traxcultures

Michael Picconatto
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traxcultures is a podcast about life in intercultural spaces. It is about transitions across cultures - and all that entails, including the joys and the pains. This podcast uses resources compiled by Dr. Stephen W. Jones to follow the journey of people who have and are transitioned across cultures - including Stephen's family and others.

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  1. EPISODE 1

    Introducing the Damons

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

    17 min

  2. EPISODE 2

    Beginning with the Endings - Damons Edition

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

    30 min

  3. EPISODE 3

    The Transition Zone - with the Damons

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

    30 min

  4. EPISODE 4

    Role Deprivation with the Damons

    Notes In this episode, Mike is joined by Joel and Kate Damon for a conversation about “role deprivation” during cross-cultural transitions. Role deprivation is a part of the transition zone in which a person’s former “status as a force for good has not been replaced by anything.” (Stephen W. Jones, Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook, p. 52).  This role deprivation can be very disruptive.  In this episode, Mike, Joel, and Kate talk about the challenge of of rebuilding your sense of self, and the sometimes surprising grief—and freedom—of starting over. Mike and the guests also explore practical strategies for navigating this season, highlighting insights from Dr. Stephen W. Jones’ cross-cultural transition handbook. They examine how pressing into the difficulties of transition, journaling, engaging in new communities, and leaning into their faith can provide support and continuity. The episode wraps up with reflections on the deeper spiritual aspects of letting go, the metaphor of death and rebirth, and finding hope in the promise of new growth and new roles in an unfamiliar culture. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord.   Chapters (00:00:00) - Navigating Role Deprivation(00:04:02) - Omaha Art Community Farewell(00:07:52) - Cross-Cultural Communication Challenges(00:09:55) - Balancing Busyness and Peace(00:15:44) - Embracing New Learning Challenges(00:18:00) - Embracing Challenges for Personal Growth(00:23:18) - Incarnational Ministry in the Bible(00:24:15) - Emulating Christ: Presence in Transition(00:24:16) - Join traxcultures Community

    30 min

  5. EPISODE 5

    What 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 concept of "Nebraska nice" to the subtle meanings behind everyday behaviors and cultural artifacts. The group discusses why cultures can be so different and why it is so important for us to not only be explorers of other cultures, but also spend time getting to know our own culture well. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Information on Dr. Stephen W. Jones Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord. Chapters (00:00:00) - Defining Culture's Complexity(00:03:20) - Culture is...(00:07:41) - Cultural Iceberg: Understanding Berlin Integration(00:10:50) - Exploring Cultural Artifacts' Meanings(00:15:39) - Geography Shapes Cultural Adaptation(00:16:55) - "Cultural Adaptation and Diversity"(00:24:52) - Building Bridges Across Cultures(00:24:53) - Expat Relationships

    30 min

  6. EPISODE 6

    S2 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 cookies at a Berlin grocery store to adjusting to surprising wedding customs in Minnesota. The panel discusses the difference between traveling and truly living cross-culturally, the temptation to impose your own “normal” on new environments, and the comfort of accepting that mistakes and misunderstandings are a natural part of adapting. They also touch on the ways self-worth and feedback are handled differently in American and German cultures, and how anticipating culture shock—rather than denying it—can ease the process of growing into a new home. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord. Chapters (00:00:00) - Cumulative Disorientation and Uncertainty(00:03:56) - When the Honeymoon feeling fades(00:10:40) - Diverse Cultures and Social Awareness(00:14:04) - Church Cultural Differences in Worship(00:18:32) - Dignity and Worth in Germany(00:22:35) - Decoupling Worth From Work(00:28:03) - Navigating Culture Shock Experiences(00:29:35) - Gradual Onset of Culture Shock

    32 min

  7. EPISODE 7

    S2 E7 - The Power of Naming Expectations

    Notes In this episode, Mike is joined once again by Joel and Kate Damon as they dig into a key theme from Dr. Stephen W. Jones’ Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook: expectations. As Joel and Kate prepare for their upcoming move to Berlin, the conversation centers on the often unspoken hopes, assumptions, and uncertainties that come with any significant transition. Identifying and naming these expectations can help navigate the inevitable frustrations and surprises of adapting to a new culture. Together, they explore practical examples of expectations—ranging from spiritual growth and professional identity to relationships with friends and family back home. Mike shares candid insights from years of working with teams and individuals in transition, highlighting how unmet expectations can lead to moments of self-discovery and growth. Kate and Joel open up about their personal hopes and fears, from homesickness to redefining community, and the trio offers valuable advice on communicating openly, managing disappointments, and finding new rhythms in unfamiliar territory. This episode is an honest, relatable look at embracing both the excitement and challenges of cross-cultural change. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord. Chapters (00:00:00) - Acknowledging Unseen Expectations(00:03:15) - Navigating Loneliness in Marriage(00:07:57) - Unmet Expectations' Painful Twang(00:11:15) - Adjusting Spiritual Rhythms in New Spaces(00:15:13) - Navigating Long-Distance Friendship Challenges(00:19:24) - Overcoming Fear of Feedback(00:26:51) - Unexpected Happiness Beyond Expectations(00:30:00) - Unfulfilled Job Expectations(00:31:39) - Embracing Growth Through "Nos"

    36 min

  8. EPISODE 8

    Don't Just Be Yourself

    Notes In this episode, Mike is joined by Kate and Joel Damon for a conversation around the provocative episode title: “Don’t Just Be Yourself.” Drawing inspiration from Dr. Stephen W. Jones’s Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook, the group delves into why the advice to "just be yourself" can be misguided—especially when moving between cultures. Together, they explore the tensions between authenticity and the need to flex or adjust in new cultural situations. The discussion looks into what it means to hold onto a core identity while remaining open to change, highlighting moments when “being yourself” might not serve you or those around you in a cross-cultural context. Learning to be solid at the core and soft at the edges is an important part of living interculturally, and this episode dives into what that means! Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord. Chapters (00:00:00) - Fashion Choices: Be Yourself or Adapt?(00:05:52) - Church Expectations vs. Authenticity(00:08:28) - Volume Levels in Germany(00:13:09) - "Seeking Daily Spiritual Renewal"(00:16:29) - Maturity and Finding Balance(00:17:31) - Navigating Cross-Cultural Identity(00:22:05) - Adapting to Volunteer Commitment Challenges(00:25:35) - Things we won’t change(00:27:19) - Cultural Adaptation Challenges

    33 min

  9. EPISODE 9

    An 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 into the practical realities and emotions of preparing for a major cross-cultural transition. Joel and Kate share about building new partnerships with churches, navigating the fundraising process, the logistics of packing up their home, and the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye to friends and family. They offer honest reflections on managing stress, maintaining patience with each other, and finding peace in the midst of uncertainty. The episode wraps up with advice for others embarking on similar journeys, emphasizing the importance of community, open communication, and embracing paradox — the "yay ducks" and "yuck ducks" (pair of ducks!) — of cross-cultural transition. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord. Chapters (00:00:00) - You're Now an International Worker!(00:04:49) - Unexpected Connection Through Faith(00:08:33) - Art Partnership with a Wyoming Church(00:11:31) - Hanging Out!(00:16:32) - Empracing Change and New Beginnings(00:19:17) - Fundraising Anxiety(00:22:39) - Podcast as Pre-Trip Resource(00:26:36) - "Future Joel"(00:27:46) - Embracing Life's Paradox

    33 min

  10. EPISODE 10

    Less than 3 weeks out!

    Notes In this episode of traxcultures, host Mike Picconatto reconnects with returning guests Joel and Kate Damon as they prepare to move to Berlin in under three weeks. Instead of diving into their planned book discussion, the trio takes time to give listeners a heartfelt update on the whirlwind of emotions and logistical challenges that come with cross-cultural transitions. From securing an apartment in Berlin to the process of sorting and packing up their home, Joel and Kate share candid reflections on how faith, supportive community, and a bit of humor have helped them navigate unexpected changes. The conversation touches on the emotional complexity of saying goodbye to loved ones, carrying both their own grief and the grief of others, and practical tips for the daunting final weeks before an international move. Joel and Kate also highlight the importance of connection with sending communities in both familiar and unusual ways! Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Listen to Joel and Kate's message at Crossbridge Alliance here: https://www.facebook.com/crossbridgealliance/videos/1206881114606169 Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord. Chapters (00:00:00) - Trax Cultures: Navigating Cultural Transitions(00:03:48) - Sorting through household stuff(00:06:34) - Church Mural Project Succes(00:09:49) - Signing a rental contract remotely(00:15:01) - Bittersweet Farewell Reflections(00:20:57) - Pre-Trip Advice and Tips(00:24:36) - Prayer Brings Peace(00:27:43) - Deeper Ministry Beyond Berlin

    30 min

  11. EPISODE 11

    Intensity Factors

    In this episode, Mike Picconatto is joined by Joel Damon, Kate Damon, and Dr. Stephen W. Jones for an honest conversation about the early weeks of the Damon’s transition to Berlin. The group reflects on the practical and emotional challenges of cross-cultural moves—from lost pants and stressful travel with dogs, to the struggle of making a new apartment feel like home. Stories and moments of vulnerability highlight the uncertainty, excitement, and exhaustion that come with moving to a new country and navigating unfamiliar routines. Drawing from Dr. Jones’s "Cross-Cultural Transition Handbook," the episode dives into the factors that intensify the experience of transition.Through anecdotes and practical insight, the conversation encourages listeners to give themselves (and others) grace, offering connection and hope for anyone walking through the complexity of cultural change. Main topics include emotional ups and downs in transition, factors that shape intensity and risk when moving cross-culturally, and practical strategies for coping, building community, and maintaining belonging.  Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord. Chapters (00:01:27) - Adjustments are amazing, difficult and frustrating(00:08:18) - What are intensity factors - Dr. Stephen W. Jones(00:14:54) - Legal vs Friendly Conflict(00:17:21) - Intercultural Cmopetence Challenges(00:22:04) - Language and Intensity(00:26:51) - Just want to do it myself(00:31:47) - Proving Competency in Challenges(00:32:57) - Dinner Timing Confusion(00:41:16) - Echoes of the Past(00:44:56) - Blame and FInding Peace

    53 min

  12. EPISODE 12

    Risk Factors

    In this episode, Mike is joined by Stephen W. Jones, Kate Damon, and Joel Damon to take a closer look at the risk factors that shape cross-cultural transitions. Building on previous discussions of intensity factors, the team unpacks risk factors such as identity struggles, vulnerability, embarrassment, and the loss of familiar roles that arise during major moves like relocating to Berlin. The conversation blends practical examples with candid reflection: Joel and Kate share their experiences navigating daily life in Berlin and wrestle with what it really means to be at peace. They also talk about the struggles of being independent people who are forced bo be more dependent on teammates as they get started in Berlin. Stephen W. Jones and Mike Picconatto add their own insights on role deprivation, the pitfalls of perfectionism, and how assumptions from home cultures can disrupt the process of adapting abroad. Together, they offer encouragement and concrete advice—not just for those preparing to move, but for anyone seeking to support loved ones through cross-cultural transitions. Links: Resources from this episode: Videos and other traXcultures resources. Follow Joel and Kate on Instagram: @joelandkateinberlin Use this link to purchase the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook Contact Envision Berlin about customizing the Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook for your cross-cultural ministry organization. Credits: Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin Disclaimer Patreon: To join our Patreon, click here. Transcripts are available for free on Patreon. Join the conversation on Discord. Chapters (00:05:16) - Discussing Risk Factors(00:06:55) - The Risk Factor of Self Awareness(00:13:02) - Revealing issues you thought were resolved(00:16:09) - The Risk Factor of Public and Private Boundaries(00:20:30) - Maintaining Private Space on Public Transportation(00:23:19) - The Risk Factor of Embarassment and Offense(00:26:08) - The Risk Factor of Failure(00:29:45) - The real trap is in trying to avoid it(00:34:05) - The Risk Factor of Role Deprivation(00:40:27) - The Risk Factor of Cultural Identity

    49 min
See All Season 2 (12)

About

traxcultures is a podcast about life in intercultural spaces. It is about transitions across cultures - and all that entails, including the joys and the pains. This podcast uses resources compiled by Dr. Stephen W. Jones to follow the journey of people who have and are transitioned across cultures - including Stephen's family and others.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Picconatto
  • Episodes
    37
  • Seasons
    2
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    traxcultures