I’m joined once again by Dr. Ken Yeager for an honest and insightful conversation about healing from trauma. And why it’s so much more than just “moving on.” As a journalist and trauma survivor myself, I know firsthand how deeply these experiences can affect both our bodies and our minds.

In this episode, Dr. Yeager and I dig into the science behind trauma and stress, exploring how unresolved pain and constant fight-or-flight responses can show up as physical symptoms—everything from gut issues to memory lapses.

We talk about the myth of the “quick fix,” and the importance of understanding how nutrition, nervous system regulation, and holistic wellness all play a part in true healing.

I open up about my own healing journey, including what it’s taken for me to unravel old patterns, the obstacles I’ve faced, and the ways I’ve learned to ask for help. Dr. Yeager helps map out what recovery really looks like. Highlighting why it’s a team effort, why vulnerability matters, and how patience and compassion are essential.

If you or someone you care about is living with the aftermath of trauma, I hope our conversation offers guidance, encouragement, and real hope. You are not alone, and there is a path forward—one step, one day at a time.

Some important takeaways I wanted to share:

• Healing is Holistic: Trauma has a real, measurable impact on physical health, including inflammation, chronic illness, and even memory loss. Addressing trauma requires looking at emotional, nutritional, physical, and environmental factors, not just quick fixes or medications.
• The Recovery Journey is Nonlinear—but Mapped: True healing isn’t instant. Dr. Yeager shared a roadmap of about 18-24 months, with stages of crashing, building hope, setbacks, and ultimately acceptance and growth. Understanding this timeline can help set compassionate expectations for ourselves and others.
• Self-Awareness is the Foundation: Early warning signs of stress and trauma (jaw clenching, sleep disturbance, emotional numbing) are our body’s way of communicating. Being honest with yourself and willing to ask for help opens the door to real, lasting change.

Moments

00:00 Stress, Inflammation, and Health Risks

04:04 Visualizing Emotional Impact on Body

09:12 "Balancing Holistic and Western Medicine"

10:45 Balancing Health and Medication

16:39 Aging, Trauma, and Cognitive Decline

20:05 Neurotransmitter Activity in Hyper-vigilance

22:45 Understanding Memory Gaps and Trauma

24:51 Intentional Healing Through Determination

27:31 "Challenges of Executive Dysfunction"

31:45 Recovery Challenges: 120-180 Days

36:57 Understanding Neurodivergence and Addiction Struggles

40:05 Empowerment Through Understanding and Support

Spirit of EQ

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

Triggers and Activators Are More Than Buzzwords: We clarify that “triggers” (or “activators”) are events that alter our nervous system, often deeply rooted in past traumas, not just everyday disappointments.

In this conversation, Jeff shares a personal story about how traumatic events from our past, big or small, can leave lasting marks on our nervous system and influence our emotions well into the future.

Our discussion takes a thoughtful look at how emotional intelligence (EQ) can help us navigate and manage these triggers, not by erasing them, but by developing new ways of thinking and responding.

We emphasize the importance of curiosity instead of judgment when reflecting on emotional responses and describe how, just like updating outdated computer software, we can “upgrade” our mindsets and beliefs to function better in today’s world.

This episode offers practical strategies, a few laughs, and a poignant reminder that while working through our triggers takes effort and sometimes outside help, the journey is well worth it, and none of us has to go it alone. Whether you’re looking to understand your own emotional responses or support someone else, there’s something here for everyone looking to grow on their EQ journey.

Here are 3 key takeaways for you:

• Triggers = Old Neural Pathways: Our emotional triggers are often rooted in past events that created neural pathways in our brains—think of it as “old software” that keeps running unless we update it through intentional effort and curiosity.
• EQ is a Learnable Tool: Emotional intelligence isn't a magic fix, but it’s a powerful, learnable skill to help us recognize, understand, and slowly reprogram our responses to triggers. This process requires work, but that’s where real growth happens.
• Curiosity Over Judgment: The first step to transforming our experience is curiosity, not blame. By exploring past emotions without judgment, we can identify which beliefs still serve us, and which need updating.

Key Moments

00:00 Trauma's Impact on the Brain

03:59 Navigating Triggers with Emotional Intelligence

07:12 Building New Neuroconnections

11:53 Curiosity in Emotional Reflection

13:28 "Rewire Thoughts, Question Core Beliefs"

18:12 "Creating Space for Energy Renewal"

21:38 "Simple Complexity of Auto Repair"

23:41 "The Insidious Influence of Wealth"

26:40 "What Happens When the Wizard's Power Fades?"

30:28 Thinking, Fast vs. Slow

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 [email protected], or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.

You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast player.

New episodes are available on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays every month!

Please review our podcast on iTunes. Click on the link for an easy, step-by-step tutorial.

Music from Uppbeat

https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper

License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE

Spirit of EQ

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thanks for listening to Spirit of EQ

This podcast was created to be a tool to primarily help you to discover and grow your EQ. Science and our own lived experiences confirm that the better we are at managing our emotions, the better we're going to be at making decisions. Which leads to a better life. And that's something we all want. We're glad that you've taken the time today to listen. We hope that something you hear will lead to a breakthrough. We'd really appreciate a review on your podcast platform. Please leave some comments about what you heard today, as well as follow and subscribe to the podcast. That way, you won't miss a single episode as we continue this journey.

SEQ Development Report

The SEQ Development Report is an innovative tool that combines emotional intelligence with one's spiritual life, distinct from religious contexts. The report helps individuals understand their connections with themselves, others, and their surroundings. It aims to identify areas in their lives that may need improvement and highlight their strengths, ultimately facilitating better navigation through life.

We’re talking about a topic that touches so many lives but is still so misunderstood. Trauma and its profound impact on our minds and bodies.

I’m joined once again by Dr. Ken Yeager, a leading expert whose career has been dedicated to understanding trauma, neuroscience, and the power of nervous system regulation.

In this conversation, we unpack what trauma really does to us. Not just emotionally, but neurologically. We explore how adverse life events, especially early in life, can literally rewire our brains, influencing everything from our daily decisions to our sense of safety in the world.

Dr. Yeager explains the science behind the fight, flight, and freeze responses, and why high-pressure professions like journalism, healthcare, and law can leave us feeling chronically on edge.

You’ll hear personal stories from my own journey as a journalist and trauma survivor, and we’ll talk about the realities of living in a society that demands more, faster—and why that’s making so many of us unwell. More importantly, we focus on hope and practical tools, like mindfulness and nervous system regulation, that can help us begin to heal, slow down, and actually experience life in the present.

If you’ve ever felt exhausted, anxious, or wondered if there’s a healthier way to move through the world, this episode will resonate with you. We’re here to remind you that you’re not alone—and there is hope and support on the horizon.

Here are my 3 key takeaways:

Trauma isn’t just “in your head." It rewires your brain and narrows your ability to access critical thinking, often pushing you into fight, flight, or freeze mode. This can make daily life and decision-making feel overwhelming, especially in high-stress professions.

Nervous system regulation and mindfulness are not just nice-to-haves; they’re game changers for sustainable performance and wellbeing. Simply learning to check in with your body, take a deep breath, or slow down your internal pace cues your brain to exit survival mode.

Organizations that acknowledge the impact of stress and create space for mindfulness see real benefits. Not just for their people, but for productivity as well. A reimagined “work-life balance” starts by recognizing that we’re not machines, and our emotional well-being deserves real priority.

Moments

00:00 Understanding Trauma and Nervous System Regulation

03:52 Trauma's Impact on Brain Function

07:51 "Managing Calm in Recovery"

10:08 "Building Positive Energy Awareness"

16:12 Post-COVID Work-Life Balance Trends

20:26 Nervous System Stress Impacts

22:32 Prioritizing Emotional Well-Being Over Expectations

26:37 Grounding Through Presence

28:49 Finding Focus and Grounding

31:23 Mental Health Resources & Support

Spirit of EQ

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

Welcome back to Spirit of EQ! In this episode, Eric here. I

In this episode, I look into the powerful connection between emotional intelligence and curiosity. I’ve been thinking a lot about how curiosity isn’t just a personality trait—it’s a vital tool that can open the doors to learning, enrich our relationships, and help us truly understand ourselves and others.

Drawing from my own experiences and practical examples, I unpack how curiosity ties into key emotional intelligence competencies like recognizing patterns, intrinsic motivation, and empathy.

I’ll share some personal insights on how easy it is to slip into judgment, and why being intentional in my conversations, especially by asking open-ended questions, has made such a difference, even with people I might not always see eye to eye with or those I may have taken for granted.

If you’re looking for ways to strengthen your connections or become a lifelong learner, you’ll find something valuable in this episode. Slow down, shift gears, and discover the transformative power of curiosity in our everyday lives.

Here are my top 3 takeaways:

Curiosity Strengthens Relationships: By taking a genuine interest in others—especially those closest to us—we reinforce our connections and communicate how much we value them.

Intentional Practice Drives Growth: Being curious, especially in tough situations or with people we disagree with, takes intentional, sometimes uncomfortable work. Leaning into open-ended questions helps us gather better data, not just quick judgments.

Curiosity Fuels Self-Awareness & Empathy: It’s closely linked to recognizing our own patterns, intrinsic motivation, and building empathy. Pausing and seeking to understand rather than rushing to react makes us better listeners, colleagues, and leaders.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Intrinsic Motivation and Empathy Explored

05:18 Curiosity in Meaningful Interactions

10:29 Nurturing Close Relationships Intentionally

13:04 "Curiosity Enhances Business Connections"

16:51 "Intentional Work in Relationships"

19:02 "Building Takes Time and Effort"

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 [email protected], or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.

You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast player.

New episodes are available on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays every month!

Please review our podcast on iTunes. Click on the link for an easy, step-by-step tutorial.

Music from Uppbeat

https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper

License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Spirit of EQ

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thanks for listening to Spirit of EQ

This podcast was created to be a tool to primarily help you to discover and grow your EQ. Science and our own lived experiences confirm that the better we are at managing our emotions, the better we're going to be at making decisions. Which leads to a better life. And that's something we all want. We're glad that you've taken the time today to listen. We hope that something you hear will lead to a breakthrough. We'd really appreciate a review on your podcast platform. Please leave some comments about what you heard today, as well as follow and subscribe to the podcast. That way, you won't miss a single episode as we continue this journey.

I’m Hattie Hawks, and in this very special episode, I’m opening up about my personal journey with complex PTSD—how I discovered it, how it’s shown up in my life, and how it continues to shape my healing process.

I’m joined by Dr. Ken Yeager, the founder of the STAR (Stress, Trauma And Resilience) program at The Ohio State University and an expert in trauma research and recovery.

In this conversation, Dr. Yeager and I talk about what trauma really is, how it lives in our minds and bodies, and the sometimes subtle, sometimes overwhelming ways it impacts our emotions, executive function, and relationships.

We talk candidly about my own experiences—including the surprises and setbacks of recovery—and how trauma can show up even when we might not realize it. Dr. Yeager also gives us an accessible look at the neuroscience behind trauma, why we might blame ourselves, and the ways our culture and recent events (like the COVID-19 pandemic) have increased collective feelings of isolation and stress.

I hope this episode brings you validation if you’re on your own healing journey, or helps you better understand and support those around you. With honesty, some well-earned humility, and the wisdom of a true expert, we explore how emotional intelligence and self-compassion are absolutely crucial as we work toward joy and wholeness.

Thank you for being here with me—let’s take these next steps together.

Here are 3 key takeaways from our discussion:

• Trauma often hides behind everyday struggles. If you—or your colleagues—are feeling scattered, forgetful, or emotionally exhausted, underlying trauma might be part of the story. Understanding this is step one to creating more supportive workplaces.
• Healing is not linear—and self-compassion is essential. Progress is messy. You may move forward, backwards, or sideways, and that’s okay. Extending kindness to yourself (and others) is a critical part of recovery.
• Connection is the antidote to loneliness and shame. Whether you’re recovering from trauma yourself or leading others, fostering genuine human connection and open dialogue fosters healing and growth for everyone.

Key Moments

00:00 Trauma Insights with Dr. Yeager

09:44 "Parental Impact on Childhood Trauma"

13:19 Impact of Trauma on Perspectives

19:33 Healing Through Life Experiences

25:58 Understanding Personal History

30:20 Loneliness Epidemic: Fear of Closeness

33:37 Thriving Through Emotional Understanding

42:50 Struggling with Emotional Connection

43:54 Loneliness and Connection Crisis

53:22 "Self-Understanding Through Compassion"

55:16 Processing Emotions and Anger

01:01:11 Rediscovering Joy Amidst Challenges

01:11:06 "Understanding Work's Impact on Well-being"

01:12:44 "OSU STAR & Helpful Resources"

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 [email protected], or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.

You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast player.

New episodes are available on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays every month!

Please review our podcast on iTunes. Click on the link for an easy, step-by-step tutorial.

Music from Uppbeat

https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper

License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

Spirit of EQ

DEI is Broader Than Just Race - Dyann McDowell emphasizes that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) isn’t only about race—it includes disability, body type, age, religion, and more. Creating inclusive workplaces means considering everyone’s needs.

Eric here. I sit down with Dyann McDowell, a seasoned HR professional and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) expert with over 25 years of experience. Dyann shares her journey from traditional HR training to her pivotal role in DEI—well before it became a mainstream corporate focus.

Together, we talk about the most pressing challenges facing today’s workplaces: the evolving meaning of DEI beyond race, the resurgence of incivility, and why genuine inclusion and civility are more critical than ever.

Dyann brings a fresh, honest perspective on what’s working and what isn’t in DEI, highlighting the danger of divisive tactics and the importance of true conversation and curiosity. She draws from personal and professional stories—from lessons on privilege to the very real impacts of workplace culture—to illustrate how organizations can move past surface-level initiatives and create truly welcoming, high-performing environments.

Hear more about Dyann's latest project, “Civility Unleashed,” a new framework designed to help organizations not only address but transform toxic workplace behavior, build accountability, and foster real, sustainable change.

If you’re passionate about the future of work—or just want to be inspired by a candid, solutions-oriented leader—this episode is a must-listen.

Here are three key takeaways that stood out to me:

• DEI Goes Beyond Race: Dyann emphasizes that diversity, equity, and inclusion aren’t just about race. True DEI means considering all forms of difference—ability, size, age, gender, and more—to ensure everyone feels like they belong and can contribute fully.
• Civility Is a Business Necessity: The rise of toxic workplace behaviors and incivility isn’t just a social or moral issue—it’s a bottom-line problem. Dyann shares that only 16% of today’s workforce is actively engaged, and uncivil behavior is a top driver of disengagement and turnover. Building a respectful, civil culture is non-negotiable for organizational success.
• Curiosity and Civil Discourse Matter: One of the most compelling parts of the discussion was the urgency to bring back curiosity and civil discourse. Dyann advocates for workplaces where difficult conversations happen with empathy and openness, rather than judgment or division. “If we’re not opening up the conversation, then we’re not advancing.”

Key Moments

04:12 DEI's Future Post-Election Analysis

06:31 "Glasses and Unfair Blame"

10:33 Generational Privilege and Education

13:20 Debate Over Wilson School Naming

17:20 Reevaluating Affirmative Action Beliefs

19:41 Misconceptions About DEI

22:32 "Curiosity Deficit's Societal Impact"

27:42 "Six-Second Rule in Decision-Making"

29:20 Rise in Workplace Misconduct Cases

34:33 "Superstars' Behavior Excused at Work"

35:39 Leadership's Impact Flows Downward

44:50 Owning Mistakes with Grace

45:44 Empowering Employees Against Microaggressions

48:55 "Empowering Employees Through Constructive Dialogue"

52:45 "Understanding Emotional Intelligence"

55:54 "Leaning In to Listen and Learn"

59:11 "Divine 3 AM Mosaic Vision"

Dyann McDowell is a powerhouse in the world of Human Resources and Training. As the President and HR Business Partner at Training Marbles, Inc., a company revolutionizing HR Consulting and training. With a mission to elevate conversations and exceed expectations, Dyann transforms complex HR policies into engaging, understandable training programs. 

She's a strategic thinker who creates and implements high-performance solutions that directly impact growth, engagement, and compliance. Known for her thought-provoking insights, she helps others contemplate the changes necessary to achieve success.

Spirit of EQ

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 [email protected], or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.

You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast player.

New episodes are available on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays every month!

Please review our podcast on iTunes. Click on the link for an easy, step-by-step tutorial.

Music from Uppbeat

https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper

License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

Mentioned in this episode:

SEQ Development Report

The SEQ Development Report is an innovative tool that combines emotional intelligence with one's spiritual life, distinct from religious contexts. The report helps individuals understand their connections with themselves, others, and their surroundings. It aims to identify areas in their lives that may need improvement and highlight their strengths, ultimately facilitating better navigation through life.

Thanks for listening to Spirit of EQ

This podcast was created to be a tool to primarily help you to discover and grow your EQ. Science and our own lived experiences confirm that the better we are at managing our emotions, the better we're going to be at making decisions. Which leads to a better life. And that's something we all want. We're glad that you've taken the time today to listen. We hope that something you hear will lead to a breakthrough. We'd really appreciate a review on your podcast platform. Please leave some comments about what you heard today, as well as follow and subscribe to the podcast. That way, you won't miss a single episode as we continue this journey.

Welcome to Spirit of EQ! I’m Eric Pennington, and today I want to talk about one of the worst investments we can make—worry.

If you’re like me, you know how easy it is to pour your time, energy, and even your heart and soul into worrying, even though it rarely brings anything positive in return. In this episode, I’ll share some personal experiences from my time in the corporate world, and how worry became an all-too-familiar companion—one that often operated in the background, quietly eroding my peace and sometimes even affecting my relationships.

I’ll walk you through the lessons I’ve learned about the impact of chronic worry and, more importantly, how developing emotional intelligence (EQ) helped me start traveling lighter. Together, we’ll look at practical ways to separate what we’re actually responsible for from what’s beyond our control and discuss how you can build healthier thought patterns that serve you better.

If you’ve ever gotten stuck in those endless cycles of “what if,” you’re not alone. Join me for an honest conversation about worry and discover some steps that could help you find more calm and clarity in your own life.

Here are a few key takeaways I share:

• Focus on Responsibility & Control: Narrow your focus to what you’re truly responsible for and what you actually have control over. Letting go of unwarranted worries is liberating and allows real growth.
• Emotional Intelligence is Key: Recognizing how your thoughts drive emotions—and learning to manage that process—is a skill anyone can build. EQ helps us break the cycle of worry and move forward with intention.
• Inventory Your Worries: Take time to honestly assess how much of your day is spent worrying—no judgment, just reflection. This awareness is the first step toward shifting your mindset and reducing unnecessary stress.

Key Moments

00:00 Corporate Merger Anxiety

05:49 Learning to Let Go

09:01 Emotional Intelligence and Personal Growth

13:41 Evaluating and Adapting Thought Patterns

15:48 Finding the Right Support Path

Spirit of EQ

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 [email protected], or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.

You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast player.

New episodes are available on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays every month!

Please review our podcast on iTunes. Click on the link for an easy, step-by-step tutorial.

Music from Uppbeat

https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper

License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

Mentioned in this episode:

SEQ Development Report

The SEQ Development Report is an innovative tool that combines emotional intelligence with one's spiritual life, distinct from religious contexts. The report helps individuals understand their connections with themselves, others, and their surroundings. It aims to identify areas in their lives that may need improvement and highlight their strengths, ultimately facilitating better navigation through life.

Thanks for listening to Spirit of EQ

This podcast was created to be a tool to primarily help you to discover and grow your EQ. Science and our own lived experiences confirm that the better we are at managing our emotions, the better we're going to be at making decisions. Which leads to a better life. And that's something we all want. We're glad that you've taken the time today to listen. We hope that something you hear will lead to a breakthrough. We'd really appreciate a review on your podcast platform. Please leave some comments about what you heard today, as well as follow and subscribe to the podcast. That way, you won't miss a single episode as we continue this journey.

Hattie Hawk steps into the hot seat, openly sharing her own EQ report—and together, she and Eric explore not only what her results reveal, but also how self-awareness, honesty, and the courage to confront personal challenges can lead to meaningful growth.

Eric and Hattie break down the assessment’s key components, from success factors like quality of life and well-being, to the core competencies that drive emotional intelligence.

Hattie gets candid about her own journey, revealing how complex life events, personal struggles, and intentional self-reflection have shaped her emotional landscape. The conversation touches on the power of recognizing patterns, navigating emotions, and cultivating empathy—not just for others, but for ourselves.

Whether you’re curious about taking an EQ assessment yourself or simply looking for inspiration to face your own life’s storms, this episode offers plenty of wisdom, encouragement, and practical strategies for building greater emotional resilience.

How it's used: The EQ Assessment is designed to measure factors like competencies (e.g., pattern recognition, emotional literacy, and navigation of emotions) and success factors (effectiveness, relationships, well-being, and quality of life), with a debrief provided by a practitioner and often followed by ongoing coaching.

Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode:

• Honest Self-Assessment Is Transformative - The value of an EQ assessment lies in being radically honest with yourself. As Hattie put it, “At the end of the day, you really only have to be honest with yourself to have a better life.” Growth really starts when you drop the facade and embrace your current reality with curiosity, not judgment.
• Leaning Into Your Strengths—And Weaknesses - It’s natural to focus on your lowest scores, but there’s power in acknowledging where you’re already strong. Hattie gravitated to her high “quality of life” score, which reflected intentional work she’d been putting in. Both strengths and challenges offer essential clues for personal development.
• Building Emotional Muscles Is a Dynamic Process - Developing EQ is like building muscle—it happens over time, through consistent effort, resistance, and sometimes discomfort. The process isn’t about achieving perfect scores, but about using insights to navigate challenges, improve relationships, and create more meaning in your life.

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 [email protected], or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.

You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast player.

New episodes are available on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays every month!

Please review our podcast on iTunes. Click on the link for an easy, step-by-step tutorial.

Music from Uppbeat

https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper

License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE

Spirit of EQ

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thanks for listening to Spirit of EQ

This podcast was created to be a tool to primarily help you to discover and grow your EQ. Science and our own lived experiences confirm that the better we are at managing our emotions, the better we're going to be at making decisions. Which leads to a better life. And that's something we all want. We're glad that you've taken the time today to listen. We hope that something you hear will lead to a breakthrough. We'd really appreciate a review on your podcast platform. Please leave some comments about what you heard today, as well as follow and subscribe to the podcast. That way, you won't miss a single episode as we continue this journey.

Managing our emotional state—by finding calm and focus—is essential before we can effectively plan or take action. If we're emotionally overwhelmed, our minds "swirl" and we lose clarity.

Eric here. I welcome back Jim and Lynette Vaive for an insightful discussion about how SEQ can help us navigate uncertainty, disruption, and the complexities of modern times.

From the looming impact of AI on the workforce to the inner crossroads of meaning and purpose, we explore practical ways to develop resilience and clarity. Discover why mere thinking isn’t enough to process our deepest worries, and how integrating spiritual, emotional, and intellectual awareness can unlock growth and connection.

Together, we discuss the stages of personal development, the power of intention at life’s crossroads, and the benefits of supportive community—along with real-world strategies and tools (like assessments and group cohorts) you can use to strengthen your own SEQ “muscle.”

Whether you’re just curious, seeking meaningful change, or feeling called to something deeper, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and tangible pathways forward.

Here are 3 key takeaways you can apply right now:

• Recognize Your Crossroads: Points of uncertainty or disruption are invitations, not dead ends. SEQ helps us see choice and growth where we might otherwise see obstacles.
• Balance More Than Your Mind: Navigating complexity isn’t just about thinking harder—it's about blending intellect with emotional and spiritual awareness to stay grounded and focused, especially in stressful times.
• Connection is the Catalyst: Whether through communities, assessments like the Enneagram, or simple reflection, building SEQ is most powerful when shared. There’s no one-size-fits-all—find your starting place and the people who will walk alongside you.

Key Moments

00:00 Understanding SEQ Amid Global Uncertainty

04:36 Spiritual Foundations Amid Life's Complexity

09:03 Calmness Unveils Ignored Issues

10:04 "Navigating Profound Conversations"

15:40 "Managing Emotions Quickly"

17:01 Intention and Cultural Priorities

20:46 Politics' Unintended Place in Soul

24:53 "Cohort Dynamics Explained"

27:26 Hiking Adventure at Mount Rainier

31:53 "Three-Mile Rest Spot"

34:35 Personalized Development Tools Access

38:42 "Guiding with Empathy and EQ"

41:33 "Guidance and Support Offered Freely"

43:06 "SEQ: Enhancing Personal and Global Connection"

Spirit of EQ

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 [email protected], or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.

You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast player.

New episodes are available on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays every month!

Please review our podcast on iTunes. Click on the link for an easy, step-by-step tutorial.

Music from Uppbeat

https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper

License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

Mentioned in this episode:

Thanks for listening to Spirit of EQ

This podcast was created to be a tool to primarily help you to discover and grow your EQ. Science and our own lived experiences confirm that the better we are at managing our emotions, the better we're going to be at making decisions. Which leads to a better life. And that's something we all want. We're glad that you've taken the time today to listen. We hope that something you hear will lead to a breakthrough. We'd really appreciate a review on your podcast platform. Please leave some comments about what you heard today, as well as follow and subscribe to the podcast. That way, you won't miss a single episode as we continue this journey.

We often think of caregiving as helping those with physical or medical issues. But there's another form – providing care to those facing emotional challenges.

We explore the nuanced role of emotional caregiving in our personal and professional lives.

We discuss the concept of an "EQ caregiver," focusing on the importance of providing emotional support to someone going through a trauma or emotional distress. This involves being present, empathetic, and establishing a connection with the person you're supporting.

Key insights

1. Empathy and Presence: True empathy goes beyond surface-level interactions. It involves actively engaging with others by asking insightful questions and listening without judgment. This approach helps to genuinely connect with others, offering support that extends beyond mere conversation.
2. Setting Boundaries: We highlight the importance of setting personal boundaries. This ensures that caregivers don't overextend themselves emotionally, which can lead to burnout or ineffective support. Being clear about your capabilities and limits is crucial for both the caregiver and the person receiving support.
3. Commitment and Communication: Understanding the level of commitment required is vital. It's okay to express when support needs to transition to professional help, and transparency in communication is essential. The value of honest dialogue about needs and limitations helps maintain relationships and fosters understanding.
4. Awareness and Self-Care: We emphasize the need for self-reflection and self-awareness. Caregivers are encouraged to assess their emotional state and ensure they are in a position to adequately support others without compromising their own well-being.

Key Moments

00:00 Empathy and Genuine Caregiving

12:51 Navigating Caregiver Boundaries

16:44 Seeking Understanding Through Vulnerability

19:42 "Communicate Honestly, Accept Perceptions"

20:39 "Commitment and Emotional Impulse"

24:08 "Reflecting on Life Choices"

29:27 Curiosity in Long-Term Relationships

32:20 Uncertain Conversations

36:12 Acknowledging and Overcoming Challenges

38:19 Avoiding "Me Too" Responses

46:44 "Unwavering Support Commitment"

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 [email protected], or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.

You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast player.

New episodes are available on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays every month!

Please review our podcast on iTunes. Click on the link for an easy, step-by-step tutorial.

Music from Uppbeat

https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper

License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE

Spirit of EQ

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

We hope you enjoy the podcast. Hopefully, you're tuning in on a regular basis. We'd love it if you would give us a great review on whatever platform you're listening to the podcast. It's so appreciative and helps us as we try to get more exposure for the work we do and the episodes that we publish. We're grateful to you as a listener. Secondly, our content is for educational purposes only. It's not intended by any stretch to diagnose or treat anything that may be occurring in your life or anyone else's life that you may be connected to through the podcast. And as always, we look forward to the next time that we're together. Take care.

Mentioned in this episode:

SEQ Development Report

The SEQ Development Report is an innovative tool that combines emotional intelligence with one's spiritual life, distinct from religious contexts. The report helps individuals understand their connections with themselves, others, and their surroundings. It aims to identify areas in their lives that may need improvement and highlight their strengths, ultimately facilitating better navigation through life.

Thanks for listening to Spirit of EQ

This podcast was created to be a tool to primarily help you to discover and grow your EQ. Science and our own lived experiences confirm that the better we are at managing our emotions, the better we're going to be at making decisions. Which leads to a better life. And that's something we all want. We're glad that you've taken the time today to listen. We hope that something you hear will lead to a breakthrough. We'd really appreciate a review on your podcast platform. Please leave some comments about what you heard today, as well as follow and subscribe to the podcast. That way, you won't miss a single episode as we continue this journey.