We get into the topic of spirituality and its various interpretations, featuring esteemed guests Dr. Veronica Tracy-Smith, Lynette Vaive, and Jim Vaive, alongside Eric Pennington. In this episode, we'll explore how spirituality connects us to something larger than ourselves and the transformative impact it can have on our lives. Whether you're seek…

Our latest episode of the *Spirit of EQ* is an invigorating conversation with the insightful Quincy Williams, from Quality Wellness Performance and Coaching. We catch up with Quincy and discuss the nuanced relationship between fitness decisions today and their long-term implications. Quincy's previous guest appearances on Spirit of EQ are episodes …

The journey toward achieving personal and professional excellence. Jeff kicks things off by sharing personal anecdotes from his bowling league experiences, emphasizing the relentless practice and focus required to master those elusive spare shots and ultimately score that perfect game. These lessons from the lanes set the stage for a broader conver…

In today's world, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the complex interplay of emotions and daily distractions. Eric and Jeff go into the vital topic of simplifying our emotional landscape to enhance our emotional intelligence. They explore techniques like the 6-Second Rule to manage reactions, the importance of being intentional with our emotional foc…

Do you ever catch yourself believing those lingering negative comments from the past? Eric addresses how these can form neural pathways, influencing our reality and emotional responses, and both he and Jeff explore how you can rewrite this narrative. They also touch on the bigger EQ picture—from the simplicity yet profoundness of a noble goal, the …

We explore this unique aspect of our culture, and we discover some powerful lessons that still hold today. Here are 3 key takeaways: 1️⃣ Choose your praise wisely: Praise should be genuine and deserved, not just empty words. Let's be mindful of what we praise and ensure we're nurturing a culture of true accomplishment and encouragement. 2️⃣ Foster …

In this episode of the "Spirit of EQ" podcast, Eric Pennington welcomes co-founders of Feelalytics, Michelle Stinson Ross and Tina Schweiger, as they provide invaluable insights into leveraging technology to elevate emotional intelligence (EQ) in organizations. The highlight of the episode is the unveiling of a groundbreaking tool designed by Feela…

Embarking on a sales career or starting a business venture is much like committing to a long-term relationship. It presents a myriad of challenges, from the emotional toll of rejection to the discipline required to manage time. J.A. Dava of Latreia Coaching and Consulting unwraps the layers of wisdom of how to sustain the passion for sales and thri…

In this episode of the "Spirit of EQ" podcast, hosts Eric Pennington and Jeff East engage in a deep conversation with guest Jeremy Jensen, the chief of police for the Dubuque Police Department. Jensen's focus on emotional intelligence (EQ) and its impact on law enforcement makes for a compelling discussion about recognizing and managing emotions in…

In this episode, Eric Pennington hosts Rachel Scott, a senior UX designer at Buckeye Innovation. Rachel is also a passionate world traveler who aims to visit every country on the planet. Both Eric and Rachel discuss the importance of embracing adventure, challenging perspectives, and living intentionally in both personal and professional aspects of…

Welcome to the Spirit of EQ podcast! In this episode, host Eric Pennington is joined by special guest Ellen Isaacs, a licensed orthopedic physical therapist and nutrition coach. Ellen shares her inspiring journey from struggling with her own nutrition and eating disorders to becoming a passionate advocate for holistic health. After years of struggl…

Cat Perlson, Leadership Development Corporate Trainer We have an engaging conversation with Cat Perlson. We talk about the profound impact of trauma on mental health, advocating for the validation of emotions and resilience after traumatic experiences. Here are the key takeaways from our discussion: 1. Embracing Vulnerability and Seeking Support: C…

In this episode of the Spirit of EQ podcast, host Luke Cavanagh welcomes Giovanni Leoni as they discuss the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on human experience and organizations. Giovanni, the head of business strategy and development at Credo AI, highlights the importance of aligning AI with human values, while Luke emphasizes the need to a…

In this episode of the Spirit of EQ podcast, hosts Eric Pennington and Jeff East explore the intricacies of navigating change. Key Takeaways 1️⃣ Embracing Change: Change can be unsettling, but having a noble goal and evaluating if we're still following our true north helps us navigate through doubts. Recognizing patterns, reflecting on past experie…

We had the pleasure of hosting Professor Art Markman on the Spirit of EQ podcast. We had an insightful conversation on psychology, decision-making, and the importance of mental wellness. Here are three key takeaways from our episode: 1️⃣ "It depends" is the answer to many complex questions in psychology. Our decision-making process is heavily influ…

As we wrap up 2023, we find ourselves reflecting on a year filled with insightful conversations, personal revelations, and meaningful growth. In our latest podcast episode, Eric Pennington and Jeff East delve into topics covering emotional intelligence, personal health, and the impact of technology on the human experience. Eric and Jeff emphasize t…

Luke Cavanaugh is our guest host for this episode! His guest is Zara Shirazi, a native of Tehran, Iran who now runs a boutique branding agency based in Vaxjo. Zara is a really strong example of an optimist, a trait she learned from her highly entrepreneurial father, and she reflects on the upsides and downsides of growing up in the shadow of such a…

In this episode, we have a special guest joining us, Luke Cavanagh. In this episode, we dive into the world of emotional intelligence (EQ) and explore its impact on our personal and professional lives. We discuss the concept of navigating emotions and how it can be challenging for many individuals. Luke shares his own experiences with EQ and how it…

We explore the critical role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in healthcare and discuss the challenges faced by both physicians and patients in today's complex healthcare landscape. Here are 3 key takeaways from our engaging conversation: 1️⃣ Emotional intelligence (EQ) is vital for effective healthcare: Understanding and managing emotions play a sig…

We tackle the important topic of owning our history and embracing the valuable lessons it teaches us. We delve into how our past experiences shape our perspectives, our emotional intelligence (EQ), and our future. Here's a brief overview of what you can expect: 🔎 Looking Back for Growth: The episode highlights the power of examining our mistakes an…

If you've been following our podcast, you might recall that we've had some fascinating conversations with Jim in the past about spiritual emotional intelligence. But today, we dive even deeper into his journey of transformation and self-discovery. Here are 3 key takeaways from our captivating conversation: 1️⃣ The Power of Self-Reflection: Througho…

Robert Brezosky is a highly experienced Global Human Resources Executive with a successful record of transformational leadership across multiple areas of HR - including HR Operations, Talent Mobility, Early Career Development Programs, Recruiting, and HR Teams, in large multinational organizations, including PwC, The Walt Disney Company, and most r…

As the Executive Director at Leadership Columbus, Shannon Lee is committed to developing, connecting, and inspiring diverse leaders who serve as catalysts in building a healthy and vibrant community. She is most passionate about helping individuals change the way they experience leadership so that as leaders, they can create healing in the workplac…

On this episode of Spirit of EQ, our guest Toya Spencer dives into the current state of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Toya starts off by discussing the power of core beliefs and how they shape individuals' lives. She emphasizes the importance of examining and questioning these beliefs, even if they served as survival tools in the past. To…

Here's what we cover in this episode... We cover a range of topics including social media impact, effective communication, empathy, EQ, personal growth, mental health support, personal responsibility, and setting boundaries in the workplace. In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelligence, or understanding your emotions, …

Entrepreneur and artist Heather Hanson shares her inspiring journey to finding her true self and pursuing her passion as an artist. She discusses her wake-up call after being diagnosed with breast cancer and how it led her to prioritize self-care and explore her natural expression as an artist. Heather emphasizes the importance of being in choice w…

We welcome Josh Freedman, CEO of Six Seconds. As you listen to the podcast, you will gain valuable insights into emotional intelligence and its role in creating engaged workplaces and communities. With new research, frameworks, methods, and programs on employee well-being, we provide practical advice for individuals to strengthen their emotional in…

This is our 100th episode of Spirit of EQ! We reflect on our personal growth journey over the past few years and how creating this podcast has helped us spread that growth to others. We discuss the practical tools inside emotional intelligence that can improve decision-making and help all of us navigate life's challenges and opportunities. We talk …

It's not about giving a pass to those who do wrong, but rather allowing different perspectives and understanding. We all face ethical dilemmas and it's important to create space to think through the best way to proceed. This episode is a thought-provoking discussion on how to make a positive impact on oneself and society. Top Takeaways Provoking so…

Creating meaningful moments in life can lead to a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Find out how you can use preparation to create powerful and meaningful moments in your life. Watch or listen to Rush's Limelight soundcheck mentioned in the episode. In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelligence, or understanding your em…

Licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist Anita Ritchey from Directions Counseling examines the impact of core beliefs on mental health and well-being. By exploring how our deeply held assumptions shape our reality and behaviors, Rowe provides practical advice on identifying negative core beliefs and challenging them. Hear how trauma can …

Jim and Lynette Vaive delve deep into the world of Spiritual Emotional Intelligence (SEQ) and offer invaluable insights into the integration of emotional and spiritual aspects of our lives. From understanding the importance of self-awareness to living from the inside out, this podcast provides valuable tools for personal growth and transformation. …

What are the various aspects of the art of listening...to yourself? There is a connection between emotions and listening to yourself, and we talk about those connections. And the return we get when we listen to ourselves. The Art of Listening | Simon Sinek In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelligence, or understanding …

What happens when we are not able to be in the moment? What are those external and internal distractions? How do we keep those distractions under control? Find something every day that you can do to be fully present. Don't grow up too much! Jeff mentions the Redbull Soapbox Race in this episode. In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what e…

Timmy is the type of entrepreneur that inspires at every turn. He provides a combination of realism and optimism that is rare. I believe the audience will be drawn to his story, his approach to navigating transitions and why people matter most. Tim McCarthy is an entrepreneur and social change advocate with almost twenty years of experience in the …

Those two words - core beliefs - may be familiar to many. It brings up different connotations and different definitions to each of us. We're going to take some time in this episode to talk about what they are and how did we get them. What's their impact? Who do they impact? In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelligence,…

We've, on more than one occasion, tackled what happens when we're dealing with struggles and how to manage them. Sometimes that's from the mental health perspective, and sometimes, just from the challenges that the world presents. But we should be able to talk about the success and joy that we're experiencing even in the midst of maybe rapid change…

We welcome back again Lee Ann Lander. Can creativity and the corporate world live in harmony? We think so, and so does our guest, Lee Ann Lander. She is the owner of Lee Ann Lander Art and Creative Consulting. We all have "gifts." But how and when did we get to the place where each of us recognizes those "gifts"? But then as adults, we state we are…

We're going to explore some of the things that Jeff and I have found and discovered in 2022. Tools and ideas that we've been stirring, let's say marinating, in our minds that we think are going to make 2023 a really good year. In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelligence, or understanding your emotions, can do for you …

Truthfully, every episode is our favorite. And that being said, each episode offers a nugget, a gem, we pass along. Here are our favorites from 2022. And here are the episodes they come from... Living Your Noble Goal in Trying Times Giving Up Stuff The Curated Life Laughter is the Best Medicine Relentless Leadership Keeping It Simply Simple In each…

How can somebody that is practicing emotional intelligence help someone else get through the "holiday blues"? What are some things that you can do to support them? We revisit some EQ competencies to help build a strong foundation for support. *practicing good emotional literacy *navigating emotions *increase empathy *noble goal Plutchik Wheel of Em…

Jess Laughlin is the founder and head “good vibes” gifter at xoLaughlinCo., where she’s helped hundreds of people overcome the fear and awkwardness of reaching out to people during heavy life moments. Her online shop features thoughtfully curated gifts, primarily sourced from small businesses and helps express just the right sentiment for loved one…

This episode is a continuing conversation from an earlier episode and was spurred on by a comment made by a Spirit of EQ client. I'm really convinced that until you have a good, strong • level of spiritual and emotional awareness, • • true success • • is really, really difficult. In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelli…

Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain. Laughter releases the neurotransmitt…

The impact that it has on the workplace. The need for resources inside the workplace for employees. Employers are genuinely more concerned about their employees and offering benefits to address this. Here is Brene Brown's video mentioned in the podcast. In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelligence, or understanding you…

Timmy is the type of entrepreneur that inspires at every turn. He provides a combination of realism and optimism that is rare. I believe the audience will be drawn to his story, his approach to navigating transitions and why people matter most. Tim McCarthy is an entrepreneur and social change advocate with almost twenty years of experience in the …

Practice makes "better" when it comes to using your emotional intelligence tools in your toolbox. In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelligence, or understanding your emotions, can do for you in your daily and work life. For more information, contact Eric or Jeff at info@spiritofeq.com, or go to their website, Spirit of…

6 powerful stories of faith - Once all the villagers decided to pray for rain. On the day of prayer, all the people gathered, but only one boy came with an umbrella. trust - when you throw babies in the air, they laugh because they know you will catch them. hope - every night we go to bed without any assurance of being alive the next morning, but w…

There is a need for psychologically safe ways to ask for and get emotional feedback in the workplace. Inspired by the Net Promoter Score, Mindful Appy CEO, Tina Schweiger, has developed a way to track the emotional state of a group of people with the Net Emotional Index. We get to speak with Tina Schweiger, Co-Founder and CEO/Michelle Stinson Ross,…

We welcome Luke Cavanagh, Communication Leader, Inter IKEA Group, Americas Region, as our guest. So how does IKEA see EQ and its importance within its organization? Here is a link to the article referenced in this episode. Luke Cavanagh is a Corporate Communication Leader at Inter IKEA Group, working to support various functions in the IKEA Supply …