Emily And Rachel - Podcast Details

Shows

Gap Year Diaries*Special Episode* Post-trip EpilogueIn this, the very last of all Gap Year Diaries episodes, Emily and Rachel look back at their five month trip as a whole, the ups, the downs and the absolutely ridiculous situations. We hear of the pair's best loved destinations, what they feel they took from the backpacking experience, and how it has all shaped their lives going forward. 2025-06-192h 06

Gap Year Diaries*Special Episode* Postcard from: SingaporeIn this special episode, Emily and Rachel ask each other burning questions and queries about their time in Singapore, 15 years on. Among many other things, we hear their takes on the culinary scene, the backpacking opportunities, how ill-prepared they were for the country's insanely chic street style and, of course, why on earth Rachel thought it a good idea to spend $60 on candles in Little India.2025-05-2255 min

Gap Year DiariesS5E5: Singapore - 'Monsoons, reflections and homeward journeys'In this, the final blog episode of the podcast, Emily and Rachel reread the last ever blog entry, chronicling their last day in Singapore and journey back to the UK. We hear of a failed attempt to visit Clarke Quay's food festival in the pouring rain, a final hostel pool game, and the family reunion at Heathrow airport that was somewhat delayed by M25 traffic.2025-05-0154 min

Gap Year DiariesS5E4: Singapore - 'Empty malls, shady gardens and a comedy bat'In this episode, Emily and Rachel reread the penultimate blog of their entire trip, reminiscing over a trip around the curiously deserted malls of Orchard Road, illegally paddling in botanical gardens and exploring Singapore's famous zoo by night. We also hear of Emily's first meeting with the creature that would go on to become her lifelong icon - the zoo's comedy bat. 2025-04-0341 min

Handbag Designer 101: The Stories Behind Handbag Designers, Brands, and Industry IconsMastering Venture Capital with Rachel Johnson 💼✨| Emily Blumenthal & Rachel JohnsonStep behind the scenes of venture capital funding with Rachel Johnson, co-founder of J&O Law Firm and founder of Ami Health. With a decade of experience guiding high-growth companies, Rachel shares her dual insights as an attorney and founder, offering invaluable advice for entrepreneurs navigating the world of funding. 📈💡💡 Key Takeaways:🔹 Is Venture Funding Right for You? Not every business needs VC backing—know your path. 🔹 Go All In: Why full commitment and massive growth potential are essential for VC success. 🔹 Scaling Smart: Avoid common pitfalls like rapid, unstructured hiring post-funding.From board dynamics...2025-03-2525 min

Gap Year DiariesS5E3: Singapore - 'China Town, Merlions and hiding in Starbucks'In this episode, Emily and Rachel read back over the blog from their second full day in Singapore, a day which featured much wandering around in the oppressive heat, soaking in the sights from a respectable distance due to lack of funds, and ending up in yet another compromising situation whilst taking photos at the country's famous Merlion Park. 2025-03-0635 min

Gap Year DiariesS5E2: Singapore - 'Narrow escapes, endless candles and Mount Emily Park'In this episode, Emily and Rachel recount the events of their first full day in Singapore. Among many other things, we hear of them being lightly pan-fried as they wander around the scorching pavements in raggedy flip flops, a visit to a serene art gallery, narrowly avoiding spending all remaining travelling funds on candles and incense sticks and an ingenious escape from a compromising situation in Little India.2025-02-2053 min

Gap Year DiariesS5E1: Singapore - 'In-flight entertainment, humid heat and orange juice'In this episode, Emily and Rachel read back over their blog entry from the very first few hours they spent in country five of the gap year, Singapore. Among other things, we hear about the pros and cons of long-haul flights, the perils of backpacking fashion choices, and the revelation that is orange juice as a home fragrance. 2025-02-0630 min

I Heart My Life ShowIntuitive Living for Cultivating Self-Trust and Connection with Rachel LevineIn this episode of The I Heart My Life Show, Emily welcomes Rachel Levine, a multi-passionate entrepreneur and the founder of Intuitively Wild. Rachel is a folk herbalist, intuitive mentor, human design guide, yoga therapist, and advocate for authentic living. Together, they dive deep into the power of rituals, the art of intuitive living, and reconnecting with yourself on a deeper level. Rachel shares her personal journey from struggling with disconnection and mental health to creating a life aligned with her intuition and inner wisdom. She reveals how embracing rituals over routines has transformed her life and...2025-01-2830 min

Gap Year Diaries*Special Episode* Postcard from: New ZealandIn this very special episode, Emily and Rachel look back over their time in New Zealand as a whole, and take it in turns to answer a series of questions sent in by you, the listeners! Among many other things, they discuss which of their NZ adventures they would repeat and which they would leave out if they were to visit again, where to find the country's best food experiences and stunning scenery, and whether or not Rachel still celebrates her birthday by being suspended over a canyon wearing a hood... 2025-01-161h 06

Gap Year DiariesS4E32: New Zealand - 'Botanical gardens, trepidation and absolute miracles'In this, the very last episode of series 4, Emily and Rachel relive their final few days in New Zealand, which they spent exploring Christchurch's botanical gardens and trying not to freak out at the ongoing lack of new passport. In this ep we finally find out how the long drawn-out passport saga ends, and look ahead to pastures new, aka Singapore!2024-12-1940 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E30: New Zealand - 'Bus hell, bunk bed injuries and sweet Fergus'In this episode Emily and Rachel read back over the blog detailing their final New Zealand journey, back to Christchurch. Among other things, we hear of some deeply irritating bus mates, a wholly sympathetic receptionist, and a narrowly avoided spinal injury from bunk bed acrobatics. 2024-11-2139 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E29: New Zealand - 'Bike rides, gale-force winds and angry seals'In this episode, Rachel and Emily opt to spend their last day in Kaikoura cycling around the peninsular. However, we hear of how what should have been an idyllic day in nature is ruined by a combination of incredibly blustery conditions, bad route planning and a colony of angry seals. 2024-11-0740 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E28: New Zealand - 'Passport problems, worrying emails and 'Preacher Teacher''In this episode, Emily and Rachel look back at a very fateful and eventful day in the NZ coastal town of Kaikoura, whereby the passport saga that has plagued them since day 2 of the trip rears its ugly head once more. We also hear of a tearful goodbye to travelling companion Sam, and a wholly unwelcome encounter with a certain hostel guest.2024-10-2459 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E27: New Zealand - 'New horizons, sea breezes and 'fush & chups''In this episode Emily and Rachel reread their blog entry detailing a trip to the sleepy coastal town of Kaikoura, where they sample the local cuisine, take in the sea air, and seek counsel from a kindly hostel receptionist over the never-ending passport trauma. 2024-10-0332 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E26: New Zealand - 'Onward journeys, bad impressions and spag bol'In this episode, Emily and Rachel read back over their blog account of finally leaving Queenstown after three weeks of mountainous thrills, and heading north to the charming city of Christchurch. During their first day, they try to remember how to behave as civilised adults in preparation for staying with a family friend, and are welcomed into their first homely environment in many months of backpacking. 2024-09-1936 min $Let\'s Eat with Emily$ Let's Eat with EmilyLiving Gluten Free, Navigating Chronic Disease, and Emotional Perseverance along a Wellness Journey featuring The No Gluten Girl, Rachel StrainingJoin Emily as she sits down with recipe developer and content creator, Rachel Straining, to discuss her health journey, her experience navigating Crohn's disease, and the emotional toll it took on her mental health. Rachel shares vulnerably about how she spent many years experiencing symptoms without receiving a formal diagnosis and the emotional toll this took on her as an adolescent. Rachel discusses how recipe creation has changed her life; finding ways to create her favorite foods, while honoring her gluten and dairy free lifestyle, is now her career and she inspires others daily to advocate for themselves along...2024-09-1050 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E25: New Zealand - 'Hot dates, scenic strolls and street daredevils'In this episode, Emily and Rachel take a nostalgic look back at their last day in beautiful Queenstown, NZ, a day they spent soaking in the unequalled lakeside views, watching a street entertainer set fire to his own hair, and enjoying concurrent hot dates by the light of the stars.2024-09-0549 min

Connecting Kansas CityProfessional Organizing Tips with Emily Aull of Aull OrganizedAre you ready to declutter and elevate your home or workspace? In this episode of the Connecting KC Podcast, host Rachel Kilmer sits down with Emily Aull, the brilliant mind behind Aull Organized, a premier professional organizing service in Kansas City. Emily shares her journey from being an elementary school teacher to becoming a sought-after organizing expert featured in Apartment Therapy and The Spruce. Discover the secrets to creating sustainable organizing systems that fit your unique lifestyle. Whether you're a busy family, a professional, or a business owner, Emily's tailored approach ensures your space...2024-08-0823 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E23: New Zealand - 'Snowboarders, drinking games and a single dreadlock'In this episode, Rachel and Emily journey back by rereading their blog entries to some more Queenstown memories, this time involving a pair of Australian snowboarders, a whole baked salmon, the 'car of death' and some drunken hairstyling. 2024-05-3042 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E22: New Zealand - 'Mini-golf, hostel hunting and a cabin in the woods'In this episode, Emily and Rachel read back over their blog entries from more Queenstown adventures, including a startlingly creative mini golf course, a desperate search for hostel accommodation, and Rachel being struck down by a mysterious illness. Mentioned in the podcast: Emily's round up of the world's best mini golf courses https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-mini-golf-courses-around-the-globe 2024-05-1649 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E21: New Zealand - 'Disastrous hikes, dining out and tearful farewells'In this episode, Emily and Rachel read back over their blog entry from the day they spent in NZ's Queenstown recovering from their hangovers, being plunged further into financial turmoil on an otherwise tranquil hike, and waving off their good friend Claire after a month of travelling friendship.2024-05-0246 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E20: New Zealand - 'Canyon swings, revelations and birthday fun'In this very special episode, Rachel and Emily look back at the day of Rachel's 19th birthday, celebrated in Queenstown NZ. Among other things we hear, in great detail, about Rachel undertaking the town's infamous Canyon Swing, the mad dash for balloons, and a chaotic night out which results in the unfortunate decimation of Rach's birthday cake. We are also treated to a very special excerpt from Rachel's creative writing degree, which includes a staggering revelation for Emily after 14 years.2024-04-1848 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E19: New Zealand - 'Unhinged bus drivers, Milford Sound and sub-optimal weather'In this episode, Rachel and Emily remember the unfortunate day they spent exploring New Zealand's glorious Milford Sound, featuring a highly theatrical bus driver, close encounters with local wildlife, and the most inefficient checking of a weather forecast known to mankind. 2024-04-0437 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E18: New Zealand - 'Queenstown, optical illusions, and cocktail fails'In this episode, Rachel and Emily re-read the blog entry from their time spent at renowned NZ attraction Puzzling World. Among other things, we hear of the pair experiencing anti-gravity whilst horrendously hungover and getting hopelessly lost in a maze, as well as their first ever glimpse of Queenstown and Rachel entering a 'hori-bungee' cocktail contest. 2024-03-2144 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E17: New Zealand - 'Lakeside views, human pyramids and attempts at romance'In this episode, Emily and Rachel read back over the blog entry documenting their lengthy journey through stunning scenery to NZ's lakeside town of Wanaka. Among other things, we hear of greenscreen style landscapes, chaotic hostel check ins, monopolising the time of passing strangers to take multiple group photos and Emily's attempt to create romantic memories that only ended in numb extremities. 2024-03-0747 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E16: New Zealand - 'Glaciers, stalagmites and sexy tour-guides'In this episode, Rachel and Emily recount and relive the blissful day they spent hiking around on New Zealand's famed Fox Glacier, led along the way by a particularly chiselled tour-guide.Among other things we hear of the stupendous beauty of the natural surroundings, elite level bribery of two glamorous Danish men, and Emily trying and failing to impress said tour-guide by getting her tongue stuck to a stalagmite. 2024-02-2252 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E15: New Zealand - 'Possums, bearded bushmen and reflective lakes'In this episode, Emily and Rachel recount their experiences of a day spent learning about New Zealand's possum pest-control methods, and travelling onwards to the country's stunning Franz Josef glacier. Among other things, we hear of the eminently memorable 'Possum Pete', owner of the educational bushman centre, the meeting of Pete's singular pet possum, and a trip to the most reflective lake of the entire trip thus far. 2024-02-0854 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E14: New Zealand - 'Partying, painting and costume design triumph'In this episode, Rachel and Emily recount the day of the Kiwi Bus' infamous 'Poo Party' on the beautiful Lake Mahinapua, where they finally get to showcase their incredible craft prowess and take the swinging 60s fancy-dress costumes for a spin. Amongst other things, we hear of ageing and grumpy party-host Les and his unceasingly cantankerous manner, the desperate last-minute costume fixes involving string, masking tape and orange paint, and Emily's unhidden annoyance at the inaccuracy of other party-goers' attire... 2024-01-2553 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E13: New Zealand - 'Bus mates, rugby and fancy dress production'In this episode, Rachel and Emily look back fondly over a frantic 24 hours spent procuring and constructing some wildly ambitious fancy dress costumes ahead of the Kiwi bus institution - the Lake Mahinapua 'poo party'. Among other things we hear about a highly tense rugby match between Ireland and the All Blacks, the charms of the town of Westport, and Emily's tyrannical approach to arts and crafts production. 2023-12-2142 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E12: New Zealand - 'Hiking, hire cars and aquatic slow jams'In this episode, Emily and Rachel journey back and relive the blissful day they spent exploring NZ's Abel Tasman National Park. Among other things, we hear of the water taxi driver and the obsession with mid 2000s RnB he was so proud to share with others, a family of ducks with no personal boundaries, and an ongoing battle with the ever encroaching tide. 2023-12-0749 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E11: New Zealand - 'Ferry crossings, landmarks and super noodles'In this episode, we are treated to a full recount of Rachel and Emily's adventure on the high seas, as they set sail to cross from the heady pursuits of New Zealand's north island to the chilly climes of its south. The pair relive the few days they spent in the city of Nelson post crossing, struggling for warmth under threadbare duvets, eating super noodles and locating famous landmarks, including NZ's most central point and the underwhelming site of the country's first ever rugby match. 2023-11-1645 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E10: New Zealand - 'Arguments, home comforts and embassy hell'In this episode, Rachel and Emily look back fondly at yet another chapter of embassy nightmares as they continue to relive their time spent in NZ's capital city, Wellington. Among other things we hear of a spicy altercation, passport theft related frustration and more escapades that absolutely do not include making the most of staying in the world's most southerly capital city. 2023-11-0248 min

Talking With Tech AAC PodcastEmily Taylor: Using Social Media to Promote Your AAC ResourcesThis week, Rachel interviews Emily Taylor (@emily.the.speechie)! Emily is a speech-language pathologist who supports AAC users in New Zealand and Fiji. Emily shares about Fiji, a country that has limited access to AAC support, and why she was inspired to help AAC users there. Then, Rachel shares some great social media tips to help Emily promote her upcoming AAC resources! Before the interview, Chris shares a heartwarming story about setting up an experience for a kindergarten class to use iPads and learn about AAC. In addition, Rachel shares about using an AI background t...2023-10-261h 02

Gap Year DiariesS4E9: New Zealand - 'City exploring, giant squid and goon'In this episode, Rachel and Emily read back over the bizarre blog entry from their first day in New Zealand's lively and windy capital city, Wellington. Among other things, we hear of an accident involving dried fruit in a local supermarket, the city's hallowed Giant Squid exhibition, and the deeply disgraceful result of many hours of hostel drinking games. 2023-10-1245 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E8 - New Zealand: ‘Waterfalls, skydiving and head-banging trauma’In this episode, Emily and Rachel reopen some old wounds and relive the trauma of the day they spent attempting to skydive over New Zealand's beautiful Lake Taupo, reading back over the blog they wrote on the day. We hear of the deeply stressful assent to 15,000ft in a miniscule plane, Emily's near-premature launch out of the plane door, and the overall chaos that ensued. Also including some actually fairly fond recounts of the small amount of the day that went well. 2023-09-2858 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E7: New Zealand - 'Cow milking, black water caving and rugby hooligans'In this episode, Emily and Rachel reread and relive their time in the NZ village of Waitomo, famous for its glow-worm bedazzled underwater caves. Amongst the usual mindless content, we hear of the formative time Rachel spent at a rural farm show, the awkward and cumbersome process of making new bus friends, EXTREME black water caving, Rachel's multi-coloured toes and Emily unwittingly allowing a raucous rugby team to break into the hostel. 2023-09-141h 04

I Heart My Life ShowIVF Journey: Lessons in Surrender and Trust with Rachel LeeIn this podcast episode, Emily Williams interviews Rachel B Lee, a branding expert and entrepreneur who shares her journey of leaving her corporate job to start her own business with her husband. Rachel talks about the mindset blocks and fears she had to overcome, particularly around money and the lack of a safety net. She also shares her IVF journey and the challenges she faced trying to conceive. Rachel emphasizes the importance of authenticity and finding one's voice in the workplace, as well as the need for self-awareness and vulnerability in personal and professional growth...2023-05-0247 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E6: New Zealand - 'Scenic views, awkward interactions and geothermal activity'In this episode, Emily and Rachel continue to read back over and reminisce on their time spent in the geothermal hot spot of Rotorua, New Zealand. We hear of a bonding trip to a local spa, a narrow escape from an incredibly inappropriate situation with the Pennsylvania State University Glee Club, and many, MANY unnecessary details about the value for money of Rotorua's supermarkets. 2023-03-3035 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E5: New Zealand - 'Maori villages, extreme luging and Glee Club'In this episode, Emily and Rachel read back over their blog documenting the first day they spent in the geothermal New Zealand town of Rotorua. Among many other stunningly banal details, we hear of their time learning about Maori culture, luging at break-neck speed down forested hills, and, more exciting than all combined, the chance meeting of an entire Glee Club during a traditional Maori feast...2023-03-1646 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E4: New Zealand - 'Incessant rain, Mercury Bay and crazy pool'In the fourth episode of series 4, Emily and Rachel reread the blog entry from their, in all honesty, fairly uneventful visit to New Zealand's Mercury Bay, viewing its highlights through unceasing drizzle.As well as this, we hear of wet weather wanderings, the world's most poppin' hostel bar, and a detailed review of the local children's play park.Follow the podcast on Instagram at @gapyeardiariespodcast.2023-02-1636 min

Un-starved: A Wellness Podcast for Hungry Spirits#3 - A Music Therapist's Advice for Feeling Better with Music (with Rachel Quirbach, LPCA, MT-BC)Music lovers - this episode is for you. In this interview, Rachel shares with us how we can intentionally use music to benefit our well-being - whether that be to improve our moods, practice a new way to connect with the inner child, or simply honor our emotions as a practice of self-love.Touched on topics include common misconceptions about music therapy, how to know if our personal music therapy practice may require additional support, and practical ways to incorporate music into our wellness practice to level up our self awareness, tap into deeper understanding...2023-02-151h 10

Gap Year DiariesS4E3: New Zealand - 'Dolphin watching, island hikes and 'bread-gate''In the third episode of series 4, Emily and Rachel continue reliving their time travelling around New Zealand's beautiful north coast, by rereading the blog diary from their second day in Paihia. Among other things, we hear of a marginally successful dolphin-watching boat trip, hours of wandering around various idyllic islands and an unfortunate hostel argument about bread. It's definitely as thrilling as it sounds. Follow the podcast on Instagram at @gapyeardiariespodcast.2023-02-0250 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E2: New Zealand- 'Kiwi bussing, hostel hot tubs and the Bay of Islands'In the second episode of series 4, Emily and Rachel continue to recount stories of their time travelling through New Zealand, as they begin the odyssey travelling north from the bustling city of Auckland to the country's beautiful north coast. We hear of the pair's first experience of the Kiwi bus, their failure to make new friends due to being largely unconscious, a gloriously scenic walk around Pahia Bay of Islands and a high unsuccessful attempt at having a wild night out at the hostel.Follow the podcast on Instagram at @gapyeardiariespodcast. 2023-01-1942 min

Gap Year DiariesS4E1: New Zealand - 'Unpleasant flights, hostel bars and binocular hands'In the first episode of series four, Emily and Rachel read back over the blog entries from their first few days in New Zealand, as they land, after an unfortunate flight, in the buzzing north island city of Auckland and struggle to adjust to the timezone shift. We hear of New Zealand's intensive airport security measures, hostel mishaps, more embassy adventures and a shameful night in the hostel bar... Follow the podcast on Instagram @gapyeardiariespodcast 2022-12-0850 min

The Business of Christian FictionEp 10: Making the Move from Traditional to Indie Publishing with Emily ConradHave heard about the idea of Indie Publishing (also known as self publishing) and wondered if it is really worth pursuing? Well, today's guest, Emily Conrad, shares her journey of first being traditionally published and then moving to the indie publishing model for her last four books. We dive into mindset, costs, and more in today's episode! About my Guest: Emily Conrad writes contemporary Christian romance that explores life’s relevant questions. Though she likes to think some of her characters are pretty great, the ultimate hero of her stories (including the one she’s livi...2022-11-0955 min

Gap Year DiariesGap Year Diaries x Hostelworld: Your Stories - Backpacking buddies: meeting new peopleEmily and Rachel of the Gap Year Diaries Podcast chat to intrepid members of the Hostelworld community about their travel experiences. In this episode, the hosts speak to Kate Higham about meeting lifelong friends on her gap year, and travel introvert Debora Da Costa about her techniques for overcoming shyness in hostels. We hear about the LA skate community, blossoming hostel friendships and road-tripping with people you’ve never met, as well as top tips and advice for making friends whilst on the road. Oh, and a smattering of ridiculous stories from Emily and Rachel throughout of cou...2022-10-2748 min

Gap Year DiariesGap Year Diaries x Hostelworld: Your Stories - Travel after dark: unforgettable nights outEmily and Rachel of the Gap Year Diaries Podcast chat to intrepid members of the Hostelworld community about their travel experiences. In this episode, the hosts speak to Blake Freeman about how he seeks out the best parties whilst travelling, and Manu Cortes, about his greatest after-dark experiences in multiple different destinations. We hear about dancing ‘til dawn at a lake in Zagreb, Thailand’s famous nightlife and the many charms of a Mykonos party, as well as top tips and advice for creating an unforgettable night out around the world. Oh, and a smattering of ridiculous stori...2022-10-2048 min

Gap Year DiariesGap Year Diaries x Hostelworld: Your Stories - Love on the road: travel romancesEmily and Rachel of the Gap Year Diaries Podcast chat to intrepid members of the Hostelworld community about their travel experiences. In this episode, the hosts speak to travel newbie Andi Unceta Pereira about the power of romantic destinations, and James Rowbottom, about his dating life whilst living in Paris as a bisexual man. We hear about awkward Grindr encounters, unbelievable meet-cutes on public transport, and stunningly cinematic dates on Parisian balconies, as well as top tips and advice for finding love, or something like it, on the road. Oh, and a smattering of ridiculous stories from E...2022-10-1348 min

Gap Year DiariesGap Year Diaries x Hostelworld: Your Stories - When Things Go Wrong: overcoming travel disastersEmily and Rachel of the Gap Year Diaries Podcast chat to intrepid members of the Hostelworld community about their travel experiences. In this episode, the hosts speak to Tom Ruck, a self-confessed accident prone traveller about his catalogue of close calls, and Zorro, a seasoned traveller and hostel worker about when things haven’t quite gone to plan for him during his four years on the road. We hear about vengeful rats, falling horribly ill in the Amazon rainforest and having to scale a glacier alone in the Himalayas, as well as top tips and advice for kee...2022-10-0649 min

Gap Year DiariesGap Year Diaries x Hostelworld: Your Stories - Global Adventuring: epic tours and experiencesEmily and Rachel of the Gap Year Diaries Podcast chat to intrepid members of the Hostelworld community about their travel experiences. In this episode, the hosts speak to Drew Wilson about how throwing themself into some truly extreme travel experiences has helped on their journey to overcoming anxiety, and Claire Scott, who is in the middle of her first Gap Year travelling the world at the age of 30. We hear about eating inkfish, sampling a silent meditation retreat in Japan and visiting Machu Picchu in Peru, as well as top tips and advice for t...2022-09-2948 min

Gap Year DiariesGap Year Diaries x Hostelworld: Your Stories - Finding Your Feet: exploring new destinationsEmily and Rachel of the Gap Year Diaries Podcast chat to intrepid members of the Hostelworld community about their travel experiences. In this episode, the hosts speak to author of You Are Where You Go, 24-year-old Caitlyn Lubas, about how she has managed to tick off visiting over 70 countries in just three years, and Amanda Day, about how she harnesses her interest in health and wellness to explore different cultures on a deeper level. We hear about setting foot in Antarctica, the world’s best walking tours, and an epic two...2022-09-2246 min

MisconceptionsS1 Ep 5: Secondary InfertilityRachel and Emily discuss Rachel's miscarriage, healthy pregnancy, and battle to get/stay pregnant a second time after the birth of her son, ultimately resulting in the need for IVF. Tune in to find out if Emily discusses the Enneagram again, if they drop a lot of curse words in this episode, and if they catch all the 'infertility bingo' sayings. All that and more in this one-on-one interview.2022-07-261h 00

Gap Year Diaries*Special Episode* Postcard from: ChileIn this special episode, Rachel and Emily look back fondly over the (incredibly short) series documenting their time in Chile, and ask each other all those burnin' questions they've harboured for 12 long years about their time travelling through the country. Among other useless things, we learn of what the pair would have done differently if they had their time in Chile again, whether or not Barney the Dinosaur is in fact a serious suspect in the theft of Emily's iPod, and whether Rachel will ever regret wearing hiking socks and pink ballet pumps to a chic beachside nightclub...2022-03-3143 min

Gap Year DiariesS3E4: Chile - 'Backpacking friends, empty restaurants and tumorous goldfish'In this week's episode, Rachel and Emily read back over the last, incredibly dull blog post from their time spent in Chile, this time 'exploring' the country's capital city, Santiago. Amongst other ludicrous content, we hear of an incredibly detailed account of a meal enjoyed in an empty Chinese restaurant, a very special goldfish, and yet another 'rambunctiously disgusting' bus toilet. Strap in everyone. 2022-03-2533 min

Gap Year DiariesS3E3: Chile - ‘Long-haul buses, stargazing and dancing shoes’In this episode, Rachel and Emily continue rereading blog entries from their time travelling south through Chile. This week, we hear of an epic 18-hour bus journey, complete with ‘barnstormingly disgusting’ on-board toilet, curious clubbing attire and the night the pair spent stargazing at the La Serena observatory that very nearly didn’t happen due to Rachel going missing… 2022-03-1743 min

Gap Year DiariesS3E2: Chile - 'Surfers' paradise, petty theft and Barney the Dinosaur'In this episode, Rachel and Emily continue rereading blog entries from their time in Chile, this time reminiscing on the two days they spent in the bohemian surfer's city of Iquique. Among other mishaps, we hear of the theft of Emily's precious iPod, a crime for which Barney the Dinosaur is a serious suspect, the bizarre quirks of the pair's hostel room, and what passes for on board entertainment on South American intercity coach services. 2022-03-1047 min

Gap Year DiariesS3E1: Chile - 'Border crossings, Nutella and hilarious encounters'In this first episode of series 3, Rachel and Emily recount their fraught and anxiety inducing border crossing from Peru to Chile, featuring an unnerving and frantic taxi driver, and entire three-generation Peruvian family. We also hear of their first night in the border city of Arica, which they spend high on Nutella and fermented pineapple, being rampantly annoying to fellow hostel guests. 2022-03-0347 min

Gap Year Diaries*Special Episode* Postcard from: PeruIn this special episode, Emily and Rachel wrap up their Peru series by answering a series of pertinent and astute questions from listeners, friends and family, on all manner of topics related to this leg of their 5 month trip. Among a myriad of other things, we find out the pair's best advice for those looking to travel to Peru, how they managed to look so excruciatingly fashionable whilst exploring the country and, crucially, if they ever had to calm a llama down... 2022-02-171h 05

Gap Year DiariesS2E16: Peru - 'Cheesecake, millionaires and suburban house parties'In this week's episode, Emily and Rachel read back over the last blog entry from their time in the second country of their trip, Peru, which was spent living the high life in the elegant Southern city of Arequipa. We hear about new travelling friends, how the pair stop at nothing to demand cheesecake at any hour of the day or night, and are treated to a detailed recount of the most bizarre and incredible night out either of them had ever experienced. 2022-02-0341 min

Gap Year DiariesS2E15: Peru - 'Oasis scenes, sandboarding fun and money woes'In this week's episode, Rachel and Emily read over the blog entry documenting their time sandboarding around Peru's tiny oasis town of Huacachina, as well as recounting the severe financial traumas that began to plague them. We also hear of yet another near-death experience, some choice sandboarding eyewear, and the surreal setting in which the pair discovered the result of the infamous May 2010 UK election...2022-01-2747 min

Gap Year DiariesS2E14: Peru - ‘Night buses, Nasca Lines and airborne disasters’In this week's episode, Emily and Rachel recount the beginning of their journey through the south of Peru, spending a few nights in the desert city of Nasca, home of the world-famous 'Nasca Lines'. We hear of the trip the pair took in a tiny aircraft to view the lines from above, find out why Emily so deeply regretted making the most of the hostel's incredible breakfast buffet, and hear about their attempts to locate an ATM on the world's most chaotic side street. 2022-01-1355 min

Gap Year DiariesS2E13: Peru - 'Guide books, hostel friends and the bizarre breakfast'In this week's episode, Rachel and Emily re-read the blog entry from their last days spent in Cusco, which involved a raucous night clubbing, a top-bunk pillow fight and the most bizarre breakfast in living memory. We also hear of how they used an outdated and discarded copy of Lonely Planet's South America on a Shoestring and an A5 piece of paper to plan the 3 week journey south to the Chilean capital of Santiago they'll embark upon next.2021-12-1644 min

Gap Year DiariesS2E12: Peru - 'Inca ruins, feuding horses and questionable actions'In this week's episode, Rachel and Emily continue to reminisce on and re-read blog entries about their time in Cusco, exploring the enchanting Saqsaywaman ruins on horseback. We also hear about the intense feud that two of the horses were in the midst of throughout the trek, and, later on, what happens when you mix inappropriately behaving tour guides, grimy clubs and banging tunes. **note** this episode does include some sound quality issues, for which we apologise! We’ll be back to normal sound levels next week. 2021-12-0938 min

Gap Year DiariesS2E11: Peru - ‘Zoom lenses, hot springs and Machu Picchu’In this week's episode, Emily and Rachel recount the culmination of their Inca Trail trek - reaching the world-famous Machu Picchu. We also hear tales of hot spring fun times, gifts of lifelong friendship, and the most fractious bus journey known to man...2021-12-0244 min

Gap Year DiariesS2E10: Peru – ‘Chair dancing, wild disagreements and tender moments’In this week’s episode, Rachel and Emily relive their last full day of trekking on Peru’s iconic Inca Trail, which of course includes many gaffes, giggles and grim toilet experiences. We also hear of the after-dark campsite incident that involves a stinky foot, angry outburst and a very tender moment…2021-11-2536 min

Gap Year DiariesS2E9: Peru - 'Hiking boots, Fanny Jam and Dead Woman's Pass'This week, Rachel and Emily continue re-reading their blogs from Peru's famed Inca Trail Trek, tackling the hauntingly named 'Dead Woman's Pass' at 4,200m above sea level. We also hear about the bizarre branding of certain Peruvian breakfast items, Rachel's insane approach to completing the day's trek, and the terrifying, ghostly presence that allegedly haunts the campsite...2021-11-1840 min