Episode 001 - Beginning with the Endings - part 1 of 3

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

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Timestamped Overview: 

[00:01:49] In transitions, focus on endings before new beginnings. The uncomfortable neutral zone is important. Rushing through can cause difficulties.

[00:05:07] Unforeseen and anticipated endings in transition.

[00:08:26] Not saying goodbye causes missed opportunities, relational damage, and unresolved loss.

[00:12:05] Leaving brings safety, allowing for getting to know without long-term risk. Pay attention to unnoticed endings, like not knowing practical tasks. Feeling competent now, but losing identity in the process.

[00:16:40] The speaker discusses feeling disconnected from oneself and their surroundings due to ongoing changes. Normal patterns, including eating, have been disrupted. The situation is still unresolved.

[00:20:03] Stephen and Jenie Jones discuss cultural transitions on traxcultures