of neurodivergent youth transitioning into adulthood, shedding light on the fears and uncertainties of this journey.
    • Empowering Dialogue: It is so important to embrace open communication and understanding between parents and their neurodivergent children, fostering a supportive environment where needs and goals are openly discussed.
    • Community Support: Explore the importance of building a network of caregivers of neurodivergent youth, offering mutual understanding, shared resources, and invaluable tips for navigating this phase of life.
    • Celebrating Resilience: Celebrate the resilience and strengths of neurodiverse individuals, emphasising their worthiness of acceptance, happiness, and fulfillment in a world not always designed for them.
    • Practical Advice: Gain practical advice and recommendations for supporting neurodivergent youth through the transition from adolescence to adulthood, empowering parents to advocate for their children's needs and aspirations.
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    1692false107full    What is a Gap Year?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-is-a-gap-year--58621783
  • Demystifying Gap Years: Michelle Dittmer, Gap Year Expert, tackles common misconceptions surrounding gap years in Canada, shedding light on their increasing popularity.
  • Value of a Gap Year: The episode dives into the core of gap years, emphasizing their customizable nature as a tool for real-world experiences, skill development, and self-discovery at various life stages.
  • Breaking Stereotypes: Forget the clichés! Michelle challenges the idea that gap years are solely about travel, revealing the diverse opportunities for growth, from volunteering and working to pursuing passions.
  • Components of a Successful Gap Year: Michelle shares key components for a purposeful gap year, including setting clear goals, having a plan, embracing novel experiences, and reflecting on the journey for personal growth.
  • Guidance for All Ages: Highlighting that gap years aren't exclusive to high school grads, Michelle explores their relevance at different life stages, making the episode a valuable resource for parents and individuals considering this enriching adventure.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/ecb67881-9718-3f2e-a119-8dbd7002c1b8Fri, 09 Feb 2024 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioCurious about gap years in Canada? They're more popular than ever, but there's still a lot of confusion and misconception around them. So, we are here to clear things up! Join Michelle, Canada’s Gap Year Expert as she tackles the age-old question:...
  • Demystifying Gap Years: Michelle Dittmer, Gap Year Expert, tackles common misconceptions surrounding gap years in Canada, shedding light on their increasing popularity.
  • Value of a Gap Year: The episode dives into the core of gap years, emphasizing their customizable nature as a tool for real-world experiences, skill development, and self-discovery at various life stages.
  • Breaking Stereotypes: Forget the clichés! Michelle challenges the idea that gap years are solely about travel, revealing the diverse opportunities for growth, from volunteering and working to pursuing passions.
  • Components of a Successful Gap Year: Michelle shares key components for a purposeful gap year, including setting clear goals, having a plan, embracing novel experiences, and reflecting on the journey for personal growth.
  • Guidance for All Ages: Highlighting that gap years aren't exclusive to high school grads, Michelle explores their relevance at different life stages, making the episode a valuable resource for parents and individuals considering this enriching adventure.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association ]]>    1474false106full    What to do with a University Drop Outhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-to-do-with-a-university-drop-out--58454573
  • Navigating Premature Post-Secondary Exits: Michelle Dittmer delves into the delicate topic of students leaving higher education before completion.
  • Non-Judgmental Approach: The most important thing is to preserve your relationship, we encourage approaching this emotional time with a compassionate perspective and curiosity. 
  • The 4 Biggest Reasons why students drop out 
  • Michelle provides an easy and attainable 4-step guide that will help with navigating difficult conversations, better understanding your young person and formulating a strategic plan that will set them up for success. 
  • Normalizing Educational Breaks: Breaks during post-secondary education are much more common than you think! In fact, it can be a pivotal, healthy and beneficial step to hit pause and reassess the stressors. 
  • CanGap is HERE to support YOU! : We have the resources and programs available to support you and your young person during this challenging and uncertain time, don’t hesitate to jump on a FREE 30-minute call to discuss next steps! https://www.cangap.ca/call
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/d727f641-95b4-34fe-85d4-a2b900df5c7eFri, 26 Jan 2024 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioParenting through a child's university dropout can be overwhelming, but you're not alone! In this episode, Michelle offers crucial support and advice to guide you through this challenging period. Learn about the challenges of the post-secondary...
  • Navigating Premature Post-Secondary Exits: Michelle Dittmer delves into the delicate topic of students leaving higher education before completion.
  • Non-Judgmental Approach: The most important thing is to preserve your relationship, we encourage approaching this emotional time with a compassionate perspective and curiosity. 
  • The 4 Biggest Reasons why students drop out 
  • Michelle provides an easy and attainable 4-step guide that will help with navigating difficult conversations, better understanding your young person and formulating a strategic plan that will set them up for success. 
  • Normalizing Educational Breaks: Breaks during post-secondary education are much more common than you think! In fact, it can be a pivotal, healthy and beneficial step to hit pause and reassess the stressors. 
  • CanGap is HERE to support YOU! : We have the resources and programs available to support you and your young person during this challenging and uncertain time, don’t hesitate to jump on a FREE 30-minute call to discuss next steps! https://www.cangap.ca/call
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    2152false105full    How to have MORE FUN - According to our Book Club!https://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-have-more-fun-according-to-our-book-club--58274320
  • The Power of Fun by Catherine Price: https://a.co/d/e1EWptj 
  • Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call
    • Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/2492f977-d38a-3b74-8e1e-fc2bde9c39dbFri, 12 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioOn today’s episode, Michelle Dittmer invites you to the CanGap book club, where we talk about Catherine Price’s transformative book, “The Power of Fun”, because without fun, are we really living?  Michelle deep dives into the 3 key elements,...
  • The Power of Fun by Catherine Price: https://a.co/d/e1EWptj 
  • Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call
    • Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    1543false104full    How to Pick a Uni Program (Or Not)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-pick-a-uni-program-or-not--58257528
  • Decisions aren't permanent: Remember, post-secondary choices can and should evolve with you over time.
  • Exploration over perfection: We advocate for exploring various pathways rather than stressing about finding the "perfect" one (especially right out of high school!) 
  • Assessing YOUR life at Post-Secondary: Michelle discusses the many aspects of post-secondary, and prompts listeners to envisions their life at post-secondary. 
  • No wrong path: Emphasising that all forms of education have value, Michelle encourages personalised journeys without the pressure of a "right" choice.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/85d207c5-adf6-3aa2-b57b-5041bd526c41Wed, 10 Jan 2024 21:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioAttention high schoolers navigating post-secondary choices! Are you overwhelmed with the decisions of choosing a post-secondary pathway that will be right for you?  Look no further, because this episode is jam-packed with valuable advice from...
  • Decisions aren't permanent: Remember, post-secondary choices can and should evolve with you over time.
  • Exploration over perfection: We advocate for exploring various pathways rather than stressing about finding the "perfect" one (especially right out of high school!) 
  • Assessing YOUR life at Post-Secondary: Michelle discusses the many aspects of post-secondary, and prompts listeners to envisions their life at post-secondary. 
  • No wrong path: Emphasising that all forms of education have value, Michelle encourages personalised journeys without the pressure of a "right" choice.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    1652false103full    From Shy to Bold: Unveiling the Transformative Power of a Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-shy-to-bold-unveiling-the-transformative-power-of-a-gap-year--57795032
  • Transformative Journey: Maddy's shift from a shy individual to a confident public speaker after a life-changing gap year experience.
  • Impact of Immersive Learning: How Maddy's gap year with Carpe Diem Education reshaped her career towards conservation and sustainable travel.
  • Addressing Social Anxiety: Discussing the relevance of experiential education in combating anxiety issues prevalent among youth today.
  • Ethical Community Engagement: Exploring Carpe Diem's approach to community partnerships and the importance of authentic, sustainable voluntourism.
  • Gap Year as Personal Investment: Highlighting the gap year as a pivotal time for self-exploration and its enduring impact on personal and professional development.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/90b9f451-5f62-304e-86e7-e1c67eddb036Fri, 24 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioToday's episode is all about Maddy's incredible gap year and travel journey with Carpe Diem Education! She shares how this transformative experience helped her to become more confident, tackle her fears, discover new passions and jump start her career...
  • Transformative Journey: Maddy's shift from a shy individual to a confident public speaker after a life-changing gap year experience.
  • Impact of Immersive Learning: How Maddy's gap year with Carpe Diem Education reshaped her career towards conservation and sustainable travel.
  • Addressing Social Anxiety: Discussing the relevance of experiential education in combating anxiety issues prevalent among youth today.
  • Ethical Community Engagement: Exploring Carpe Diem's approach to community partnerships and the importance of authentic, sustainable voluntourism.
  • Gap Year as Personal Investment: Highlighting the gap year as a pivotal time for self-exploration and its enduring impact on personal and professional development.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode  ]]>    1351false102full    From Imposter Syndrome to Empowerment: 100 Episodes of Reflection and Growthhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-imposter-syndrome-to-empowerment-100-episodes-of-reflection-and-growth--57588169
  • Discover how to conquer imposter syndrome and unleash your potential on a gap year journey.
    • Learn the power of persistence and the value of collaboration
    • Get a glimpse of exciting future plans for the GapYear Podcast, including AI integration! 
    • Gain inspiration from Michelle's journey, and how she's empowered thousands to embark on fulfilling gap years.
    • Join the celebration and be part of the supportive community that's grown with the Gap Year Podcast.
      Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    • Leave us some love on our Google and Facebook Reviews:  
      Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/ba3cbd4e-e4f3-3a20-9bd8-35263bab6adaFri, 10 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioWelcome to the 100th episode of the Gap Year Podcast!! Today, Michelle celebrates this incredible milestone while reflecting on the journey of creating this podcast. She also shares personal anecdotes and her valuable insight on imposter syndrome,...
  • Discover how to conquer imposter syndrome and unleash your potential on a gap year journey.
    • Learn the power of persistence and the value of collaboration
    • Get a glimpse of exciting future plans for the GapYear Podcast, including AI integration! 
    • Gain inspiration from Michelle's journey, and how she's empowered thousands to embark on fulfilling gap years.
    • Join the celebration and be part of the supportive community that's grown with the Gap Year Podcast.
      Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    • Leave us some love on our Google and Facebook Reviews:  
      Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    1821false101full    How to evaluate the safety of gap year programshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-evaluate-the-safety-of-gap-year-programs--57406074
  • Meet safety expert Dave and learn about Cornerstone Safety Group.
  • Safety green flags to look out for in experiential gap year programs. 
  • Risk and Safety in 3 Core Buckets 
    • Understanding yourself and onboarding with the program. 
    • Developing support systems within your group. 
    • Managing events when they arise.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0ef73e52-4acf-3371-9ffa-c36f5893fbaeFri, 27 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioCalling out all gappers and gapper parents 📣 are you leaving home for your gap year adventure either to another country or continent entirely?! While this is super exciting, it can be very intimidating and anxiety inducing. But, you are in luck...
  • Meet safety expert Dave and learn about Cornerstone Safety Group.
  • Safety green flags to look out for in experiential gap year programs. 
  • Risk and Safety in 3 Core Buckets 
    • Understanding yourself and onboarding with the program. 
    • Developing support systems within your group. 
    • Managing events when they arise.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    1787false100full    Why You Shouldn’t Rush Yourself - With Jessicahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-you-shouldn-t-rush-yourself-with-jessica--57350375https://www.cangap.ca/resources)   However, your gap year is yours to create and it can be extremely transformational! Today, one of our amazing alum, Jessica, shares her gap year journey. She was enrolled in our Gap Year GPS program, worked a variety of different jobs, travelled and most importantly, gained confidence in herself, helping her to achieve her goals!    Take a listen to Jessica’s story!    Topics Discussed
    • Meet Jessica (CanGap Alum) and what she is currently up to after her gap year. 
    • Jessica’s gap year activities and journey, including working, moving to 2 times, and trying things she would have never done before! 
    • What setbacks and obstacles she encountered and how she overcame them.
    • How the Gap Year GPS was a valuable toolkit supporting Jessica throughout her gap year (and how it can help you on your journey too!!) 
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/616f3cc0-bdbd-3ff0-bb5e-b2fc466b9669Mon, 23 Oct 2023 04:31:24 +0000voicEd RadioTaking a gap year can be terrifying! You’re doing something completely different than your peers, there is so much uncertainty about the year ahead, and you may not be equipped with all of the gap year resources (check out our resources page at:...https://www.cangap.ca/resources)   However, your gap year is yours to create and it can be extremely transformational! Today, one of our amazing alum, Jessica, shares her gap year journey. She was enrolled in our Gap Year GPS program, worked a variety of different jobs, travelled and most importantly, gained confidence in herself, helping her to achieve her goals!    Take a listen to Jessica’s story!    Topics Discussed
    • Meet Jessica (CanGap Alum) and what she is currently up to after her gap year. 
    • Jessica’s gap year activities and journey, including working, moving to 2 times, and trying things she would have never done before! 
    • What setbacks and obstacles she encountered and how she overcame them.
    • How the Gap Year GPS was a valuable toolkit supporting Jessica throughout her gap year (and how it can help you on your journey too!!) 
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode ]]>    1380false99full    Why September’s Actions will Make or Break your Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-september-s-actions-will-make-or-break-your-gap-year--56588005www.cangap.ca/launch.  It’s the perfect event to meet other gappers, mentors, attend valuable workshops and panels and have SO MUCH FUN!  Topics Discussed
    • Why September is one of the most challenging times for Gappers. 
    • The Top 3 Challenges faced during this time and ways to mitigate them. 
    • Gap Year Launch!! CanGap’s FREE Gap Year Orientation Event happening in Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary both In-Person and Virtual. See schedule, dates and locations at www.cangap.ca/launch 
      Resources Mentioned In This Episode  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/93e13c3b-ffd6-3d83-8182-d3a6cf6b8736Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioHappy New Year! Well, it’s not actually January, but doesn’t September feel like New Years anyway? A new season, new academic year and so many amazing back-to-school deals!  But this is also an exciting time for gappers, as it’s the beginning of your...www.cangap.ca/launch.  It’s the perfect event to meet other gappers, mentors, attend valuable workshops and panels and have SO MUCH FUN!  Topics Discussed
    • Why September is one of the most challenging times for Gappers. 
    • The Top 3 Challenges faced during this time and ways to mitigate them. 
    • Gap Year Launch!! CanGap’s FREE Gap Year Orientation Event happening in Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary both In-Person and Virtual. See schedule, dates and locations at www.cangap.ca/launch 
      Resources Mentioned In This Episode  ]]>    1156false98full    How to Support your Kid’s Wacky Ideahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-support-your-kid-s-wacky-idea--56183700
  • We are living in a generation of changemakers who see the world and their purpose differently than before. 
  • Michelle’s top 4 tips on supporting your kid on this exciting journey that will allow them to develop transferable skills. 
  • Details on CanGap’s new and upcoming FREE program where participants are matched with a project coach and $1000 grant to get the project operational! 
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/7d89a511-bcc0-3959-a862-d20929a61724Sat, 22 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioHas your young person ever had the idea of starting their own business, launching a youtube channel, or making a living out of their hobby and you’re not sure how to support them? Well, this episode is for you! Michelle shares her top 4 tips on how to...
  • We are living in a generation of changemakers who see the world and their purpose differently than before. 
  • Michelle’s top 4 tips on supporting your kid on this exciting journey that will allow them to develop transferable skills. 
  • Details on CanGap’s new and upcoming FREE program where participants are matched with a project coach and $1000 grant to get the project operational! 
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    1251false97full    2SLGBTQ+ Considerations for a Gap Year (a starting place)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/2slgbtq-considerations-for-a-gap-year-a-starting-place--55638473
  • Gap Years are tools for mental health and self discovery, an amazing opportunity to redefine who you are after leaving your high school experience. This is your time to set up your life for  the next step. 
  • Special considerations for travel, navigating obstacles and resources that will make this easier. 
  • Resources for parents and allies of the 2SLGBTQ+ community 
    •   Resources Mentioned In This Episode ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/ed124ba2-14b2-3b2e-b6b2-3a8b015d77d4Sat, 01 Jul 2023 00:04:56 +0000voicEd RadioAre you a gapper or do you have a gapping kid part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community? You are not alone and this episode is for you! A gap year is truly the perfect time for self-discovery, growth, gaining confidence and finding supportive communities (like...
  • Gap Years are tools for mental health and self discovery, an amazing opportunity to redefine who you are after leaving your high school experience. This is your time to set up your life for  the next step. 
  • Special considerations for travel, navigating obstacles and resources that will make this easier. 
  • Resources for parents and allies of the 2SLGBTQ+ community 
    •   Resources Mentioned In This Episode ]]>    1103false96full    Why Travel and Experiential Programs are Critical in 2023 with Carpe Diem’s ED, Adamhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-travel-and-experiential-programs-are-critical-in-2023-with-carpe-diem-s-ed-adam--53928125
  • Learn more about Carpe Diem’s and Global Routes Programs
  • Benefits of Gap Years, Experiential Learning and Travel
  • The importance of self-exploration and finding your values, interests and passions. 
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/42e40297-cba4-3553-8984-f5a753350aceFri, 19 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioIn today’s episode, we had the wonderful opportunity to speak with Carpe Diem’s ED, Adam! Such a kindred spirit who shares his experience with travel and experiential programs.  Together, Michelle and Adam dive deep into the key skills that youth are...
  • Learn more about Carpe Diem’s and Global Routes Programs
  • Benefits of Gap Years, Experiential Learning and Travel
  • The importance of self-exploration and finding your values, interests and passions. 
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association ]]>    2576false95full    The 3 Most Challenging Times of Year for Gappershttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-3-most-challenging-times-of-year-for-gappers--53749721thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/300920a0-6d10-3d4b-b9aa-64895bff8cebFri, 05 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioTaking a gap year can be a roller coaster of emotion and experiences. It's full of highs and lows, and each experience gives the gapper so many opportunities to learn and grow. In today’s episode, Michelle explores the 3 key times during the gap year...881false94fullUnserious Careers - How taking time to figure it out pays off in health, happiness and successhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unserious-careers-how-taking-time-to-figure-it-out-pays-off-in-health-happiness-and-success--53534243
  • Alana’s personal journey of writing her book, Unserious Careers.
  • The importance of having transparent conversations with parents/guardians around expectations (which oftentimes may be different than what you think!) 
  • The reality of today is that career paths are not linear, and while this may seem daunting - it’s a beautiful opportunity for people to explore a variety of their interests. 
  • Always progressing to the “next step” will not necessarily move your career in the right direction, instead getting clarity about what you actually want to do will accelerate you to where you want to go.
  • The difference between taking a year off and and taking a gap year - how can you make the most of this time.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    • Check out Alana’s Book “Unserious Careers” https://www.unseriouscareers.com/
      Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/3ae37fae-99bd-3a89-94bf-bf723364c043Fri, 14 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioWhat comes to mind when you hear the word Career? Does it evoke feelings of fear, anxiousness or overwhelm? Do you perceive it as a one time decision and then you’re locked in for the next 40, 50 maybe even 60 years?! Well, what if we told you that...
  • Alana’s personal journey of writing her book, Unserious Careers.
  • The importance of having transparent conversations with parents/guardians around expectations (which oftentimes may be different than what you think!) 
  • The reality of today is that career paths are not linear, and while this may seem daunting - it’s a beautiful opportunity for people to explore a variety of their interests. 
  • Always progressing to the “next step” will not necessarily move your career in the right direction, instead getting clarity about what you actually want to do will accelerate you to where you want to go.
  • The difference between taking a year off and and taking a gap year - how can you make the most of this time.
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    • Check out Alana’s Book “Unserious Careers” https://www.unseriouscareers.com/
      Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    2165false93full    Talking to your Teen about Taking a Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/talking-to-your-teen-about-taking-a-gap-year--53400444
  • What are parents reaching out and talking to CanGap about?
  • The top 3 reasons why teenagers are hesitant to take a gap year (some of these may surprise you!) 
  • How to have productive conversations with your young person that will encourage them to think about pursuing a gap year. 
  • The 6 factors of post-secondary readiness - and having your teen use this as a benchmark to assess whether they are ready for higher education. 
  • Action steps to take to make them feel confident about pursuing a gap year. 
    •   Resources Mentioned In This Episode   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/09bc3b58-2352-3e8e-bee1-9636d20a1637Fri, 31 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioMost parents would think that if they offered their teenager an opportunity to take a gap year, they would say yes in a heartbeat! Imagine all of the exciting adventures, learning opportunities and the ability to earn some extra money - what's not to...
  • What are parents reaching out and talking to CanGap about?
  • The top 3 reasons why teenagers are hesitant to take a gap year (some of these may surprise you!) 
  • How to have productive conversations with your young person that will encourage them to think about pursuing a gap year. 
  • The 6 factors of post-secondary readiness - and having your teen use this as a benchmark to assess whether they are ready for higher education. 
  • Action steps to take to make them feel confident about pursuing a gap year. 
    •   Resources Mentioned In This Episode   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association  ]]>    1594false92full    What skill deficits exist for teens in 2023 - Jay Gosselin and Michelle Dittmer share their observationshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-skill-deficits-exist-for-teens-in-2023-jay-gosselin-and-michelle-dittmer-share-their-observations--53081517
  • The major setbacks and obstacles faced by youth including social and mental health issues. 
  • How such issues have become barriers for youth to make an effective transitions from adolescence to young adulthood
  • The challenges with having difficult conversations with your young person and CanGap resources that you can tap into. 
  • How discover year through experiential learning and exceptional mentor support helps the development of critical soft skills that students are missing 
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/ba760abb-7f39-30d8-8cb3-640bdee1ef78Fri, 03 Mar 2023 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioIn today’s episode we invite the fabulous Jay Gosselin from Discover Year, a certified Canadian post-secondary program that fosters confidence, resilience and equips students with the skills they need to succeed in their transition from adolescence...
  • The major setbacks and obstacles faced by youth including social and mental health issues. 
  • How such issues have become barriers for youth to make an effective transitions from adolescence to young adulthood
  • The challenges with having difficult conversations with your young person and CanGap resources that you can tap into. 
  • How discover year through experiential learning and exceptional mentor support helps the development of critical soft skills that students are missing 
    • Resources Mentioned In This Episode Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association ]]>    1574false91full    Fear is running your kids life and what you can do about ithttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fear-is-running-your-kids-life-and-what-you-can-do-about-it--52765019thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/10dc2c7e-c1b2-3483-8284-abb9d2549ec0Fri, 17 Feb 2023 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioDo you ever wonder what’s holding your young person back from applying for that job, trying out for the sports team or even asking that person out?  Well, in today’s episode, Michelle unpacks this powerful underlying emotion of fear. She walks us...1515false90fullThe Top 3 Parental Concerns about taking a Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-top-3-parental-concerns-about-taking-a-gap-year--52313249thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/5749acbd-f1f7-3a97-95a4-99dc3aad1da2Fri, 30 Dec 2022 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioWe asked parents about their biggest concerns with their young person taking a gap year, and across the board their top 3 answers were:  My teen will waste their time. Various financial concerns.  My teen will face loneliness and isolation.  Want to...1460false89fullTeen Behaviour: The brain science behind why parents and teens butt heads and how to support them in their transition to adulthoodhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/teen-behaviour-the-brain-science-behind-why-parents-and-teens-butt-heads-and-how-to-support-them-in-their-transition-to-adulthood--52269696thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/011039d0-23de-3fd6-9685-7c9774158ce8Fri, 23 Dec 2022 18:44:13 +0000voicEd RadioAs a parent you always want the best for your teen, but sometimes it’s hard to see eye to eye on what the “best” is with your young person. If you want to better understand why your teen thinks and makes the decisions they do, along with why this...1462false88fullHow to use ScholarshipsCanada and SchoolFinder to plan your post-secondary journey post gap yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-use-scholarshipscanada-and-schoolfinder-to-plan-your-post-secondary-journey-post-gap-year--52081352Well, you’re in luck because in today’s episode we invited the amazing Logan Bright from SchoolFinder and Scholarships Canada who walks us through how students can utilise these phenomenal resources to take the stress off of post-secondary research and help them effectively find the most relevant information. 
    And, to all the gappers tuning in, Logan actually took a gap year himself! He spent his time dedicated to gaining work experience, personal growth and even filming and starring in his own movie! 
    Tune in, you don’t want to miss out on this one! 
    Topics Discussed
    Meet Logan Bright from SchoolFinder and ScholarshipCanada and learn about how you can be matched with your perfect post-secondary school, programs, scholarships and career path.
    The amazing features of SchoolFinder and how it will help you explore post-secondary options you were not aware of before.
    Learn about Logan’s transformative gap year and how that impacted the trajectory of his career.
    Understanding that career paths are not linear (and that is okay!) and how to best embrace that change. 
    How to leverage your gap year to craft the most compelling scholarships apps and successfully fund your post-secondary education. 
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    SchoolFinder
    ScholarshipsCanada
    Learn more about how you can win scholarships! 
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/a206131d-59a3-39b8-8368-cad4fbe23085Fri, 02 Dec 2022 18:49:44 +0000voicEd RadioImagine if there was a website that would match you to the perfect post-secondary institution, program, scholarships and career path that is just right for you! Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it?  Well, you’re in luck because in today’s episode...Well, you’re in luck because in today’s episode we invited the amazing Logan Bright from SchoolFinder and Scholarships Canada who walks us through how students can utilise these phenomenal resources to take the stress off of post-secondary research and help them effectively find the most relevant information. 
    And, to all the gappers tuning in, Logan actually took a gap year himself! He spent his time dedicated to gaining work experience, personal growth and even filming and starring in his own movie! 
    Tune in, you don’t want to miss out on this one! 
    Topics Discussed
    Meet Logan Bright from SchoolFinder and ScholarshipCanada and learn about how you can be matched with your perfect post-secondary school, programs, scholarships and career path.
    The amazing features of SchoolFinder and how it will help you explore post-secondary options you were not aware of before.
    Learn about Logan’s transformative gap year and how that impacted the trajectory of his career.
    Understanding that career paths are not linear (and that is okay!) and how to best embrace that change. 
    How to leverage your gap year to craft the most compelling scholarships apps and successfully fund your post-secondary education. 
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    SchoolFinder
    ScholarshipsCanada
    Learn more about how you can win scholarships! 
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    1170false87full    How to Win Scholarships - Leveraging your gap year to fund your university tuitionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-win-scholarships-leveraging-your-gap-year-to-fund-your-university-tuition--51938131Janet and Michelle also dive further to unpack the greater value besides the money and how scholarships can become a tool you can leverage to make you a better job candidate and land those dream positions. 
    Topics Discussed
    Meet Janet MacDonald from MyCampusGPS and learn about the helpful resources she provides students. 
    Looking beyond the money, how will scholarships help you stand out among other job candidates. 
    How gappers can leverage their time and experiences of their gap year when it comes to the scholarship process. 
    What skills funders look for when reading scholarship applications. 
    How taking on a leadership role will help you develop the necessary skills and qualities that can be applied to applications, but more importantly your own experiences. 
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    https://www.mycampusgps.ca/ 
    Contact Janet: justjanet@mycampusgps.ca
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ
     ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/b8799113-4388-3fc5-b2eb-fa880e2e04c4Fri, 18 Nov 2022 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioWe all know post-secondary education is very expensive and a huge financial burden that students have to carry. Thank goodness for scholarships!. However, looking for scholarships, writing  beautifully crafted applications and effectively...Janet and Michelle also dive further to unpack the greater value besides the money and how scholarships can become a tool you can leverage to make you a better job candidate and land those dream positions. 
    Topics Discussed
    Meet Janet MacDonald from MyCampusGPS and learn about the helpful resources she provides students. 
    Looking beyond the money, how will scholarships help you stand out among other job candidates. 
    How gappers can leverage their time and experiences of their gap year when it comes to the scholarship process. 
    What skills funders look for when reading scholarship applications. 
    How taking on a leadership role will help you develop the necessary skills and qualities that can be applied to applications, but more importantly your own experiences. 
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    https://www.mycampusgps.ca/ 
    Contact Janet: justjanet@mycampusgps.ca
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ
     ]]>    2073false86full    Planning a gap year with help from CanGap: Brelan’s Storyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/planning-a-gap-year-with-help-from-cangap-brelan-s-story--51784178Tune in to hear all about Brelan’s exciting journey and why taking a gap year is truly a step in the right direction to grow, gain invaluable skills and make a lifetime of memories. 
    Topics Discussed
    What compelled Brelan about CanGap and why she chose the Gap Year Gameplan Program. 
    Brelan’s top 3 gap year goals and how she was able to achieve them through the gameplan pillars. 
    The support and resources provided by CanGap which was instrumental in guiding Brelan through her year. 
    Brelan’s takeaways from her epic gap year. 

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Gap Year Gameplan 
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube 

    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/295c7a94-3e3a-3738-ac4b-d6f4e804582cFri, 04 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioIn today’s episode we invited the incredible Brelan, a CanGap alum who dedicated her gap year to self-growth, becoming financially savvy and going on some epic adventures! She was able to accomplish this (and much more!) by using the Gap Year Gameplan...Tune in to hear all about Brelan’s exciting journey and why taking a gap year is truly a step in the right direction to grow, gain invaluable skills and make a lifetime of memories. 
    Topics Discussed
    What compelled Brelan about CanGap and why she chose the Gap Year Gameplan Program. 
    Brelan’s top 3 gap year goals and how she was able to achieve them through the gameplan pillars. 
    The support and resources provided by CanGap which was instrumental in guiding Brelan through her year. 
    Brelan’s takeaways from her epic gap year. 

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Gap Year Gameplan 
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube 

    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    1530false85full    Connecting your gap year to the metaverse - The role of digital credentialshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/connecting-your-gap-year-to-the-metaverse-the-role-of-digital-credentials--51713800In today’s episode, Michelle dives deep into the world of digital badges. What they are, where you can earn them and how to display them so you can tap into valuable networks and get connected with the right people. 
    The best part is that CanGap offers digital badges and credentials for gappers! We’ll walk you through our internationally recognized Student of Leadership and Humanity Award, and how you can validate the learning that happens on your gap year! 
    Topics Discussed
    Exploring the Metaverse! What is it, how can you take advantage of it and how is it relevant to your gap year. 
    Diving deeper into the world of digital badges and credentials.
    Leveraging LinkedIn to tap into your network and land your dream internship and work positions. 
    How your Gap Year is the perfect opportunity to explore the metaverse and earn digital badges to give you a jumpstart in your professional development. 
    CanGap’s very own digital credentials, The Student of Leadership and Humanity Award!

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Student of Leadership and Humanity Award 
    Learn more about AJ’s gap year experience
    Creating an Effective LinkedIn Profile with AJ
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/01eeb7eb-abed-336e-be95-b10ca30f995eFri, 28 Oct 2022 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioFinding a job, education and credentialing look very different to what it has been in the past. Ever since entering the digital era, the metaverse, digital badges and micro credentials have taken things by storm, and are something that you do not want...In today’s episode, Michelle dives deep into the world of digital badges. What they are, where you can earn them and how to display them so you can tap into valuable networks and get connected with the right people. 
    The best part is that CanGap offers digital badges and credentials for gappers! We’ll walk you through our internationally recognized Student of Leadership and Humanity Award, and how you can validate the learning that happens on your gap year! 
    Topics Discussed
    Exploring the Metaverse! What is it, how can you take advantage of it and how is it relevant to your gap year. 
    Diving deeper into the world of digital badges and credentials.
    Leveraging LinkedIn to tap into your network and land your dream internship and work positions. 
    How your Gap Year is the perfect opportunity to explore the metaverse and earn digital badges to give you a jumpstart in your professional development. 
    CanGap’s very own digital credentials, The Student of Leadership and Humanity Award!

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Student of Leadership and Humanity Award 
    Learn more about AJ’s gap year experience
    Creating an Effective LinkedIn Profile with AJ
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    1284false84full    Building a Portfolio on Your Gap Year - Tips from the Creative Proshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/building-a-portfolio-on-your-gap-year-tips-from-the-creative-pros--51573383Well, you are in luck! In today’s episode, we invited Danielle, an OCAD Alum and recruiter. She shares her journey pursuing art during highschool, throughout her gap year and in university. She highlights how she leveraged opportunities to connect with other creatives during this process. 
    Most importantly, Danielle gives us the inside scoop on how to craft your portfolio and feel confident in your work when submitting your application! 
    Topics Discussed
    Danielle’s gap year experience and how it played an instrumental role in helping her decide what to pursue in post-secondary.
    The importance of proactively finding opportunities to connect and network with other creatives and ways you can do this.
    How to curate an authentic art portfolio that best reflects you as a creative (and getting this reviewed on National Portfolio Day)! 
    The opportunity to get personal feedback and advice from Danielle through her FREE service, Virtual One-to-One Admissions Appointments. 

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    dcoleman@ocadu.ca

    https://admissions.ocadu.ca/visit/portfolio-clinics

    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
     
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/ee98f18e-b2b4-3b10-8380-7f500355c2f3Fri, 14 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioAre you looking to apply to an arts and design school but don’t know where or how to start? Does crafting your portfolio, writing your application or even networking with other creatives feel intimidating?  Well, you are in luck! In today’s episode,...Well, you are in luck! In today’s episode, we invited Danielle, an OCAD Alum and recruiter. She shares her journey pursuing art during highschool, throughout her gap year and in university. She highlights how she leveraged opportunities to connect with other creatives during this process. 
    Most importantly, Danielle gives us the inside scoop on how to craft your portfolio and feel confident in your work when submitting your application! 
    Topics Discussed
    Danielle’s gap year experience and how it played an instrumental role in helping her decide what to pursue in post-secondary.
    The importance of proactively finding opportunities to connect and network with other creatives and ways you can do this.
    How to curate an authentic art portfolio that best reflects you as a creative (and getting this reviewed on National Portfolio Day)! 
    The opportunity to get personal feedback and advice from Danielle through her FREE service, Virtual One-to-One Admissions Appointments. 

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    dcoleman@ocadu.ca

    https://admissions.ocadu.ca/visit/portfolio-clinics

    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
     
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    2476false83full    Biggest Gap Year Mistakes of 2022 (and how to beat them)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/biggest-gap-year-mistakes-of-2022-and-how-to-beat-them--51497199But don’t worry, because in today’s episode Michelle shares how you can fix these mistakes to have the most EPIC gap year possible! 
    Remember, CanGap is here to support so don’t miss out on the amazing resources or the opportunity to book a FREE 30 minute call so we can help you on your journey. 
    Topics Discussed
    The top 3 gap year mistakes of 2022. 
    How to develop a healthier relationship with saving vs. spending your money. 
    Implementing organization systems that will help you manage your time and be on top of your gap year game! 
    Michelle’s decision making mantra; “there are no wrong decisions BUT there are also no right decisions - the only mistake is to NOT make a decision.” 

     
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Check out our valuable episode on Funding and Budgeting for your gap year! 
    FREE Downloadable Gap Year Tools and Resources
    Gap Year Gameplan 
    Gap Year Accelerator
    4-Step Gap Year Planner
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/8a0909ea-56c4-308c-8dce-f46ed16838eeFri, 07 Oct 2022 09:55:00 +0000voicEd RadioCalling all 2022/23 Gappers! With your gap year in full swing, there may be some challenges surfacing. Perhaps you’re having trouble with organizing your tasks and events, or maybe you're overwhelmed by your gap year finances, you may even be...But don’t worry, because in today’s episode Michelle shares how you can fix these mistakes to have the most EPIC gap year possible! 
    Remember, CanGap is here to support so don’t miss out on the amazing resources or the opportunity to book a FREE 30 minute call so we can help you on your journey. 
    Topics Discussed
    The top 3 gap year mistakes of 2022. 
    How to develop a healthier relationship with saving vs. spending your money. 
    Implementing organization systems that will help you manage your time and be on top of your gap year game! 
    Michelle’s decision making mantra; “there are no wrong decisions BUT there are also no right decisions - the only mistake is to NOT make a decision.” 

     
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Check out our valuable episode on Funding and Budgeting for your gap year! 
    FREE Downloadable Gap Year Tools and Resources
    Gap Year Gameplan 
    Gap Year Accelerator
    4-Step Gap Year Planner
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    1387falsefull    How to turn an internship into a paid gig with Almeerahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-turn-an-internship-into-a-paid-gig-with-almeera--51309354 
    Michelle and Almeera also go behind the scenes and unpack what it’s really like working for CanGap, along with hearing what projects and resources are Almeera’s favourites! 
     
    Topics Discussed
    Almeera’s favourite resources that CanGap offers, including the Gap Year Podcast, the Gap Year Gameplan and Post-Secondary Decision Guide. 
    A behind the scene on what it’s like working at CanGap and the skills Almeera has developed throughout her time with us.
    Advice on how to turn a co-op position into a paid opportunity and steps students should take to be successful with this. 

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    The Gap Year Podcast
    The Gap Year Gameplan
    The Student of Leadership and Humanity Award
    Post-Secondary Decision Guide
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0963441d-686d-326a-b243-25d03e84ac28Mon, 19 Sep 2022 14:18:10 +0000voicEd RadioOn today’s episode, Michelle is joined by Almeera, university student and part-time employee at CanGap! She has been part of the team for over 3 years and began her journey working as a co-op student. She’s sharing how she was able to turn a co-op... 
    Michelle and Almeera also go behind the scenes and unpack what it’s really like working for CanGap, along with hearing what projects and resources are Almeera’s favourites! 
     
    Topics Discussed
    Almeera’s favourite resources that CanGap offers, including the Gap Year Podcast, the Gap Year Gameplan and Post-Secondary Decision Guide. 
    A behind the scene on what it’s like working at CanGap and the skills Almeera has developed throughout her time with us.
    Advice on how to turn a co-op position into a paid opportunity and steps students should take to be successful with this. 

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    The Gap Year Podcast
    The Gap Year Gameplan
    The Student of Leadership and Humanity Award
    Post-Secondary Decision Guide
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    1956falsefull    Everything you need to know about Gap Year Frosh Week 2022https://www.spreaker.com/episode/everything-you-need-to-know-about-gap-year-frosh-week-2022--51128663 
    In this episode, Michelle walks you through the 3 EPIC nights filled with opportunities to meet new friends, participate in activities and workshops, and hear from our phenomenal keynote speakers, whose stories will ignite so much passion and excitement! Not to mention, you have the opportunity to win thousands of dollars in prizes! 
     
    Grab your FREE Gap Year Frosh tickets at cangap.ca/frosh and join us from September 13 to 15 from 9PM - 12AM EST. We can’t wait to see you there! 
     
    Topics Discussed
    What is Frosh Week and how it is the ultimate way to enter into the new chapter of your life! 
    Things you can expect from the CanGap Frosh Week, including; How you will be able to build a supportive community of fellow gappers and friends.
    Connect to valuable resources and gain access to various gap year programs. 
    Participate in insightful workshops that cover topics such as planning your gap year, building your art portfolio, and entrepreneurship. 
    Opportunity to win thousands of dollars in prizes! 



     
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
     
    Get your FREE Gap Year Frosh tickets at https://www.cangap.ca/frosh 

    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
     
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/2242ad78-fbe9-3ce9-9c2a-846ac74c7c9bSat, 03 Sep 2022 10:28:26 +0000voicEd RadioDid you hear?! CanGap’s Gap Year Frosh Week is right around the corner and it is the PERFECT opportunity to kickstart your gap year!    In this episode, Michelle walks you through the 3 EPIC nights filled with opportunities to meet new friends,... 
    In this episode, Michelle walks you through the 3 EPIC nights filled with opportunities to meet new friends, participate in activities and workshops, and hear from our phenomenal keynote speakers, whose stories will ignite so much passion and excitement! Not to mention, you have the opportunity to win thousands of dollars in prizes! 
     
    Grab your FREE Gap Year Frosh tickets at cangap.ca/frosh and join us from September 13 to 15 from 9PM - 12AM EST. We can’t wait to see you there! 
     
    Topics Discussed
    What is Frosh Week and how it is the ultimate way to enter into the new chapter of your life! 
    Things you can expect from the CanGap Frosh Week, including; How you will be able to build a supportive community of fellow gappers and friends.
    Connect to valuable resources and gain access to various gap year programs. 
    Participate in insightful workshops that cover topics such as planning your gap year, building your art portfolio, and entrepreneurship. 
    Opportunity to win thousands of dollars in prizes! 



     
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
     
    Get your FREE Gap Year Frosh tickets at https://www.cangap.ca/frosh 

    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
     
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    683falsefull    The Gap Year Acceleratorhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-gap-year-accelerator--50959614thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/ce83a215-0f0c-3c60-a0bd-cdfce94dab39Fri, 19 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioLearn more about the Gap Year Accelerator here! 1067falsefullGap Year Travel: A story of social entrepreneurship with Jazzmine Rainehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gap-year-travel-a-story-of-social-entrepreneurship-with-jazzmine-raine--50827994Jazz shares her inspirational life story and experiences with us. From learning about grassroots development in Ghana to co-founding India’s first zero waste guesthouse, Hara House. She takes us through the ups and downs of her journey and reflects on the valuable lessons she learned and how they shaped who she is today. 
     
    Together, Michelle and Jazzmine discuss how a gap year can play a fundamental role in developing your personal identity and being able to explore interests, passions and gain valuable experience and skills, specifically through the lens of travel, and how taking a gap year will give you the opportunity to do this.
    Buckle up, because Jazz takes us for a spin around the world! 
     
    Topics Discussed
    Jazzmine shares her travels from around the world including places like Ghana and India, and how this allowed her to see life from different perspectives and brought forward humanitarian and environmental issues in developing countries. 
    The nonlinear path to starting her own social enterprise and what skills she needed to build and maintain her organization.  
    Honest reflection on post-secondary education and what role it played in Jazzmine’s journey. 
    The importance of pursuing your interests, saying yes to opportunities and being able to adjust and adapt in different situations. 
    Gap years are a powerful tool to expand your skills, explore the world around you and gain experience to carve your own unique path. 

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Contiki - Group Travel & Adventure: https://www.contiki.com/en-ca 
    Play Pump Case Study https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2010/07/01/the-playpump-what-went-wrong/
    Post Secondary Decision Making Guide https://www.cangap.ca/decision-guide 
    Hara World https://www.haraworld.com 
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/2d538dd9-1acc-3b92-9fc2-8b5e22e1444aFri, 05 Aug 2022 16:47:33 +0000voicEd RadioIn today’s episode, we invited a very special guest, the incredible Jazzmine Raine, CanGap’s Community and Communications Manager. Jazz shares her inspirational life story and experiences with us. From learning about grassroots development in Ghana to...Jazz shares her inspirational life story and experiences with us. From learning about grassroots development in Ghana to co-founding India’s first zero waste guesthouse, Hara House. She takes us through the ups and downs of her journey and reflects on the valuable lessons she learned and how they shaped who she is today. 
     
    Together, Michelle and Jazzmine discuss how a gap year can play a fundamental role in developing your personal identity and being able to explore interests, passions and gain valuable experience and skills, specifically through the lens of travel, and how taking a gap year will give you the opportunity to do this.
    Buckle up, because Jazz takes us for a spin around the world! 
     
    Topics Discussed
    Jazzmine shares her travels from around the world including places like Ghana and India, and how this allowed her to see life from different perspectives and brought forward humanitarian and environmental issues in developing countries. 
    The nonlinear path to starting her own social enterprise and what skills she needed to build and maintain her organization.  
    Honest reflection on post-secondary education and what role it played in Jazzmine’s journey. 
    The importance of pursuing your interests, saying yes to opportunities and being able to adjust and adapt in different situations. 
    Gap years are a powerful tool to expand your skills, explore the world around you and gain experience to carve your own unique path. 

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Contiki - Group Travel & Adventure: https://www.contiki.com/en-ca 
    Play Pump Case Study https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2010/07/01/the-playpump-what-went-wrong/
    Post Secondary Decision Making Guide https://www.cangap.ca/decision-guide 
    Hara World https://www.haraworld.com 
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    2043falsefull    Exploring Post-Secondary Gaps for Student Success with Mike Stroh and Steven Kavaratzishttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-post-secondary-gaps-for-student-success-with-mike-stroh-and-steven-kavaratzis--50676782In today’s episode, we invited Mike Stroh, founder of Starts With Me, and Steven Kavaratzis from the Ted Rogers School of Management, to discuss what pushing pause looks like for post secondary students. They analyze current trends and external factors, such as academic validation and lack of support, and how these can foster a toxic relationship between students and school. Furthermore, they explore the role of institutions and how they need to step up to meet the mental health and wellbeing needs of their students. 
    Topics Discussed
    The importance of institutions supporting students through to graduation and providing resources to encourage mindfulness and wellbeing. 
    What pushing pause looks like for post-secondary students and the gaps that need to be filled to make this process a fulfilling and positive experience. 
    Exploring the statistics and trends when it comes to mental health and wellness with post-secondary students. 
    Should academic performance be prioritized over mental health and wellbeing?
    Are institutions providing adequate resources to encourage students to take care of their mental health?

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Mike’s mental health consultancy Starts With Me 



    Connect with Steven on LinkedIn 
    Prioritize mental health on your gap year with The Gap Year Accelerator

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/50665b53-8b46-3b83-8625-984195d48e1eFri, 22 Jul 2022 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioSupporting students on gap years is everybody’s responsibility, including higher education institutions - especially when it comes to mental health and well-being.  In today’s episode, we invited Mike Stroh, founder of Starts With Me, and Steven...In today’s episode, we invited Mike Stroh, founder of Starts With Me, and Steven Kavaratzis from the Ted Rogers School of Management, to discuss what pushing pause looks like for post secondary students. They analyze current trends and external factors, such as academic validation and lack of support, and how these can foster a toxic relationship between students and school. Furthermore, they explore the role of institutions and how they need to step up to meet the mental health and wellbeing needs of their students. 
    Topics Discussed
    The importance of institutions supporting students through to graduation and providing resources to encourage mindfulness and wellbeing. 
    What pushing pause looks like for post-secondary students and the gaps that need to be filled to make this process a fulfilling and positive experience. 
    Exploring the statistics and trends when it comes to mental health and wellness with post-secondary students. 
    Should academic performance be prioritized over mental health and wellbeing?
    Are institutions providing adequate resources to encourage students to take care of their mental health?

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Mike’s mental health consultancy Starts With Me 



    Connect with Steven on LinkedIn 
    Prioritize mental health on your gap year with The Gap Year Accelerator

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>    2509falsefull    The $83,000 gap year story with Karan Agrawalhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-83-000-gap-year-story-with-karan-agrawal--50508351In this episode of the podcast, the incredible Karan Agrawal shares his story of persevering through challenges and having the courage to make the decision of taking a gap year. We dive deep into everything Karan accomplished during this time, what is the “Gap Year Mindset” and benefits of taking a gap year for personal and professional development. 
    Topics Discussed
    The deciding factors that lead to Karan’s gap year.
    How Karan grew personally, professionally, financially and emotionally. 
    How a shift in mindset can lead to an even more successful gap year.
    All of the possibilities and opportunities that are available to Gappers. 
    The importance of talking to an expert about your gap year (which you can do with us, book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call)! 

     
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/e33eaf84-20f5-36f7-9a13-c5c786faa31fFri, 08 Jul 2022 10:30:00 +0000voicEd RadioTaking a gap year truly opens the door to thousands of possibilities! Some common ones you probably have heard include traveling, volunteering, or exploring personal passions. However, have you ever heard of someone working to save money to buy their...In this episode of the podcast, the incredible Karan Agrawal shares his story of persevering through challenges and having the courage to make the decision of taking a gap year. We dive deep into everything Karan accomplished during this time, what is the “Gap Year Mindset” and benefits of taking a gap year for personal and professional development. 
    Topics Discussed
    The deciding factors that lead to Karan’s gap year.
    How Karan grew personally, professionally, financially and emotionally. 
    How a shift in mindset can lead to an even more successful gap year.
    All of the possibilities and opportunities that are available to Gappers. 
    The importance of talking to an expert about your gap year (which you can do with us, book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call)! 

     
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    1840falsefull    Parent Series: How to support your teen on their gap yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/parent-series-how-to-support-your-teen-on-their-gap-year--50318435Michelle Dittmer, your resident gap year expert, shares her guide on how to effectively support your young person during their gap year and transition into adulthood. She discusses the importance of vulnerable conversations and her formula to support your child when they are facing challenges. 
    This episode is packed with valuable advice and resources that you can access to further support your family.
    Topics Discussed
    Parenting a teen who is transitioning into adulthood is not easy, learn how you can overcome this challenge while still supporting your young person.
    How to show your kid you support them, using your actions and not just words. 
    Why having vulnerable and open conversations is the best way to build trust between you and your child.
    Learn Michelle’s 4-step formula to help your child overcome challenges.
    Learn about the Gap Year Gameplan, one-on-one coaching and many more resources that will support your family. 

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Crucial Conversations: Family Edition
    Join our Parent Facebook Group!
    Check out this incredible read: How to Talk so Teens will Listen & Listen so Teens will Talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish
    Access the Gap Year Gameplan: https://www.cangap.ca/gameplan
    Get support to light up your gap year and learn more about our gap year coaching packages! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/c9a1cad0-4cc7-38bf-9d39-34db72f9eec1Fri, 24 Jun 2022 10:30:00 +0000voicEd RadioThis episode is for all of the parents out there! When our kids don’t know what to do, they look to us as parents, but what if we don’t know what to do either?! A gap year is uncharted territory and that is why we are here to support you and your...Michelle Dittmer, your resident gap year expert, shares her guide on how to effectively support your young person during their gap year and transition into adulthood. She discusses the importance of vulnerable conversations and her formula to support your child when they are facing challenges. 
    This episode is packed with valuable advice and resources that you can access to further support your family.
    Topics Discussed
    Parenting a teen who is transitioning into adulthood is not easy, learn how you can overcome this challenge while still supporting your young person.
    How to show your kid you support them, using your actions and not just words. 
    Why having vulnerable and open conversations is the best way to build trust between you and your child.
    Learn Michelle’s 4-step formula to help your child overcome challenges.
    Learn about the Gap Year Gameplan, one-on-one coaching and many more resources that will support your family. 

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Crucial Conversations: Family Edition
    Join our Parent Facebook Group!
    Check out this incredible read: How to Talk so Teens will Listen & Listen so Teens will Talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish
    Access the Gap Year Gameplan: https://www.cangap.ca/gameplan
    Get support to light up your gap year and learn more about our gap year coaching packages! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    1236falsefull    Consent-based volunteering and tourism with Nora of AEIhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/consent-based-volunteering-and-tourism-with-nora-of-aei--50153147In this episode, we invited co-founder Nora to share more about the unique experiences offered through AEI. Together, Michelle and Nora discuss how to find a career path that aligns with your passions and how volunteering helps you discover new passions. They also unpack how AEI helps you make memorable and rewarding experiences through their various programs and how AEI puts consent based and ethical volunteering at the forefront of all of their adventures.
    So, if working with wild horses in Mongolia alongside Mongolian experts sounds right up your alley, listen in!
    Topics Discussed
    Nora’s journey of finding a career path that aligned with her passions. 
    What ethical animal volunteering looks like. 
    Defining consent-based volunteering and tourism. 
    How volunteering leads to finding new passions, interests and hobbies. 
    The incredible programs at Animal Experience International.

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Animal Experience International: https://www.animalexperienceinternational.com/
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/animalinternational/?hl=en 
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/animalexperienceinternational/ 
    Learn more about Ethical Volunteering through our podcast episode “Learning Service with THE Expert: Claire Bennett”  

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/9ba40cc5-9129-3498-ad16-e4c16f194069Fri, 10 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioImagine being able to live your dreams, travel the world and volunteer with animals! Well, guess what? You can totally do that with Animal Experience International (AEI), a B-Corp organization! In this episode, we invited co-founder Nora to share more...In this episode, we invited co-founder Nora to share more about the unique experiences offered through AEI. Together, Michelle and Nora discuss how to find a career path that aligns with your passions and how volunteering helps you discover new passions. They also unpack how AEI helps you make memorable and rewarding experiences through their various programs and how AEI puts consent based and ethical volunteering at the forefront of all of their adventures.
    So, if working with wild horses in Mongolia alongside Mongolian experts sounds right up your alley, listen in!
    Topics Discussed
    Nora’s journey of finding a career path that aligned with her passions. 
    What ethical animal volunteering looks like. 
    Defining consent-based volunteering and tourism. 
    How volunteering leads to finding new passions, interests and hobbies. 
    The incredible programs at Animal Experience International.

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Animal Experience International: https://www.animalexperienceinternational.com/
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/animalinternational/?hl=en 
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/animalexperienceinternational/ 
    Learn more about Ethical Volunteering through our podcast episode “Learning Service with THE Expert: Claire Bennett”  

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    2207falsefull    How to Defer your University Programhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-defer-your-university-program--49965677Thinking of applying to higher education programs now, but still want to take a gap year? This is totally possible by deferring your acceptance! This guarantees you a spot for the following year so you don’t have to worry about applying or getting accepted - you can just enjoy your gap year!
     
    You may be wondering, how can I apply for a deferral? In today’s episode, we’ve got you covered with a guide on how to defer your acceptance, tips and tricks, and how to weigh your options in the event you can’t defer your acceptance. 
     
    Topics Discussed
    What is a deferral and researching the deferral process at your respective institution.
    The typical process of applying for a deferral.
    Understanding the fine print and criteria of deferrals. 
    Effectively explaining your gap year to the University/College. 
    Weighing your options in the event your deferral application is denied.

     
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
     
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/40aade1a-e442-338e-9d87-14e809e282edFri, 27 May 2022 10:01:00 +0000voicEd RadioSummary  Thinking of applying to higher education programs now, but still want to take a gap year? This is totally possible by deferring your acceptance! This guarantees you a spot for the following year so you don’t have to worry about applying or...Thinking of applying to higher education programs now, but still want to take a gap year? This is totally possible by deferring your acceptance! This guarantees you a spot for the following year so you don’t have to worry about applying or getting accepted - you can just enjoy your gap year!
     
    You may be wondering, how can I apply for a deferral? In today’s episode, we’ve got you covered with a guide on how to defer your acceptance, tips and tricks, and how to weigh your options in the event you can’t defer your acceptance. 
     
    Topics Discussed
    What is a deferral and researching the deferral process at your respective institution.
    The typical process of applying for a deferral.
    Understanding the fine print and criteria of deferrals. 
    Effectively explaining your gap year to the University/College. 
    Weighing your options in the event your deferral application is denied.

     
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
     
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    1203falsefull    The Ultimate Wildlife Gap Year Program with Lisa Chen, CCC Alumhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ultimate-wildlife-gap-year-program-with-lisa-chen-ccc-alum--49874179Have you ever thought about becoming a marine biologist? Perhaps you have an interest in this fascinating field, but can’t seem to find the resources or opportunities to further explore it. Well, you are in luck, because in today’s episode, Lisa Chen, a Marine Biology Conservationist, Educator and Entrepreneur, shares her story of working in the industry and her incredible experience through the Canadian Conservation Corps! 
     
    Listen in to hear Chen’s international learning and teaching journey, hands-on research, and animal care stories. Stick around until the end to learn how to use a gap year to explore such passions, like Marine Biology, that can lead to an exciting career path!
     
    Topics Discussed
    Lisa Chen’s journey of studying Marine Biology and teaching internationally in places like Thailand and Vietnam. 
    How you can get involved in Canadian Conservation Corps, a program subsidized by the Canadian government and Canadian Wildlife Federation. 
    The different stages that make up the Canadian Conservation Corps, which includes a Wilderness Journey, training and obtaining a hands-on leadership certification.
    A Day in the Life of a Marine Biologist, which includes travel, assessing marine animals, conducting experiments and surveys, all while educating people along the way! 
    Overcoming the struggles of finding experiences and work placements. Moreover, how a Gap Year can help!  
    Climate crises, sustainability and Chen’s movement “Let’s Talk Butts” and how you can make a difference.

     
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Canadian Conservation Corps - http://CanadianConservationCorps.ca
    Website - https://www.oceanicimpact.org/ 
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/letstalkbutts/
    Get support to find your gap year passion projects! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/78b05046-7dc4-36ac-8cac-7fb4534cc42aFri, 20 May 2022 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioSummary  Have you ever thought about becoming a marine biologist? Perhaps you have an interest in this fascinating field, but can’t seem to find the resources or opportunities to further explore it. Well, you are in luck, because in today’s episode,...Have you ever thought about becoming a marine biologist? Perhaps you have an interest in this fascinating field, but can’t seem to find the resources or opportunities to further explore it. Well, you are in luck, because in today’s episode, Lisa Chen, a Marine Biology Conservationist, Educator and Entrepreneur, shares her story of working in the industry and her incredible experience through the Canadian Conservation Corps! 
     
    Listen in to hear Chen’s international learning and teaching journey, hands-on research, and animal care stories. Stick around until the end to learn how to use a gap year to explore such passions, like Marine Biology, that can lead to an exciting career path!
     
    Topics Discussed
    Lisa Chen’s journey of studying Marine Biology and teaching internationally in places like Thailand and Vietnam. 
    How you can get involved in Canadian Conservation Corps, a program subsidized by the Canadian government and Canadian Wildlife Federation. 
    The different stages that make up the Canadian Conservation Corps, which includes a Wilderness Journey, training and obtaining a hands-on leadership certification.
    A Day in the Life of a Marine Biologist, which includes travel, assessing marine animals, conducting experiments and surveys, all while educating people along the way! 
    Overcoming the struggles of finding experiences and work placements. Moreover, how a Gap Year can help!  
    Climate crises, sustainability and Chen’s movement “Let’s Talk Butts” and how you can make a difference.

     
    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Canadian Conservation Corps - http://CanadianConservationCorps.ca
    Website - https://www.oceanicimpact.org/ 
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/letstalkbutts/
    Get support to find your gap year passion projects! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

     
    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    1806falsefull    How To Win $1000 For Your 2022/23 Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-win-1000-for-your-2022-23-gap-year--49593310“So, you’re telling me you want to give me $1000 to NOT return to school?” That’s right, Gappers! In celebration of our 5th anniversary, CanGap is giving away $5000 in Gap Year Scholarships this year to 5 gap year students and gap year alum.
    Our first round of spring scholarships will award $1000 to two 2022/23 gap year students and one gap year student finishing their gap year this year. In this episode, Michelle dives into how to fill out your application, what we’re looking for and application deadlines. Listen in to learn how to write a winning application before Friday, May 27, 2022!
    Topics Discussed
    Announcing our CanGap Gap Year Scholarships and what to expect.
    What scholarship funding can be used for.
    The application process for our spring and fall 2022 scholarships.
    Who qualifies for a CanGap Gap Year Scholarship.
    Three pro tips for writing a winning application.

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    CanGap Gap Year Scholarship - https://www.cangap.ca/scholarship

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0bac9a70-a16f-3685-924c-a89f54731a87Fri, 29 Apr 2022 09:01:21 +0000voicEd RadioSummary  “So, you’re telling me you want to give me $1000 to NOT return to school?” That’s right, Gappers! In celebration of our 5th anniversary, CanGap is giving away $5000 in Gap Year Scholarships this year to 5 gap year students and gap year alum....“So, you’re telling me you want to give me $1000 to NOT return to school?” That’s right, Gappers! In celebration of our 5th anniversary, CanGap is giving away $5000 in Gap Year Scholarships this year to 5 gap year students and gap year alum.
    Our first round of spring scholarships will award $1000 to two 2022/23 gap year students and one gap year student finishing their gap year this year. In this episode, Michelle dives into how to fill out your application, what we’re looking for and application deadlines. Listen in to learn how to write a winning application before Friday, May 27, 2022!
    Topics Discussed
    Announcing our CanGap Gap Year Scholarships and what to expect.
    What scholarship funding can be used for.
    The application process for our spring and fall 2022 scholarships.
    Who qualifies for a CanGap Gap Year Scholarship.
    Three pro tips for writing a winning application.

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    CanGap Gap Year Scholarship - https://www.cangap.ca/scholarship

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    705falsefull    How a Gap Year Reduces COVID and Post-Secondary Burnouthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-a-gap-year-reduces-covid-and-post-secondary-burnout--49442006While a gap year is a break from formal schooling, it's not a break from learning or a break from your goals. This is an opportunity for you to take care of that burnout, and to feel excited and joyful. Learn more about how it’s possible to use a gap year to be productive and reignite your mental health in today’s episode!
    Topics Discussed
    How you cannot heal in the same environment that hurts you.
    Why trying to be normal in a time that is not necessarily normal can be traumatic to your mental health.
    How knowing the real reason why we are tired is significant and what to do about it.
    The importance of finding excitement and joy on your own terms for your gap year.
    Your permission to delay university or college for your mental health.
    Why using a gap year as a tool can help alleviate burnout to set you on a healthy path forward.

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    7 types of rest TEDx talk by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith “The real reason why we are tired and what to do about it” https://youtu.be/ZGNN4EPJzGk
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap/status/276178230694772736
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/dd841450-9e2a-3294-a64b-6606187fecfeFri, 15 Apr 2022 07:03:48 +0000voicEd RadioRaise your hand if you are feeling burnt out. If your hand is up, know you are not alone. Parents are burnt out, teachers are burnt out, employees and employers are burnt out, and students are burnt out. It's a very common experience that we're all...While a gap year is a break from formal schooling, it's not a break from learning or a break from your goals. This is an opportunity for you to take care of that burnout, and to feel excited and joyful. Learn more about how it’s possible to use a gap year to be productive and reignite your mental health in today’s episode!
    Topics Discussed
    How you cannot heal in the same environment that hurts you.
    Why trying to be normal in a time that is not necessarily normal can be traumatic to your mental health.
    How knowing the real reason why we are tired is significant and what to do about it.
    The importance of finding excitement and joy on your own terms for your gap year.
    Your permission to delay university or college for your mental health.
    Why using a gap year as a tool can help alleviate burnout to set you on a healthy path forward.

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    7 types of rest TEDx talk by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith “The real reason why we are tired and what to do about it” https://youtu.be/ZGNN4EPJzGk
    Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
    Join “Gapper Connect” on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap/status/276178230694772736
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    1245falsefull    What It’s Like To Spend A Gap Year At Neuchâtel Junior College in Switzerland with Jack Moserhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-it-s-like-to-spend-a-gap-year-at-neuchatel-junior-college-in-switzerland-with-jack-moser--49278870In this episode, he paints a beautiful picture of Switzerland and his incredible time in Neuchâtel while describing the town, his daily commute, his class schedule, the Canadian school curriculum and his amazing Canadian teachers. Discover why he said it was the best year of his life and what life was like in Switzerland during the pandemic. He also describes some of his exciting travel adventures with friends and the strong support he received from his host family. Be sure to listen to the end as he shares some advice with students who may be thinking about spending their gap year abroad or going to Neuchâtel Junior College. 
    Topics Discussed
    What led him to discover Neuchâtel Junior College and why he decided to attend school in Switzerland.
    Why his trip to Switzerland taught him independence and the situation on graduation night that made him realize he had become an adult.
    The daily journey to Neuchâtel Junior College with classmates, the train schedule and how different seasons impact their commute.
    Why Neuchatel’s proximity to the French border made it easy to travel to France and other nearby cities, its main establishments and what the city looks like.
    Why he felt that his gap year in Switzerland was the best year of his life, how it changed him and how his friendships gave him a strong sense of belonging there.
    How his planned class trips to different European cities didn’t happen during the pandemic but resulted in him and his friends travelling to different cities within Switzerland. 
    The key highlight of his trip: Spring Break in Zermatt where he learned and taught his friends how to ski, and how the experience upgraded his skiing skills by 5 years.
    Practical advice for students who may be thinking about travelling abroad or going to Neuchâtel Junior College.

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Neuchâtel Junior College - https://www.njc.ch/ 
    Trinity College - https://www.trinity.utoronto.ca/
    University of Denver - https://www.du.edu/

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Association
    Join Gapper Connect on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Visit the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap/status/276178230694772736
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/d315d8ee-0b5a-3e6c-a43d-27ea48fc45a6Fri, 01 Apr 2022 08:00:59 +0000voicEd RadioIf you've ever dreamt of going to Switzerland, you’ll wanna hear Jack Moser’s story about his gap year at Neuchâtel Junior College. In this episode, he paints a beautiful picture of Switzerland and his incredible time in Neuchâtel while describing the...In this episode, he paints a beautiful picture of Switzerland and his incredible time in Neuchâtel while describing the town, his daily commute, his class schedule, the Canadian school curriculum and his amazing Canadian teachers. Discover why he said it was the best year of his life and what life was like in Switzerland during the pandemic. He also describes some of his exciting travel adventures with friends and the strong support he received from his host family. Be sure to listen to the end as he shares some advice with students who may be thinking about spending their gap year abroad or going to Neuchâtel Junior College. 
    Topics Discussed
    What led him to discover Neuchâtel Junior College and why he decided to attend school in Switzerland.
    Why his trip to Switzerland taught him independence and the situation on graduation night that made him realize he had become an adult.
    The daily journey to Neuchâtel Junior College with classmates, the train schedule and how different seasons impact their commute.
    Why Neuchatel’s proximity to the French border made it easy to travel to France and other nearby cities, its main establishments and what the city looks like.
    Why he felt that his gap year in Switzerland was the best year of his life, how it changed him and how his friendships gave him a strong sense of belonging there.
    How his planned class trips to different European cities didn’t happen during the pandemic but resulted in him and his friends travelling to different cities within Switzerland. 
    The key highlight of his trip: Spring Break in Zermatt where he learned and taught his friends how to ski, and how the experience upgraded his skiing skills by 5 years.
    Practical advice for students who may be thinking about travelling abroad or going to Neuchâtel Junior College.

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode
    Neuchâtel Junior College - https://www.njc.ch/ 
    Trinity College - https://www.trinity.utoronto.ca/
    University of Denver - https://www.du.edu/

    Connect With The Canadian Gap Association
    Join Gapper Connect on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect
    Visit the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap/status/276178230694772736
    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    1629falsefull    How Students Can Lead A Budget-Friendly Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-students-can-lead-a-budget-friendly-gap-year--49102819
    In this episode, we bust the most common myths around money during your gap year and offer up helpful tips that make this process easier and more comfortable. 

    Come learn the importance of establishing a budget, goal-setting and the exact processes you need to go through to manage your income and expenses. You’ll also walk away with a solid understanding of how to handle larger sums of money to invest in yourself or your personal development. 

    Stick around closer to the end when Michelle dives into valuable insight on how to creatively earn more money and travel smarter to help close income gaps. Discover private and government-funded youth scholarships and organizations that provide financial aid options and how to leverage your own skills to work with them in exchange for discounted scholarship programs. 

    Topics Discussed

    Learn how to become familiar with handling larger sums of money so that you are comfortable making investment decisions for yourself. 

    A full overview of the steps needed to create a budget and how to keep track of your income and expenses.

    Traditional and alternative ways to help you create more income and achieve financial stability.

    Three examples of well-known scholarship opportunities.

    Practical examples that will help students reduce their costs during their gap year.

    Ways to work with gap year programs that have financial aid scholarships or bursaries built into their funding structure.

    Three affordable government-funded youth programs.

    The importance of setting goals before establishing a budget.


    Resources Mentioned In This Episode

    RBC Future Launch Scholarship - https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/futurelaunch/index.html

    The Youth Travel Foundation - https://ftj-ytf.org/youthtravelfoundation

    The Travel Access Project - https://www.travelaccessproject.org/canada

    Workaway.info - https://www.workaway.info/en/destination/northamerica/ca

    Airbnb - https://www.airbnb.ca/

    Katimavik - https://katimavik.org/en/we-offer/futureperfect/

    The Explorer Program - https://theadventureclassroom.com/the-explore-program-best-study-abroad-experience/

    Canadian Conservation Corps - https://cwf-fcf.org/en/explore/conservation-corps/ 

    The 4-Step Gap Year Planner - https://www.cangap.ca/planner


    Connect With The Canadian Gap Association

    Join Gapper Connect on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Visit the CanGap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

    Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap/status/276178230694772736

    Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/cc6bf0e8-9d76-3d63-b4ae-d6a4af6b8d52Fri, 18 Mar 2022 09:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioIf you've got money on the brain, or if you're worried that your gap year may be “expensive” and you won’t be able to afford it, we’ve got you covered.  In this episode, we bust the most common myths around money during your gap year and offer up...
    In this episode, we bust the most common myths around money during your gap year and offer up helpful tips that make this process easier and more comfortable. 

    Come learn the importance of establishing a budget, goal-setting and the exact processes you need to go through to manage your income and expenses. You’ll also walk away with a solid understanding of how to handle larger sums of money to invest in yourself or your personal development. 

    Stick around closer to the end when Michelle dives into valuable insight on how to creatively earn more money and travel smarter to help close income gaps. Discover private and government-funded youth scholarships and organizations that provide financial aid options and how to leverage your own skills to work with them in exchange for discounted scholarship programs. 

    Topics Discussed

    Learn how to become familiar with handling larger sums of money so that you are comfortable making investment decisions for yourself. 

    A full overview of the steps needed to create a budget and how to keep track of your income and expenses.

    Traditional and alternative ways to help you create more income and achieve financial stability.

    Three examples of well-known scholarship opportunities.

    Practical examples that will help students reduce their costs during their gap year.

    Ways to work with gap year programs that have financial aid scholarships or bursaries built into their funding structure.

    Three affordable government-funded youth programs.

    The importance of setting goals before establishing a budget.


    Resources Mentioned In This Episode

    RBC Future Launch Scholarship - https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/futurelaunch/index.html

    The Youth Travel Foundation - https://ftj-ytf.org/youthtravelfoundation

    The Travel Access Project - https://www.travelaccessproject.org/canada

    Workaway.info - https://www.workaway.info/en/destination/northamerica/ca

    Airbnb - https://www.airbnb.ca/

    Katimavik - https://katimavik.org/en/we-offer/futureperfect/

    The Explorer Program - https://theadventureclassroom.com/the-explore-program-best-study-abroad-experience/

    Canadian Conservation Corps - https://cwf-fcf.org/en/explore/conservation-corps/ 

    The 4-Step Gap Year Planner - https://www.cangap.ca/planner


    Connect With The Canadian Gap Association

    Join Gapper Connect on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place! https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

    Visit the CanGap website https://www.cangap.ca/

    Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

    Follow on Facebook     1955falsefull    Episode 66 - Resources To Help Students Build A Strong Foundation During Their Gap Year with Michael Shouldicehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-66-resources-to-help-students-build-a-strong-foundation-during-their-gap-year-with-michael-shouldice--48929494
    March 4, 2022

     

    Summary 

    We all have regrets, however, if we plan our gap year mindfully, we can lay the foundation for a very bright future. Today's guest Michael Shouldice from Athabasca University talks about his three gap years and some of the things that he would have done differently if he were to do it all over again. A lot of that comes down to accessing the right resources that can help you build a successful foundation during your gap year.  

     

    Michelle and Michael dive deeper into his gap year experiences where he talks about his time spent abroad working in Australia. He drops some golden-nugget resources for students who are taking a gap year and transitioning on to university, employment or both. Stick around to the very end of the episode where Michael shares a little bit more about how Athabasca University can fit into your gap year and allow you to earn university credits, while still having the freedom that a gap year provides. 

     

    Topics Discussed With

    Michael describes his first gap year between high school and university and his regret for not having access to the gap year resources at the time. 

    Michael discusses the second gap year and moving to Australia through one of the Government of Canada’s visa opportunities (like International Experience Canada!).

    Michael re-visits his third gap year in his mid-thirties after he transitioned from the Software industry and his regrets for not taking advantage of some of the gap year resources that were available at the time.  

    Three resources to mindfully plan your gap year activities so that it coincides with your goal. 

    The importance of knowing what opportunities are available to students during their gap year. 

    How Athabasca’s distance university can easily tie into a student’s gap year with their flexible intake and their diverse asynchronous classes.


     

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode

     

    Discover Year

    https://www.discoveryear.ca/

     

    Working Abroad with International Experience Canada

    https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadians/international-experience-canada.html

     

    Athabasca University 

    https://www.athabascau.ca/

     

    Centennial College

    https://www.centennialcollege.ca/

     

    Connect with Michael Shouldice on LinkedIn 

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelshouldice/





    Connect With The Canadian Gap Association

     

    Join Gapper Connect on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place!

    https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

     

    Visit our website

    https://www.cangap.ca/

     

    Follow on Instagram

    http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

     

    Follow on Facebook

    https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

     

    Follow on Twitter

    https://twitter.com/ucangap/status/276178230694772736

     

    Follow on YouTube

    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ

     ]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/6e047184-1163-37df-9a50-98f09f5a2ef9Wed, 02 Mar 2022 23:24:26 +0000voicEd RadioResources To Help Students Build A Strong Foundation During Their Gap Year with Michael Shouldice March 4, 2022   Summary  We all have regrets, however, if we plan our gap year mindfully, we can lay the foundation for a very bright future. Today's...
    March 4, 2022

     

    Summary 

    We all have regrets, however, if we plan our gap year mindfully, we can lay the foundation for a very bright future. Today's guest Michael Shouldice from Athabasca University talks about his three gap years and some of the things that he would have done differently if he were to do it all over again. A lot of that comes down to accessing the right resources that can help you build a successful foundation during your gap year.  

     

    Michelle and Michael dive deeper into his gap year experiences where he talks about his time spent abroad working in Australia. He drops some golden-nugget resources for students who are taking a gap year and transitioning on to university, employment or both. Stick around to the very end of the episode where Michael shares a little bit more about how Athabasca University can fit into your gap year and allow you to earn university credits, while still having the freedom that a gap year provides. 

     

    Topics Discussed With

    Michael describes his first gap year between high school and university and his regret for not having access to the gap year resources at the time. 

    Michael discusses the second gap year and moving to Australia through one of the Government of Canada’s visa opportunities (like International Experience Canada!).

    Michael re-visits his third gap year in his mid-thirties after he transitioned from the Software industry and his regrets for not taking advantage of some of the gap year resources that were available at the time.  

    Three resources to mindfully plan your gap year activities so that it coincides with your goal. 

    The importance of knowing what opportunities are available to students during their gap year. 

    How Athabasca’s distance university can easily tie into a student’s gap year with their flexible intake and their diverse asynchronous classes.


     

    Resources Mentioned In This Episode

     

    Discover Year

    https://www.discoveryear.ca/

     

    Working Abroad with International Experience Canada

    https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadians/international-experience-canada.html

     

    Athabasca University 

    https://www.athabascau.ca/

     

    Centennial College

    https://www.centennialcollege.ca/

     

    Connect with Michael Shouldice on LinkedIn 

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelshouldice/





    Connect With The Canadian Gap Association

     

    Join Gapper Connect on Discord to connect with students thinking about a gap year, current Gappers, and alum all in one place!

    https://www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect

     

    Visit our website

    https://www.cangap.ca/

     

    Follow on Instagram

    http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/

     

    Follow on Facebook

    https://www.facebook.com/ucangap

     

    Follow on Twitter

    1699falsefullWhy you should take a gap year in 2022https://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-you-should-take-a-gap-year-in-2022--48858838
     

    In this episode, Michelle talks about some of the concrete reasons why a 2022/2023 gap year makes sense, as well as addressing common concerns.  

     

    2022-2023 can be YOUR year. You can lean into it, make it your own, take control of your life and launch yourself into an amazing year.  

     

    While this can seem scary, CanGap is here to help.  We have an amazing community online of current gappers, gap year alum and folks deciding if a gap year is the right fit for them.  Come ask your questions and learn what others are up to in our Gapper Connect discord server.  www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect.

     

    If you want some one-on-one support, you can always book a free 30 minute call with our team and we can help you to start to imagine how your purposeful gap year will shape out.  

     

    It’s time to build a year ahead that excites you, that makes you smile, that makes your friends jealous, and a year that will help you define the rest of your life. 

     

    And we can’t wait to help you get started!]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/29d3e1ce-bdc7-3f0b-8d23-bc955ae48625Thu, 24 Feb 2022 17:17:38 +0000voicEd RadioA 2022/2023 gap year is all about reclaiming your life. It's about finding a sense of control, feeling you are moving yourself forward towards your goals, having fun, being adventurous and developing real world skills to help you become an adult.  ...
     

    In this episode, Michelle talks about some of the concrete reasons why a 2022/2023 gap year makes sense, as well as addressing common concerns.  

     

    2022-2023 can be YOUR year. You can lean into it, make it your own, take control of your life and launch yourself into an amazing year.  

     

    While this can seem scary, CanGap is here to help.  We have an amazing community online of current gappers, gap year alum and folks deciding if a gap year is the right fit for them.  Come ask your questions and learn what others are up to in our Gapper Connect discord server.  www.cangap.ca/gapperconnect.

     

    If you want some one-on-one support, you can always book a free 30 minute call with our team and we can help you to start to imagine how your purposeful gap year will shape out.  

     

    It’s time to build a year ahead that excites you, that makes you smile, that makes your friends jealous, and a year that will help you define the rest of your life. 

     

    And we can’t wait to help you get started!]]>    1469falsefull    Leading a Bilingual Gap Year with Barbarahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-a-bilingual-gap-year-with-barbara--48773967
    Now, changing your plans is not easy to do, in fact, it takes a great amount of self-awareness and courage to pursue an idea or an opportunity outside of your comfort zone. However, these changes in life often lead to the most incredible discoveries. 

    In this episode of the podcast, Barbara shares her experience participating in the Explore Program and Odyssey Program, offered by the Official Languages Program.

    The Odyssey program is a bilingual, paid work experience that provides opportunities for post-secondary students to travel to another province to teach English to students while being immersed with the Quebecois culture.

    The Explore program is a 3-5 week french immersion program with structured classes and workshops that is offered in the Spring and Summer. 

    Applications to both the Odyssey and Explore Program are live! Apply through the Official Languages Program Website.]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/44997dbf-9325-33bd-82ad-bf03bdf90f5cThu, 17 Feb 2022 17:58:39 +0000voicEd RadioWe often feel compelled to keep going, to finish that degree or to pursue more years of higher education, even when a voice in our head tells us to take a break or to change paths. Now, changing your plans is not easy to do, in fact, it takes a great...
    Now, changing your plans is not easy to do, in fact, it takes a great amount of self-awareness and courage to pursue an idea or an opportunity outside of your comfort zone. However, these changes in life often lead to the most incredible discoveries. 

    In this episode of the podcast, Barbara shares her experience participating in the Explore Program and Odyssey Program, offered by the Official Languages Program.

    The Odyssey program is a bilingual, paid work experience that provides opportunities for post-secondary students to travel to another province to teach English to students while being immersed with the Quebecois culture.

    The Explore program is a 3-5 week french immersion program with structured classes and workshops that is offered in the Spring and Summer. 

    Applications to both the Odyssey and Explore Program are live! Apply through the Official Languages Program Website.]]>    1509falsefull    How to be an Ethical Volunteer on your Gap Year with Tylerhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-be-an-ethical-volunteer-on-your-gap-year-with-tyler--48662933
    For Tyler, this was finding and working with the incredible Canadian Non-Profit Organization, LiveDifferent.

    LiveDifferent provides volunteers the opportunity to make a difference in the developing world by working alongside community members to take action and fight prevalent social justice issues.

    In this episode, Tyler shares his Gap Year experience with the LiveDifferent Academy program, and how this changed the trajectory of his life. He speaks to the skills he gained and how he became a transformational leader of his community. 

    If you are taking a Gap Year, and want to make a difference, don’t miss out on this episode and check out LiveDifferent! ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/4692a575-1eea-355c-acb1-973ab001d5d3Wed, 09 Feb 2022 19:41:40 +0000voicEd RadioHave you heard the phrase “For Lifer’s” before? This is when someone finds perfect alignment in something and it sticks around for a very long time. For Tyler, this was finding and working with the incredible Canadian Non-Profit Organization,...
    For Tyler, this was finding and working with the incredible Canadian Non-Profit Organization, LiveDifferent.

    LiveDifferent provides volunteers the opportunity to make a difference in the developing world by working alongside community members to take action and fight prevalent social justice issues.

    In this episode, Tyler shares his Gap Year experience with the LiveDifferent Academy program, and how this changed the trajectory of his life. He speaks to the skills he gained and how he became a transformational leader of his community. 

    If you are taking a Gap Year, and want to make a difference, don’t miss out on this episode and check out LiveDifferent! ]]>    1488falsefull    How to Plan Your Pandemic Gap Year in 4 Stepshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-plan-your-pandemic-gap-year-in-4-steps--48580793
     

    With COVID still hanging around, Michelle shares her top tips on how to navigate the virtual world, set smart goals and curate a functional plan that prioritizes your goals and aspirations. 

     

    And, we’ve taken all Michelle’s expertise and packaged it up in a Step-by-Step Guide to Planning your Gap Year. 

     

    This guide ensures that you don’t miss anything, keeps the overwhelming feelings at bay and ensures that your time is well spent, no matter what your goals are, your budget is, and what you want to do in your year. 

     

    You will also receive a one-on-one feedback session with our team so that you can feel confident that your plan is going to serve you well and that you haven't overlooked anything.]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/c72a96c6-2533-34f2-a8bf-d361868fb19bFri, 04 Feb 2022 00:51:27 +0000voicEd RadioMany people are intimidated by the daunting task of planning an entire gap year. Asking, “What should I plan?” “How should I plan?”. Even raising the question, “Is there a point in planning?!”   With COVID still hanging around, Michelle shares her...
     

    With COVID still hanging around, Michelle shares her top tips on how to navigate the virtual world, set smart goals and curate a functional plan that prioritizes your goals and aspirations. 

     

    And, we’ve taken all Michelle’s expertise and packaged it up in a Step-by-Step Guide to Planning your Gap Year. 

     

    This guide ensures that you don’t miss anything, keeps the overwhelming feelings at bay and ensures that your time is well spent, no matter what your goals are, your budget is, and what you want to do in your year. 

     

    You will also receive a one-on-one feedback session with our team so that you can feel confident that your plan is going to serve you well and that you haven't overlooked anything.]]>    1797falsefull    The Lost Girls Guide To Finding The World with Ashlyn Georgehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-lost-girls-guide-to-finding-the-world-with-ashlyn-george--48294636
     

    After graduating from university, she curated a 6-month plan to travel through Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, exploring new cities, eating delicious cuisines and experiencing things that she never imagined. Ashlyn thought, “if I can spend 5 years getting an education, why can’t I spend 5 years of my life seeing the world?”

     

    What started out as a journey to accomplish her travel goals soon became her full time job. Now, Ashlyn is an award winning travel writer, photographer, content creator and speaker! 

     

    In this episode, catch all of Ashlyn’s travel advice for pursuing your passions with intent and purpose, travel tips, and top experiences!


    Psst! If you want to bring your parents on board for your gap year so that you can travel, check out our 4-Step Gap Year Planner which covers how to talk to your parents about your gap year and includes steps to start planning and research your gap year!]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/c3a873cf-bfc0-3387-96f8-66118ad1b722Fri, 14 Jan 2022 13:54:52 +0000voicEd RadioWhat is your top bucket list goal? Is it to go skydiving, swim with sharks, or run a marathon? Well, for Ashlyn George, her goal was to chase the sun for an entire year!    After graduating from university, she curated a 6-month plan to travel...
     

    After graduating from university, she curated a 6-month plan to travel through Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, exploring new cities, eating delicious cuisines and experiencing things that she never imagined. Ashlyn thought, “if I can spend 5 years getting an education, why can’t I spend 5 years of my life seeing the world?”

     

    What started out as a journey to accomplish her travel goals soon became her full time job. Now, Ashlyn is an award winning travel writer, photographer, content creator and speaker! 

     

    In this episode, catch all of Ashlyn’s travel advice for pursuing your passions with intent and purpose, travel tips, and top experiences!


    Psst! If you want to bring your parents on board for your gap year so that you can travel, check out our 4-Step Gap Year Planner which covers how to talk to your parents about your gap year and includes steps to start planning and research your gap year!]]>    2013falsefull    Gap Year Guilthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gap-year-guilt--48238348
    However, those wanting to start a gap year this year, may experience the complex emotions of guilt and shame, which is brought about by family culture, peer pressure, societal norms and your very own inner critic for not pursuing post-secondary right after high school. 

    Often, family may think that there is a highway to success and because you are considering a gap year, it’s a detour. 

    Guilt, shame and self-doubt are very powerful emotions and we need to acknowledge when they surface for us. 

    In this episode, Michelle shares her tips on how to navigate these feelings and ultimately learn to let them pass through you and to live in a space of joy.]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/d1e68f39-7297-367a-981b-99de6b226757Mon, 10 Jan 2022 16:11:34 +0000voicEd RadioNew years always bring up conversations about resolutions, goal setting and milestones that you will accomplish in the year, like beginning your post-secondary journey.  However, those wanting to start a gap year this year, may experience the complex...
    However, those wanting to start a gap year this year, may experience the complex emotions of guilt and shame, which is brought about by family culture, peer pressure, societal norms and your very own inner critic for not pursuing post-secondary right after high school. 

    Often, family may think that there is a highway to success and because you are considering a gap year, it’s a detour. 

    Guilt, shame and self-doubt are very powerful emotions and we need to acknowledge when they surface for us. 

    In this episode, Michelle shares her tips on how to navigate these feelings and ultimately learn to let them pass through you and to live in a space of joy.]]>    1349falsefull    How to plan a pandemic gap year with AJhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-plan-a-pandemic-gap-year-with-aj--48114828
     

    With just two days to go before he was to begin his first semester at University of Toronto’s Rotman Commerce, AJ deferred his acceptance and jumped (literally!) into the start of his gap year.

     

    In this episode, AJ reflects on his gap year experience during the 2020/2021 school year, how he approached planning and goal setting, and offers up some gap year gold for students currently considering a gap year.

     

    Want more from AJ? Dive deeper into AJ’s gap year adventures in our CanGap Ambassador series on YouTube. Click here!


    And where did Michelle find AJ? See the original article here!]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/58a9f351-583b-34ca-825c-f0a1743e33e8Thu, 30 Dec 2021 20:34:02 +0000voicEd RadioAJ had no intention to pursue a gap year. But missing the IRL university experience due to a pandemic didn’t seem ideal either.   With just two days to go before he was to begin his first semester at University of Toronto’s Rotman Commerce, AJ...
     

    With just two days to go before he was to begin his first semester at University of Toronto’s Rotman Commerce, AJ deferred his acceptance and jumped (literally!) into the start of his gap year.

     

    In this episode, AJ reflects on his gap year experience during the 2020/2021 school year, how he approached planning and goal setting, and offers up some gap year gold for students currently considering a gap year.

     

    Want more from AJ? Dive deeper into AJ’s gap year adventures in our CanGap Ambassador series on YouTube. Click here!


    And where did Michelle find AJ? See the original article here!]]>    2187falsefull    How to tackle post-secondary conversations over the holidayshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-tackle-post-secondary-conversations-over-the-holidays--47955939
     

    Whether you’re considering a gap year, clear on your post-secondary path, or totally unsure about your next step, we got you covered with this short and value-packed episode.

     

    In this holiday special, Michelle covers how to tackle conversations about post-secondary (especially when you have yet to make a decision!), questions to think about as you head into the holidays, and how to prepare yourself so you feel comfortable and confident in leading the conversation with family and friends.

     

    Need a handy resource to help you handle the gap year conversation with your parents? Grab our cheat sheet by clicking here.

     

    We also have another helpful episode you may want to dive into that is ALL about talking to your parents about taking a gap year. Check it out!]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/7490320c-1985-3460-8151-f44013638e94Fri, 17 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioFeeling a little anxious about all those post-secondary questions your uncle, grandma and neighbour will be asking you over the holiday break?   Whether you’re considering a gap year, clear on your post-secondary path, or totally unsure about your...
     

    Whether you’re considering a gap year, clear on your post-secondary path, or totally unsure about your next step, we got you covered with this short and value-packed episode.

     

    In this holiday special, Michelle covers how to tackle conversations about post-secondary (especially when you have yet to make a decision!), questions to think about as you head into the holidays, and how to prepare yourself so you feel comfortable and confident in leading the conversation with family and friends.

     

    Need a handy resource to help you handle the gap year conversation with your parents? Grab our cheat sheet by clicking here.

     

    We also have another helpful episode you may want to dive into that is ALL about talking to your parents about taking a gap year. Check it out!]]>    858falsefull    The Impact of Biases on Decision Makinghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-impact-of-biases-on-decision-making--47782694
     

    Like doing your own research, weighing the decision on your own, and seeking the opinions of others. 

     

    Asking mom. Asking dad. Asking friends and asking influencers. And when we say “influencer”, we’re not talking about the YouTube or Instagram influencers you follow, we’re talking about the everyday people in your life that you know and trust. 

     

    However, the opinions, or shall we say biases, we seek out from others are often based on the context of the decision we have to make. 

     

    For example, who would you turn to before trying out a new hairstyle or new game? Who would you talk to if you wanted to adopt a dog? Or maybe a cat?

     

    Now think: who are you seeking support from in making a decision about your post-secondary pathway? See how heavy that sits compared to a new hairstyle?

     

    In this episode, Michelle shares why it’s important to be intentional about who you ask for an opinion, and consider the lived experiences and biases of these individuals. She also covers a few common scenarios you may be facing in your post-secondary decision making process, and how to ensure you’re making an informed decision that works for YOU.

    Psst: Guidance counselors! This episode is for you, too!


    Need additional support in your post-secondary decision making? Grab our worksheet! Or book a call with a CanGap gap year expert (like Michelle!) to help you in deciding if a gap year is right for you.]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/2b658852-258a-308a-b94e-791b2b5e47e0Sat, 04 Dec 2021 11:57:45 +0000voicEd RadioWhen you’re making a decision, there’s often a few ways you gather information before moving forward.   Like doing your own research, weighing the decision on your own, and seeking the opinions of others.    Asking mom. Asking dad. Asking friends...
     

    Like doing your own research, weighing the decision on your own, and seeking the opinions of others. 

     

    Asking mom. Asking dad. Asking friends and asking influencers. And when we say “influencer”, we’re not talking about the YouTube or Instagram influencers you follow, we’re talking about the everyday people in your life that you know and trust. 

     

    However, the opinions, or shall we say biases, we seek out from others are often based on the context of the decision we have to make. 

     

    For example, who would you turn to before trying out a new hairstyle or new game? Who would you talk to if you wanted to adopt a dog? Or maybe a cat?

     

    Now think: who are you seeking support from in making a decision about your post-secondary pathway? See how heavy that sits compared to a new hairstyle?

     

    In this episode, Michelle shares why it’s important to be intentional about who you ask for an opinion, and consider the lived experiences and biases of these individuals. She also covers a few common scenarios you may be facing in your post-secondary decision making process, and how to ensure you’re making an informed decision that works for YOU.

    Psst: Guidance counselors! This episode is for you, too!


    Need additional support in your post-secondary decision making? Grab our worksheet! Or book a call with a CanGap gap year expert (like Michelle!) to help you in deciding if a gap year is right for you.]]>    1148falsefull    How to travel and make money on your gap year as an AuPair with Nataliahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-travel-and-make-money-on-your-gap-year-as-an-aupair-with-natalia--47669476
     

    Natalia joins Michelle on the podcast to share the AuPair experience as the Marketing Coordinator at AuPair in America, connecting young adults across the world to AuPair opportunities in the United States.

     

    So, what exactly is an AuPair? 

    An AuPair is an individual who travels to a different country and lives with a host family as a child-care provider. AuPair, meaning “On Par”, or equal to, isn’t just about being the babysitter or nanny, it’s about becoming a part of a host family and exploring a different culture and country.

     

    So, what type of people would make a great AuPair?

    You’ve just finished highschool or higher education and are not quite sure of what you want to do next (ahem, a Gapper!).

    You’re interested in taking an intentional break from formal education and living in a new environment. 

    You’re interested in making some money.

    You have 200 hours of childcare experience.

    You like travelling, making new friends, meeting new people, and improving your English (or foreign language) skills.

    You want to develop your skills, especially if they are going into education and childcare.



    Interest in learning more about AuPair in America? Click here!]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/a36d4193-5dea-3927-9590-2aefd9cf416bFri, 26 Nov 2021 17:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioDo you enjoy working with kids, would love to stay with a host family abroad, are up for adventure AND looking to make some money? Maybe becoming an AuPair is a good fit for your gap year experience!   Natalia joins Michelle on the podcast to share...
     

    Natalia joins Michelle on the podcast to share the AuPair experience as the Marketing Coordinator at AuPair in America, connecting young adults across the world to AuPair opportunities in the United States.

     

    So, what exactly is an AuPair? 

    An AuPair is an individual who travels to a different country and lives with a host family as a child-care provider. AuPair, meaning “On Par”, or equal to, isn’t just about being the babysitter or nanny, it’s about becoming a part of a host family and exploring a different culture and country.

     

    So, what type of people would make a great AuPair?

    You’ve just finished highschool or higher education and are not quite sure of what you want to do next (ahem, a Gapper!).

    You’re interested in taking an intentional break from formal education and living in a new environment. 

    You’re interested in making some money.

    You have 200 hours of childcare experience.

    You like travelling, making new friends, meeting new people, and improving your English (or foreign language) skills.

    You want to develop your skills, especially if they are going into education and childcare.



    Interest in learning more about AuPair in America? Click here!]]>    1832falsefull    How to find a career you will LOVE with Sarah Vermuthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-find-a-career-you-will-love-with-sarah-vermut--47447848
    Sarah, career coach and founder of Careergasm, shares totally valuable tips and insight to take the edge off these decisions and get you on the right path to move you forward.

    Full Show Notes



    Connect with Sarah


    Website: https://careergasm.com/


    Freebie Course: https://careergasm.teachable.com/p/careergasm-crash-course


    Careergasm, The Book https://careergasm.com/the-book/


    Career Rookie, The Book https://careergasm.com/career-rookie-book/]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/cfbfcf01-3a41-3dd6-9190-1c21c8093286Fri, 12 Nov 2021 19:50:56 +0000voicEd RadioIf you are feeling lost or stuck about which direction to take your career, this episode is for you! Sarah, career coach and founder of Careergasm, shares totally valuable tips and insight to take the edge off these decisions and get you on the right...
    Sarah, career coach and founder of Careergasm, shares totally valuable tips and insight to take the edge off these decisions and get you on the right path to move you forward.

    Full Show Notes



    Connect with Sarah


    Website: https://careergasm.com/


    Freebie Course: https://careergasm.teachable.com/p/careergasm-crash-course


    Careergasm, The Book https://careergasm.com/the-book/


    Career Rookie, The Book https://careergasm.com/career-rookie-book/]]>    1880falsefull    5 Reflections for Educators in a Post-Pandemic Worldhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/5-reflections-for-educators-in-a-post-pandemic-world--47350967
     

    Michelle Dittmer, a former high school biology teacher and now Gap Year expert, took intentional time to really think about the how. And in this episode, she’s sharing her insight and framework which answers “what? So what? And now what?”

    Full Show Notes]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/6fcffc46-26de-3f22-a7e1-d61640d202f7Sat, 06 Nov 2021 20:32:42 +0000voicEd Radio“How will we teach in a post-pandemic Canada?” asked VoicEd Radio to educators.   Michelle Dittmer, a former high school biology teacher and now Gap Year expert, took intentional time to really think about the how. And in this episode, she’s sharing...
     

    Michelle Dittmer, a former high school biology teacher and now Gap Year expert, took intentional time to really think about the how. And in this episode, she’s sharing her insight and framework which answers “what? So what? And now what?”

    Full Show Notes]]>    1950falsefull    5 Gap Year Takeaways with Tanishahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/5-gap-year-takeaways-with-tanisha--47225439
    Which do you choose?

    For Tanisha, she chose her passion for Quantum Computing. Listen to her captivating story!

    Show Notes]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/dfbe234f-073e-3fc6-91d2-2b2cbb659e29Fri, 29 Oct 2021 22:52:09 +0000voicEd RadioImagine this: it’s a beautiful afternoon in late August and school is just around the corner. Suddenly, an opportunity comes along inviting you to work at a start-up downtown Toronto researching Quantum Computer and there’s an awesome apartment lease...
    Which do you choose?

    For Tanisha, she chose her passion for Quantum Computing. Listen to her captivating story!

    Show Notes]]>    2747falsefull    Learning Service with THE Expert: Claire Bennetthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/learning-service-with-the-expert-claire-bennett--46728788

     
    Full Show Notes
     
    Learning Service Website! ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/202bb59a-4146-3c2d-8dad-db460ff1cd54Tue, 28 Sep 2021 18:19:09 +0000voicEd RadioClaire Bennett is the CoFounder of the organization Learning Service: Rethinking Volunteer Travel and the author of Learning Service: The Essential Guide to Volunteering Abroad. In this episode, she shares her valuable insight to having a ethical,...

     
    Full Show Notes
     
    Learning Service Website! ]]>    2735falsefull    Alum Series: Madelyn talks Katimavik and Mid-Uni Breakshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/alum-series-madelyn-talks-katimavik-and-mid-uni-breaks--46655296
    Full Show Notes

    Katimavik! ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/94b1d676-e35b-3276-a49d-68c0edd0a6b5Thu, 23 Sep 2021 17:54:27 +0000voicEd RadioMadelyn Steed, the Board Member and Co-Founder of the CanGap Association shares how her Gap Year came about and her developmental experience with Katimavik. The exploration and experiential learning she did through her time with Katimavik set her life...
    Full Show Notes

    Katimavik! ]]>    2422falsefull    Gap Year Frosh Week: Beat FOMO with the Ultimate Frosh Week!https://www.spreaker.com/episode/gap-year-frosh-week-beat-fomo-with-the-ultimate-frosh-week--46389389
    You also want to kickstart your gap year with an epic Frosh Week and this year we are hosting a FREE 3 Day Frosh Event from September 14-16! Mark your calendars and get your tickets at https://www.cangap.ca/frosh because you DO NOT WANT TO MISS OUT!! 

    It is time to STOP second guessing your decision and kick your FOMO in the butt!! Launch into your unique year of self-discovery, growth and adventure with the Gap Year Frosh Week! 

    Full Show Notes ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/04cb56e9-77e8-3ff9-91f9-fa152072c750Sun, 05 Sep 2021 19:55:35 +0000voicEd RadioOne of the worst feelings ever is FOMO, the fear of missing out! For many gappers, September is one of the most difficult times, you see your friends move into nice dorms, make new friends and have these memorable experiences! However, this is just a...
    You also want to kickstart your gap year with an epic Frosh Week and this year we are hosting a FREE 3 Day Frosh Event from September 14-16! Mark your calendars and get your tickets at https://www.cangap.ca/frosh because you DO NOT WANT TO MISS OUT!! 

    It is time to STOP second guessing your decision and kick your FOMO in the butt!! Launch into your unique year of self-discovery, growth and adventure with the Gap Year Frosh Week! 

    Full Show Notes ]]>    705falsefull    Gapper Series: The Value of Learning a Language on your Gap Year with Sandyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gapper-series-the-value-of-learning-a-language-on-your-gap-year-with-sandy--46350009
    In today’s episode, Sandy shares her experience with the Explore Program, where she was able to learn the French language through experiential learning in Quebec!

    Check out the Explore Program! ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/07522987-cd11-33ed-b905-92c058a44053Thu, 02 Sep 2021 20:09:47 +0000voicEd RadioWhen we think about exploring different cultures, oftentimes we think about places outside of our Canadian border, places like Santorini, Greece; Tokyo, Japan; or even Sydney, Australia. However, taking a step back, there are so many places that are...
    In today’s episode, Sandy shares her experience with the Explore Program, where she was able to learn the French language through experiential learning in Quebec!

    Check out the Explore Program! ]]>    1625falsefull    Gapper Series: Olivier Shares his Thoughts on Entrepreneurshiphttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gapper-series-olivier-shares-his-thoughts-on-entrepreneurship--46237857
     

    Listen to Olivier’s journey to taking a gap year, what he has been up to, and his entrepreneurial tips! ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/829d6263-52b2-32d7-b445-4282d8b57148Wed, 25 Aug 2021 19:39:41 +0000voicEd RadioMost grade 12’s are presented with 3 options for Post-Secondary. University, College, or the Workplace. However, are these the only viable options for students? What about taking a gap year, and using this time to learn more about yourself, your...
     

    Listen to Olivier’s journey to taking a gap year, what he has been up to, and his entrepreneurial tips! ]]>    3196falsefull    Certifying your Gap Year: The Student of Leadership & Humanity Awardhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/certifying-your-gap-year-the-student-of-leadership-humanity-award--46132121
     

    If you could get an award for living your best life and being able to effectively communicate it, this would be it! The Student of Leadership & Humanity Award is an external recognition of how you have grown and changed because you engaged in experiences throughout your EPIC gap year. It certifies your development and worthwhile gap year. 

     

    In this episode, we will take you through all of the components, and how you can leverage this award for your benefit!

    Earn this as part of the Gap Year Gameplan or take it on Solo! 

    Full Show Notes]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/4bb0c711-afc1-3c02-8088-c6d0d0470a8fTue, 17 Aug 2021 19:44:01 +0000voicEd RadioWhat is the value of a gap year?  What do you “get out of it”? How do you communicate all of the amazing ways you have grown & changed and the things you have learned? How do you show the world hours of stories in a way that they can understand it? ...
     

    If you could get an award for living your best life and being able to effectively communicate it, this would be it! The Student of Leadership & Humanity Award is an external recognition of how you have grown and changed because you engaged in experiences throughout your EPIC gap year. It certifies your development and worthwhile gap year. 

     

    In this episode, we will take you through all of the components, and how you can leverage this award for your benefit!

    Earn this as part of the Gap Year Gameplan or take it on Solo! 

    Full Show Notes]]>    901falsefull    What is the Gap Year Gameplan and why should I join?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-is-the-gap-year-gameplan-and-why-should-i-join--46029578
     

    Learn more about the Gap Year Gameplan and how it is the solution to your problems, an opportunity to connect with experts and other gappers, andthe SOL&H Award!

     

    Get on the List! Gap Year GAMEPLAN!! 

    Full Show Notes

     ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/82d42167-0d4a-3680-b9f4-bac143fc905cMon, 09 Aug 2021 20:50:23 +0000voicEd RadioDo not miss out on today’s episode as Michelle explains the signature program at CanGap, the Gap Year Gameplan. This is the solution to help you on your gap year journey. With over 10 years of experience all condensed into one impactful year, this is...
     

    Learn more about the Gap Year Gameplan and how it is the solution to your problems, an opportunity to connect with experts and other gappers, andthe SOL&H Award!

     

    Get on the List! Gap Year GAMEPLAN!! 

    Full Show Notes

     ]]>    1427falsefull    The Gapper Series: Lessons from Sailing a Tall Ship with Eloisehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-gapper-series-lessons-from-sailing-a-tall-ship-with-eloise--45795011thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/33c8edd8-e9c4-374f-98ed-611150f67230Thu, 22 Jul 2021 04:15:15 +0000voicEd RadioImagine being at sea, on a Pirates of the Caribbean Esque Tall Ship, surrounded by marine wildlife, exploring the natural wonders of the world, visiting new countries, meeting new people, hearing their stories and perspectives on life. In this...1757falsefullEveryone's talking "Languishing"https://www.spreaker.com/episode/everyone-s-talking-languishing--44915490While this term is new to me, the concept is not - many people fear that they will not thrive on their gap year and NOW coming off of more than a year of a global pandemic taking over our lives and stealing our joy, this would be the worst case scenario for a gap year.
    GOOD NEWS - there are some great tips on how you can prevent or redirect feelings of languishing on your gap year.  Take a listen to some of our top tips!
     
    Helpful Links:
    Explore, Dream & Design Your Gap Year Workshop
    Gap Year GamePlan ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/57c65ca3-0de9-3e6f-88dc-86471a74f097Wed, 19 May 2021 19:52:57 +0000voicEd RadioHave you read the NYT article all about that blah feeling we are all having these days? It's called languishing and it is REAL.  It's not depression, but it's definitely not thriving and a lot of us are feeling a lot of this.   While this term is new...While this term is new to me, the concept is not - many people fear that they will not thrive on their gap year and NOW coming off of more than a year of a global pandemic taking over our lives and stealing our joy, this would be the worst case scenario for a gap year.
    GOOD NEWS - there are some great tips on how you can prevent or redirect feelings of languishing on your gap year.  Take a listen to some of our top tips!
     
    Helpful Links:
    Explore, Dream & Design Your Gap Year Workshop
    Gap Year GamePlan ]]>    1425falsefull    When to Start Planning a Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-to-start-planning-a-gap-year--44671210Yes there is an ideal time but no, you are never too early OR too late.
    This episode explores the benefits of planning in the spring before your gap year starts - providing you with confidence and a plan that will help you get excited about life after high school graduation.  It will also let you be part of conversations with your peers around what you are doing next year.
    No matter what, to maximize your gap year, you need to get intentional about how you will be spending your time, so no matter when you come to this realization, you can make things happen.  There are programs, experiences and opportunities available year-round, however, some of the more popular ones, ones with high financial aid/subsidy or ones that start in September can often close registration earlier so better to get ahead in the game.
     
    Check out the Gap Year Gameplan as a resource for gap year planning AND a year-long support for your gap year.  Spring Registration closes May 10, 2021.  You can check back for our summer and fall cohorts if you miss this round.]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/6e8513d0-7079-3105-afa9-466507d719a9Thu, 06 May 2021 22:46:36 +0000voicEd RadioSome people start planning their gap year in grade 9, while others don't plan until they have been sitting on the couch for a month. So is there an ideal time to plan? Yes there is an ideal time but no, you are never too early OR too late. This...Yes there is an ideal time but no, you are never too early OR too late.
    This episode explores the benefits of planning in the spring before your gap year starts - providing you with confidence and a plan that will help you get excited about life after high school graduation.  It will also let you be part of conversations with your peers around what you are doing next year.
    No matter what, to maximize your gap year, you need to get intentional about how you will be spending your time, so no matter when you come to this realization, you can make things happen.  There are programs, experiences and opportunities available year-round, however, some of the more popular ones, ones with high financial aid/subsidy or ones that start in September can often close registration earlier so better to get ahead in the game.
     
    Check out the Gap Year Gameplan as a resource for gap year planning AND a year-long support for your gap year.  Spring Registration closes May 10, 2021.  You can check back for our summer and fall cohorts if you miss this round.]]>    1463falsefull    Avoid These Top 3 Gap Year Mistakeshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/avoid-these-top-3-gap-year-mistakes--44519002CanGap can help throughout the process with its Gap Year Gameplan supports.  It’s a one-stop-resource for planning, executing and staying accountable throughout your year.  We will connect you with resources, a network of peers who are also on gap years and experts to guide you on your journey.  Join us for our spring cohort to get access to a bonus LIVE gap year planning so you can feel confident and excited about your September plans.
     
    Check out the GAP YEAR GAMEPLAN]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/ef5cccb6-1bdc-32bb-997f-c480fcd501faTue, 27 Apr 2021 18:31:06 +0000voicEd RadioThe Gap Year pathway is full of fun and excitement but there are 3 common mistakes that trip up most gappers.  This episode explores the top 3 and how to identify & avoid them.  We will talk about improper planning, a lack of community and forgetting...CanGap can help throughout the process with its Gap Year Gameplan supports.  It’s a one-stop-resource for planning, executing and staying accountable throughout your year.  We will connect you with resources, a network of peers who are also on gap years and experts to guide you on your journey.  Join us for our spring cohort to get access to a bonus LIVE gap year planning so you can feel confident and excited about your September plans.
     
    Check out the GAP YEAR GAMEPLAN]]>    1790falsefull    Emotional Intelligence - The 21st Century Skill Set with Morgan Toane of Entry Learninghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/emotional-intelligence-the-21st-century-skill-set-with-morgan-toane-of-entry-learning--43701557 



    Learn more about Entry Learning


    Add Morgan on LinkedIn
    Learn more about 6seconds


    Check out our gap year challenges to develop and grow during your year


    Follow Can Gap on Instagram


     ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/c34ce8aa-e6d6-3b7b-9128-3fbe6ff76bb7Tue, 02 Mar 2021 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioEmotional intelligence is the hot skill every employer is looking for right now. In this episode, Michelle Dittmer speaks to the Founder of Entry Learning, Morgan Toane, about how to develop emotional intelligence.   Learn more about Entry Learning... 



    Learn more about Entry Learning


    Add Morgan on LinkedIn
    Learn more about 6seconds


    Check out our gap year challenges to develop and grow during your year


    Follow Can Gap on Instagram


     ]]>    3206falsefull    Top Pro & Con Reasons for Taking a 2021 Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/top-pro-con-reasons-for-taking-a-2021-gap-year--43598525 
    Full Show Notes
     
    Free 30 minute workshop ]]>    thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0dd2eb8f-0475-3535-b6aa-0b178ab73322Tue, 23 Feb 2021 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioTaking a gap year is bold, which also makes for a hard decision. In this episode, Michelle Dittmer shares the common trends she's been hearing on why some families are hesitant on taking a gap year and why some are leaning towards one.   Full Show... 
    Full Show Notes
     
    Free 30 minute workshop ]]>    1043falsefull    Getting Experience with Abby- A Farming Gap Year Storyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/getting-experience-with-abby-a-farming-gap-year-story--43490328thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0df65fa5-30e7-3aa8-8c35-7089164aeba1Tue, 16 Feb 2021 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioNot every gap year looks the same. In this episode, Michelle Dittmer speaks to Abby Taylor about her farming gap year during COVID-19.Full Show NotesFree Gap Year Information Session2366falsefullVirtual International Internships 101 with Heilwig Jones of Kaya Responsible Travelhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/virtual-international-internships-101-with-heilwig-jones-of-kaya-responsible-travel--43364175thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/fabdb931-6e2a-38ea-a31e-a40744f18f6fTue, 09 Feb 2021 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioGo abroad with your remote internship. In this episode, Heilwig Jones, Co-Founder of Kaya Responsible Travel reveals how gappers can get clarity on their career path through a remote internship, while also making a difference for a community across...3453falsefullAlum Series: A 30-Something's Reflection on Her Gap Year with Jenni Berghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/alum-series-a-30-something-s-reflection-on-her-gap-year-with-jenni-berg--43245829thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/e908f20f-959e-382a-a968-cd990d2a5a08Tue, 02 Feb 2021 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioIf you want to take a gap year at home or abroad, this is your sign to do it. In this episode, Jenni shares her gap year experience in Australia and how it shaped her and definer her career. Learn more about ContikiConnect with Jenni on InstagramJoin...2298falsefullParent Series: Wanting What is Best for Your Kid with Reni Walkerhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/parent-series-wanting-what-is-best-for-your-kid-with-reni-walker--43123821thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/7f2e9861-46b7-3924-97fc-5a043dc65ee9Tue, 26 Jan 2021 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioThe best way to support your kid is to partner with them. In this episode, Reni Walker, mother of three and travel lover, speaks about her daughters’ gap year experiences,  how they transitioned back into university and how Reni supported them through...2732falsefullFirst year observations from a math professorhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/first-year-observations-from-a-math-professor--43007492thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/a0942130-710e-3b89-955d-7759d2d82f83Tue, 19 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioA gap year will set you apart in university and in your future job search. In this episode, Andrew Skelton, a first-year math professor settles some gap year hesitations and shares the differences he sees in his students who take a year off. Full Show...1872falsefullAlum Series: Alex & Rhys - Becoming Friends & Making Progresshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/alum-series-alex-rhys-becoming-friends-making-progress--42898174thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/8ebcfab9-b9b2-3621-9a71-ed66aef1f3c0Tue, 12 Jan 2021 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioComing from different backgrounds Alex and Rhys were unlikely friends, but were joined together by the same gap year program, which transformed their lives. In this episode, Alex and Rhys now on their second gap year share their experiences and...2725falsefullUniversity Application Tipshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/university-application-tips--42797141thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/461326d9-d0a2-38f9-a79a-cb4042fc7e99Tue, 05 Jan 2021 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioYour post secondary decision is a big one, but it won't define your future. In this episode, I’ll change the way you look at this decision and share tips on how to relieve the stress associated with it.Book a call for more helpFind out if a gap year...1526falsefullHow to Look Back at 2020https://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-look-back-at-2020--42704243https://www.cangap.ca/]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/5d338216-3343-38b4-be5e-402d5a367462Tue, 29 Dec 2020 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioFrom dumpster fire to silver lining, 2020 has been a rollercoaster. In this episode, Michelle Dittmer shares how to use Kolb's experiential learning theory to unpack 2020 and plan realistically for 2021. Full Show Noteshttps://www.cangap.ca/https://www.cangap.ca/]]>1041falsefullThe Gapper Series: Unschooling & a Mid-Gap Year Reflection with Carol Xuhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-gapper-series-unschooling-a-mid-gap-year-reflection-with-carol-xu--42610219thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/e874dcfa-4d72-3657-8409-be896443032dTue, 22 Dec 2020 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioCarol Xu didn’t know if taking a gap year would be the right decision, but she did it anyway and has no regrets looking back. In this episode, Carol shares how and why she decided to take a gap year, what she’s been up to and what she’s learned so...2293falsefull29: How to talk to your parents about taking a gap yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/29-how-to-talk-to-your-parents-about-taking-a-gap-year--42497853thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/a337383a-5c34-3251-8ad1-b484b4904f5bTue, 15 Dec 2020 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioTelling your parents you want to take a gap year can be the hardest part about your decision and can make for a very difficult conversation. In this episode, Michelle Dittmer, President of the Canadian Gap Year Association takes you through all the...1349falsefullHow to Access up to $1,500 to make a change in your community with Cory Herc of RisingYouthhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-access-up-to-1-500-to-make-a-change-in-your-community-with-cory-herc-of-risingyouth--42378264funding@takingitglobal.orgGap Year Certificate]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/33c7a536-3f4a-3f8f-bbac-9cb9ad0dd385Tue, 08 Dec 2020 13:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioDoors will blow wide open for you when you take action during your gap year.On this episode, Cory Herc talks about how youth can make an impact on their community during their gap year, how to get the funding to do it, the skills youth learn and the...funding@takingitglobal.orgGap Year Certificate]]>3358falsefullHow to Fund your Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-fund-your-gap-year--42244026thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/f57f9ace-d46c-327b-8023-f1d1df2a6e70Mon, 30 Nov 2020 18:32:41 +0000voicEd RadioBefore even considering a gap year, people are held back by this idea that taking a gap year is expensive and out of reach, but in reality the price tag on a gap year can really range and it can be affordable! In this episode, I share steps and tips...1687falsefullGapper Series: Making the Decision and Making the Most of the Year with Nazra Noushadhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gapper-series-making-the-decision-and-making-the-most-of-the-year-with-nazra-noushad--42138128http://www.cangap.ca/callhttp://www.cangap.ca/info-eventsTwitter: @nazranoushadInstagram: @nazranoushad]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/c123dba8-ae49-3755-9756-c55e54ec6742Tue, 24 Nov 2020 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioWhen Nazra Noushad asked herself who she wanted to be in 10 years, she determined a gap year would help her become that person. In this episode, Nazra shares why and how she chose to take a gap year, how she told her mother, the opportunities she had...http://www.cangap.ca/callhttp://www.cangap.ca/info-eventsTwitter: @nazranoushadInstagram: @nazranoushad]]>2645falsefullParent Series: A Mother's Perspective on Choosing to take a Gap Year with Mary Boyntonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/parent-series-a-mother-s-perspective-on-choosing-to-take-a-gap-year-with-mary-boynton--42017948http://www.cangap.ca/callhttp://www.cangap.ca/info-eventshttps://www.cangap.ca/resources ]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/6487d98d-e413-3b11-942b-928be50ad8c9Tue, 17 Nov 2020 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioEvery kid is different and so is their journey. Not everyone is meant to pursue post-secondary education right after highschool; a gap year could be the best decision you ever help your kids make. Take Mary Boynton's experience for example, she is the...http://www.cangap.ca/callhttp://www.cangap.ca/info-eventshttps://www.cangap.ca/resources ]]>2075falsefullWhat is a Gap Year & How Will it Benefit Me?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-is-a-gap-year-how-will-it-benefit-me--41898307www.cangap.ca/callwww.cangap.ca/info-eventsTwitter: @ucangapFacebook: @ucangapInstagram: @cangapassociation]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/2dc466d6-44e6-3dbf-890c-dc78bd741f8eTue, 10 Nov 2020 11:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioA gap year goes beyond the backpackers you see on Instagram travelling the world. It takes guts to step away from a “normal” path, but you will be that much closer to your goals by doing so. In this episode, I define the reality of a gap year vs. the...www.cangap.ca/callwww.cangap.ca/info-eventsTwitter: @ucangapFacebook: @ucangapInstagram: @cangapassociation]]>1942falsefullA Climate Action Gap Year - Ideas and Tips from Kayne Boyallhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-climate-action-gap-year-ideas-and-tips-from-kayne-boyall--41820753thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/f7c3be61-b939-3007-a516-253c416f91f7Fri, 06 Nov 2020 03:52:03 +0000voicEd RadioKayne Boyall is a Climate Champion, passionate about the environment and speaks to us all about how to take action.  He talks about climate action, sustainability and some ways you can make your gap year more Earth-friendly.  He shares about how he...2013falsefullFROSH WEEK & Alum Series: Sam Demmahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/frosh-week-alum-series-sam-demma--40751802www.cangap.ca/froshFull Show Notes]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/80df7b2e-eeda-3b2f-8139-e328abce1017Mon, 07 Sep 2020 13:59:06 +0000voicEd RadioSam Demma is a 20-year-old gap year alum and motivational speaker, podcast host of the High Performing Student and entrepreneur.  Sam will be sharing his full story along with some tips and ticks for making an impact on your very own gap year at Gap...www.cangap.ca/froshFull Show Notes]]>1732falsefullGapper Series – Looking Forward to Gapping in 2020 with Azmain Abrerhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gapper-series-looking-forward-to-gapping-in-2020-with-azmain-abrer--40484015thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0b22412c-2997-3c7b-9932-5d4c37a763a2Tue, 25 Aug 2020 10:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioAzmain is taking a gap year starting in September 2020.  He just graduated from high school in Calgary, Alberta and decided that taking a year off was the best decision for him.  He speaks candidly about making the decision, what he plans on doing and...2465falsefullVolunteering on your Gap Year with Lily Viggianohttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/volunteering-on-your-gap-year-with-lily-viggiano--40397057www.Haltonyouth.comLily Viggiano ]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/3c682abc-8433-3a96-ac47-c8767866498eWed, 19 Aug 2020 01:32:59 +0000voicEd RadioMany gappers want to volunteer on their gap year or feel like they should volunteer. Volunteering is a powerful way to use your gifts and talents in new ways, to build your experience and your resume and to find a sense of purpose.  Lily shares how to...www.Haltonyouth.comLily Viggiano ]]>2628falsefullLast-minute tips for deciding on September Planshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/last-minute-tips-for-deciding-on-september-plans--40250948www.cangap.ca/courseswww.gapyearfroshweek.comwww.cangap.ca/callwww.cangap.ca/post/episode18]]>thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/d433d075-edc3-369a-b2fa-01fc8af352a1Mon, 10 Aug 2020 17:30:30 +0000voicEd RadioWe are in the final countdown before school starts.  In previous years there was excitement and preparation, but many families this year are still in the uncomfortable and unwelcome position of deciding on next year’s plans – to go or not to go back...www.cangap.ca/courseswww.gapyearfroshweek.comwww.cangap.ca/callwww.cangap.ca/post/episode18]]>1538falsefullTilt the Future in Your Favour with Karena DeSouzahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tilt-the-future-in-your-favour-with-karena-desouza--40012902thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/bdddf13b-f4cc-3d57-9939-b611c257712aTue, 28 Jul 2020 08:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioAs futurist and host of Tilt the Future Podcast, Karena current observes trends and signs in the world around us in order to see what the possible futures might look like.  She doesn’t predict the future but rather uses current data to imagine what...2875falsefullWhy Take a 2020 Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-take-a-2020-gap-year--39865996thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/327ec72b-367b-3d2f-96b5-bc34e28695b4Mon, 20 Jul 2020 16:13:19 +0000voicEd RadioDeciding to take a gap year or not is no small decision. CanGap has been supporting families all throughout COVID and I wanted to share some of the common things that families should be considering as they make this choice.  We have heard these thigns...1342falsefullBeing Called to Action: How Crisis Can Lead to Purposeful Workhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/being-called-to-action-how-crisis-can-lead-to-purposeful-work--33218633thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/62c4091a-228a-5963-8104-9ac643a96e38Thu, 25 Jun 2020 08:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioThere is so much going on right now that it can feel overwhelming.The weight of realizing how much help the world needs can feel very heavy. There’s no denying that.  But it’s also inspiring. People across the world are coming together to march. More...1767falsefullCOVID19 - Who Should NOT Take a Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/covid19-who-should-not-take-a-gap-year--28448778thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/d12d891d-25b7-5cb4-a52f-08bec1c357a8Wed, 27 May 2020 14:59:34 +0000voicEd RadioWith the deadline for accepting post-secondary admissions getting closer, families are becoming more stressed about what the right decision is for fall 2020.  In this episode I share the red flags that pop up in conversations with families that show...2241falsefullGaining Experience and Clarity through a Gap Year: Max Brauchhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gaining-experience-and-clarity-through-a-gap-year-max-brauch--26752998thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/7638f9aa-f1e6-5d68-80ef-5c85be2ce20fTue, 05 May 2020 08:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioStory Time: Max Brauch started back at Concordia University in the fall of 2020 after his gap year that was built on getting experience, earning money, networking and building relationships and a bit of travel.  He speaks about how he got clarity for...2665falsefullValues-based Post-Secondary Decision Making in Uncertain Timeshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/values-based-post-secondary-decision-making-in-uncertain-times--26327886thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/3a5a5f85-373b-56ca-9093-b5da58b83d0aWed, 29 Apr 2020 03:37:39 +0000voicEd RadioRight now families are coming closer to the deadline for making post-secondary decisions but most are lacking critical information as to what the post-secondary experience will actually be. Yes, there will be classes and profs and learning but will it...2060falsefullCOVID19 Series: Why Watching Your Kid Lose Grade 12 Stinks – and Five Things You Can Do to Make It a Bit Betterhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/covid19-series-why-watching-your-kid-lose-grade-12-stinks-and-five-things-you-can-do-to-make-it-a-bit-better--25843908thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/94d69bd2-bc67-5797-8a9c-ba750c9c4de2Tue, 21 Apr 2020 11:44:02 +0000voicEd RadioBy now, we are all tired of hearing about COVID-19. We’re all wishing we could go back to normal, forget this ever happened and get on with our lives. While this is true for everybody, wishing to get past this, the feelings of wanting to just forget...2231falsefullCovid19 & Mental Health: Feeling Creative, Capable and Connected with Zippy Doironhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/covid19-mental-health-feeling-creative-capable-and-connected-with-zippy-doiron--25503607thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0ef2b878-84c1-57d0-8754-df397d201e1fWed, 08 Apr 2020 14:22:21 +0000voicEd RadioBecause of COVID-19, everybody is experiencing some level of trauma. It might sound scary – trauma is a big word, and something we don’t often talk about. But with everything that’s happening right now, it’s important to discuss it and how it may...3504falsefullHow to Ikigai – Tim Tamashiro’s Guide to Finding Purpose on a Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-ikigai-tim-tamashiro-s-guide-to-finding-purpose-on-a-gap-year--25503625thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/e69584e8-5f93-5e93-a978-b0b82bef4c40Tue, 31 Mar 2020 08:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioTim Tamashiro’s Ikigai is “to delight” – it is the reason he gets out of bed every morning and he wants you to live a life knowing your own Ikigai. But what is an Ikigai? Our next podcast guest will tell you all about it!Tim is the author of the...2358falsefullJames McCann’s High School-Gap Year-College Pathwayhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/james-mccann-s-high-school-gap-year-college-pathway--25503665thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/0090cd94-d2f3-5499-a4e0-10adfa955b0dWed, 25 Mar 2020 12:41:41 +0000voicEd RadioJames spent his gap year working in hospitality and retail while taking the time to shift his focus into finding a pathway forward.  He shares how his high school self wasn’t serious about academics and how his gap year helped him to mature, made him...1422falsefullPlanning Travel-Free Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/planning-travel-free-gap-year--25503626thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/9c832d42-3466-5381-9134-58dc610e37bcTue, 17 Mar 2020 20:11:56 +0000voicEd RadioGap Years aren’t all about travel.  Despite what Instagram and media coverage of a-list celebrities and royalty might tell you, most Canadians don’t spend their entire gap year traveling.  They will usually spend between 2 weeks and 3 months...1999falsefullCOVID19 - How to salvage your gap yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/covid19-how-to-salvage-your-gap-year--25503629thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/faed6a22-3ea4-55c1-8cdb-8ba79f3aed0bTue, 17 Mar 2020 18:21:58 +0000voicEd RadioCOVID19, also known as the coronavirus, took over the world in March 2020, and because of it, many gappers have had to cancel or change their travel plans unexpectedly. While it may be the responsible thing to do for many reasons – for personal safety...2157falsefullWho Should Take a Gap Year and Why? Jane’s Perspective as a Formal Guidance Counselor and Parenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/who-should-take-a-gap-year-and-why-jane-s-perspective-as-a-formal-guidance-counselor-and-parent--25503627thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/5bf52869-e3d4-586b-8588-658383555ec9Tue, 10 Mar 2020 08:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioAfter being removed from it for a little bit of time, we can forget how many major stressors and transitions happen in the late teenage years.  Beyond just the physical and hormonal growth, there are huge social changes that come with the transition...2449falsefullIs your kid ready for post-secondary?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/is-your-kid-ready-for-post-secondary--25503630thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/189c335f-3fa4-57aa-b479-560310940226Tue, 03 Mar 2020 09:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioI love to talk about this topic because it is one that keeps parents and teens up at night.Parents often approach me saying “my kid isn’t mature enough”, “they aren’t going to be ready” or “they just need some more time”.  Students say similar things...1602falsefullLynn’s Story: Parenting a Gapper – Pre, During, and Post Gap Yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lynn-s-story-parenting-a-gapper-pre-during-and-post-gap-year--25503871thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/a3782beb-45c7-5b17-86b9-6f64194825c9Tue, 25 Feb 2020 09:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioLynn Trevesan is a mother of two girls, now 18 and 15 years old. But when her oldest daughter was reaching the end of high school, Lynne noticed that she wasn’t quite ready for post-secondary, despite being mature for her age and identified as a...2367falsefullUniversity Deferrals, Life Lessons about Age and Traveling According to Gracehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/university-deferrals-life-lessons-about-age-and-traveling-according-to-grace--25503620thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/a3bd3888-4047-5207-98bf-fd90ccdfa8a2Tue, 25 Feb 2020 09:00:00 +0000voicEd RadioWhile you’re probably looking forward to what your gap year has in store, there’s probably still some nerves about things you don’t know yet. Will you get into my university program after my gap year? Do you have the skills to travel? Is it going to...2247falsefullWelcome to The Gap Year Podcasthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/welcome-to-the-gap-year-podcast--25503722thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/69cc9726-7ebf-50c0-9aaf-20b985360cdfMon, 24 Feb 2020 02:53:10 +0000voicEd RadioEverywhere I go, I hear incredible stories about gap years.  Whenever I’m at different fairs or conferences, people come up to me to tell me how great their gap year was. I can’t count the amount of times I hear, “I took a gap year, and it was the...1367falsefull