Ep 376 From Mission Field to New Calling: Navigating Transition with Tim Austin
From REALIFE Conversations for Christian Coaches by Teresa McCloy
April 22, 2026 · 35 min · Episode 376
About this episode
Tim Austin shares his journey of navigating a major life transition after 20 years as a missionary, discussing identity, purpose, and the coaching process.
In this episode, we sit down with our friend and fellow coach, Tim Austin, to explore what it really looks like to navigate a major life transition—especially when it involves calling, identity, and purpose. Tim shares his journey of spending 20 years overseas as a missionary and the unexpected challenges of returning home. What does it feel like to leave behind a place, a role, and a sense of purpose that defined so much of your life? We talk honestly about the loss, the uncertainty, and the deep identity questions that come with that kind of shift. We also explore the tension between urgency and trust—how easy it is to want immediate clarity, and how important it is to slow down, breathe, and allow space for God to lead. Tim opens up about the “in-between” season, where he stepped into a role he didn’t expect, and how that became a meaningful part of his journey into coaching. This conversation is especially for anyone walking through transition—whether you’re leaving a career, stepping out of ministry, or simply sensing that something new is unfolding. We reflect on how nothing is wasted, how past experiences shape future purpose, and how living on mission can look different…
People in this episode
Host: Teresa McCloy
Guest: Tim Austin
Topics covered
- life transition
- calling
- identity
- purpose
- coaching
- mission field
Keywords
- transition
- missionary
- identity questions
- coaching journey
- trust
- uncertainty
- purpose
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