Originally Recorded:06/30/2021

Brief Description:

Welcome back to traxcultures, the podcast where we explore the experiences and challenges of transitioning across cultures. In today's episode, "The Neutral Zone - Part 2 of 3", we delve deeper into the tumultuous period of transition known as the neutral zone. Joining us once again are our guests, Jennie and Stephen W. Jones, as they share their personal experiences navigating this challenging phase.

Host Mike Picconatto sets the stage by describing the neutral zone as a time between two circumstances, where one feels stuck and uncertain, much like a car in neutral. Stephen further illustrates this feeling by comparing it to a chaotic tornado, where everything is in disarray. Jennie chimes in, explaining how she is currently caught in the middle of this tornado, unable to find stability or make plans for the future.

The lack of certainty permeates every aspect of their lives, from scheduling activities for their children to simple leisure activities like having friends over for a backyard bonfire. Though they intend to be intentional about endings and make time for what's important, the constant unpredictability of their situation hinders their ability to do so.

This constant state of flux takes a toll on Jennie and Stephen's mental health. Jennie reveals how she often lacks the capacity to engage in meaningful conversations, even though they are essential for their well-being. Stephen, on the other hand, shares how exhaustion and the pressure of making important decisions have left him feeling disoriented, as if he were in a constant state of drunkenness.

As we continue to explore the challenges faced during the neutral zone, we'll dive deeper into the impact on mental health and discuss coping strategies. Stay tuned for the next part of our conversation with Jennie and Stephen W. Jones on Trax Cultures.

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:

00:01:07 Neutral time: transitions between old and new.

00:04:49 Fast-paced game with pressure from all sides.

00:08:12 Exhausted and struggling with decision-making.

00:11:47 Dumb fights, asking, frustrated, seeking resolution.

00:13:21 Finding control in small aspects of life.

00:19:38 Regular check-ins and celebrating the good.

00:23:54 3-part series on transition zone with Steven and Jennie Jones. Next episode concludes series.