In this episode, Mike Picconatto is joined by Joel Damon, Kate Damon, and Dr. Stephen W. Jones for an honest conversation about the early weeks of the Damon’s transition to Berlin. The group reflects on the practical and emotional challenges of cross-cultural moves—from lost pants and stressful travel with dogs, to the struggle of making a new apartment feel like home. Stories and moments of vulnerability highlight the uncertainty, excitement, and exhaustion that come with moving to a new country and navigating unfamiliar routines. Drawing from Dr. Jones’s "Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook," the episode dives into the factors that intensify the experience of transition.Through anecdotes and practical insight, the conversation encourages listeners to give themselves (and others) grace, offering connection and hope for anyone walking through the complexity of cultural change. Main topics include emotional ups and downs in transition, factors that shape intensity and risk when moving cross-culturally, and practical strategies for coping, building community, and maintaining belonging.  Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord.

Notes In this episode of traxcultures, host Mike Picconatto reconnects with returning guests Joel and Kate Damon as they prepare to move to Berlin in under three weeks. Instead of diving into their planned book discussion, the trio takes time to give listeners a heartfelt update on the whirlwind of emotions and logistical challenges that come with cross-cultural transitions. From securing an apartment in Berlin to the process of sorting and packing up their home, Joel and Kate share candid reflections on how faith, supportive community, and a bit of humor have helped them navigate unexpected changes. The conversation touches on the emotional complexity of saying goodbye to loved ones, carrying both their own grief and the grief of others, and practical tips for the daunting final weeks before an international move. Joel and Kate also highlight the importance of connection with sending communities in both familiar and unusual ways! Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Listen to Joel and Kate's message at Crossbridge Alliance here: https://www.facebook.com/crossbridgealliance/videos/1206881114606169 Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord.

Notes In this episode of traxcultures, recorded just before Mike and Elissa Picconatto's latest home assignment, the conversation dives deep into the raw realities of returning to your passport country after years abroad. Joined by Dr. Stephen W. Jones and Jennie Jones, the team draws from firsthand experience and the Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook to explore the emotional, relational, and logistical challenges faced in reentry—whether it’s leaving behind the dailiness of life overseas, coping with ambiguous losses, or grappling with the sense of being a visitor in what was once home. Listeners will hear candid reflections on grief, celebration, and the often-missed practicalities of transition, including the difficulty of saying proper goodbyes, navigating changed cultural norms, and the cumulative stress of reintegration. The group unpacks what they wish churches, friends, and family understood about the sensitivity and complexity of returning workers, and they share tips on self-care, grace, and setting healthy expectations. Whether you’re preparing for your own transition or walking alongside someone who is, this episode offers both empathy and practical wisdom for anyone facing the profound changes of coming home. Links: Resources from this episode: Information on Stephen Jones. Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Purchase a copy of our Envision skinned Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook here! Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord

Notes In this episode, recorded almost a year ago on August 24, 2024, Mike is joined by his wife Elissa Picconatto, Dr. Stephen W. Jones, and Jennie Jones to explore the complexities of returning home after living abroad. Drawing on insights from the Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook, the team unpacks what it means to re-enter your passport or home country, whether for a brief home assignment or a permanent move. Stephen breaks down key concepts like reentry, reverse culture shock, and reintegration, noting the unique challenges and disorientation that arise when "home" no longer feels familiar. The conversation takes a personal turn as Stephen and Jennie reflect on their recent short visits back to the U.S. after years away. They share observations about environmental shifts—everything feeling louder, bigger, and faster—as well as cultural and relational adjustments, such as reconnecting with family members whose lives have moved forward in their absence.  Elissa and Mike also express anticipation and anxiety about reconnecting with loved ones after years abroad, highlighting the emotional complexities of changed relationships and shifting family dynamics. Throughout, the episode offers honest discussion about the joys and difficulties of maintaining a sense of belonging while navigating the inevitable changes that come with cross-cultural transitions. This is episode 1 of a 2 part series. Links: Resources from this episode: Information on Stephen Jones. Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Purchase a copy of our Envision skinned Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook here! Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here.

Notes In this special, never-before-released episode from December 2022, host Mike Picconatto is joined by Stephen W. Jones and Jennie Jones for an honest, heartfelt conversation about navigating holiday traditions and the deeper meaning of “martyrdom”  while living abroad. In December of 2022, Stephen and Jennie were 18 months into their lives in Berlin, and in this episode they reflect on adjusting to new cultural rhythms, missing family back home, and the challenge process of forging new traditions amidst ongoing personnel transition on site. Drawing from both ancient Celtic spirituality and their own lived experiences as expats and ministry workers, the trio discusses the three colors of martyrdom—red, green, and white—and how these ancient concepts resonate (even when the word martyrdom doesn’t!) in the everyday sacrifices and joys of cross-cultural life.  Links: Resources from this episode: Information on Stephen Jones. Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto Unterwegs is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord

Notes Mike is joined by guests Joel and Kate Damon for a candid update on their journey preparing to move to Berlin as international workers with the Christian and Missionary Alliance. The episode centers around their experiences at the Alliance Council gathering and the support and sense of belonging they found within the Alliance community. Joel and Kate discuss how their appearance, including visible tattoos, helps them connect with people who might not feel represented in traditional church spaces, and how this has opened up meaningful conversations and opportunities for ministry. The conversation also delves into the practical realities and emotions of preparing for a major cross-cultural transition. Joel and Kate share about building new partnerships with churches, navigating the fundraising process, the logistics of packing up their home, and the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye to friends and family. They offer honest reflections on managing stress, maintaining patience with each other, and finding peace in the midst of uncertainty. The episode wraps up with advice for others embarking on similar journeys, emphasizing the importance of community, open communication, and embracing paradox — the "yay ducks" and "yuck ducks" (pair of ducks!) — of cross-cultural transition. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord.

Notes In this episode, Mike is joined by Kate and Joel Damon for a conversation around the provocative episode title: “Don’t Just Be Yourself.” Drawing inspiration from Dr. Stephen W. Jones’s Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook, the group delves into why the advice to "just be yourself" can be misguided—especially when moving between cultures. Together, they explore the tensions between authenticity and the need to flex or adjust in new cultural situations. The discussion looks into what it means to hold onto a core identity while remaining open to change, highlighting moments when “being yourself” might not serve you or those around you in a cross-cultural context. Learning to be solid at the core and soft at the edges is an important part of living interculturally, and this episode dives into what that means! Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord.

Notes In this episode, Mike is joined once again by Joel and Kate Damon as they dig into a key theme from Dr. Stephen W. Jones’ Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook: expectations. As Joel and Kate prepare for their upcoming move to Berlin, the conversation centers on the often unspoken hopes, assumptions, and uncertainties that come with any significant transition. Identifying and naming these expectations can help navigate the inevitable frustrations and surprises of adapting to a new culture. Together, they explore practical examples of expectations—ranging from spiritual growth and professional identity to relationships with friends and family back home. Mike shares candid insights from years of working with teams and individuals in transition, highlighting how unmet expectations can lead to moments of self-discovery and growth. Kate and Joel open up about their personal hopes and fears, from homesickness to redefining community, and the trio offers valuable advice on communicating openly, managing disappointments, and finding new rhythms in unfamiliar territory. This episode is an honest, relatable look at embracing both the excitement and challenges of cross-cultural change. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord.

In today’s episode, Mike is joined again by Joel and Kate Damon, along with Dr. Stephen W. Jones, to continue unpacking the question: what is culture? Building off their previous conversation, the group explores the realities of moving between cultures and why such transitions are often deeply disorienting. Stephen walks through concepts four and five from his book, The Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook, highlighting how culture shock creeps in through countless small moments and why disorientation is both inevitable and, to some degree, predictable. The conversation dives into personal stories of cross-cultural confusion, from picking the wrong cookies at a Berlin grocery store to adjusting to surprising wedding customs in Minnesota. The panel discusses the difference between traveling and truly living cross-culturally, the temptation to impose your own “normal” on new environments, and the comfort of accepting that mistakes and misunderstandings are a natural part of adapting. They also touch on the ways self-worth and feedback are handled differently in American and German cultures, and how anticipating culture shock—rather than denying it—can ease the process of growing into a new home. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord.

Notes In today’s episode, host Mike Picconatto is joined by Kate and Joel Damon and Dr. Stephen W. Jones to kick off a two-part conversation exploring the question, “What is culture?” Drawing on insights from Stephen’s book, the Cross Cultural Transitions Handbook, the team unpacks the complex and often hard-to-define nature of culture. Stephen offers both simple and nuanced definitions of culture and helps us understand why cultural transitions are more difficult than we imagine they might be. Together, Mike, Kate, Joel, and Stephen dig into real-life examples from their own communities—ranging from the concept of "Nebraska nice" to the subtle meanings behind everyday behaviors and cultural artifacts. The group discusses why cultures can be so different and why it is so important for us to not only be explorers of other cultures, but also spend time getting to know our own culture well. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Information on Dr. Stephen W. Jones Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord.

Originally Recorded: June 15, 2022 Notes ​​In this episode, Mike is joined again by Dr. Stephen W. Jones and Jennie Jones for part two of their insightful conversation on language learning and its role in cross-cultural transitions. Picking up where their previous discussion left off, Jennie and Stephen share candidly about shifting from individualized language lessons to a traditional classroom setting, highlighting the anxieties, surprises, and vulnerabilities that come with adapting to new methods of language acquisition. They reflect on how testing and placement levels often feel disconnected from real-life language use, and how language learning can deeply impact one’s sense of competence and self-worth, especially when comparing proficiency in a new language to their native tongue. A major theme in this episode is the emotional and spiritual toll that language learning can take, especially for those whose previous work depended so much on communication and words. Mike, Stephen, and Jennie talk openly about challenges like role deprivation, moments of discouragement, and the impact of navigating complex topics in a language where they feel less capable. They also discuss the importance of embracing mistakes, the value of immersion, and the need to give oneself grace during the process. The episode offers encouragement for anyone feeling the strain of language learning during a cross-cultural move and is filled with practical insights and relatable stories for those in similar situations. Links: Resources from this episode: Information on Stephen Jones. Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Purchase a copy of our Envision skinned Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook here! Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on

Notes In this episode, Mike is joined by Joel and Kate Damon for a conversation about “role deprivation” during cross-cultural transitions. Role deprivation is a part of the transition zone in which a person’s former “status as a force for good has not been replaced by anything.” (Stephen W. Jones, Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook, p. 52).  This role deprivation can be very disruptive.  In this episode, Mike, Joel, and Kate talk about the challenge of of rebuilding your sense of self, and the sometimes surprising grief—and freedom—of starting over. Mike and the guests also explore practical strategies for navigating this season, highlighting insights from Dr. Stephen W. Jones’ cross-cultural transition handbook. They examine how pressing into the difficulties of transition, journaling, engaging in new communities, and leaning into their faith can provide support and continuity. The episode wraps up with reflections on the deeper spiritual aspects of letting go, the metaphor of death and rebirth, and finding hope in the promise of new growth and new roles in an unfamiliar culture. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord.  

Notes In this episode of "TraxCultures," host Mike Picconatto chats with season 3 guests Joel and Kate Damon about a tricky part of major life changes and cross-cultural transitions — the "transition zone." As they get ready to move from Omaha to Berlin, Joel and Kate share what it's like to leave one life behind while not quite settling into the next. Drawing from Dr. Steven W. Jones' "Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook," they discuss why this in-between phase, often called “the neutral zone,” can be so tough to navigate. The discussion touches on Joel and Kate's past transitions, highlighting how important it is to recognize when to pause and find closure. They open up about the role community has played during past major life changes and share what’s helped and what hasn’t. As they face this new chapter, they tak about their feelings of sensitivity and being overwhelmed. This episode is packed with down-to-earth insights, offering you a better understanding of your own cross-cultural journey! Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord Timestamped Overview:  00:00 Introduction and Season 2 Insights 05:05 Leaving and Rebuilding Church Community 06:44 Navigating Life's Transition Zones 12:07 Reframing Coping Mechanisms Perception 14:21 Morning Reflection and Time Management 16:01 Balancing Online Engagement and Self-Care 21:04 Embracing Life's Ups and Downs 25:43 Craving Community While being Overwhelmed 26:46 Navigating Uncertainty with Trust

Originally Recorded: June 1, 2022 Notes In today’s episode, Mike welcomes back guests Dr. Stephen W. Jones and Jennie Jones for part one of a two-part series focusing on language learning as part of cultural transitions. One year after starting our podcast, the Jones have now been in Berlin long enough to have gotten immersed in language learning.  Today, they discuss the unique challenges and experiences they've faced while adapting to a new linguistic environment. The conversation delves into different language learning methods, highlighting how their approaches differ based on individual learning styles and past experiences.  The Joneses also discuss practical language acquisition strategies they’ve employed, such as listening to German music, reading level-appropriate books, and utilizing streaming services with German subtitles. Through candid anecdotes, they describe the initial confusion and gradual victories over language barriers, like confidently navigating small talk at local bakeries. This episode provides valuable insights for those experiencing or preparing for similar transitions, emphasizing the importance of understanding language not just as a tool for communication but as an entryway to cultural understanding. Links: Resources from this episode: Information on Stephen Jones. Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Purchase a copy of our Envision skinned Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook here! Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Our Communities: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord Timestamped Overview:  00:00 "Language Learning and Cultural Transition"

In this episode of Trax Cultures, host Mike Picconatto is joined by Kate and Joel Damon as they explore the concept of "beginning with the endings" in the context of cultural transitions. Recorded originally on March 13, 2025, this conversation delves into the need to recognize and cope with endings as an essential part of new beginnings. Drawing insights from William Bridges' model and Stephen W. Jone’s books, Kate and Joel share personal anecdotes of wrestling with the emotional complexities of endings, including work changes, shifting friendships, and altered family dynamics.  This episode also touches on the unexpected ways in which loss and change manifest, such as leaving jobs and closing a gallery Joel has managed for a long time. The conversation underscores the importance of cherishing sweet moments and having the patience to embrace transitions. Tune in to this heartfelt discussion that exemplifies how to navigate endings while looking forward to new beginnings. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Our Communities: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord. Timestamped Overview:  00:00 Navigating Change and Unexpected Emotions 03:44 Unexpected Life Shifts and Endings 07:12 "Evolving Family Bonds" 11:46 Anticipating Changes and Endings 14:11 Challenges in Maintaining Friendships 17:03 Adjusting to Berlin's Quiet Sundays 21:58 Attachment to Keys 24:58 "American Smiles and Social Dynamics" 26:47 Navigating Life's Transition Zones

Originally Recorded: February 9, 2022 Notes In this episode of traxcultures, host Michael Picconatto explores how Jennie and Stephen W. Jones are handling the challenges of transitioning to a new culture after six months. The discussion focuses on various coping mechanisms, balancing creating and consuming activities, as well as aggressive and withdrawing strategies. Jennie finds comfort in reading and knitting, while Stephen explores through photography and city walks. They emphasize the importance of communication, recognizing unhealthy patterns, and having supportive relationships that ask, "Are you doing well?" The episode also touches on the spiritual challenges that come with cross-cultural transitions, like feelings of distance from God and the absence of familiar spiritual environments. The guests share moments of encouragement, such as attending a multicultural worship service. They discuss the challenge of maintaining faith in unfamiliar contexts and the importance of honest communication about their feelings during this period of adjustment. Looking towards new beginnings, Jennie and Stephen are still exploring what activities will bring lasting joy and continuity with their past experiences. Jennie considers joining a local choir to engage her love for music and community, while Stephen looks forward to potential involvement in education. This episode offers practical insights for anyone experiencing a cultural transition or supporting a loved one in such a journey. Links: Resources from this episode: Information on Stephen Jones. Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Purchase a copy of our Envision skinned Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook here! Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts a...

Join host Mike Picconatto as he welcomes Joel and Kate Damon to traxcultures for the kickoff of Season 2, Episode 1 - Introducing the Damons. Joel and Kate Damon are preparing to leave Omaha, Nebraska for Berlin, Germany in September. Listen to their transformative stories and insights as they transition into cross-cultural life, setting the stage for a traxcultures season filled with personal reflections, expectations, and preparations for an international move. In this episode, Mike delves into the nuances of cross-cultural transitions with the Damons, who candidly share their concerns, initial apprehensions, and evolving excitement about relocating to Germany. The conversation also touches upon the supportive role of their church community and the impact of learning to welcome change. Throughout this season, the podcast will draw upon insights from the Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook by Dr. Stephen W. Jones, offering listeners a practical guide to understanding and navigating life changes across cultures. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord. Timestamped Overview:  00:00 An Omaha couple, active in the art scene and mentoring youth, visited Envision Berlin, got inspired, then faced an unexpected job loss. 04:13 Switching my mindset from fear to seeing Berlin as God does helped me embrace the move from Nebraska. 08:13 I've been stepping out of my comfort zone, which has really helped me connect with others. 12:10 An awesome network back home makes sure they never feel alone.

Originally Recorded: February 2, 2022 Notes In this episode of Trax Cultures, Mike Picconatto is joined by Dr. Stephen W. Jones and Jennie Jones to dive into the challenging process of cultural transitions. Drawing from their own recent relocation to Berlin, they explore the transitional phases and the adjustments required when moving across cultures.  As the Jones family celebrates 6 months of being in Berlin, Mike talks with Stephen and Jennie about two very important concepts in the Cultural Transition model: coping and new beginnings. In today’s episode, we talk about the real length of transition as opposed to the perceived length of transition. Even though the Jones have been here for 6 months, they have been in transition for much longer. What are the impacts of that? What are the impacts of such a long transition on how we handle stress? How do we cope when many of our old ways of coping are no longer available to us? Is it still too early to talk about new beginnings? When is it reasonable to expect that people are settling into their new life? Links: Resources from this episode: Information on Stephen Jones. Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto Unterwegs is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord    Timestamped Overview:  00:00 Podcast exploring transitions across diverse cultures.05:25 Started planning in 2019, made significant changes.08:44 Coping mechanisms change during periods of transition.12:33 Uncomfortable transition leads to important new beginnings.

Originally Recorded: January 26, 2022   Notes In today's episode, Mike is joined once again by his children, Johannah and Caleb Picconatto, as well as Dr. Stephen W. Jones, to delve deeper into the impacts of cultural transitions on kids. They explore the intricate dynamics of maintaining friendships across continents, particularly how online gaming and technology have revolutionized long-distance connections after moving away. Both Johannah and Caleb share personal anecdotes from their early days in Berlin, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges of moving and adjusting to a new cultural landscape. Dr. Stephen W. Jones provides insightful reflections on his frequent relocations, including the unique perspectives and challenges faced as a Navy brat. The conversation also touches on the difficulties of fully identifying with either American or German culture, the feelings of being in between two worlds, and the impact of these experiences on their sense of political identity and social engagement. The discussions offer a compelling view into the emotional and psychological aspects of transitioning cultures, providing valuable insight for listeners who might be navigating similar experiences or simply interested in the complex psychology of global transitions. Links: One book we have found helpful: Third Culture Kids 3rd Edition: Growing up among worlds  (As Amazon Associates, we receive a small proceed of books purchased using this link.) Information on Stephen Jones. Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto Unterwegs is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord    Timestamped Overview:  00:00 Discussion on identity and childhood memories of transitioning cultures.05:47 Military moves...

Originally Recorded: January 19, 2022 Notes Today, Mike is joined by two of his children, Johannah and Caleb Picconatto, along with author Dr. Stephen W. Jones, to dive into the complex impacts of cross-cultural transitions on kids. Johannah and Caleb share their personal journey of moving to Berlin at a young age and navigating the challenges of integrating into German culture and schools. From initial struggles with language and cultural differences to eventually embracing their unique backgrounds as strengths, the siblings provide insight into the nuanced experiences of Third Culture Kids (TCKs). Mike and Stephen also explore the difficulties faced by TCKs in establishing their identity, dealing with the unsettling question of "Where are you from?" and feeling at odds with the culture they currently live in. Caleb and Johannah reflect on feeling more American in Germany and more German in America, highlighting the bifurcated identity many TCKs experience. This episode touches on the psychological and social impacts of growing up between cultures, the longing for a sense of belonging, and the difficulty of defining one true "home."  Links: One book we have found helpful: Third Culture Kids 3rd Edition: Growing up among worlds  (As Amazon Associates, we receive a small proceed of books purchased using this link.) Information on Stephen Jones. Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto Unterwegs is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord    Timestamped Overview:  00:00 Trax Cultures: podcast on transitions across cultures.04:21 Born in US, lived in Germany, identity.07:06 TCK's cultural identity shifts between Germany and US.12:20 Constant moving, diffi...