traxcultures

Risk Factors

In this episode, Mike is joined by Stephen W. Jones, Kate Damon, and Joel Damon to take a closer look at the risk factors that shape cross-cultural transitions. Building on previous discussions of intensity factors, the team unpacks risk factors such as identity struggles, vulnerability, embarrassment, and the loss of familiar roles that arise during major moves like relocating to Berlin. The conversation blends practical examples with candid reflection: Joel and Kate share their experiences navigating daily life in Berlin and wrestle with what it really means to be at peace. They also talk about the struggles of being independent people who are forced bo be more dependent on teammates as they get started in Berlin. Stephen W. Jones and Mike Picconatto add their own insights on role deprivation, the pitfalls of perfectionism, and how assumptions from home cultures can disrupt the process of adapting abroad. Together, they offer encouragement and concrete advice—not just for those preparing to move, but for anyone seeking to support loved ones through cross-cultural transitions. LINKS: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures [https://sleek.bio/transition-book-resources] resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin [https://www.instagram.com/joelandkateinberlin?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==] Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook [https://www.lulu.com/shop/stephen-w-jones/envision-cross-cultural-transition-handbook/paperback/product-mjrgpj.html?page=1&pageSize=4] 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 [http://www.envisionberlin.com/] Disclaimer [https://unterwegs-the-en-route-podcast-1.castos.com/terms-and-disclaimers] PATREON: To join our Patreon, click here. [http://www.patreon.com/envisionberlin] Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord [https://discord.gg/7nmhbDd8dN].

Intensity Factors

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 [https://sleek.bio/transition-book-resources] resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin [https://www.instagram.com/joelandkateinberlin?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==] Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook [https://www.lulu.com/shop/stephen-w-jones/envision-cross-cultural-transition-handbook/paperback/product-mjrgpj.html?page=1&pageSize=4] 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 [http://www.envisionberlin.com/] Disclaimer [https://unterwegs-the-en-route-podcast-1.castos.com/terms-and-disclaimers] PATREON: To join our Patreon, click here. [http://www.patreon.com/envisionberlin] Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord [https://discord.gg/7nmhbDd8dN].

Less than 3 weeks out!

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: The Beacon - A mural at Crossbridge Alliance in Cheyenne, WY [https://scontent.ffcm1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/535128104_1168699995287643_7337633328352822262_n.jpg?stp=cp6_dst-jpg_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=cc71e4&_nc_ohc=pRF-dfgxOyoQ7kNvwGfUfO3&_nc_oc=Adlgm7zn5HqWAx2-gBqY_uo3xHVIhQL39GL7ddZYKtocb_ZGf3dnvZNzXQ4oJbbe42Dnlqeh_ODTRmrINzW3MA1y&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.ffcm1-2.fna&_nc_gid=5bQ_7vtE20BFMAveYujdsQ&oh=00_AfX5r45LOkJFzsxrfif0kLJbgzE5Trs5xKvqZZPcnqKIQw&oe=68B66F3C] Videos and other traXcultures [https://sleek.bio/transition-book-resources] resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin [https://www.instagram.com/joelandkateinberlin?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==] Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook [https://www.lulu.com/shop/stephen-w-jones/envision-cross-cultural-transition-handbook/paperback/product-mjrgpj.html?page=1&pageSize=4] 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 [https://www.facebook.com/crossbridgealliance/videos/1206881114606169] CREDITS: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin [http://www.envisionberlin.com/] Disclaimer [https://unterwegs-the-en-route-podcast-1.castos.com/terms-and-disclaimers] PATREON: To join our Patreon, click here. [http://www.patreon.com/envisionberlin] Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord [https://discord.gg/7nmhbDd8dN].

Coming Home and Welcoming Back pt 2 of 2

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. [https://sleekbio.com/stephenwjones] Videos and other traXcultures [https://sleek.bio/transition-book-resources] resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin [https://www.instagram.com/thejonesesinberlin] Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges [https://www.instagram.com/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 [https://www.lulu.com/shop/stephen-w-jones/envision-cross-cultural-transition-handbook/paperback/product-mjrgpj.html?page=1&pageSize=4] here! CREDITS: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin [http://www.envisionberlin.com/] Disclaimer [https://unterwegs-the-en-route-podcast-1.castos.com/terms-and-disclaimers] PATREON: To join our Patreon, click here. [http://www.patreon.com/envisionberlin] Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord [https://discord.gg/7nmhbDd8dN]

Coming Home and Welcoming Back pt 1 of 2

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 [https://www.lulu.com/shop/stephen-w-jones/envision-cross-cultural-transition-handbook/paperback/product-mjrgpj.html?page=1&pageSize=4], 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. [https://sleekbio.com/stephenwjones] Videos and other traXcultures [https://sleek.bio/transition-book-resources] resources. Follow Stephen and Jennie on Instagram: @thejonesesinberlin [https://www.instagram.com/thejonesesinberlin] Visit liminal edges on Instagram: @liminal_edges [https://www.instagram.com/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 [https://www.lulu.com/shop/stephen-w-jones/envision-cross-cultural-transition-handbook/paperback/product-mjrgpj.html?page=1&pageSize=4] here! CREDITS: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin [http://www.envisionberlin.com/] Disclaimer [https://unterwegs-the-en-route-podcast-1.castos.com/terms-and-disclaimers] PATREON: To join our Patreon, click here. [http://www.patreon.com/envisionberlin] Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord [https://discord.gg/7nmhbDd8dN]