The Gap Year Podcast

Michelle Dittmer

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EDUCATION

The Gap Year Podcast

Explore 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 journey, you should be listening to the Gap Year Podcast! Although it is produced for Canadians, the content is universal.

3 JUN

Earn Money Abroad by Working in Agriculture with AwayToWork

🌍 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 U.S., Ireland, and Sweden. Now a program coordinator at AwayToWork, she’s helping others take the leap too. From hay fields to horse barns, cultural exchange to professional growth, this episode is full of honest stories, smart tips, and life-changing takeaways—perfect for anyone wondering what’s next. 🌱 Learn how to get paid to work abroad 🏇 Hear what it’s really like to live and work in different countries 🛫 Find out how to overcome barriers like logistics, visas, and safety Whether you're planning a gap year, considering a break from university, or simply curious about what else is out there—this episode might just plant the seed you didn’t know you needed. 🎧 Tune in now — and start thinking outside the classroom (and the country). Topics Discussed Paid Agriculture Placements Abroad: Learn how Canadians are earning money while gaining real-world experience in agriculture, horticulture, viticulture, and hospitality across the globe. Three Countries, Three Cultures, One Big Life Lesson: Peyton shares what it was like to live and work in Washington State, Ireland, and Sweden—and how each placement shaped her skills and confidence. Why Support Matters: Discover the key role of organizations like International Rural Exchange Canada in helping youth navigate travel, jobs, visas, and safety. Breaking Barriers and Building Resilience: From machinery fears to solo train rides across Ireland, hear how stepping outside your comfort zone can spark personal transformation. Budgeting for Adventure: Gap years don’t have to break the bank. Hear how paid placements and room-and-board arrangements make global travel accessible. Opportunities Beyond Agriculture: Explore placement options in culinary arts, hospitality, greenhouse operations, and even winemaking. Resources Mentioned In This Episode Learn more and apply: https://awaytowork.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 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

46 min
25 APR

Why join the Naval Experience Program: A father and son's story

In 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 his father Doug, a seasoned CAF recruiter, as they share what it’s really like to take this leap. From personal growth to travel, teamwork, and independence, this episode is full of real talk, candid advice, and powerful takeaways for both teens and parents. ✨ Learn who this program is for 🧭 Discover the unexpected benefits 💬 Hear how it’s supporting diversity and inclusion Whether your teen is unsure of their next step or simply craving something different, this might just be the opportunity they didn’t know they were looking for. 🎧 Tune in now — and start thinking outside the classroom. Topics Discussed The Power of Structured Transition: Discover how the Naval Experience Program helps young people move from high school to adulthood with purpose, offering structure, support, and growth. Parental Perspectives: Doug shares what it's like watching a child transition into adulthood through the Navy, and how the military can support that journey with less stress and more security. Confidence Through Challenge: Jonathan opens up about the personal doubts he faced—and how he overcame them through training, mentorship, and teamwork. Inclusivity and Diversity in the Military: A candid discussion about the role of women, non-binary, and LGBTQ+ members in the forces, and how the CAF is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment. What Makes a Good Candidate: Learn what kind of mindset and qualities help someone thrive in the Naval Experience Program—spoiler: it’s not about being perfect, it’s about being willing to try. Global Perspective and Lifelong Skills: Doug reflects on a 35+ year career in the Navy, and how the experience shaped his leadership, worldview, and sense of purpose. Resources Mentioned In This Episode Naval Experience Program Info & Application: https://forces.ca/en/ Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association 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

36 min
09/09/2024

Top 2 Family Strains During a Gap Year (and How a Family Agreement Can Help)

Is 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 to set expectations, foster independence, and create a family contract that balances freedom and responsibility. Make sure to Download the template and set your teen up for success this year. Let’s make this gap year one of growth—for everyone! Topics Discussed Top 2 Biggest Mistakes: The episode highlights two major mistakes families make during the gap year transition: Not letting go of childhood expectations and behaviours, 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 FREE Gap Year Family Contract: https://www.cangap.ca/resources#contract Get support to light up your gap year! Book a free 30-min call: https://www.cangap.ca/call

27 min
19/08/2024

Funding your gap year

Many 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 budget-friendly gap year that’s within your reach. Take a listen! ___________ CanGap helps you decide on a gap year, access resources for your journey & connect with other Gappers! Take the Gap Year Quiz: 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

28 min
29/07/2024

Talking to your Parents about taking a gap year

Telling 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 steps to ensure you have a successful conversation with your parents, from preparing for it to conducting it. CanGap helps you decide on a gap year, access resources for your journey & connect with other Gappers! Take the Gap Year Quiz: 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

22 min
15/07/2024

A Guide to DEFERRING your University Program

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

21 min
30/06/2024

From Skepticism to Support: A Family's Journey Through a Life-Changing Gap Year

In 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 the biggest supporters, this episode is a heartwarming testament to the power of trust, communication, and growth. 🌍✨ 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 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 min
15/06/2024

Adult Gap Year: Sukaina's Story of Self-Discovery and Cultural Immersion

On 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 a step back to explore. Whether you're fresh out of high school or contemplating an adult gap year, this episode is packed with insights and motivation to make that leap. Don't overthink it, just do it! Topics Discussed 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 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

30 min

Explore 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 journey, you should be listening to the Gap Year Podcast! Although it is produced for Canadians, the content is universal.

Creator

Michelle Dittmer
Years Active

2020 - 2025
Episodes

100
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Copyright 2020 All rights reserved.
Show Website

The Gap Year Podcast