Around The Exchange Table

Host Sandrine Clement welcomes Gwen McNallan, president of STS Foundation, to discuss why high school exchange programs matter more than ever and how they create lasting bonds between students, host families, and communities. Gwen shares how her daughter’s interest in studying abroad led her family to host their first exchange student from Germany, sparking an 18-year journey from volunteer coordi...

In this episode of "Around the Exchange Table", host Sandrine Clement delves into the enriching experiences of cultural exchange with guest Randy from Houston, Texas. Randy shares his journey from being a host parent to becoming a local coordinator, detailing how hosting international students has shaped his family dynamics and enriched his life. He offers insights on navigating challeng...

In this episode of Around the Exchange Table, host Sandrine Clement sits down with Christy Brandt, a Local Coordinator from Florida, who shares her experiences and insights into the vital role Local Coordinators play in international exchange programs. Christy discusses the qualities essential for the role, the challenges and rewards she faces, and heartwarming stories of cultural exchange. From m...

Join host Sandrine Clement in this episode of Around the Exchange Table as she interviews host dad Jessie Jefferson about his and his wife's journey of becoming host parents. Jessie shares their story of longing for children, the life-changing impact of meeting their first exchange student from France, and how hosting students from around the world has enriched their lives. From experiencing n...

In this episode of 'Around the Exchange Table,' host Sandrine Clement talks with Jamie Smock, a longtime host mom and local coordinator, about the initial experiences of hosting an exchange student. Jamie details her journey starting from an ad in the paper in 2009 to welcoming her first student, overcoming the lack of modern communication tools, and creating a warm, welcoming environment....

Welcome to Around The Exchange Table – serving up stories of culture, connection, and community, hosted by STS Foundation.  Each episode, we pull up a chair with host families, exchange students, alumni, Local Coordinators, and community members from around the world. Together, we share real stories, valuable insights, and inspiring moments that show how cultural exchange changes lives – and commu...