Shows
traxculturesRisk FactorsIn 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...
2025-11-2148 mintraxculturesIntensity FactorsIn 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 t...
2025-11-0552 mintraxculturesLess 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.
2025-09-0329 mintraxculturesComing Home and Welcoming Back pt 2 of 2Notes
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 cand...
2025-08-2038 mintraxculturesComing Home and Welcoming Back pt 1 of 2Notes
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...
2025-08-0630 mintraxculturesRed, Green, and White: Exploring Martyrdom and ChristmasNotes
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 minis...
2025-07-2353 mintraxculturesAn Update!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...
2025-07-0933 mintraxculturesDon't Just Be YourselfNotes
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” mi...
2025-06-2532 mintraxculturesS2 E7 - The Power of Naming ExpectationsNotes
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...
2025-06-1135 mintraxculturesS2 E6 - What is Culture (part 2) and Disorientation!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 co...
2025-05-2831 mintraxculturesWhat is Culture?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 c...
2025-05-1429 mintraxculturesLanguage Learning part 2 of 2 - with Stephen and Jennie JonesOriginally 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 deep...
2025-05-0732 mintraxculturesRole Deprivation with the DamonsNotes
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 practica...
2025-04-3029 mintraxculturesThe Transition Zone - with the DamonsNotes
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, highli...
2025-04-1629 mintraxculturesLanguage Learning part 1 of 2Originally 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.
2025-04-0230 mintraxculturesBeginning with the Endings - Damons EditionIn 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 way...
2025-04-0229 mintraxculturesCoping and New Beginnings - part 2 of 2Originally 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...
2025-03-2831 mintraxculturesIntroducing the DamonsJoin 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...
2025-03-1817 min
State College Alliance Church SermonsMade for More: Sowing SeedsPastor Aden interviews Mike & Elissa Picconatto, International Workers to Berlin, Germany with the Christian and Missionary Alliance.
2024-10-1300 mintraxculturesCoping and New Beginnings - Part 1 of 2Originally 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 len...
2024-08-2130 mintraxculturesImpacts of Cross Cultural Transitions on Kids - Part 2 of 2Originally 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. J...
2024-08-0231 mintraxculturesImpacts of Cross Cultural Transitions on Kids - Part 1 of 2Originally 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...
2024-08-0130 mintraxculturesCultural Transitions - Holiday Edition - part 2 of 2Originally 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...
2024-01-1830 mintraxculturesCultural Transitions - Holiday Edition - part 1 of 2Originally 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...
2024-01-0930 mintraxculturesCulture Shock - Part 3 of 3Originally 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...
2024-01-0329 mintraxculturesCulture Shock - Part 2 of 3Originally Recorded: October 20, 2021
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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 c...
2024-01-0329 mintraxculturesCulture Shock - Part 1 of 3Originally 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...
2024-01-0327 mintraxculturesLooking Back - Part 2 of 2Originally 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 pra...
2023-12-2031 mintraxculturesLooking Back - Part 1 of 2After 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!
2023-12-2030 mintraxculturesWhat is Culture - Part 3 of 3Originally 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 conce...
2023-11-0226 mintraxculturesWhat is Culture - Part 2 of 3Originally 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 cultura...
2023-11-0227 mintraxculturesWhat is Culture - Part 1 of 3Originally 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, bel...
2023-11-0226 mintraxculturesThe Neutral Zone - Part 3 of 3Originally 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 i...
2023-09-2823 mintraxculturesThe Neutral Zone - Part 2 of 3Originally 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 i...
2023-09-2825 mintraxculturesThe Neutral Zone - Part 1 of 3Originally 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 lim...
2023-09-2726 mintraxculturesBeginning with the Endings part 3 of 3Originally 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...
2023-09-2526 mintraxculturesBeginning with the Endings part 2 of 3Originally 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. W...
2023-09-0629 mintraxculturesEpisode 001 - Beginning with the Endings - part 1 of 3In 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...
2023-08-1621 min
Hillside Community ChurchBe Present | GO CONFERENCE (Week 1)The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, or more literally "pitched his tent" or "tabernacled" among us. In this message we hear from Mike Picconatto of Envision Berlin, who challenges us to be present and take up residence with people. We are simply ordinary clay pots with an extraordinary treasure of hope for those around us. What does it look like for you to Be Present in the places God has called you?
Envision Berlin: envisionberlin.com
Hillside Church: hccvermillion.com
2022-10-3149 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 43 - Five Questions with Dr. Heather Holleman - Part 2 of 2In this episode Dr. Heather Holleman returns for part two of her Five Questions survey with Mike. This week focuses on questions 4 and 5, and the conversation is far reaching - including raising adult children, writing as an act of worship, and one thing that people from international backgrounds seem to have in common.
This is a part of the 5 Questions series, in which Mike asks people from different backgrounds the same 5 questions:
What is a significant transition you have experienced?
What’s one of the most important risks you have taken and why?
What is one dec...
2022-09-1329 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 42 - Five Questions with Dr. Heather Holleman - Part 1 of 2In this episode Mike interviews author, speaker, and professor Dr. Heather Holleman. Mike met Dr. Holleman in State College, Pennsylvania, where she teaches at Penn State University. Heather and her husband Ashley spoke the week before Mike in part of a series at State College Alliance Church. You can listen to both of their messages here.
This is a part of the 5 Questions series, in which Mike asks people from different backgrounds the same 5 questions:
What is a significant transition you have experienced?
What’s one of the most important risks you have taken and why?
What...
2022-08-3027 min
State College Alliance Church SermonsChange Your World: Gospel BoldnessMike Picconatto, guest speaker and International Worker with C&MA, shares with us about their work in Berlin, Germany and encourages us with a message on Gospel Boldness.
2022-08-1400 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 41 - Cultural Transitions - Language Learning - Part 2 of 2 Doctor Stephen and Jennie Jones finish part two of their conversation with Mike about language learning in Berlin.
This week they talk about their current school, how language learning is a key contributor to role deprivation, and the impact language learning has had on their spiritual lives.
They also talk about the CESL, the levels of language learning, and how language learning based on a level and a proficiency test can be both helpful and discouraging.
Resources from this episode:
Stephen’s book Transitions Across Cultures: Bookshop.org or Amazon (As Am...
2022-06-1532 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 40 - Cultural Transitions - Language Learning - Part 1 of 2 One year after starting Unterwegs, the En Route Podcast, Mike sits down again with Stephen and Jennie Jones to talk about their ongoing cultural adjustment in Berlin.
The topic this time is language learning! The Jones share some of the challenges, the ways they have been learning, and some of the wins they are now experiencing.
This is a two-part series, so come back next week!
Resources from this episode:
Stephen’s book Transitions Across Cultures: Bookshop.org or Amazon (As Amazon Associates, we receive a small proceed of books purchased us...
2022-06-0129 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 39 - Five Questions with Marcus and Lauren - Part 2 of 2Today is part two of the 5-Questions interview with Marcus Dip Silas and Lauren Usherwood Dip Silas.
Marcus and Lauren are digital nomads who have traveled to, studied in, and served in countries around the world.
Last episode we covered question 1: "What is a significant transition you have experienced?"
This week, we cover questions 2-5:
What’s one of the most important risks you have taken and why?
What is one decision you wish you didn’t make?
What role does faith play in your life? (Or Who do you look up to for i...
2022-05-1127 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 38 - Five Questions with Marcus and Lauren - Part 1 of 2In today's episode, Mike goes back to his 5-Questions series with Marcus Dip Silas and Lauren Usherwood Dip Silas.
Digital Nomads from different cultural upbringings (Marcus from Malaysia and Lauren from the US), they have navigated life together both in the US, where they met and married and Malaysia where they moved the day after their wedding. They are currently living in Minnesota but on a recent trip to Berlin (among other places) they sat down with Mike to have a conversation based on the following 5 questions:#
What is a significant transition you have experienced?
What’s on...
2022-04-2729 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 37 - Interview with Ira Kapitonova - Part 2 of 2In this episode, Mike continues his interview with Ira Kapitonova, a former foreign exchange student that was a part of the Picconatto's church in Minnesota.
Ira, her husband, and their son are from Kyiv and continue to remain in Ukraine during the war.
Today's episode was recorded on April 1, before the massacre in Bucha, the suspected chemical attack on Mariupol, and many of the other tragedies being discovered as the Russians continue their attack. The episode is a continuation of Episode 36.
Ira shares what is protecting her heart from hate, important prayer requests, an...
2022-04-1328 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 36 - Interview with Ira Kapitonova - Part 1 of 217 years ago a young Ukranian teenager came to Staples, MN as a foreign exchange student and attended Staples Alliance Church, where Unterwegs host Mike Picconatto was pastoring.
2 years later she returned to Staples again - and thanks to the wonder of email and Facebook Ira and the Picconatto's have remained in touch. Ira is one of the first people we contacted after war broke out on February 24th.Ira has been posting insightful and inspirational daily updates on Facebook.
Ira spent an hour with Mike on Zoom from Ukraine on Friday, April 1. This is...
2022-04-0629 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 35 - Ukraine Special Edition - Part 2 of 2
This is the second part of a 2-part series recorded by the Envision Berlin staff on March 21, 2022 - day 25 of the war on Ukraine. Berlin is, under normal traffic conditions, 10 hours from the Ukraine border. Kyiv is 900 miles away, the distance from Minneapolis, MN to Dallas, TX. The nearness of this war, combined with relationships we have with people in Ukraine, has had an impact on us as a team.
In this episode we talk about the impact the nearness of the war has on us, the impact the conversations taking place on Social media have, and how...
2022-03-3136 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 34 - Ukraine Special Edition - Part 1 of 2
After a long pause Unterwegs is back this week with a special episode - the first time the entire Envision Berlin staff has appeared on an episode together.
This episode was recorded on March 21, day 25 of the war on Ukraine. Berlin is, under normal traffic conditions, 10 hours from the Ukraine border. Kyiv is 900 miles away, the distance from Minneapolis, MN to Dallas, TX. The nearness of this war, combined with relationships we have with people in Ukraine, has had an impact on us as a team.
We talk about that impact as well as talking abo...
2022-03-3029 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 033 - Cultural Transitions - Coping and New Beginnings - Part 2 of 2This week is part 2 in a conversation we started last week with Stephen and Jennie Jones about coping and new beginnings. In today’s episode, we talk about some of the new ways of handling stress, hobbies, and potential new beginnings the Jones have discovered after being in Berlin for 6 months.
Some of those include old hobbies they have found ways to perform in Berlin and old interests they now have time to invest in.
We also talk about the expense of new hobbies and the challenge of knowing whether these new hobbies are just te...
2022-02-0929 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 032 - Cultural Transitions - Coping and New Beginnings - Part 1 of 2As 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 ol...
2022-02-0229 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 031 - Impacts of Cross Cultural Transitions on Kids - Part 2 of 2This week Mike finishes the conversation he started last week with his adult children, Johannah and Caleb, and Dr. Stephen Jones.
This week focuses more on talking about some particular parts of the cross-cultural transitions his kids remember - both in moving to Germans as well as transitions back to the US. Memories of events, and surprises as they reengaged with their host culture are also themes.
Thanks again to John for the question and idea that sparked this series. If you have any ideas for themes or questions, feel free to email us or...
2022-01-2629 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 030 - Impacts of Cross Cultural Transitions on Kids - Part 1 of 2Today Mike is joined by two of his children, Johannah and Caleb Picconatto, and Dr. Stephen Jones to answer a question from one of our listeners. Our listener wanted to know what impact cross cultural transitions has on kids. Johannah and Caleb talk about the impact the Picconatto’s move to Berlin had on them almost 10 years ago.Mike and Stephen also share some of the impacts being TCK (Third Culture Kids) had on their childhood. Mike’s dad was in the Air Force and Stephen’s dad was in the Navy.
Main topics of this e...
2022-01-1929 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 027 - 5 Questions with Carissa VS - Part 2 of 2This week concludes Mike’s interview with Carissa VS, diving back into question 3 - What is one decision you wish you didn’t make.
Carissa also talks about the role faith plays in her life as well as current projects she is involved in.
One theme that comes up throughout the episode is music - minor keys, dissonance, the resonance of notes in different octaves - and how that ties in to the challenges we face, appreciating different cultures, and shared joys and sorrows.
The 5 questions used in the series are:
What...
2021-12-0828 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 026 - 5 Questions with Carissa VS - Part 1 of 2Over the next two weeks, Mike interviews Carissa VS
Carissa has a great story! Born in an intercultural family, raised in Taiwan, with many moves coming after she turned 14. Even the introduction questions (Who are you and where are you from?) are hard ones to answer!
This week we cover questions 1 and 2, and get about halfway through question 3 from the 5 questions Mike asks every guest for this extended series. Those questions are:
What is a significant transition you have experienced?What’s one of the most important risks you have taken and wh...
2021-12-0129 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 025 - Envision Berlin Intern Rachel Norton - Part 2 of 2This is part two of Mike’s interview with Envision Berlin Intern Rachel Norton. In today’s episode, Mike and Rachel talk more about some of the impacts the dual Culture-Shock of adjusting to Covid Culture and then Berlin post-lockdown culture. They also discuss the spiritual impact of community being limited, and talk about whether Rachel would recommend an internship with Envision Berlin or not!
Resources from this episode:
To see more information about serving with Envision Berlin, visit www.envisionberlin.com. Be sure to check out the SERVE link as well as the...
2021-11-2429 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 024 - Envision Berlin Intern Rachel Norton - Part 1 of 2Over the next two weeks, Mike will be interviewing Envision Berlin Intern Rachel Norton. Rachel is the very first Envision Berlin intern and faced some significant challenges - especially in the launching aspect of her internship due to COVID, lockdowns, and changing ministry expectations.
In today’s episode, we take a trip down memory lane and remember some of the aspects involved in coming to Berlin. The goal is not to complain - but to explore what was happening on a spiritual level through the whole process. How was God at work below the surface?
An...
2021-11-1729 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 023 - 5 Questions with Shaw Coleman Part 2 of 2This week Mike returns to his running 5-Questions series with Shaw Coleman, the director of The Limelight Collective. Themes in the episode include choosing to be grateful, everyday heroes, and shaping worship experiences as an artist.
Shaw Coleman completed his dance training at Australian National Theatre Ballet School in 2006. From 2006 - 2016 Shaw worked as a professional dancer in Europe and Asia. In 2016 he and his wife founded The Limelight Collective - an outreach project of the Salvation Army in one of the central creative communities in Berlin.
Activities at The Limelight Collective consist of dance...
2021-11-1028 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 022 - 5 Questions with Shaw ColemanThis week Mike returns to his running 5-Questions series with Shaw Coleman, the director of The Limelight Collective.
Shaw Coleman completed his dance training at Australian National Theatre Ballet School in 2006. From 2006 - 2016 Shaw worked as a professional dancer in Europe and Asia. In 2016 he and his wife founded The Limelight Collective - an outreach project of the Salvation Army in one of the central creative communities in Berlin.
Activities at The Limelight Collective consist of dance, theatre, film, live music, installations, and many other forms of art - and Envision Berlin is excited about...
2021-11-0327 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 021 - Culture Shock - Part 3 of 3In part 1 and part 2 of this 3 part series we have discussed how culture shock is the accumulated disorientation from culturally stressful events and explored the difference between culture shock and culture stress.
This week, we use some of the questions from Stephen Jone’s Cross Cultural Transition Handbook to help the Jone’s process the culture shock they are experiencing after moving to Berlin in July. This process of reflection - both self-reflection and taking time to dialogue with others is an important part of healthy cross-cultural adjustment.
If you are currently in a situation wher...
2021-10-2729 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 020 - Culture Shock - Part 2 of 3Last week we defined culture shock as the accumulated disorientation from culturally stressful events. This week, we go deeper into the topic - exploring the difference between culture shock and culture stress and healthy ways people navigate culture shock.
Also discussed - how many symptoms do international workers typically experience and the impact of not addressing culture shock.
Stephen and Jennie Jones join us again as we work through Stephen´s book Transitions Across Cultures and his Cross Cultural Transition Handbook.
The challenges of culture shock are real! Be sure to check out s...
2021-10-2029 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 018 - LEAD 2021 in Berlin - 2021In today’s episode, Mike interviews members of the LEAD who came to Berlin for the International Trip portion of their coursework. The LEAD program is a 5-semester training program for vocational and volunteer leaders.
TJ Grabianowski, LEAD International Trips Director shares about the purpose of the International Trip portion of the curriculum and the hopes for the students that participate.
Students interviewed in this episode are Heidi Hoekman, Misty Johnson, Jeremy Pearson, and Nate Wagoner.
Resources from this episode:
LEAD’s website and Instagram
Mike’s Instagram site.
2021-10-0628 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 017 - Sprig! - Part 2 of 2 In today’s episode Mike, Stephen, and Jennie finish their conversation about how “Sprig” got its start. As we said last week, the plan was to record a quick, 30 minute, minimum edit podcast in the middle of a very busy week - but after talking for an hour we decided we should make it two episodes!
Today we talk about the timing of taking over the space, describe the space, and talk about how the rooms fit our top 5 targets at Envision Berlin. Those targets are:
Focusing on the deeper life.
Presence based minist...
2021-09-2930 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 016 - Sprig! - Part 1 of 2Today Mike, Stephen, and Jennie talk about how “Sprig” got its start. The plan was to record a quick, 30 minute, minimum edit podcast in the middle of a very busy week - but after talking for an hour we decided we should make it two episodes!
Today we are talking about our vision, the need for space to make that vision happen, and how we found the space we are calling Sprig. Next week’s episode will talk more about the space itself, where the name came from, and how the vision matches the space.
Lots o...
2021-09-2227 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 015 - 5 Questions with Larry ThorsonFor our first episode recorded in Sprig: Envision Berlin’s creative space, Mike returns to his 5 Questions series - this time with Larry Thorson. Larry was in Berlin as a cohort leader with The LEAD Program.
Larry and his wife Leslie have been in ministry for 44 years. He is an avid Cornhuskers fan, Crown College graduate, Moody Bible Institute graduate, has lived in 3 countries, has 3 children, and 8 grandchildren. Larry also happened to be Mike’s first boss after college. Mike served with Larry at Maple Plain Community Church.
The 5 Questions asked of every guest for the...
2021-09-1529 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 014 - Looking Back - part 2 of 2This 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 your process an...
2021-09-0129 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 013 - Looking Back - part 1 of 2 After arriving in Berlin, Germany at the end of July, 2021 - Stephen and Jennie Jones sit down with host Mike Picconatto to discuss some of their experiences as they are going 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...
2021-08-2529 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 012 - 5 Questions with Benjamin Kunde - part 2 of 2In today’s episode, Mike continues his interview with Benjamin Kunde. This 5 Questions format is part of a new repeating series in which he asks guests the same 5 questions. These questions are:
What is a significant transition you have experienced?What’s one of the most important risks you have taken and why?What is one decision you wish you didn’t make?What role does faith play in your life? (Or Who do you look up to for inspiration or mentorship)What are your current projects or what are you working on next?
2021-08-1829 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 011 - 5 Questions with Benjamin Kunde - part 1 of 2In today’s episode, Mike launches a new repeating series in which he asks guests the same 5 questions. These questions are:
What is a significant transition you have experienced?What’s one of the most important risks you have taken and why?What is one decision you wish you didn’t make?What role does faith play in your life? (Or Who do you look up to for inspiration or mentorship)What are your current projects or what are you working on next?
The first guest in this format is Benjamin Kunde...
2021-08-1125 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 010 - What is Culture? - part 3 of 3In this episode, Stephen and Jennie Jones finish their third 3-part series with us as they talk about their transition from life and ministry in the United States to their new position with Envision Berlin in Berlin, Germany.
The theme of this new series is “What is Culture?” In today’s episode, we talk about the disorientation that comes with transitioning cultures the importance of having anchors, and whether or not a person can avoid cultural disorientation and culture shock.
We are once again viewing the transition the Jones family is experiencing through the lens of Ste...
2021-08-0427 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 009 - What is Culture? - part 2 of 3In this episode, Stephen and Jennie Jones continue their third 3-part series with us as they talk about their transition from life and ministry in the United States to their new position with Envision Berlin in Berlin, Germany.
Today we are once again viewing their rapidly changing life-situation through the lens of Stephen’s book, Transitions Across Cultures and his Cross Cultural Transition Handbook.
The theme of this new series is “What is Culture?” In today’s episode, we continue the conversation we started last week about culture and dig into “Tacit Knowledge,” an important part of unde...
2021-07-2828 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 008 - What is Culture? - part 1 of 3In this episode, Stephen and Jennie Jones join us to start their third 3-part series with us as they talk about their transition from life and ministry in the United States to their new position with Envision Berlin in Berlin, Germany.
Today we are once again viewing their rapidly changing life-situation through the lens of Stephen’s book, Transitions Across Cultures and his Cross Cultural Transition Handbook.
The theme of this new series is “What is Culture?” In today’s episode, we will start laying a foundation by defining culture. We will also give some visual i...
2021-07-2226 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 007 - Unorder and SpaceIn today’s episode, we are taking a short break from our Transitions Across Cultures series. Inspired by both the content of the last six weeks, several books, and preparing a devotional for the recent Envision Intern training, host Mike Picconatto shares some thoughts from Genesis 1 and 2.
Sometimes in life, we feel as if we are in situations of complete unorder. This can be very disorienting! It could be, though, that God uses these times of unorder as special moments in our lives to create something new. He looks to bring order to the unorder.
To...
2021-07-2117 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 006 - The Neutral Zone - part 3 of 3In this episode, Stephen and Jennie Jones join us to finish another 3-part series as they talk about their transition from life and ministry in the United States to their new position Envision Berlin in Berlin, Germany.
Today we are once again viewing the upheaval in their lives through the lens of Stephen’s book, Transitions Across Cultures and his Cross Cultural Transition Handbook.
As we finish this 3 part series, Stephen and Jennie will be sharing today some of their expectations as they look ahead to moving to Berlin. The theme is “The Neutral Zone”, also k...
2021-07-0724 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 005 - The Neutral Zone - part 2 of 3In this episode, Stephen and Jennie Jones join us again to talk about their transition from life and ministry in the United States to their new position Envision Berlin in Berlin, Germany.
In the coming weeks, 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.
In this 3 part series, Stephen and Jennie talk about the elements of the neutral zone they are experiencing as they prepare to move to Berlin. The neutral zone, or the transition zone is that un...
2021-06-3025 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 004 - The Neutral Zone - part 1 of 3In this episode, Stephen and Jennie Jones join to talk about their transition from life and ministry in the United States to their new position Envision Berlin in Berlin, Germany.
In the coming weeks, 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.
In this 3 part series, Stephen and Jennie talk about the elements of the neutral zone they are experiencing as they prepare to move to Berlin. The neutral zone, or the transition zone is that unique and so...
2021-06-2327 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 003 - Beginning with the Endings part 3 of 3In this episode, Stephen and Jennie Jones join to talk about their transition from life and ministry in the United States to their new position Envision Berlin in Berlin, Germany.
In the coming weeks, 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.
In this 3 part series, Stephen and Jennie talk about some of the endings they are facing with their family as they prepare to move.
In today’s episode, we conclude our conversation about Beginning with...
2021-06-1626 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 002 - Beginning with the Endings part 2 of 3In this episode, Stephen and Jennie Jones join to talk about their transition from life and ministry in the United States to their new position Envision Berlin in Berlin, Germany.
In the coming weeks, 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.
In this 3 part series Stephen and Jennie talk about some of the endings they are facing with their family as they prepare to move.
In today’s episode we continue our conversation about beginning with...
2021-06-0929 min
Unterwegs, the en route PodcastEpisode 001 - Beginning with the Endings part 1 of 3In this episode, Stephen and Jennie Jones join to talk about their transition from life and ministry in the United States to their new position Envision Berlin in Berlin, Germany.
In the coming weeks, 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.
In this 3 part series Stephen and Jennie talk about some of the endings they are facing with their family as they prepare to move.
In today’s episode we talk about the concept of begi...
2021-05-3120 min
Professors, In Rooms, Getting CoffeePower, Accountability, and Ethics - with MikeJustin and Stephen talk successes, failed attempts, vehicles, and remembering both the good and the hard things from childhood and earlier in life. Mike Picconatto joins them to discuss the lockdown in Germany, issues of solidarity, liberty, and how Jesus challenges ideas of what we do for our own and others' concerns. Then Justin, Stephen, and Mike talk about Romans 13 and the relationship between Jesus followers and governments. This includes a conversation about the right and responsibility to hold governments accountable by serving as prophets and priests in the places God has put us. Justin describes the historical context...
2020-05-2956 min