In this episode, Leslie talks with Jennifer Robin Wilson—author of The Heart of Homestay, entrepreneur, leadership coach, and former CEO of the Canada Homestay Network—about the life-changing experience of hosting international students. Jennifer explains how homestay programs connect students from around the world with local families, creating meaningful cultural exchanges that benefit everyone involved. She shares why adults over 50, especially empty nesters and retirees, often make exceptional hosts, finding renewed purpose, companionship, and the opportunity to "travel without leaving home." The conversation also covers the practical side of hosting, including how students are matched with families, the support organizations provide, the varying lengths of stays, compensation in different programs, and how interested listeners can explore hosting opportunities in their own communities.

The discussion then shifts to Jennifer's own story of reinvention. After an unexpected divorce ended her career as a midwife, she joined her family's homestay business, earned an MBA, and eventually grew the organization from a small regional operation into a nationwide network that has placed more than 100,000 students from over 130 countries. Now serving as chair of the board, Jennifer has stepped away from daily operations to focus on writing, coaching, and helping leaders and entrepreneurs navigate change. Her journey is a powerful reminder that life's unexpected detours can become meaningful new beginnings, and that embracing new opportunities—whether through hosting, entrepreneurship, or a career pivot—can lead to deeper connection, purpose, and personal growth.

Jennifer's Info:

https://oakbaycoachingandconsulting.ca/

https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Homestay-Meaningful-Connections-International/dp/1774584980/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LX27HTEE0PF9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8iZMvYuyCdFksU-_RVHV8g.zbmpeiGDzPmT0v1iNw9eVA2QQ6LDKQ2Rd0nUJNQK-lo&dib_tag=se&keywords=9781774584989&qid=1721832257&sprefix=9781774584989%2Caps%2C128&sr=8-1

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