The Gap Year Podcast

Michelle Dittmer spoke with Chantaie Allick 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, creativity, self-awareness, and self-compassion. Key Takeaways https://re-work.ca/ Follow Them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reworkmovemen...

Michelle 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 approach change as a purposeful “second act” rather than a loss. About Shannon Former television producer with a 16-year career in TV Transitioned after...

Michelle 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 leaves, and why intentional pauses can be personally and professionally valuable. About John Spent 30+ years in HR with three school boards Later worked a...

Michelle 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 self-reflection, reframing fear, and taking meaningful action toward change. About Lori Founder of My Big Sky — supports students, mid-career professionals...

Michelle 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 Matrix — to help mothers understand their changes and make decisions that truly reflect who they are now, not who they were before. About Ashley Trained...

Michelle 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 case for adult gap years as a tool for career exploration and self-discovery. About Carli Certified Career Development Practitioner Runs Foreseeable...

Charles 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 relationships, perspectives, and approach to life. About Charles Husband and father of two girls (ages 9 and 12) 20+ years across public, private, non-profit,...

Michelle 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 and professional value of gaining conservation experience abroad. Key Points Gapforce is a UK-based gap year provider operating since 1989. Krista is...

Madison 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 experience helped her grow more adaptable, confident, and present. Key Takeaways https://awaytowork.ca/ Canadian Gap Year Association / Gap Year Podcast h...

What 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 breaks, and why intentional pauses matter at every stage of life. Danica shares how burnout led her to negotiate six months away from work, travel through...

When 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 experience with the Round the World Encounter and how she found parts of herself on her journey.   Relevant links: https://www.planmygapyear.com/volunt...

🌍 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 cultural exchange to confidence-building, this episode is packed with real talk, wild adventures, and life-changing takeaways. 🌱 🎧 Tune in for honest...

🌍 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 ex...

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 inde...

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 an...

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 & connec...

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, ac...

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 guid...

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...

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 motivat...

The 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 expert tips, gap year strategies and valuable resources to tap into. Unlock the potential of your own gap year adventure!    Take a listen!    Topics Dis...

Are 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 life-changing moments, discover how a gap year supports future planning and the transition into young adulthood. Topics Discussed Stacy's Perspective - Gap Yea...

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 i...

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 a...

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...