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
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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

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