Originally 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 deeply impact one’s sense of competence and self-worth, especially when comparing proficiency in a new language to their native tongue.

A major theme in this episode is the emotional and spiritual toll that language learning can take, especially for those whose previous work depended so much on communication and words. Mike, Stephen, and Jennie talk openly about challenges like role deprivation, moments of discouragement, and the impact of navigating complex topics in a language where they feel less capable. They also discuss the importance of embracing mistakes, the value of immersion, and the need to give oneself grace during the process. The episode offers encouragement for anyone feeling the strain of language learning during a cross-cultural move and is filled with practical insights and relatable stories for those in similar situations.

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.

Purchase a copy of our Envision skinned Cross-Cultural Transitions Handbook here!

Credits:

Regular Theme music by Mike Picconatto

traxcultures is recorded and produced by Envision Berlin

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