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
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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

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