traxcultures

In today's episode, we dive into a compelling conversation about the importance of "Beginning with the Endings." This episode is part one of a three-part series featuring guests Stephen and Jenny Jones, founders of Excegent Communication. Originally recorded on May 31st, 2021, this episode is a legacy from our previous podcast, "Unterwegs, the En Route podcast," which we're now reorganizing for your convenience. Stephen and Jenny share their personal experiences as they prepare to uproot their lives and move with their family to Berlin, Germany, to join the staff of Envision Berlin. Their discussions revolve around Stephen's book, "Transitions Across Cultures," and his Cross Cultural Transition Handbook. In today's episode, they explore the discomfort of the transition zone, the significance of acknowledging endings, and the potential consequences of missed opportunities. Join us as we delve into the complexities of cross-cultural transitions and discover the impact of beginnings rooted in endings. 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 This episode was recorded, in part, on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux). Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord Timestamped Overview: 

Originally Recorded: 06/09/2021 Brief Description Welcome back to traxcultures,"the podcast where we explore the intersection of faith, art, and culture in the context of transitioning from one culture to another. I'm your host, Mike Picconatto, and today we continue our three-part series on "Beginning with the Endings." In our last episode, we delved into the importance of endings as we navigate through life's transitions.   In today's episode, we'll hear from Jennie and Stephen as they share their experiences and insights on how their friends and family reacted to their upcoming transition. We'll also explore the complex emotions and challenges during this period of uncertainty and disconnection known as the Neutral Zone.   We will be viewing the upheaval in their life through the lens of Stephen’s book, Transitions Across Cultures and his Cross Cultural Transition Handbook. 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 This episode was recorded, in part, on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux). Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord   Timestamped Overview:   [00:01:49] Long process of uncertainty and changing relationships.

Originally Recorded: 06/16/2021 Welcome back to another episode of traxcultures, the podcast that explores the challenges and experiences of transitioning across cultures. In this episode we continue our discussion with Stephen W. Jones and Jennie Jones as they delve into the anticipated endings they face as they prepare to move to Berlin. Stephen and Jennie follow an exercise from Stephen's book, "Transitions Across Cultures," which encourages individuals to list the things that will be left behind as they embark on a new cultural journey. As Mike leads the conversation, we glimpse the range of emotions and challenges they face. From the loss of easy communication with family and friends to the familiar sights and smells of their current surroundings, Stephen and Jennie share their perspectives on what it means to say goodbye to certain aspects of their lives. This thought-provoking conversation will resonate with cross-cultural travelers, expats, and anyone navigating the process of starting anew in a different culture. 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 This episode was recorded, in part, on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux). Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord.    Timestamped Overview:  [00:03:22] Being accessible to...

Originally Recorded: 06/23/2021   Brief Description On this episode of traxcultures, we start a 3-part series about the neutral zone. The neutral zone, or the transition zone, is that unique and sometimes uncomfortable place between the endings of something old and the beginnings of something new.  Our guests are Jennie Jones and Stephen W. Jones, who share their personal experiences and perspectives on navigating the ambiguities and uncertainties that come with transitioning between cultures.   In this episode, we delve into the concept of the neutral zone, a liminal space where one is neither fully immersed in their previous culture nor completely integrated into the new one. We explore the many transition experiences people encounter throughout ordinary life, from graduations to getting married, job changes to relocating, and the profound impact they have on our sense of identity and understanding of the world.   Jennie and Stephen open up about their own transition journeys, recounting moments of unexpected endings and newfound beginnings as they adjusted to married life and parenthood. They also shed light on the logistical challenges of moving internationally and the profound impact of cultural differences on one's perception and navigation of everyday life.   Through their shared experiences, we gain insights into the complexities and nuances of transitioning cultures, including the disorienting feeling of having your worldview challenged and the importance of embracing the neutral zone, where growth, self-discovery, and meaningful goodbyes can take place. So, join us on this engaging and thought-provoking episode as we explore the neutral zone and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to transition across cultures. Stay tuned for Part 2 and Part 3, where we delve even deeper into this fascinating topic.   Resources:  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 This episode was recorded, in part, on the land of the Wahpekute,

Originally Recorded:06/30/2021 Brief Description:  Welcome back to traxcultures, the podcast where we explore the experiences and challenges of transitioning across cultures. In today's episode, "The Neutral Zone - Part 2 of 3", we delve deeper into the tumultuous period of transition known as the neutral zone. Joining us once again are our guests, Jennie and Stephen W. Jones, as they share their personal experiences navigating this challenging phase. Host Mike Picconatto sets the stage by describing the neutral zone as a time between two circumstances, where one feels stuck and uncertain, much like a car in neutral. Stephen further illustrates this feeling by comparing it to a chaotic tornado, where everything is in disarray. Jennie chimes in, explaining how she is currently caught in the middle of this tornado, unable to find stability or make plans for the future. The lack of certainty permeates every aspect of their lives, from scheduling activities for their children to simple leisure activities like having friends over for a backyard bonfire. Though they intend to be intentional about endings and make time for what's important, the constant unpredictability of their situation hinders their ability to do so. This constant state of flux takes a toll on Jennie and Stephen's mental health. Jennie reveals how she often lacks the capacity to engage in meaningful conversations, even though they are essential for their well-being. Stephen, on the other hand, shares how exhaustion and the pressure of making important decisions have left him feeling disoriented, as if he were in a constant state of drunkenness. As we continue to explore the challenges faced during the neutral zone, we'll dive deeper into the impact on mental health and discuss coping strategies. Stay tuned for the next part of our conversation with Jennie and Stephen W. Jones on Trax Cultures. 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 This episode was recorded, in part, on the land of the Wahpekute,

Originally Recorded:07/07/2021 Notes In today's episode, titled "The Neutral Zone - Part 3 of 3," we conclude our conversation with Stephen and Jennie Jones about the unique challenges and experiences of navigating the transition zone.  As we delve into the discussion, we'll explore how this time in the neutral zone impacts their faith journey. They discuss the importance of having certain aspects of life settled, such as identity and commitment, even when feelings may fluctuate during the transition zone. Later in the episode, we dive into the topic of expectations and their role in the transition zone. While acknowledging the potential pitfalls of unrealistic expectations, Stephen and Jennie share their hopes for the future, including finding a cherished coffee shop and deepening their relationship with their new team. They also discuss the excitement of pursuing their passions and feeling the freedom to engage in meaningful endeavors that align with their calling. Join us as we explore the complexities and promises of the transition zone, gain valuable insights from Stephen and Jennie's personal experiences, and uncover how expectations can shape our 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. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto Unterwegs is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin This episode was recorded, in part, on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux). Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on

Originally recorded: 07/22/2021 In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating topic of culture. What exactly is culture, and how does it shape our interactions with others?  Join host Mike Picconatto and his guests, Stephen W. Jones and Jennie Jones, as begin a three part series exploring the complexities of culture and its impact on our lives. In this conversation, they start by discussing the elusive nature of culture and the various definitions that have been proposed over the years.  From "how people do their stuff together" to being a shared set of values, beliefs, and behaviors, culture is a multifaceted concept that is learned and developed through interactions with others. The hosts also challenge common misconceptions about culture, such as associating it solely with national boundaries. Instead, they emphasize the importance of recognizing culture in different contexts, whether it's within a family, an organization, or even between individuals.  As the conversation unfolds, the guests delve into metaphors that help illustrate the complexity of culture. From the web of interconnected symbols to the layers of an onion (or a parfait!), each metaphor offers a unique perspective on how culture operates. However, it is the metaphor of an iceberg that truly resonates, highlighting the idea that culture is mostly hidden beneath the surface, constantly evolving and shaping our experiences.  So, whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or simply curious about the intricacies of culture, this episode is sure to captivate and educate. Join us as we embark on this enlightening exploration of what culture truly means.  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 This episode was recorded, in part, on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux)

Originally Recorded: July 28, 2021 Notes In this episode, part two of a three part series on “What is Culture?”  we continue our exploration of the concept of culture and its nuances.  Join host Mike Picconatto as he engages in enlightening conversations with author and cross-cultural expert Dr. Stephen W. Jones, and his wife, Jennie Jones.  In this installment, we delve into the concept of tacit knowledge, which can often be a hurdle in cross-cultural interactions. Tacit knowledge refers to the things we know, but may not consciously realize we know. These unspoken cultural understandings can cause misunderstandings, as what may be considered respectful in one culture might be seen as disrespectful in another. From the subtle non-verbal cues of eye contact to the physical distance between individuals during a conversation, these aspects of culture are deeply ingrained and shape our interactions on a fundamental level.  We share personal experiences and anecdotes to shed light on how individual cultural customs and beliefs influence our behavior without us even realizing it. From the significance of resting poses like crossed arms to the different interpretations of time, we begin to uncover the multifaceted nature of tacit knowledge. As we explore these examples, we see how cultural perspectives on time, communication, and honesty can vary greatly, highlighting the importance of understanding and embracing cultural diversity.  Join us on this thought-provoking journey as we delve deeper into the hidden depths of culture and how it shapes our lives. Stay tuned for more insightful conversations on transitions across cultures, as we bring you the best content to enhance your cross-cultural experiences.  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 This episode was recorded, in part, on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the

Originally Recorded: 08/04/2021   Notes Welcome to another episode of Trax Cultures, where we delve deep into the intricacies of cultural transitions. In today's episode, the final episode of a three part series on “What is Culture,” we continue our exploration of culture we are joined again by Stephen W. Jones and Jennie Jones, as we dive into the topic of cultural disorientation and its impact on our lives. In this episode, Stephen and Jennie reflect on their upcoming move to Berlin, Germany, and the disorienting factors they anticipate. Language is a major concern for them, as they look ahead to the challenges of not fully understanding the language and cultural nuances. They also discuss the shift from being tourists to residents and the higher expectations that come with it. From learning apartment living etiquette to navigating parenting in a new cultural context, Stephen and Jennie are preparing for a whole new set of challenges. As the conversation unfolds, the topic expands to include how differences in culture can sometimes be disorienting. Whether it's encountering unfamiliar customs, religious practices, or even musical worship styles, our default reaction tends to be to judge these differences as inferior or wrong. However, Stephen and Jennie emphasize the importance of approaching cultural differences with kindness and grace, both in our own culture and when immersing ourselves in a new one. They remind us that we are not the norm or the neutral standard, but rather products of our own cultural perspectives. By recognizing our own contextualized experiences, we can better appreciate and understand the value of different cultural expressions. Stephen also highlights the importance of finding stability and truth in the midst of cultural transitions, even if our understanding of them is shaped by our own cultural lens. So join us on this enlightening episode as we delve into the complexities of cultural disorientation and explore how we can navigate it with empathy and openness. 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 This episode was recorded, in part, on the land of the Wahpekute,

After arriving in Berlin, Germany, at the end of July 2021 - Stephen and Jennie Jones sit down with host Mike Picconatto to discuss their experiences as they go through the life-changing transition to Berlin. In this 2-part series, Stephen and Jennie look back at the themes covered in earlier episodes: Beginning with the Endings (Episodes 1-3), The Neutral Zone (Episodes 4-6), and What is Culture (Episodes 8-19). This practice of intentionally looking back during the transition process is an important part of healtihly navigating through the changes that cultural transitions bring, but more about that next week! We are once again viewing the transition the Jones family is experiencing through the lens of Stephen’s book, Transitions Across Cultures and his Cross Cultural Transition Handbook. Resources from this episode: Episodes 01-03 from our Podcast, where we introduce “Beginning with the Endings” Episode 1 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts Episode 2 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts Episode 3 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts 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

Originally Recorded: September 1, 2021   Notes This week’s episode concludes a 2 part-series recorded in Berlin, Germany. The Jones family moved to Berlin at the end of July 2021, and Stephen and Jennie sat down with host Mike Picconatto to discuss some of their early experiences in their massive family transition. In this series, Stephen and Jennie look back at the themes covered in earlier episodes: Beginning with the Endings (Episodes 1-3), The Neutral Zone (Episodes 4-6), and What is Culture (Episodes 8-19). Stephen explains in this episode why it is such an important practice to continue to ask yourself questions as you process an intercultural transition. We also explore some of the neutral zone challenges and start to dig into a concept known as “the thread of continuity” a little deeper. This series is more than just a review of past concepts, it is an introspective look back at how accurate their early expectations were and how they align with the reality they are experiencing. Resources from this episode: Episodes 01-03 from our Podcast, where we introduce “Beginning with the Endings” Episode 1 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts Episode 2 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts Episode 3 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts 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

Originally Recorded: October 13, 2021   Notes   In this episode, host Mike Picconatto is joined by guests Jennie Jones and Stephen W. Jones as they discuss culture shock and transition. Together, they talk about the emotional highs, disenchantment, discouragement, and depression that mark the stages of culture shock.  With a focus on the book "Transitions across Cultures" by Dr. Stephen W. Jones, Mike, Stephen, and Jennie delve into the cumulative disorientation experienced in a new culture, shedding light on the emotional toll and the predictable patterns associated with culture shock. The episode also unpacks some of the symptoms of culture shock and the importance of seeking mental health support when navigating through these challenges. Listeners are treated to valuable insights into the psychological nuances of culture shock, providing a deeper understanding of the impact it can have on individuals embracing life in a foreign culture.  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 Traxcultures podcast: unraveling transitions across cultures. 06:20 Exciting cultural experience, but not authentic immersion. 08:00 Facing challenges, uncertainty, and discouragement in life. 12:56 Culture shock can be confusing and overwhelming. 14:25 International transitions can impact mental health significantly. 18:22 Adapting to change with stability and...

Originally Recorded: October 20, 2021 Notes In this episode, our host Mike Picconatto and guests Stephen and Jennie Jones take a closer look at the impact of cultural stress and culture shock on individuals.  They share real-life examples of culturally stressful incidents, from grappling with language barriers at the grocery store to navigating public transportation schedule changes and dealing with technological mishaps. The conversation unpacks the distinction between culturally stressful incidents and culture shock, emphasizing how even an understanding of cultural norms can still lead to stress. Join us as we explore the difference between culture shock and culture stress.  Mike, Stephen, and Jennie highlight the significance of self-awareness and reflective practices in acknowledging and navigating culture shock We also discuss healthy coping mechanisms, the risks of negative coping patterns, and the importance of accessing support resources.  This episode sheds light on the necessity of creating a supportive environment for individuals to openly acknowledge their struggles, without immediately seeking to "fix" them, and the value of conscious directing of coping mechanisms.  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:  05:02 The stress of cultural norms and restrictions. 08:50 Stressful cultural impact on everyday decision making. 11:29 Recognize and acknowledge culture shock's symptoms. 16:14 Normalize struggle with culture shock in ministry. 17:13 Discovering culture shock symptoms le...

Originally Recorded: October 27, 2021 Notes In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the experiences of cross-cultural transitions with our special guests Stephen and Jennie Jones. The episode delves into the fluctuating feelings of capability, the impact of the Jones family's experiences on their emotional well-being, and the anticipation of missing significant events while feeling a sense of heaviness about the upcoming experiences. Throughout this episode, the guests candidly express feelings of disorientation, struggle in communication, and waves of homesickness as they adapt to their new environment. Stephen W. Jones brings in insightful perspectives from his "Cross Cultural Transition Handbook," which offers a unique framework for understanding and navigating culture shock. The vulnerability and honesty expressed in this conversation provide a valuable window into the emotional impact of culture shock and the ongoing process of adaptation. Produced by Envision Berlin, this episode truly captures the challenges, the joys, and the complexities of transitioning across cultures.  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 "Traxcultures: Unraveling transitions across different cultures podcast." 06:09 Close grocery stores and accessible public transit. 08:23 Emotional high fading, confidence and adaptation growing. 12:10 Exciting office work, homesickness and nostalgia.

Originally Recorded: December 15, 2021 Notes In this special Holiday Edition, Stephen and Jennie Jones, new staff at Envision Berlin, join Mike to revisit the themes of the Neutral Zone, Culture Stress, and Culture Shock through the lens of holidays - from Halloween to Christmas. Holidays can be times when the transitions are felt more intensely. The combination of missing events from the US and experiencing familiar and unfamiliar holidays in a new location can trigger strong emotions - both positive and negative. You also begin to appreciate the significance of certain holidays, and the “background” to those holidays, when you experience them from a very different perspective. Links: Our episodes on The Neutral Zone - Episode 4, Episode 5, and Episode 6 Our Episodes on Culture Shock - Episode 12, Episode 13, and Episode 14 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

Originally Recorded: December 22, 2021 Notes In this special Holiday Edition, Stephen and Jennie Jones, new staff at Envision Berlin, join Mike to revisit the themes of the Neutral Zone, Culture Stress, and Culture Shock through the lens of holidays - from Halloween to Christmas. Holidays can be times when the transitions are felt more intensely. The combination of missing events from the US and experiencing familiar and unfamiliar holidays in a new location can trigger strong emotions - both positive and negative. In this episode, we delve into the nuances of local holiday customs, from Saint Martin's Day to Christmas traditions. We'll explore their moments of confusion and adaptation as they grapple with the unfamiliar traditions of their new home, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of cultural assimilation. Additionally, we'll reflect on the impact of COVID on past Christmas celebrations and hear about their endeavors to create meaningful experiences for interns during the holiday season. Join us as we unravel the tapestry of celebrating the holidays across cultures on traxcultures, where the beauty of cultural transitions comes to life. Links: Here is a history of St Martin at iamexpat.de and here an explanation of the tradition and some videos to the songs the kids sing at berlinforallthefamily.com Our episodes on The Neutral Zone - Episode 4, Episode 5, and Episode 6 Our Episodes on Culture Shock - Episode 12, Episode 13, and Episode 14 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 custom...

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...

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: 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: 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...