logo
episode-header-image
May 2024
44m 28s

How To Take a Gap Year

Slate Podcasts
About this episode

Leo is a high-achieving high school senior on the cusp of graduation. Growing up in a rigorous school environment he faced endless pressure to follow the expected track of attending an elite university and eventually securing a good job. Yet, Leo feels slightly unfulfilled and is curious what an alternative path might look like. On this episode of How To!, Carvell Wallace is joined by Abby Falik, founder of the The Flight School, and organization dedicate to helping students and parents rethink and reshape their education. Abby shares her insights and experience guiding students through gap years so they find their own way.


If you liked this episode check out: "How To Parent Less"


Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen.


How To’s executive producer is Derek John. Joel Meyer is our senior editor/producer. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson and Kevin Bendis. 


Slate Plus members get bonus segments and ad-free podcast feeds. Sign up now at slate.com/howtoplus.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Up next
Jun 2024
How To Move Past Your Toxic Ex
After Lin met Dave, their lives quickly became entangled. Lin joined Dave’s small business, made much-needed improvements, and charmed Dave’s family. The two also began a romantic relationship that lasted years. When it fizzled, Lin continued working at the company—and eventually ... Show More
44m 59s
Jun 2024
How To Be Lonely
Paula has a big family, lots of friends, and a girlfriend she adores. For most of her life, however, she has experienced an underlying and unshakeable sense of loneliness. On this episode of How To!, Courtney Martin brings on Kristen Radtke, the writer and illustrator behind Seek ... Show More
42m 30s
May 2024
How To Confront a Vindictive Neighbor with Tig Notaro (Encore)
The trouble began when Sarah put a fern in front of her new condo. Nice, right? The woman who lives in the unit above didn’t think so, and without warning sent Sarah a slew of passive-aggressive notes. Sarah thinks it’s all a big misunderstanding, but now her neighbor refuses to ... Show More
33m 3s
Recommended Episodes
Apr 2024
Steps to Promotion in School Administration with Brad Hughes
In this episode of the Aspire to Lead podcast, we sit down with Brad Hughes to discuss the essential steps needed to secure a promotion in school administration at both the school and district levels. Brad shares valuable insights, tips, and tricks to help you gain the necessary ... Show More
32m 58s
Nov 2017
Educational
My guest today, on the Steve Jobs inspired Join Up Dots free podcast interview is with a man whose business partner first appeared on the show way back on episode 94 Now its his turn to join up his dots, and certainly when he starts his email request to appear with “I’m a technol ... Show More
57m 10s
Feb 2024
Teacher is Teaching Kids CONSPIRACY THEORIES?!
As you guys can probably tell, when it comes to education, administration and principals get a REALLY bad rep. Being the constantly middleman between the parents, teachers, district, and kids, there really is just NO winning for these people most of the time! That is why I am so ... Show More
1h 33m
Jul 2021
1597: How To Pay Off 10000 Of Debt In One Year by Robert Farrington of The College Investor on Money Strategies
Robert Farrington of The College Investor talks about how to pay off $10,000 of debt in one year Episode 1597: How To Pay Off $10,000 Of Debt In One Year by Robert Farrington of The College Investor on Money Strategies Robert Farrington is a personal finance expert that focuses o ... Show More
12m 31s
Jul 2021
Top 5 Reading Recommendations with Michelle Papa
In this bonus episode, Michelle Papa shares her five top leadership books and the reasons she loves these amazing resources. In addition, we discuss her new promotion and the transition to the new school year. About Michelle Papa:Michelle Papa is an Assistant Principal at Jeffers ... Show More
17m 35s
Nov 2023
Ep 32: College Admissions Made Simple: An Executive Function Approach to Success in College
Applying for college can feel like a monumental, overwhelming task - and that’s because it is! There are so many deadlines, details, and steps that could be missed even by someone with fantastic Executive Function skills - but does it have to be? I wondered how I could use the pl ... Show More
57m 36s
Mar 2024
From the Classroom to the School Counselors’ Office: Katie Tells All
This is such a fun episode! Getting started on a new career path can often be a leap of faith, and this story is a shining example of where such a leap can land you. Meet Katie—a former teacher and current grad student who has discovered her true calling in the school counselors& ... Show More
19m 32s
Feb 2023
Episode 57: The Grass Fire Analogy with Hal Bowman
Hal Bowman can see the future, and he is determined to do all he can to change it for the better, one life at a time. He is certain that schools are the key to a better world down the road. “Every school can be a phenomenal school” is his mantra, and it shows in his actions. Most ... Show More
52m 16s
Mar 2024
If You Feel Like You're Lazy You're Probably Just Bored
Today's episode is from when I interviewed Abby Brody, CEO & Founder of MYX. We discuss everything wrong with the current education system, our personal experiences with it, and how Abby and her ambitious project, MYX, plan to bring positive, real change to how students can g ... Show More
24m 11s
Dec 2019
From the SEA: How Taking a Break Can Make You a Stronger Teacher
This episode is drawn directly from the Monday Morning Inspirations members-only podcast for the Special Educator Academy.  I'm focusing on why and how taking a break during the school holidays or over the summer can make you a better teacher.  Get a taste of our inspirational an ... Show More
12m 38s