Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding

YFU USA
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  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding is a podcast by YFU USA sharing real stories from exchange students, host families, alumni, and volunteers. Each episode explores the impact of hosting, studying abroad, and volunteering through cultural exchange. Discover how global experiences build empathy, connection, and lifelong growth across borders.

  1. Finding Myself Abroad: A Life‑Changing Exchange Year from Thailand to the U.S. - Tanya’s Story

    APR 10

    Finding Myself Abroad: A Life‑Changing Exchange Year from Thailand to the U.S. - Tanya’s Story

    In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, Thai exchange alumna Tanya Thabjan shares the story of how her year studying abroad in the United States transformed her life. Tanya reflects on the challenges and joys of navigating a new culture, from overcoming language barriers and adjusting to an American high school to forming meaningful bonds with her host family. She describes how moments like experiencing snow for the first time, joining school activities, and learning independence shaped her confidence and worldview. She also opens up about the long‑term impact of cultural exchange—how it influenced her education, her career in diversity and inclusion, and the values she hopes to pass on to her daughter. Tanya’s journey highlights the power of stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing the unknown. What you’ll hear in this episode: Why Tanya chose to study abroad through YFU The cultural differences between Thailand and the U.S. How host families shape students’ experiences Learning to be comfortable with independence and solitude Tanya’s advice for future exchange students Why exchange experiences can change the direction of your life A powerful and heartfelt conversation for anyone curious about study abroad, cultural exchange, or the life‑changing impact of host families. 👇 Connect with Tanya on LinkedIn: Tanya Thabjan https://www.linkedin.com/in/tthabjan For more info on YFU USA: https://yfuusa.org/ Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Meet Tanya 01:30 – Why She Studied Abroad 03:35 – Choosing the U.S. 07:17 – Talking to Her Parents 09:53 – Arriving in Michigan 13:12 – First Snow & Culture Shock 15:41 – Wrong Side of the Car Moment 17:50 – Thai Nicknames Explained 20:27 – U.S. High School First Impressions 24:56 – Joining Soccer & The Yellow School Bus 27:21 – Appreciating Thai Culture Abroad 31:24 – Challenges & Making Friends 34:19 – Learning Independence 37:36 – Homecoming & Prom 39:52 – Birthday Announcement Memory 43:57 – Compliments & Quilt Project 47:26 – Greeting Cards & Cultural Differences 50:24 – How Exchange Shaped Her Life 56:27 – Becoming a Host Parent 57:46 – Advice for Students & Parents 1:01:20 – One Word: “Mind‑Opening” 1:02:13 – Encouragement to Study Abroad 1:05:31 – Funny Story: “Beautiful Eyeballs” 1:07:45 – Gratitude for Her Host Mom 1:11:25 – How to Connect With Tanya 1:13:47 – Outro & Call‑to‑Action Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak Director: Megan Michels

    1h 15m
  2. A Two-Week Exchange, A Lasting Impact: Germany for You - Ireland’s Story

    MAR 27

    A Two-Week Exchange, A Lasting Impact: Germany for You - Ireland’s Story

    In this inspiring episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross sits down with high school student Ireland Emerson to explore her life-changing experience studying abroad in Germany through the YFU Germany for You scholarship. Ireland shares how she discovered the program, the emotional highs of being accepted, and the deep connections she formed with her host family during her two-week stay. From cultural surprises and language barriers to community service and unforgettable German bread, Ireland reflects on the joys and challenges of immersing herself in a new culture. She also offers heartfelt advice for future exchange students and opens up about her dreams of returning to Germany through the CBYX program. Learn more about YFU scholarships: https://yfuusa.org/study/scholarships/ For more info on YFU USA: https://yfuusa.org/ Chapters: 00:00 – Meet Ireland & Her Study Abroad Journey Begins 01:15 – Applying for the Scholarship 03:25 – What She Included in Her Application 05:47 – Essays & Writing About Her Grandpa 08:07 – Getting Accepted: The Email Moment 10:18 – Meeting Her Host Family 11:41 – Traveling to Germany & First Impressions 14:17 – Settling In With Her Host Family 16:10 – Community Service & Cultural Learning 18:31 – German Food Experiences 20:46 – Culture Shocks & Differences 23:05 – Navigating Public Transportation 24:03 – Exploring the City & Free Time 25:05 – Staying Close With Her Host Family After Returning 26:34 – Final Week & Birthday Celebration 28:05 – Emotional Goodbye at the Airport 29:39 – Adjusting Back to Life at Home 32:35 – Future Plans: Learning German & CBYX 34:29 – Advice for Applicants & Future Travelers 35:48 – Favorite Memories From Abroad Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak Director: Megan Michels

    40 min
  3. From Exchange Student to CEO: Cultural Connection & the Power of YFU - Scott’s Story

    MAR 14

    From Exchange Student to CEO: Cultural Connection & the Power of YFU - Scott’s Story

    In this special Podcasthon edition of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross sits down with Scott Messing — President & CEO of Youth For Understanding USA — to explore the life-changing power of cultural exchange. Scott shares his journey from growing up surrounded by global influences, to studying abroad in Germany, to eventually leading one of the most impactful exchange organizations in the world. Hear stories of cold showers, fireworks gone wrong, unexpected family connections in East Germany, hosting international students, and what it truly means to build global understanding. Scott also reflects on YFU’s 75-year legacy, why exchange matters now more than ever, and how listeners can help shape the next generation of global citizens. Learn more or get involved: Donate to YFU:⁠ https://yfuusa.org/give Volunteer: https://yfuusa.org/volunteer Become a Local Coordinator: https://yfuusa.org/become-a-coordinator Host a Student: https://yfuusa.org/host Study Abroad: https://yfuusa.org/study Part of Podcasthon: highlighting charities making a difference. https://podcasthon.org

    55 min
  4. A Year That Echoes for Decades: Resilience, Identity & His CBYX Journey - Matt’s Story

    FEB 27

    A Year That Echoes for Decades: Resilience, Identity & His CBYX Journey - Matt’s Story

    In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Matt Burke, a YFU alum and CBYX scholarship recipient, about his transformative year studying abroad in Germany. From his early inspiration to the challenges of cultural adjustment and host family dynamics, Matt shares how his exchange experience shaped his identity, resilience, and future. Matt reflects on the emotional highs and lows of his time abroad, the importance of communication and community, and how he found strength through adversity. He also discusses his continued involvement with YFU, mentoring new exchange students and helping them prepare for their own journeys. This episode is a heartfelt look at the power of exchange to change lives—and how one year abroad can echo for decades. Read Matt’s writing: http://matthewburke.co https://www.matthewburke.co/ Follow Matt on Instagram: @‌mattburke_writer For more info on YFU USA: https://yfuusa.org/ Chapters: 00:00 – The Turning Point Moment 00:31 – Meet Matt Burke 01:17 – How a Charlie Brown Movie Sparked Exchange Dreams 02:29 – Falling in Love with Germany & Applying for CBYX 04:50 – Getting Accepted & Preparing to Leave 08:08 – Arriving in Germany & Early Host Family Experience 17:21 – When Things Fell Apart 20:38 – Cultural Misunderstandings & Communication Challenges 28:15 – Moving Host Families (Twice) 35:55 – Finally Finding the Right Host Family 38:05 – Building Community Through Friends & Activities 44:58 – Why the Third Family Was a Perfect Fit 50:20 – Exploring German History & Reunification 53:19 – Returning Home & Adjusting to a New Normal 58:02 – University, Career & How Exchange Shaped Everything 01:00:45 – How Exchange Led to His Wife & Daughter 01:04:06 – Staying Connected & Giving Back to YFU 01:08:13 – The Biggest Lesson: Resilience 01:12:21 – His Most Triumphant Memory 01:14:03 – Closing Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak Director: Megan Michels

    1h 15m
  5. From Germany to Michigan: Cultural Curiosity, Global Careers & Saying “Yes” - Julika’s Story

    FEB 13

    From Germany to Michigan: Cultural Curiosity, Global Careers & Saying “Yes” - Julika’s Story

    In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross chats with Julika Enslin, a YFU alum from Germany who spent a transformative year studying abroad in Michigan. Julika shares how her curiosity about cultures and love for English led her to the U.S., and how her exchange experience shaped her personal growth, academic path, and global career. From field hockey and poetry slams to navigating cultural stereotypes and making lifelong connections, Julika reflects on the challenges and joys of adapting to American life. She also shares her journey after exchange—including studying in Egypt, earning a master’s degree at Georgetown, and teaching at West Point. Whether you're curious about cultural exchange, international education, or how one year abroad can shape a lifetime, Julika’s story is a powerful reminder of the doors that open when you say “yes” to new experiences. Keywords: YFU, Youth For Understanding, exchange student, Germany, Michigan, study abroad, cultural exchange, international education, Julika Enslin, Life Exchange podcast, Georgetown, West Point, Egypt Connect with Julika on LinkedIn: Julika Enslin For more info on YFU USA: https://yfuusa.org/ Chapters: 00:00 – Learning She’s Going to Michigan 00:22 – Guest Introduction 01:07 – Why She Chose to Study Abroad & YFU 03:14 – First Travel Alone & Arriving in the U.S. 05:49 – Getting Her Host Family & Settling In 09:51 – First Days at School & Sports 15:27 – Cultural Differences & Adjusting 23:14 – Memorable Activities: Museums, Drama, Poetry 26:23 – Challenges, Growth & Host Family Support 45:49 – Life After Exchange & Global Adventures 56:11 – Advice for Future Students & Final Reflections Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak Director: Megan Michels

    1h 1m
  6. How One Exchange Year in France Changed Everything - Tyler’s Story

    JAN 30

    How One Exchange Year in France Changed Everything - Tyler’s Story

    In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Tyler McCamley, a YFU France alumnus whose exchange journey began with a newspaper article and a bookmark—and led to a life transformed. Tyler shares his story of leaving Philadelphia for France as a high school student, navigating cultural differences, language barriers, and personal growth. He opens up about the challenges of host family dynamics, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his exchange year, and how those experiences shaped his worldview. Now a global citizen studying in Amsterdam and volunteering with YFU, Tyler reflects on the power of cultural exchange, the importance of gratitude, and how one year abroad can change everything—not just for the student, but for their entire family. Keywords: YFU, Youth For Understanding, exchange student, France, study abroad, cultural exchange, host family, CBYX, international education, student travel, Tyler McCamley, Kelsey Ross, Life Exchanged podcast Follow Tyler on Instagram: @‌tyler.mccamley For more info on YFU USA: Home - Youth For Understanding USA   Chapters: 00:00 – Deciding to Study Abroad 00:29 – Meet Tyler & His Background 01:37 – Why France & Early Motivation 03:57 – Family Support & Visa Challenges 09:02 – YFU Support & Host Family Assignment 11:26 – Early Host Family Experiences 14:19 – Expectations vs. Reality in France 18:46 – Host Family Conflict & Changing Families 23:00 – Advice for Future Exchange Students 32:35 – Adjusting in Second Host Family 33:07 – School Life in France 42:44 – COVID Cuts the Exchange Short 49:12 – Why Tyler Volunteers with YFU 56:27 – Returning to France & Rebuilding Connection 58:59 – Tyler’s Parents Move to France 01:23:16 – What’s Next for Tyler 01:30:20 – Finding Tyler Online & Closing   Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak Director: Megan Michels

    1h 32m
  7. From Exchange to Lifelong Family: How Bonds Endure - Megan's Story

    JAN 16

    From Exchange to Lifelong Family: How Bonds Endure - Megan's Story

    In this heartfelt episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross sits down with Megan Herndon—YFU alumna, host mother, and volunteer—to explore the transformative power of cultural exchange. Megan shares her experience as a CBYX scholarship recipient in post-Berlin Wall Germany, the challenges of language immersion, and the deep connections formed with host families. Now a seasoned host mom, Megan reflects on the joys and lessons of welcoming students from around the world, offering practical advice and touching stories that highlight the lifelong impact of exchange programs. Keywords: YFU, CBYX, exchange student, host family, cultural exchange, Germany, language learning, international education, youth exchange, Megan Herndon, Kelsey Ross Connect with Megan on Social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/megan.m.herndon & https://www.facebook.com/herndon.jt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megan1996mills & https://www.instagram.com/jt_herndon For more info on YFU USA: ⁠yfuusa.org Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak Director: Megan Michels

    1h 11m
  8. What Japan Taught Me About Identity and Language — Simone’s Story

    JAN 2

    What Japan Taught Me About Identity and Language — Simone’s Story

    In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross chats with Simone Majekodunmi, a 16-year-old YFU exchange student from Texas who spent six unforgettable weeks studying abroad in Japan. Simone shares how her love for Japanese culture began, how she prepared for her exchange—including learning Japanese and researching Hiroshima—and what it was like adjusting to life with a host family. From trying melon bread and taiyaki to navigating Japanese school life and bonding with classmates in an all-girls school, Simone’s story is full of cultural insights, funny moments, and personal growth. She also reflects on how her time in Japan sparked her interest in international relations and offers thoughtful advice for future exchange students. Whether you're curious about short-term study abroad programs, Japanese culture, or the YFU experience, this episode is a fun and inspiring listen. Keywords: YFU, Youth For Understanding, exchange student, Japan, study abroad, short-term program, Japanese culture, Hiroshima, international relations, Simone Majekodunmi, Life Exchanged podcast Check out Simone's YouTube: youtube.com/@piercingtheveils or simonexoxos Listen to Simone's Study Abroad Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6uoYbkcL6tbPm3183xgYbq?si=72b2d5256f5742e8 Follow Simone on Instagram: @simonemajek_ For more info on YFU USA: ⁠yfuusa.org Chapters: 00:00 – Funny Cultural Misunderstandings 00:25 – Meet Simone & Her Global Background 03:33 – Discovering Study Abroad Through YouTube 04:10 – Choosing YFU & Preparing for Japan 08:02 – Getting Accepted & Scholarship Joy 09:19 – Convincing Her Parents & Host Family Placement 14:31 – Packing, Gifts & First Impressions of Japan 19:50 – Orientation, Embassy Visit & School Life 30:03 – Making Friends & Cultural Differences 37:29 – Challenges & Staying Positive 40:14 – Exploring Japan & Favorite Foods 46:28 – Summer Vacation & Reflections on Program Length 49:55 – Emotional Goodbye & Final Thoughts 52:16 – Advice for Future Exchange Students 54:25 – How Exchange Shaped Her Future Plans 59:02 – Where to Follow Simone’s Journey Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak Director: Megan Michels

    1 hr
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4.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding is a podcast by YFU USA sharing real stories from exchange students, host families, alumni, and volunteers. Each episode explores the impact of hosting, studying abroad, and volunteering through cultural exchange. Discover how global experiences build empathy, connection, and lifelong growth across borders.

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