“Grief is the ministry nobody wants.” In this week’s episode, Amy and Bernie talk with Ruth Potinu, author of Permission to Mourn, about the importance of grieving well. They explore the unique challenges of grief in cross-cultural work and share practical ways to navigate loss while serving abroad.

Show Notes:

Purchase Ruth’s Book “Permission to Mourn”

Ruth’s Website: Permission to Mourn

Other resources on grief at GlobalTrellis.com

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In this episode of Global Trellis, Russell Semon discusses the Cerney Smith Stress Assessment, a tool designed to help people on the field understand and manage their stress levels across five key domains. The conversation explores the unique challenges faced by cross-cultural workers, the importance of resilience, rest, and establishing supportive communities. Bonus: Cross-cultural workers who listen to Global Trellis: The Podcast can get the CSA + Coaching for free at Russell’s website! (That’s a $250 value!)

Show Notes:

Article on Global Trellis by Russell Semon:

What is the Cerney Smith Assessment

What is stress?

How does your body respond to stress?

What role does your mind play when it comes to stress?

Is it possible to live a stress-free life?

Russell’s resources

Russell Semon Counseling

More info about the CSA

Russell’s Webinar on Global Trellis

Global Trellis Insiders (Where you can get Russell’s Webinar and more than 50 other workshops and webinars for cross-cultural workers!)

Global Trellis: The Podcast

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We all know that home assignments and furloughs require planning and debriefing—but is that really necessary for a quick trip back to your passport country this summer? In this episode, Amy and Bernie discuss a valuable Global Trellis resource designed specifically for those short trips off the field.

Show Notes:

Short Term Trip Debrief Packet

Global Trellis Website

Global Trellis: The Podcast

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Today we have a special episode, as Amy and Bernie sit down with Doug McKelvey, author of the “Every Moment Holy” series of everyday liturgies. Doug shares his personal journey of creating prayers for everything from changing diapers to navigating profound grief, offering a powerful reminder that God is present in every aspect of our lives on and off the field. You won’t want to miss this conversation!

Show Notes:

Be sure to check out https://www.everymomentholy.com/ for more Every Moment Holy resources.

Purchase your copy at the Rabbit Room Store

Download the Every Moment Holy app at the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Join the Global Trellis Online Conference: Holistic Training and Care on the Field (Special conference pricing ends on May 29, 2025!)

Join Global Trellis Insiders for even more savings on Online Conference and hundreds of other resources for Cross-Cultural Workers!

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Today, Janeen joins Amy and Bernie for another powerful conversation, unpacking results from the Global Trellis Survey on the things cross-cultural workers feel they can’t talk about in some new and different ways. Would your “this” fall into struggles, sins, or stances? Janeen offers unique insight and practical frameworks to help listeners navigate this important and evergreen topic.

Show Notes:

Resolving Conflict on the Field with Janeen Davis

Holistic Training and Care on the Field: Digital Conference

Download “Let’s Talk About It”: White paper covering survey results

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Jenilee Goodwin joins Amy and Bernie to introduce the Global Online Conference with the Global Trellis team. This conference addresses critical issues like mental health, faith, relationships, and preventing burnout through three days of keynotes and workshops designed to support workers at all life stages. 3 days. 3 keynotes. 3 workshops each day. And 1 bonus Live Q & A. Be sure to listen all the way to the end!

Show Notes:

Conference registration, agenda, and workshops

Global Trellis: The Podcast

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EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). It sounds technical, but it’s one of the most well-researched and effective therapies for trauma, anxiety, and distress. In this episode, counselor and Global Trellis team member Katie Brown joins Amy Young and Bernie Anderson to demystify EMDR and explain how it aligns with the way God has designed our bodies to heal.

Show Notes:

Katie Brown (MA LPC) Counseling Practice

Katie’s articles at Global Trellis

Recommended EMDR Resources:

EMDR Training for Licensed Counselors

EMDR Institute (Founded by Dr. Francine Shapiro)—Provides comprehensive information on EMDR therapy, training programs, and resources developed by the originator of EMDR.

EMDRIA Foundation—An organization dedicated to promoting education, research, and awareness of EMDR therapy and trauma-informed care.

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Are you a pre-griever or a post-griever? In this episode, Amy Young and Bernie Anderson explore how recognizing and respecting pre- and post-grief styles can strengthen relationships and help cross-cultural workers navigate life's complex transitions with greater empathy and self-awareness. Whether you're preparing to move abroad, returning home, or facing significant life changes, this podcast is for you.

Show Notes:

How to know if you are pre- or post-griever (and why it matters) article by Amy Young

Looming Transitions (book) by Amy Young available on Kindle

Looming Transitions Audio Book and workbook available at Global Trellis (very affordable!)

Global Trellis: The Podcast

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