THE ROOTED TCK

On this episode, we talk with TCK, friend, and co-founder of the podcast, Colton Shrader (TCK to Peru).Join our conversation as we talk about leading with your God-given strengths and how we can find hope and joy knowing that God is good and has purposes beyond what we can understand in a singular moment. You'll hear Colton share about what God is teaching him through his Master's in Organizational Leadership to become a ‘courageous follower.' This episode offers great perspective to high school and college seniors who are considering their future.What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE.HOST: Michelle EllisSONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:11:30, 29:16 | CliftonStrengths Assessment 2.025:10 | Daniel 2:36-45 - Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar's dream and expresses his concerns25:45 | Daniel 6 - Daniel opens his windows to pray28:34 | The Courageous Follower by Ira Chaleff39:08 | Ica, PeruKEY QUOTES:18:14 | “He's a strategic God that thinks way farther ahead than we have the ability to think, and He placed you where you are with a purpose.” 18:43 |  “We have this unprecedented opportunity as TCKs to be developed in ways that so many people would never have an opportunity to do".”20:29 | “A ‘successful' TCK will look at that and accept that there will be threats, but there will also be opportunities. So how do we take advantage of those and choose to say, ‘I'm going to approach this from the perspective that I'm not a victim [but] that I am a chosen son of God or daughter of God.”23:27 | “We don't have to approach [things] with hopelessness and despair.”26:12 | “The spirit that  I think we need to have as TCK is this, ‘no matter where I am, no matter the circumstance; I'm in a new culture, I'm in a new place, but my God is good and He has not abandoned me. At no point did my God abandoned me.”37:01 | “Trust God that He's designed you for this time and this place.”CONNECT WITH US: Instagram | FacebookInterested in partnering with John Michael & Nicole in prayer, one-time giving, or monthly giving? Do that HERE.COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On part two of this episode, we finish our conversation with Shawn Deal, TCK from Equatorial Guinea.Join our conversation as we talk about the friendships (both likely and unlikely) that God brings to our lives as a source of encouragement and inspiration. You'll hear Shawn's foundational advice and prayer for every TCK around the world. It's wisdom that will apply to every season of your life.What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: John Michael CaldwellSONG: Sunscreen by Vic DaviSHOW NOTES:12:49 | Philippians 4:4 - “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”16:32 | Romans 8:28 - “And we know that in  all things God works together for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."KEY QUOTES:3:38 | “Find the good in it and focus on that.”10:12 |  “Where I'm at is where I am, and I'm going to embrace the fact that I'm there.”19:27 | “If you just keep going, if you just keep stepping, if you just keep living your everyday ordinary life, you get through this stuff and you get on the other side and you're better for it.”28:03 | “[God's] not the one to blame. He's the one to save.”Click the respective links to partner with Shawn & Megan Deal or John Michael & Nicole Caldwell in prayer, one-time giving, or monthly giving.COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On part one of this episode, we start our conversation with Shawn Deal, TCK from Equatorial Guinea.Join our conversation as we talk about how God has a plan for our lives and truly is in the business of working all things for out for the good of those who love Him. You'll hear personal and funny stories, as well as Shawn's testimony - it's truly impactful and you won't want to miss it! What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE.HOST: John Michael CaldwellSONG: Sunscreen by Vic DaviSHOW NOTES:15:19, 20:57 | Romans 8:28 - “And we know that in  all things God works together for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."22:04 | Reference toGenesis 50:20 - “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”KEY QUOTES:12:20 | “I stayed in this place without realizing that I was spiritually lost. I was just as lost as the Guineano sitting next to me that had never heard the gospel.” 19:11 | “… being in a TCK is not easy. But it's part of God's plan... He does do it for good.”22:33 | “…you have to get comfortable expecting the unexpected because it's always in those unexpected moments that God shows up.”Interested in partnering with Shawn & Megan Deal in prayer, one-time giving, or monthly giving? Do thatHERE.CONNECT WITH US: Website | InstagramCOMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this introduction to season 4, Michelle shares some exciting news about some upcoming changes. You'll want to stick around to hear some encouraging words as we continue to make our way into 2025. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:10:05 | John 1:47-51 - Jesus calls and sees Nathanael under the fig tree.KEY QUOTES:10:38 | “Wherever you're at… Jesus sees you at every point and he wants to meet with you. He wants to connect with you… He wants to call you to something.”11:04 | “Lean into the love of Christ. Lean into the God who sees you, who knows you, and who loves you and has a purpose for your life.” COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On part two of this episode, we finish our conversation with Bella Wellborn, TCK from Argentina. Join our conversation as we talk about vulnerability in friendships, God redeeming our weaknesses, and the joy in trusting and following Jesus. Bella shares from her own experiences of learning to trust God even when it feels hard, and how every time He proves to be worthy of our trust. You'll hear personal stories and incredible testimonies of what God can do on the other side of our “yes.” What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:0:49, 7:38 | Psalm 34:8 - “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.”6:04 | John 2:23 - “Because of the miraculous signs Jesus did in Jerusalem at the Passover celebration, many began to trust in him.”8:11 | John 21:25 - “Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written.”11:31 | Joshua 24:15 - “…as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”15:09 | 1 John 4:19 - “We love because he first loved us.”19:14 | Isaiah 43:19 - “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”28:55 | John 10:10 - “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”KEY QUOTES:2:43 | “The only way we can grow from something is if we're honest about it. The only way we can heal from something is if we're honest about it. The only way that we can learn from an experience is if we're honest about it.”3:34 | “…He also redeems what we view as weakness and He turns it into something really beautiful.”4:41 | “On the other side of your ‘yes' is always the testimony.”12:23 | “When you can see Him for who He is, He shows you who you are and He shows you who He created you to be.”13:39 | “It was through that vulnerability with the Lord that I learned how to be vulnerable with others.”17:52 | “Obedience isn't robotic. Obedience is a heart response".”24:32 | “When you're honest with the Lord with those things, true healing happens and true change of heart, change of mind, change of perspective happens.”24:59 | “I've been learning how looking at Him overflows into every part of your life.”25:32 | “It is scary sometimes to feel different, but in this culture and in the way the world is changing, it's going to increasingly feel different, but it's going to increasingly be so powerful to walk into atmospheres of darkness with true light.” COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On part one of this two-part episode, we talk with Bella Wellborn, TCK from Argentina. Join our conversation as we talk about saying “yes” to God's plans for our lives - how surrendering our plans and trusting God's will lead us on a great adventure, and how God can do beyond what we can imagine when we listen and follow His voice. Bella shares her own story of how she learned she could trust God with her “yes” to anything He asked her to do. You'll hear personal stories and amazing testimonies that all began with one simple “yes.”What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:18:47, 24:12 | The Next Level by Pastor Scott Wilson24:45 | Luke 1:26-38 - “‘…I am the Lord's servant… May everything you said about me come true.'”35:48 | 2 Corinthians 1:17-20 - “….as God's ultimate “Yes,” he always does what he says. For all of God's promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.” KEY QUOTES:30:51 | “…I had been getting filled so filled with the love of Jesus in my own heart and I knew my identity that I understood that He was wanting other people to understand their identity and understand that they're loved - so deeply loved.” 32:48 | “What I found out was sometimes the best way to help is to just be there as a friend.”37:23 | “We don't say ‘yes' for us to go to stages, for us to have a voice or influence. We say yes to give Him glory.”39:32 | “I thought about it a lot then, I think about a lot now in ministry is just the ministry of presence and just being with people.” CONNECT WITH US:Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with Ethan Pruitt, TCK from Ecuador. Join our conversation as we talk about different ways our experiences shape us - from transitions to gaining new perspectives to immersing yourself and embracing the season you're in. Ethan shares from his own experiences of how growing up as a TCK helped equip him for the life he lives now. You'll hear personal stories and helpful insight on what it looks like to trust the Lord through transitions, the unknown, and while facing your fears. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:19:12 | 3.5 The Practice of Surrender (part 1 with John Michael Caldwell) - “…being a TCK is an incredible privilege, but it's also just a season. It wasn't what I was meant to do forever.” COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On part two of this episode, we finish our conversation with Abigail (Ramos) Marsiglio, TCK from Guatemala. Join our conversation as we talk about the hope of suffering and surrender. Abigail shares from her own experiences of loss, sorrow and grief, and how she consistently saw the goodness of God each time. You'll hear personal stories and amazing perspective on clinging to hope and the faithfulness of God. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:4:35 | Sing Hallelujah (with Natalie Grant) by Naomi Raine - (6:10) “it's not a ‘has been goodness,' it's a ‘right now goodness.' It isn't just a ‘he has been good,' it's ‘he is good.' He is good. He's right now good.”14:58 | 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”16:54 | Hebrews 12:1-2 - “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.  We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne.”25:53 | Lake Atitlán in Guatemala KEY QUOTES:2:16 | “I learned that my hope was in Christ and not in the situation.”3:53 | “If we have that mental shift of putting your hope in the thing into putting your hope in God then it's so much easier to have that hope, because you're then hoping in something that never changes. You're hoping in something that never fails. You're hoping in something that is always good. You're hoping in something that's always faithful. You're hoping in new mercies every morning. You're hoping in love that's never ending. And so that is what keeps you going. That is what charges you every morning.”4:58 | “He is good and He will remain good.”10:55 | “…despite what I feel, He is still good.”11:09 | “I'm truly thankful for the difficult seasons because they would not have made me the person that I am today. They would not have allowed me to have such a deep rooted faith in Christ if I hadn't gone through those seasons, and if I hadn't surrendered to what God, to the will of God and what He had for my life.”11:40| “…trust that God is good. Even in the hard times, even in the scary times, even when you feel like there's no hope in the world, God is still good and He will always be good.“16:38 | “…no matter what, I still win because there's victory in Jesus. We can walk through every season almost with a sense of peace […] knowing that Christ is the reward at the end of the day.”24:36 | “…find your people even if it's just one person right now that you can fully trust.”25:25 | Becoming a Youth Pastor with Abigail Marsiglio - (Season 1, Episode 11)CONNECT WITH US:Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On part one of this episode, we talk with Abigail (Ramos) Marsiglio, TCK from Guatemala. Join our conversation as we talk about the hope of suffering and surrender. Abigail shares from her own experiences of loss, sorrow and grief, and how she consistently saw the goodness of God each time. You'll hear personal stories and amazing perspective on clinging to hope and the faithfulness of God. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:12:30,17:49 | John 15:2 - “He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.”21:54, 25:26, 25:09: | Galatians 5:22-23 - “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”24:33 | Psalm 34:8 - “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”KEY QUOTES:13:11 | “…Sometimes when God chooses to prune in our life or cut out bad branches it's not because of punishment. It's because we need it to happen in our life.” 13:35 | “[I've had a] shift from, ‘what did I do?"‘ to ‘God, what do I need to learn in this season?‘“14:08 | “…truly God knows exactly what we need, when we need it, and how we need it.”15:41 | “…the thing that brought me the most joy became the bane of my existence because of that season of pruning.”21:27 | “God doesn't ever do anything for no reason, right? God has a plan and a purpose for every season of life we go through.”21:47 | “He was faithful then. He will be faithful now.”23:43 | “…when you go through emotions, it's okay to be angry.It's okay to be upset. It's okay to be sad. But it's how we respond in those emotions.” COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this two-part episode, we talk with John Michael Caldwell, TCK from Uruguay. John Michael and his wife, Nicole, have served in ministry for many years. Join part 2 of our conversation as we talk about the practice of surrender - how it starts with identity, deals with control, and ends with encountering more of the presence and person of Jesus. John Michael shares from his own experiences of having to surrender things to the Lord - both good things and harmful things. You'll hear personal stories and incredible insight into how to take brave steps of surrender. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:22:36 | Romans 8:28 - “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”22:40 | Jeremiah 29:11 - “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”23:27 | Romans 8:18 - “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”25:46 | Hebrews 4:14-16 - “…For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin…” KEY QUOTES:6:02 | “I was not the one that God specifically called out to walk in obedience. My parents were the ones who were called. However, I was chosen. I was chosen to be a part of the process.”19:41 | “When you surrender to the fact that it's okay to not be okay, it frees you to seek out help and realize that you don't have to fight battles alone.”22:19 | “When you consider what it is that you might need to lay down and compare that to the glory and the faithfulness of God, you have nothing to lose.”23:53 | “Your story is beautiful to God because He's trying to weave something together that shows His glory and His love and His plan in you and for you and through you. “24:23 | “Be more afraid of not opening up than of being afraid of whatever people might think if you do open up.” COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this two-part episode, we talk with John Michael Caldwell, TCK from Uruguay. John Michael and his wife, Nicole, have served in ministry for many years. Join part 1 of our conversation as we talk about the practice of surrender - how it starts with identity, deals with control, and ends with encountering more of the presence and person of Jesus. John Michael shares from his own experiences of having to surrender things to the Lord - both good things and harmful things. You'll hear personal stories and incredible insight into how to take brave steps of surrender. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:9:45 | 1 Peter 5:6 - “So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor.”9:45 | James 4:10 - “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.”11:19 | Lord (I Don't Know) by Newsboys11:57 | Psalm 46:10 - “Be still, and know that I am God…”12:00 | Proverbs 3:5-6 - “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”15:51 | 2 Corinthians 3:18 - “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”16:03 | Philippians 4:7 - “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”27:13 | John 21 KEY QUOTES:11:31 | “It's okay to admit, ‘I don't know. I don't understand.' Sometimes surrendering to that idea and just trusting God and saying to the Lord, ‘hey, however I am, whoever I am, whatever I am, God, here I am. And I'm just laying it all down before you and I'm gonna trust you.'”13:44 | “…being a TCK is an incredible privilege, but it's also just a season. It wasn't what I was meant to do forever.” 14:42 | “Surrendering that MK/TCK identity really opened up the door for God to teach me things that I really wouldn't have learned otherwise.”15:18 | “I realized that as I surrender to God's will there are pressures that just naturally come off. Pressures that I put on myself and pressures that other people put on me.”16:09 | “ I don't know what's next. I don't know all the answers, but I know who's got the answers. I know who's with me throughout every step of the way.”18:15 | “I discovered early on that the moment I surrendered to Jesus is the moment that I truly lived.”26:04 | “If I surrender my identity to Jesus, then that means He needs to shape it for me every day. I'm not in charge of who I am. He is. He is going to help me discover that and He's going to teach me what I need to know. If I am really trying to discover God's will for my life and God's call for my life and the purpose of why I'm here, I have to surrender to what God is asking me to do.”31:26 | “God will teach us about ourselves through our emotions, but He's always working something bigger in spite of them.” COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On part three of this episode, we finish our conversation with Ben Stubbs, TCK from South Africa and current campus missionary with Chi Alpha. Join part three of our conversation as we discuss why the ways of Jesus are so much better than living by the standards of the world. Ben shares about what God is teaching him about finding fulfillment in living the life He intends and about the fruit that comes from a life centered on God. We talk about the power of forgiveness, the choice to trust, counting the cost, the pain and necessity of change. You'll hear stories, powerful testimonies, and really helpful insight in growing as a follower and disciple of Jesus. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Chloe Jones SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:6:44 | John 10:10 - “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”17:55 | Philippians 4:8 - “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”18:27 | Psalm 119:103 - “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!”19:14 | John 15:26-27 - “But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me. And you also will bear witness, because you have been with me from the beginning.”19:29 | John 16:13 - “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”29:29 | ⁠Building Your Own Faith (part 2 with Gracie Bueno and Izzy Perez)⁠ - 19:19 31:59 | Matthew 7:17-20 - “A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit…”31:59 | John 15:1-2 - “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.”37:12 | ⁠2 Corinthians 4:17⁠ - “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” 39:50 | ⁠Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses⁠ in Brazil KEY QUOTES:2:04 | “God created us to live a certain way. He designed us to live with a certain set of laws and morals and ideals. When we are existing outside of that, it doesn't feel like joy. It doesn't feel like satisfaction or fulfillment.”6:30 | “The more that you test His words, the more that you attempt to live it out, you see that it's real, it's true, it's life-giving, it's the way to an abundant life - the life that Jesus promises us in John 10:10.”9:44 | “There is life in forgiveness.”25:20 | “There's always something off when the devil is trying to convince you of something. And you can almost always tie it to fear or worry or shame or anxiety or just a lack of self worth.”29:51 | “We have a choice in trust.”31:50 | “ Is the fruit that I'm seeing in my life indicative of my heart's condition?”34:30 | “Until the pain of remaining the same is greater than the pain of change we will never change.” CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On part two of this episode, we continue our conversation with Ben Stubbs, TCK from South Africa and current campus missionary with Chi Alpha. Join part two of our conversation as we discuss spiritual formation and disciplines such as prayer and silence. Ben shares about the many things God is teaching him in this season about walking in the ways of Jesus. You'll hear stories, powerful testimonies, and really helpful insight in growing as a follower and disciple of Jesus. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Chloe Jones SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:1:54 | The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer2:04 | Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer9:11 | Winning the War on Your Mind by Craig Groeschel10:24 | 2 Corinthians 10: 5 - “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”13:01 | Psalm 27:4 - “One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.”17:12 | Psalm 84:10 - “Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere…”20: 47 | Isaiah 6:8 - ‘Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”'33:42 | Elisabeth Elliot - “My heart was saying, 'Lord take away this longing, or give me that for which I long.' The Lordwas answering, 'I must teach you to long for something better.'”35:42 | Job 1:21 - “…The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” Interested in partnering with Ben Stubbs in prayer, one-time giving, or monthly giving? Do that HERE. COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this three-part episode, we talk with Ben Stubbs, a TCK from South Africa and a current campus missionary with Chi Alpha. Join part one of our conversation as we talk about Ben's journey to discovering God's plans for him when his future felt unknown. Ben shares from his experiences on hearing from God and finding peace in God despite the unknowns. You'll hear stories and insight on how to draw closer to God and experience more of Him. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Chloe Jones SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:17:35, 24:50 | Psalm 37:4 - “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”Interested in partnering with Ben Stubbs in prayer, one-time giving, or monthly giving? Do that HERE. COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, Michelle shares on the theme God has placed on her heart for season 3. Join this conversation to hear about what to expect, questions to consider, and how to prepare for the episode to come. You'll hear one of Michelle's own stories and how we can apply the lessons and concepts to our own lives. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:4:19 | Colossians 1:17 - “And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”4: 25 | John 14:6 - “…I am the way, the truth, and the life…”4:51 | John 10:10 - “…I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”5:49 | Matthew 16:24-26 - “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me…”7:30, 9:23 | Philippians 3:7-8 - “…What is more, I consider everything a loss to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…”8:46 | Holier Than Thou by Jack Hill Perry9:28 | Surrender Guide COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On part-two of this episode, we continue our conversation with Gracie Bueno and Izzy Perez, TCKs from El Salvador and Costa Rica. These ladies are best friends that both inspire us and keep us laughing. Join our conversation as we talk about everything from identity, worth, failure, friendship, and clinging to Jesus through all of it. Gracie and Izzy share their own experiences of life before and after truly following Jesus and how they challenge themselves to grow closer to the Lord even on the days they don't feel like it. You'll hear their testimonies and plenty of stories that are real, relatable, and real encouraging as we press on towards following Jesus. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Maggi Cartwright SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:Psalm 56:8 - “…you have collected all my tears in your bottle…” Proverbs 27:17 - “as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”Galapagos IslandMacchu Picchu CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On part one of this two-part episode, we talk with Gracie Bueno and Izzy Perez, TCKs from El Salvador and Costa Rica. These ladies are best friends that both inspire us and keep us laughing. Join our conversation as we learn Gracie and Izzy's testimonies and talk about identity, worth, and how they built a faith outside of their parents' after experiencing the real, life-changing Jesus. Gracie and Izzy share their own experiences of life before and after truly following Jesus and how they challenge themselves to grow closer to the Lord - even on the hard days. You'll hear stories that are honest, relatable, and real encouraging as we press on towards following Jesus. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Maggi Cartwright SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:Southeastern University College of the Ozarks Psalm 51:1-9 Psalm 32:1-7, 10-11 Philippians 4:7 - “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Genesis 3:21 - “the Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them.” Romans 1:20 - “…Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities…” COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we jump back into our “Becoming” series with Justus, a TCK from Bangladesh and Thailand. Today Justus is working at an engineering firm. Join our conversation as we talk about the advantages and disadvantages about growing up as a TCK when entering into an engineering career. Justus shares from his own experiences about seeing the Lord's provision and the ministry opportunities he's found in a secular field. You'll hear thoughts on how faith and science intersect, encouraging advice and great things to think about as you consider your future career. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis & Maggi Cartwright SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - one body, many parts CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with Maggi Cartwright, MK from Costa Rica. She is a recent SEU graduate and is starting her career as a nurse. Join our conversation as we talk about college life: from transition into freshman year, building community, and the transition into post-college life. Maggi shares from her own experiences about what she found challenging, how she got out of her comfort zone, and ways in which she saw growth. You'll hear stories, examples, and advice on navigating transition and friendship in and after college. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:Southeastern University Psalm 16:2 - apart from you I have no good thing. Psalm 16:11 - You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with Luke and Tricia Turley. Luke is a TCK from Belgium, and now as a couple they serve as Chi Alpha campus missionaries in Chicago. Join our conversation as we talk secular versus Christian campuses, discipleship, community, and so much more! Luke and Tricia help us unpack the differences between different types of colleges, what it looks like to have deep and life-changing community, and how we're all meant to give to other's what has been given to us. You'll hear several honest and personal stories of mistakes, successes, and opportunities for growth. What questions do you have about this episode? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:Chi AlphaJohn 15:16 - God chose and appointed us so that we might bear fruit 1 Corinthians 5:17 - anyone in Christ is a new creation; the old has gone, the new is here. Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Obelisco in Buenos Aires, Argentina La Casa Rosada in Buenos Aires, Argentina One Church Chicago Interested in partnering with Luke and Tricia Turley in prayer, one-time giving, or monthly giving? Do that HERE. COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we are joined again by Austin Hines, MK from Africa and current missionary with ISMK. Join our conversation as we look at the book of Nehemiah to learn valuable life lessons on opposition and prayer. Austin helps us unpack what to do when opposition strikes and how to grow in our prayer lives. You'll hear personal stories and examples of how he has taken lessons from the life of Nehemiah and applied it to his own life. What questions do you have about facing opposition and learning to pray? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Katrina Grasinger SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:ISMK Nehemiah 6:9 - “strengthen my hands” Understanding the Call & Direction of God - Marco & Courtney Mahar's episode The Art of Teaching Ephesians 6:12 - our struggle is against the rulers, powers, and authorities, and spiritual forces of this dark world Identity & Deep Community - Katrina Grasinger's episode Victoria Falls - 355 ft/108 m Interested in partnering with Austin Hines in prayer, one-time giving, or monthly giving? Do that HERE. COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we are happily joined once again by Chloe Jones, a TCK from Panama. Join our conversation as we talk about signs to look for to identify healthy vs. unhealthy friendships. It's not an all-encompassing list, but it may help you find blind spots even in yourself as a friend. Chloe helps us unpack what it looks like to have healthy friendships that lead you and others closer to Jesus. You'll hear Biblical examples of friendships and practical tools and insights into becoming a better friend. What questions do you have about friendships and becoming a better friend in your community? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Katrina Grasinger SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:Identity & Deep Community - Katrina Grasinger's episode Esther 2:5-7, Esther 4:13-14 - Esther & Mordecai1 Peter 2:9-10 - a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation1 Samuel 18:1-4, 1 Samuel 19:1-2, 1 Samuel 20:42 - Jonathan & DavidMatthew 26:14-16, 23-25, 47-50 - Judas betrays JesusMatthew 26:34, 69-75 - Peter denies/disowns JesusLoneliness & Community -Cristi Alexander's episodeA Reason, Season or Lifetime Poem - by Brian Andrew Chalker "Loneliness is God's invitation to intimacy with Him.” - FR. Burke MastersPsalm 34:8 -taste and see that the Lord is goodCerro Punta, Panama COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

It's Mental Health Awareness Month! On this episode, we talk with Andrew Southerland, a TCK from Europe and a licensed professional counselor in Texas, Colorado and Wyoming. Andrew holds his PhD in Counselor Education and now trains other counselors to enter into the field. For this mental health awareness month, join our conversation as we talk about transition, identity and community. Andrew helps us unpack what's really happening when we transition from one place to the next. You'll hear personal stories and practical tools to manage your mental health when making transitions. What questions do you have about transition and adjusting successfully? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:SAGU: Southwestern Assemblies of God UniversityBonaire: island in the Dutch Caribbean COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with Marco and Courtney Mahar. Marco grew up as a TCK in Africa. He and Courtney now serve as youth pastors at their church in Florida. Join our conversation as we talk about discerning and understanding the call of God, or the direction He has for your life. The Mahars share their own journey of how they discovered God's direction for life, and how sometimes He leads us to temporary seasons that He can use for what is planned next. You'll hear lessons they had to walk through as well as advice they received from mentors and family members. What questions do you have about understanding God's direction for you life? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES:Jeremiah 29:11 - God has plans for our livesMatthew 28:19-20 - the Great CommissionSoutheastern University Hebrews 10:24 - spurring one another1 Thessalonians 5:24 - He who calls you is faithfulCOMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with Kylee Strange, a TCK from the Philippines and Chile. Join our conversation as we talk about what it looks like to remain committed to your faith in seasons of uncertainty, and the role that community plays in that. Kylee shares from a place of transparency and authenticity as she sets out to do just that in a season of big life transitions. You'll hear personal stories from both Kylee and Michelle, as well as some practical tools to help you as you discover how you can remain committed to your faith when the path forward looks unclear. What questions do you have about staying committed when life is uncertain? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES: Announcement: “We've Got Mail!” Become a pen pal with an amazing class by messaging us for Kylee's mailing address, or contacting her directly at kylee1snow@gmail.com SAGU - Southwestern Assemblies of God University The Book of Job (ESV) John 10:10 - Jesus came to give us an abundant life John 16:33 - In this world you will have trouble. But take heart, I have overcome the world John 15:11 - in Jesus, our joy is made complete Spoken Gospel (Job 10-14) - “The book of Job wasn't written primarily to show us an example of someone who suffers well. It was written to help us think rightly about God, especially when we suffer.” Torres del Paine (Chile) CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with Katrina Grasinger, TCK from Central Eurasia. Join our conversation as we talk about identity, the versions of ourselves, and what that means for developing community. Katrina has a heart for discipleship and community and shares her journey of overcoming the challenge to develop deep, meaningful community as a TCK. You'll hear personal stories, helpful insights and practical tools to help you discover God's heart for friendship community, and how to develop life-giving community for yourself. What questions do you have about building deep community? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Chloe Jones SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES: Brooke Ligertwood sermon (Loving the Church, starting at 33:48) - illustration of stones rubbing against each other in and out of water 1 Corinthinas 12:12-27 - the Church is made up of one body of many parts Proverbs 27:17 - as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another Trees & root systems - some trees, like palms, are more resistant to storms and. their roots can grow deeper in storms. Grouped trees have a higher likelihood of surviving storms. Palms are also flexible and can bend in high winds, unlike other types of trees. Machu Picchu - weather conditions The elevation of the ruins of Machu Picchu is over 7,900 feet above sea level. The city of Buena Vista, CO is close to the same elevation as Machu Picchu. CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with Jo, a TCK from Northern Asia. Join our conversation as we talk about TCK identity vs. Christ identity and the lies that TCKs so often believe about themselves and God. Jo offers really valuable and authentic insight - you may even want to replay portions of this episode to really take in all that is said. You'll hear transparent personal stories and practical tools to help you discover the truth of who God is and who He has made you to be. What questions do you have about identity? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi SHOW NOTES: SAGU: Southwestern Assemblies of God University I Have To Be Perfect by Timothy Sanford (also on Amazon) Ephesians 3:20 - God is able to do more than we can ask or imagine 1 Samuel 13:14, Acts 13:22 - David, a man after God's own heart 1 Peter 2:9-10 - a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation Jeremiah 18:5-6 - clay in the Potter's hands 2 Corinthians 10:5, Matthew 4:1-11 - making our thoughts obedient to Christ, the temptation of Jesus Romans 8:17 - co-heirs with Christ Isaiah 55:11 - God's word does not return void CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this brief episode, Michelle makes two short announcements: 1. If you're a college-aged TCK, don't forget to sign up for Thanksgiving Retreat with the MK Office! Michelle will be attending and wants to see as many LAC MKs in college as she can. 2. The podcast will be taking a short pause as we work on new content and make some small changes. We will be coming back January 1, 2023 - so mark your calendars! We are so excited for what God has ahead! In the meantime, feel free to reach out or connect with us on social media. The podcast may be taking a short break, but that doesn't mean we are! How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we mostly want you to know how much we appreciate you joining us on this journey. Michelle shares a little background on how THE ROOTED TCK was a dream from God's heart from the very beginning. Be encouraged that God is purposeful in each of our lives and He has an intentional plan for each moment and season of our lives. What questions do you have about God's plans and purposes for your life? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SHOW NOTES: Ephesians 3:16-21 CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with TCK Kattee Smith She shares about the many amazing things that a speech-language pathologist does. Kattee talks with us about several of her experiences as a TCK on the field and how God used those moments to put both the idea and passion in her heart to serve people in this impactful and unique way. Join our conversation to hear about what a speech-language pathologist does. You'll hear personal stories that point to a God who designed each of us on purpose and for a purpose. You'll also be encouraged that no matter your age, you can make a difference in someone's life for the better. What questions do you have about becoming a speech-language pathologist? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SHOW NOTES: - Seen and Heard CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with AJ Ramos, TCK from Guatemala. AJ is a youth pastor and shares what it's like to be a woman in ministry, how being a TCK gave her advantages and disadvantages going into ministry, and some golden advice to remember as you follow God's call on your life. Guys, don't be deterred to listen when you hear us talk about women in ministry. There's some useful principles that can apply to you too. Join our conversation for the second installment on professional development episodes as we talk about going into vocational ministry. You'll hear personal stories and plenty of lessons learned. What questions do you have about becoming a youth pastor or entering into vocational ministry? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis SHOW NOTES: - Zechariah 4:6 - Hebrews 10:23 CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with TCK from Jamaica, licensed professional counselor and professor, Leah Wilson. Leah has been a licensed counselor for 15 years and has so much experience and wisdom in the world of counseling and mental health. Join our conversation as we talk about anxiety, what it's really like to go to counseling, and the healing we find in community. You'll hear personal stories and practical tools to manage your mental health. What questions do you have about mental health or anxiety? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Michelle Ellis & Colton Shrader SHOW NOTES: The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook Boundaries by John Townsend Changes That Heal by Dr. Henry Cloud Becoming Aware by Dr. Daniel Siegel The Cry Of The Soul by Dr. Dan Allender and Dr. Tremper Longman Contact Leah: leah@leahwilson.org CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we listen in on a conversation with the Shrader siblings: Hannah, Colton, Will and Abby. We hear about the similarities and differences of the TCK experience in one set of siblings. While they all have spent time living in the United States, Costa Rica and Peru, each sibling experienced things a little differently from the other. Join our conversation as we discuss the value in community and shared experiences - whether your community comes from the family you're born into, or the family you develop on or off the mission field. Tune in to hear different perspectives on growing up as a TCK both overseas and in the U.S.. There will be some laughs and fun memories along the way! What questions do you have about finding community? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOST: Colton Shrader SHOW NOTES: Register for LAC MK youth retreat HERE CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with the one and only Cristi Alexander. Cristi is well-known and well-loved in our community. She grew up as a TCK in South Africa, went on to serve as a missionary in Wales, and is now working with the ISMK Office in Springfield, MO. Join our conversation as we discuss the loneliness we often feel as TCKs and the beauty and comfort of the community God gives us. From Cristi's own experiences, we learn that community doesn't always come the way we expect it to, but that God is so kind to give us little “God whispers,” as Cristi calls it, to remind us that we are seen, known, loved, and not alone. Tune in to the end to hear practical steps of dealing with emotions and the impact of practicing gratitude. What questions do you have about loneliness and finding community? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Colton Shrader SHOW NOTES: Register for LAC MK youth retreat HERE Apply to work the LAC MK youth retreat HERE Connect with Cristi Alexander: alexander.cristi@gmail.com ISMK: International Society of Missionary Kids CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we talk with Katie Hadinger, TCK from Mexico. Katie is a completing her studies to become a nurse, so she knows what it's like to be busy. We love hearing from Katie because she's full of joy, insight, humility, and her heart for the Lord really shines through. Join us as we discuss how to manage busy seasons, three key elements to set yourself up for success, and how we're all trying to be intentional in prioritizing our faith when our schedules don't always allow for it. We cover a lot on this episode. What we have all found to be true is that clinging to the Lord in both busy and restful seasons is the most valuable thing we could do with or time. We hope this episode challenges and encourages you as we all try to discover what that looks like in the season God has us. What questions do you have about prioritizing faith or managing busy season? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Colton Shrader CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram SHOW NOTES: The LAC MK Youth Retreat is coming back! This retreat is for LAC MKs ages 13-18 years old. Save the date for April 12-16, 2022 and talk to your parents about joining us at the North Texas district's Lakeview Campgrounds in Maypearl, TX. Be on the lookout for more information! www.ismk.org COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we hear from TCK Austin Hines! Austin grew up in Mozambique and Zambia, and now serves as an AGWM missionary with the MK Office. This is an episode you don't want to miss! Austin shares his heart for TCKs to not just survive, but to learn to thrive in the places God sets us. He encourages us in discovering how God gifts us intentionally with experiences, skills, talents, and abilities so that He might use us for something bigger than ourselves and greater than what we can imagine. A coach by heart, you'll feel him championing you on to be all that God created and designed you to be! We know you'll leave this conversation encouraged and inspired to pursue more of what God has for you. You might have to listen to this one a few times to really take in all the wisdom and encouragement. What questions do you have about giftings and purpose? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Colton Shrader SHOW NOTES: Xai-Xai Connect with Austin Hines: ahines@ag.org COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this bonus episode, we're joined by Stephen and Chris DiTrolio, TCKs from Argentina. We hear their memories of what isn't exactly your typical “silent night” Christmas. From favorite Christmas foods to putting out fires, we know you'll enjoy hearing from the DiTrolio brothers about their Southern Cone Christmas. Wishing all of you a very feliz nochebuena, we hope you're reminded this Christmas of how Jesus came on a 'silent night' to disrupt the norm and usher in a better way of communing with him. Merry Christmas, TCKs! HOST: Michelle Ellis CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this bonus episode, we hear from Rebekah, Jonathan, and Joseph Godzwa, TCKs from Merida Yucatán in Mexico. This is a fun conversation where we get to hear from all 3 siblings and their different perspectives and memories of celebrating Christmas in Mexico. Whether they share about some of the common traditions, their favorite memories, or why they appreciate the best of both worlds, we know you'll enjoy hearing from the Godzwa siblings! We're excited for you to join us as we learn how to celebrate a Mexican Christmas! HOST: Michelle Ellis CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this bonus episode, we are joined by TCK from Guatemala: AJ Marsiglio! She shares a story from her very first Christmas experience living as a TCK in Guatemala in 2001. AJ's Christmas story gives a little bit of insight into the excitement, joy, sense of community, and, as Colton puts it, chaos of celebrating Christmas in Latin America. Buckle up for this one and listen to this great story about a Central American Christmas! HOST: Colton Shrader CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this bonus episode, we hear from Adison and Abi Tvedt, TCKs to the Dominican Republic. You'll not only hear them talk about the unique ways Dominicans celebrate Christmas, but how they adapted and created new traditions as a family that combined both winter and island customs. This is such a fun conversation and we know you'll enjoy getting a glimpse into a Caribbean Christmas! HOST: Michelle Ellis CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this bonus episode, Colton shares one of his Christmas experiences from Peru. It starts with feelings of frustration, disappointment, and being inconvenienced. It ends with a change in perspective on how sometimes personal sacrifice can be the greatest gift we can receive. His story is such a timely reminder of the message of Jesus: leaving his heavenly throne to meet us in our need. What joy to the world! Join us for this bonus episode where we peek into an Andean Christmas! HOST: Michelle Ellis CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, Michelle and Colton share some of their Christmas memories from growing up in missions. Who doesn't love the Christmas season? Well, sometimes the reality of the season doesn't live up to the expectations we place on it. Whether that's from trying to mix American, winter-based traditions into South American summer contexts, or sacrificing your traditions to make time for family and friends while in the States. This season, whatever it looks like, still reminds us that we can live in expectation and joy, despite trouble, because of the good news of Jesus. What are your family's Christmas traditions? Send them in! We'd love to hear about it! HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Colton Shrader CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we are joined by none other than Bwana Chad Phillips, TCK Director for Assemblies of God World Missions. Bwana shares stories from his own TCK journey - how he navigated transition, what that taught him, and his biggest piece of advice for TCKs transitioning back to the States for college. Tune in to learn Bwana's full name and for lots of stories, resources, encouragement, and the reminder that you're not alone. There was so much more we wanted to talk about, so we can't wait to have follow up conversations to help us unpack all that goes with transitioning well. What questions do you have about transition? How can we help support you or your TCK? We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Colton Shrader SHOW NOTES: Beverweerd Castle TCK Counseling Building a R.A.F.T. - How to Leave Well CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we have our first career-oriented conversation with TCK Chloe Jones. If you missed part I of this conversation, make sure to go back and give it a listen. Chloe is a TCK from Panama and now works as a nurse in Missouri. We cover everything from how growing up as a TCK in LAC helped Chloe develop skills she uses every day as a nurse, to one of her more interesting experiences since becoming a nurse. Do you have a question about life as a nurse? Send it in! We may include it on a future episode with other TCK guests in the medical field. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Colton Shrader CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, we are joined by one of our dear TCK friends, Chloe Jones! Chloe grew up in Panama and currently serves as a nurse in Missouri. You will hear Chloe share about what God has been teaching her about the internal pressures to live up to the expectations of others. She also shares about how this process has helped her peel off the layers of understanding her true identity, not just as a TCK but as a cherished child of God. Make sure to stay tuned next month for part II with Chloe! This was such a great conversation and we're so excited for you to join in and be a part of it! We would love to hear your thoughts and questions from this episode. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Colton Shrader CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

On this episode, you'll get to know the hosts behind THE ROOTED TCK. Find out about where they grew up, some of their memories and experiences as TCKS, and what they're up to now. Have a question for Michelle or Colton? Connect with us and you might just hear your question featured on a future episode! HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Colton Shrader CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid MK - missionary kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean

Welcome to THE ROOTED TCK podcast where we unpack the pressures of TCK life to grow deeper in faith, friendships, and confidence that God cares about every part of our stories. THE ROOTED TCK is a ministry of LAC; but whoever you are, wherever you are, you are welcome to join us! Tune in for a new episode every month! HOSTS: Michelle Ellis & Colton Shrader CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram COMMON TERMS: TCK - third culture kid LAC - Latin America Caribbean