12 APR 2024 · Calling 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 valuable insights and practical advice to empower you on this journey. Discover the support and understanding you've been seeking, as this episode is your roadmap to navigating the complexities with confidence and compassion.  Topics Discussed - 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 - CanGaps Neurodivergent Programs GET ON THE WAIT LIST https://www.cangap.ca/neurodiversity - Mothers Together https://www.ontheharddays.com/ - On the Hard Days (Megan Champion)  https://www.instagram.com/on.the.hard.days/?hl=en - The Neurodivergent Mom (Katherine) https://www.instagram.com/theneurodiversitymom/ - Morgan Foley https://www.instagram.com/morgaanfoley/ - Rich & Rox ADHD Love https://www.instagram.com/adhd_love_/ - Ryan Perex Digital Stemcell https://www.instagram.com/digitalstemcell/ - Autistic Thrifter https://www.instagram.com/autisticthrifter/?hl=en - Thomas Henley https://www.instagram.com/thomashenleyuk/ - 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  

26 MAR 2024 · Neurodiveristy is beautiful and unique - it’s what makes us all human - but does come with struggles experienced by neurodiverse folks and their families shared amongst the neurodivergent community. In today's episode, Michelle explores how gap years are an incredible tool to support the lived challenges of many neurodiverse youth, helps build confidence and leads to a path of self-discovery. We also share several fantastic resources for you to tap into!  Topics Discussed - Neurodiversity Awareness: Michelle explains what neurodiversity is highlighting the diverse range of neurological profiles (autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, bipolar, learning disabilities, Tourette's) and the common struggles faced by neurodiverse individuals and their families. - Gap Year Support: Michelle explores how gap years can offer invaluable support to neurodiverse youth, providing them with a fresh start away from systems that may not adequately accommodate their needs, and enabling them to live authentically and explore their true selves. - Self-Discovery and Advocacy: The episode emphasizes the importance of self-discovery during a gap year, allowing neurodiverse individuals to shed their masks, embrace their authentic selves, and advocate for their needs with confidence and self-worth. - Community Building: Michelle discusses the power of finding a supportive community of neurodiverse individuals, both online and in-person, and highlights resources and programs geared towards neurodiverse young people, including specialized travel opportunities and gap year programs. Resources Mentioned In This Episode - CanGaps Gap Year for Neurodivergent Youth: https://www.cangap.ca/neurodiversity - Impact Fellowship: https://www.cangap.ca/fellowship - Sunflower Project: https://hdsunflower.com/ - Autism Checked: https://autismchecked.com/ - Autism Travel: https://autismtravel.com/ - Wander Rock Travel: https://wanderrock.com/ - Check out Claire’s Video about taking a gap year as a Neurodivergent student: https://youtu.be/69BRIe0RfAg?si=d92xupp2dCOs60n3 - 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  

8 MAR 2024 · Get ready for a deep dive into all things mental health 🙌 Majority of gappers choose to take an intentional pause to improve and support their mental health, but how do you do that? Look no further because Michelle, gap year expert and coach spills the secrets on navigating this journey. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of do's and don'ts, packed with invaluable tips and tricks. Whether mental health is the heartbeat of your gap year or just a sidekick, Michelle's insights are a game-changer. Tune in now!  Topics Discussed - Mindful Gap Year Exploration: Michelle sheds light on how a gap year can be a powerful tool for improving mental health, offering a mindful approach to navigate the stresses of high school and transitions. - Structuring Success: The episode emphasizes the importance of structuring your gap year intentionally to avoid the pitfalls of stagnancy. Michelle shares cautionary tales and provides a roadmap for ensuring your gap year has a positive impact on mental well-being. - Building a Mental Health Toolkit: Listeners gain valuable insights into crafting a personalized mental health toolkit. Michelle advocates for routines, journaling, nutrition, physical activity, and self-care as essential components for a fulfilling gap year and beyond. - Small Steps, Big Wins: The concept of 'wading in' is introduced, advocating for gradual exposure to challenges like social anxiety. Michelle encourages small, manageable steps to build confidence, showcasing a personalized approach for tackling mental health obstacles. - Preparing for the Next Chapter: The episode wraps up with practical tips for future success, urging listeners to research mental health supports at potential post-secondary institutions. It empowers individuals to proactively set up a supportive environment as they transition beyond their gap year. 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  

23 FEB 2024 · Uncover the potential of gap years with expert Michelle Dittmer! In this podcast episode, she guides you through a month-by-month exploration plan, tackling the overwhelming choices or lack of direction in building your gap year. Embrace the unknown, take off the pressure, and focus on the next step, not the final destination. Whether you have too many interests or none, Michelle's practical tips help you discover your passion and pave the way for a purposeful gap year. Topics Discussed Strategic Exploration: Michelle advocates for a month-by-month approach in a gap year, offering online courses, informational interviews, and hands-on experiences to strategically explore potential careers. Pressure Off, Passion On: Dittmer emphasizes that it's okay not to have life figured out at a young age, urging a focus on the next step rather than the final destination, relieving the pressure on young individuals. From Interests to Insights: For those overwhelmed with interests, Michelle suggests digging beyond reputation and salary, engaging in activities that provide real insights into potential careers during a gap year. Passion Unearthed: For those struggling to identify their passion, Michelle encourages making lists of liked and disliked experiences, helping uncover patterns that could guide individuals towards fulfilling careers. Comfort Zone Challenge: Dittmer encourages getting out of the comfort zone during a gap year—whether through travel, joining clubs, or taking new courses—to discover unknown interests and gather the missing puzzle pieces for future decisions. Resources Mentioned In This Episode - Check out Gap Year GPS! https://www.cangap.ca/gps - 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  

9 FEB 2024 · Curious 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: What is a gap year? Get ready to redefine the narrative and discover the true essence of this transformative experience!  Take a listen!  Topics Discussed - 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 - Want to learn more? Check out these specific podcast episodes to answer all of your gap year questions!  - Top 3 parental concerns: https://thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/e/the-top-3-parental-concerns-about-taking-a-gap-year/ - When to start planning a Gap Year: https://thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/e/when-to-start-planning-a-gap-year/ - Nazra’s episode: https://thegapyearpodcast.podbean.com/e/gapper-series-making-the-decision-and-making-the-most-of-the-year-with-nazra-nasoud/ - 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

26 JAN 2024 · Parenting 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 landscape and discover effective ways to navigate your child's decision to hit pause on education.  Whether expected or a surprise, emotions run high. Michelle shares insights on approaching this sensitive topic with compassion, discusses the 4 major reasons behind such decisions, and outlines a practical 4-step plan to overcome the challenge. Tune in now! Topics Discussed - 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 - 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  

12 JAN 2024 · On 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, —playfulness, connection, and flow—that redefine our understanding of true fun. She also shares personal anecdotes and insights exploring how to reclaim fun in young adult life, navigating social media's impact, and empowering young minds. In 2024, we challenge you to evaluate your fun frequency and encourage playful solo adventures, kicking off the year with revitalised energy and authentic joy!  Topics Discussed True Fun Elements: Michelle dissects the essence of genuine fun, highlighting three vital components—playfulness, connection (to self/others/nature), and achieving a state of flow. Social Media Detriment: She emphasises how phones disrupt the state of flow crucial for experiencing real fun, impacting mental health and offering solutions for better phone management. Adult Playfulness Challenge: Encouraging adults to shed self-judgement and embrace playfulness, she challenges listeners to engage in childlike activities, promoting personal growth and inspiring others. Youth & Fun: Michelle explores how teenagers struggle to maintain a sense of fun amid increasing responsibilities, emphasising the significance of community and peers in fostering genuine enjoyment. Book Recommendation & New Year Focus: With enthusiasm, she recommends "The Power of Fun" by Catherine Price as a tool for cultivating more authentic joy and sets a goal for the upcoming year: to have more genuine fun. Resources Mentioned In This Episode - 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 - 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  

10 JAN 2024 · Attention 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 Michelle, as she busts popular myths, provides insightful guidance, a deeper look into the post-secondary pathways, and key resources to support you during this pivotal time.  Most importantly, there is no wrong path - just steps toward a fulfilling education and life. Reach out to CanGap for personalized guidance and crafting your future journey! Topics Discussed - 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 - OnTransfer: https://ontransfer.ca/i/ontransfer+home  - 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  

24 NOV 2023 · Today'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 towards environmental conservation at World Wildlife Fund. Michelle and Maddy also discuss Carpe Diem's authentic community engagement, emphasizing experiential learning and highlighting  how the gap year is a valuable investment to self-discovery and personal growth.  So, dive into Maddy's story and check out the Carpe Diem Education links in the show notes for your next adventure!  Topics Discussed - 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 - Carpe Diem Eduation: https://carpediemeducation.org/?matchtype=e&network=g&device=c&adposition&keyword=carpe%20diem%20education&utm_term=carpe%20diem%20education&utm_campaign=%2A%2ALP%20Branded&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=8621996090&hsa_cam=1492769220&hsa_grp=57371171037&hsa_ad=433528674701&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-482426548751&hsa_kw=carpe%20diem%20education&hsa_mt=e&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gclid=CjwKCAiAgeeqBhBAEiwAoDDhn1CdxWSEA5DGTW32RDAStE4j1LbTc27SKY47s7bRlmOcGueQubgthRoCq_UQAvD_BwE  - Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call  

10 NOV 2023 · Welcome 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, persistence, and collaboration, drawing parallels to the gapper journey and a message for gappers on how to overcome self-doubt, take risks, and build a supportive network during your gap year!    Come join us in celebration of this exciting milestone 🎉   Topics Discussed - 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:   - 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