In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross chats with Christian, a YFU alum from Germany who spent a transformative year studying abroad in Argentina. Inspired by his sister’s exchange experience, Christian shares how he chose Argentina over Canada, the culture shocks he faced, and how his host families helped him feel at home—complete with a welcome cake and a German flag at the airport.

Christian opens up about switching host families mid-year, discovering the joys of late-night dinners and bitter mate tea, and the surreal moment when his parents’ friends realized they had lived with his second host mom decades earlier. Now working with YFU Germany, Christian reflects on how exchange shaped his worldview, taught him about himself, and continues to influence his life and career.

Whether you’re curious about studying abroad, hosting, or just love stories that connect continents, this episode is a warm, funny, and inspiring reminder of the power of cultural exchange.

Keywords: YFU, Youth For Understanding, exchange student, Argentina, Germany, study abroad, cultural exchange, international education, Christian, Life Exchanged podcast

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠yfuusa.org

Chapters:

00:00 – A Coincidental Connection in Argentina

01:06 – Meet Christian: From Germany to Global Exchange

02:12 – Choosing Argentina Over the U.S.

03:47 – Getting Accepted & Preparing for Departure

06:20 – First Host Family & Cultural Adjustments

10:44 – Why Exchange in High School Matters

13:05 – Arriving in Argentina & First Impressions

16:06 – Challenges with Freedom & Family Dynamics

22:13 – Switching Host Families & Starting Fresh

25:21 – A Surprising Family Connection

27:27 – Cultural Highlights: Mate, Music, and More

30:25 – Breaking Preconceptions & Embracing Change

31:07 – Hosting in Return: Becoming a Host Brother

34:48 – Latvian Culture & Lasting Connections

36:49 – Cultural Habits That Stuck

38:44 – From Exchange Student to YFU Staff

46:06 – Why Get Involved with YFU

47:56 – Christian’s Current Projects & Future Vision

52:10 – A Memorable Letter from Thailand

54:38 – Final Reflections & Farewell

Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross

Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak

Director: Megan Michels

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross chats with Liz Zirk—a YFU alum, longtime volunteer, and soon-to-be host parent—whose exchange year in Germany in the late ’90s was anything but ordinary. From French pronunciation contests as a kid to boldly declaring her study abroad plans over dinner, Liz’s story is full of charm, courage, and cultural surprises.

Liz shares quirky and heartfelt memories from her time in northern Germany, including bonding with her metalhead host brothers, discovering the magic of German bread, and learning to navigate life in a new language—one word at a time. She reflects on how exchange shaped her academic path, sparked a lifelong love of languages, and led her to become a passionate YFU volunteer.

Now preparing to host a student herself, Liz talks about the full-circle nature of her journey—from wide-eyed teen to confident host mom—and why food, community, and a little bit of bravery go a long way in cultural exchange.

Keywords: YFU, Youth For Understanding, exchange student, Germany, study abroad, cultural exchange, international education, Liz Zirk, Life Exchanged podcast, host family, volunteering

Follow Liz on Instagram: @elizabethzirk

Check out Liz's podcasts: lizzirk.com

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠yfuusa.org

Chapters:

00:00 – Bravery in Retrospect: Liz’s Leap into Exchange

01:00 – Discovering YFU Through French Class

03:40 – Convincing Her Parents & Choosing a Country

08:00 – Getting Accepted & Preparing for Germany

11:10 – Arriving in Germany with No German Language

13:45 – Meeting Her Host Family & First Impressions

18:15 – Cultural Surprises & Letting Go of Assumptions

24:00 – Learning to Be a Sister & Family Dynamics

28:15 – Favorite Memories, Food, and German Bread

36:00 – School Differences Between Germany and the U.S.

40:00 – Challenges, Growth, and Emotional Resilience

44:00 – Studying Abroad Again & Staying Involved with YFU

49:00 – Volunteering, Orientation Work, and Giving Back

57:00 – Becoming a Host Mom: Full Circle Moment

01:05:00 – Why Join YFU: Belonging, Impact, and Connection

01:08:00 – Where to Find Liz & Closing Reflections

Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross

Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak

Director: Megan Michels

In this heartfelt episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross sits down with Carrie and Justin Stiltner, a couple from Clyde, Ohio, who share their journey of hosting exchange students through YFU. What began as a leap of faith during the COVID-19 pandemic turned into a life-changing experience filled with laughter, learning, and love.

Carrie and Justin reflect on their first student from Argentina, bonding over baking and art during lockdown, and how each student brought their culture into their home—from Norwegian national cakes to Thai noodles and Spanish tortillas. They share the emotional goodbyes, the joy of reunions, and their unforgettable trip to Argentina, where they were embraced by their exchange daughter’s family.

Now preparing to host the younger sister of one of their former students, the Stiltners talk about how hosting has made them more adaptable, fearless, and open-hearted. This episode is a beautiful reminder of the power of cultural exchange and the joy of building a global family.

Keywords: YFU, Youth For Understanding, host family, exchange student, cultural exchange, international education, Argentina, Norway, Spain, Thailand, Carrie and Justin Stiltner, Life Exchanged podcast

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/

Chapters:

00:00 – Why They Chose to Host: A Path to Parenthood

02:00 – Starting with a Semester Student During COVID

05:30 – Picking the Right Student & First Impressions

08:50 – Hosting During a Pandemic: Challenges & Resilience

12:00 – Preparing the Home & Personal Touches

14:45 – Sharing Culture Through Food & Traditions

20:00 – Hosting Girls: Why It Became Their Pattern

26:00 – What They Look for in Student Profiles

29:55 – Challenges of Hosting & Setting Boundaries

34:07 – Coping with Goodbyes & Staying Connected

38:45 – Favorite American Foods Among Students

41:00 – Visiting Argentina & Feeling the Love

45:00 – Language Barriers & Emotional Connections

47:01 – Students Calling Them “Mom and Dad”

51:01 – Advice for First-Time Host Families

54:40 – How Hosting Changed Them as a Couple

57:21 – Favorite Memories & Milestones

58:58 – What’s Next: Hosting a Sibling

01:04:18 – Hosting in One Word: “Rewarding”

01:05:10 – Final Reflections & Farewell

Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross

Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak

Director: Megan Michels

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Greta, a 17-year-old CBYX scholarship recipient from Germany, about her unforgettable exchange year in the United States. From overcoming her fear of backyard chickens to navigating multiple host family transitions, Greta shares the highs and lows of her journey with honesty, humor, and resilience.

Greta opens up about cultural differences, adapting to new schools, and the emotional challenges she faced—alongside unforgettable adventures to Las Vegas, Hawaii, and beyond. She reflects on how YFU and her local coordinators supported her through tough times, and how the experience helped her grow personally and shape her future.

Whether you're a student considering exchange, a host family, or just curious about the CBYX program, this episode offers a heartfelt look at the real-life impact of cultural exchange.

Keywords: CBYX, YFU, exchange student, host family, cultural exchange, Germany to USA, international education, study abroad, resilience, teen travel, Greta, Life Exchanged podcast

Follow Greta on Instagram: @greta.goes.ppp

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/

Chapters:

00:00 – Chicken Fear

00:29 – Meet Greta

01:33 – Exchange Inspiration

02:11 – Applying to CBYX

06:19 – Acceptance Moment

09:05 – First Host Family

10:12 – Private School Life

13:53 – Arrival in the U.S.

17:14 – Making Friends

18:07 – Leaving First Family

22:14 – New Host Family

23:32 – Vegas & Hawaii Trip

28:20 – Bonding Over Sports

32:10 – New School Experience

36:08 – Leaving Second Family

40:02 – Final Host Family

43:04 – Final School & Prom

49:05 – Staying Resilient

57:19 – What’s Next

01:01:24 – Would You Do It Again?

01:02:33 – Closing

Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross

Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak

Director: Megan Michels

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Jarrett Wells, a United Methodist pastor from Illinois who, along with his family, has hosted six international exchange students through YFU. Jarrett shares how their hosting journey began, the importance of setting expectations, and the power of open communication.

From hilarious cultural misunderstandings—like a potato incident that nearly involved the FBI—to heartfelt reunions and lifelong sibling bonds, Jarrett reflects on the joys and challenges of hosting. He discusses how cultural exchange has shaped his family’s worldview, deepened their faith, and created lasting connections across continents.

Whether you're considering hosting or simply curious about the impact of exchange programs, this episode offers warmth, wisdom, and inspiration.

Keywords: YFU, Youth For Understanding, exchange student, host family, cultural exchange, international education, global citizenship, Jarrett Wells, Kelsey Ross, Life Exchanged podcast, hosting experience, family bonding

Follow Jarrett on Facebook: Jarrett Wells

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/

Chapters:

00:00 – The Potato Story & Opening Banter

00:50 – Meet Jarrett: Pastor & Host Dad

02:00 – Why They Chose Hosting Over Adoption

03:40 – Choosing YFU & Preparing to Host

05:10 – First Student Experience & Family Reactions

07:00 – Communication, Language Barriers & Arrival

10:30 – Setting Expectations & Building Trust

13:20 – Students’ Backgrounds & Cultural Exchange

17:30 – Faith, Community & Hosting Impact

22:30 – Favorite Memories & The Surprise Visit

28:45 – Hosting’s Influence on Family & Faith

30:40 – Why They Keep Hosting

33:00 – Advice for Students & Host Families

38:45 – Final Reflections & Farewell

Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross

Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak

Director: Megan Michels

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Kyle Tew, a 16-year-old CBYX scholarship recipient from Michigan currently living in Germany. Kyle shares his journey from applying to the prestigious Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) program to adjusting to life abroad—language barriers, homesickness, and all.

Kyle opens up about the support he received from his host family and classmates, the cultural differences he encountered, and the personal growth he’s experienced. From playing soccer and cello to navigating German school life and discovering new foods (yes, including the famous German bread), Kyle reflects on how exchange has shaped his future goals and confidence.

Whether you're a student considering exchange or simply curious about life abroad, Kyle’s story is full of insight, encouragement, and heart.

Keywords: CBYX, YFU, exchange student, Germany, study abroad, cultural exchange, international education, host family, teen travel, Kyle Tew, Life Exchanged podcast

Follow Kyle on Instagram: @therealkyletew

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/

Chapters:

0:00 – Arrival & First Impressions

0:25 – Meet Kyle & CBYX Journey

4:08 – Preparing for Germany

5:46 – Host Family & Settling In

7:06 – Language Camp & School Life

8:38 – Exploring Germany & Soccer Culture

10:33 – Making Friends & Cultural Adjustment

12:55 – School Differences & Learning Style

16:00 – Challenges & Personal Growth

17:26 – Holidays & Homesickness

19:49 – Confidence & Language Skills

21:44 – Food & Cultural Exchange

22:53 – Changing Perspectives

24:01 – Academic & Career Impact

25:09 – Advice to Future Students

26:14 – Passions & Future Plans

30:42 – Final Reflections

31:16 – Closing

Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross

Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak

Director: Megan Michels

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, Musfirah shares her inspiring journey as a high school exchange student in the U.S. through the prestigious Kennedy-Lugar YES Scholarship Program. Originally from Bangladesh, Musfirah opens up about navigating culture shock, celebrating Ramadan abroad, and adjusting to life with a host family in small-town Michigan.

From racing through a whirlwind three-day departure prep to discovering unexpected connections in her host community, Musfirah’s story is full of joyful surprises. She reflects on the challenges of adapting to American high school life, experiencing snow for the first time, and embracing U.S. holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Musfirah also shares how international education helped her grow in confidence, creativity, and independence, inspiring her to pursue an American curriculum back home.

🎙️ Whether you're curious about the YES Program, study abroad opportunities for teens, or the transformative power of cultural exchange, this episode is a must-listen.

Keywords: Kennedy-Lugar YES Program, high school exchange student, study abroad USA, Bangladeshi student in America, youth exchange, intercultural understanding, global citizenship, American high school experience

Follow Musfirah on Instagram: @musfirahmed

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/

Chapters:

00:00 – A Small World & Introduction to Musfirah

01:09 – Discovering and Applying for the YES Program

02:27 – What the YES Program Is & Why It Matters

04:04 – The Journey to the U.S. & First Impressions

06:08 – Host Family, Cultural Adjustments & School Life

13:53 – Trying New Things: Sports, Art, and Holidays

21:54 – Celebrating Ramadan & Sharing Culture

26:53 – Memorable Moments: Red Carpet, Prom & Art Show

30:06 – Growth, Self-Discovery & Future Plans

35:56 – Advice for Students & Host Families

38:50 – What’s Next for Musfirah & Final Reflections

Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross

Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak

Director: Megan Michels

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, Gabriela shares her inspiring journey as a high school exchange student from Iowa to Germany through the prestigious YFU CBYX Scholarship Program.

From a whirlwind last-minute application to a chaotic but joyful acceptance moment, Gabriela’s story is filled with humor, heart, and determination. She opens up about the challenges of the CBYX scholarship process, learning German from scratch, and adjusting to life with a host family in Bavaria.

Gabriela reflects on her experiences in the German school system, bonding with her host sisters, and embracing new traditions like hiking to Neuschwanstein Castle, celebrating her birthday with a dirndl, and visiting the German Bundestag.

She also shares how her youth exchange experience shaped her personal growth, strengthened her identity as a Colombian-American, and inspired her future goals in English and Creative Writing.

🎙️ This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the CBYX Program, study abroad scholarships, international education, and the transformative power of cultural exchange.

Keywords: CBYX scholarship, YFU exchange program, study abroad Germany, high school exchange student, youth exchange USA to Germany, German school system, intercultural learning, global citizenship, international education, host family experience

Follow Gabriela on Instagram: @gaby2006_deutschland

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/

Chapters:

00:00 – Starting the Journey: From Iowa to Germany

01:05 – Applying for the Exchange: Essays, Deadlines, and Support

03:21 – Graduating Early and Choosing High School Abroad

06:54 – Family Support and Cultural Preparation

09:14 – Learning German and Embracing a New Language

10:31 – Acceptance Day and Meeting the Host Family

16:51 – Orientation, Language Camp, and First Impressions

23:05 – Settling In: Host Family Life and Cultural Differences

26:24 – School Life in Germany: Academics and Friendships

34:07 – New Experiences: Food, Traditions, and Social Life

42:11 – Overcoming Challenges and Growing Through Language

46:19 – Changing Perspectives: On the U.S., Germany, and Identity

52:04 – What’s Next: College, Writing, and Full Circle Moments

Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross

Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak

Director: Megan Michels

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Abby, a high school exchange student who studied abroad in Germany through the prestigious CBYX Scholarship Program.

Abby shares her inspiring study abroad experience, from living with a German host family and adjusting to cultural differences, to falling in love with German bread and embracing local traditions. She reflects on the contrasts between German and American school systems, the friendships she built, and the personal growth she experienced through this youth exchange program.

Abby also discusses how her journey in international education shaped her future aspirations in hospitality management and teaching English abroad.

🎙️ Whether you're a student considering studying abroad, curious about the CBYX for High School Students program, or interested in the power of cultural exchange, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a taste of life in Germany.

Keywords: CBYX scholarship, study abroad Germany, high school exchange student, youth exchange program, German host family, intercultural communication, international education, global citizenship, hospitality career path, teaching English abroad

Follow Abby on Instagram: 

@abby_worgess

@abby_auf_deutsch

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/

Chapters:

00:00 – Missing Milestones: Skipping Graduation for Exchange

00:42 – Meet Abby: From Indiana to Germany

02:08 – Winning the CBYX Scholarship & Choosing Germany

04:14 – Senior Year Abroad: Trade-offs & Mindset Shifts

06:07 – Learning German & Language Camp Experience

08:22 – Telling Her Parents: The PowerPoint Pitch

10:56 – Meeting the Host Family & Building Early Connections

13:10 – Culture Shock & Adjusting to Life in Germany

14:35 – Host Family Life: Festivals, Energy & Onion Dolls

16:51 – School Differences: Subjects, Class Size & Friendships

21:11 – Embracing German Traditions & Holidays

24:12 – Sharing American Culture: Hosting Thanksgiving

26:12 – Host Siblings & Learning to Be a Big Sister

27:31 – Coping with Loss Abroad & Emotional Resilience

29:29 – Travel Adventures Across Germany & Austria

31:32 – End-of-Year Traditions & Saying Goodbye

34:03 – Advice for Future Exchange Students & Host Families

35:10 – Future Plans: Hospitality, Linguistics & Teaching Abroad

36:14 – Changing Perspectives on the U.S. & Germany

37:18 – Haircut Mishaps & Mid-Year Memories

38:57 – Favorite Foods & Sweet German Treats

39:37 – Where to Follow Abby’s Journey

Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross

Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak

Director: Megan Michels

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross welcomes guest host parents Eric and Krystle Wells to share their experiences hosting international exchange students through a high school exchange program.

They discuss their journey to becoming a host family, the importance of open communication, and the supportive role of local coordinators. From celebrating holidays and sharing meals to navigating cultural differences, Eric and Krystle highlight how hosting fosters intercultural learning, builds global understanding, and creates lasting personal connections.

The episode offers practical advice for future host families, including tips on writing host family letters, embracing cultural exchange at home, and making the most of the host family experience.

🎙️ Whether you're considering hosting a student or simply curious about the impact of youth exchange programs, this episode is full of insights, inspiration, and heartwarming stories.

Keywords: host family experience, international exchange students, high school exchange program, cultural exchange, intercultural communication, global citizenship, hosting teens, local coordinator support, host family tips

Connect with Eric & Krystle:

⁠https://www.facebook.com/ewells483⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/Krystle.Risinger.Wells⁠

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠⁠https://yfuusa.org/⁠

Chapters:

00:00 – Meeting the Students: First Impressions & Airport Reunions

00:53 – From Music School to Host Parents: Krystle & Eric’s Story

04:12 – Why Hosting? Building a Family Through Cultural Exchange

07:11 – Choosing Students & Preparing for the Journey

09:45 – Host Letters & Advice for Exchange Students

13:22 – Becoming a Local Coordinator & Supporting Students

14:05 – The FLEX Program & Cultural Presentations

17:49 – School Life, Extracurriculars & Making Connections

23:21 – Funny Moments, Miscommunications & Bonding

25:23 – Travel, Food & Sharing Cultures

30:33 – Holidays, Traditions & Religious Observances

34:24 – Building Trust & Navigating Challenges

42:16 – Lifelong Impact: Family, Growth & Global Understanding

48:28 – Looking Ahead: New Students & Continued Hosting

52:39 – Final Reflections & Favorite Memories

Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross

Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak

Director: Megan Michels