The Aloha EQ Podcast

Ruth Kongaika
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Semiweekly

The Aloha EQ or emotional intelligence podcast examines and compares US mainland EQ with island wisdom. Having lived in the islands for thirty six years with my husband and children, I share my experiences and knowledge gained in the islands of Tonga, American Samoa, and Hawaii. There are also missionary stories from the islands that we served with in Tonga as well as special guests that are friends from our many travels.  Come and listen to the fascinating islands where we lived, loved, and were nurtured in a fascinating world, very different than the one I grew up in. Delve into the world of Aloha, Talofa, and learn of the many cultures, traditions, and family relationships in the islands.

  1. 2d ago

    Tauhi Vā with Prof. Tevita Kaʻili

    Professor Tevita Kaʻili (BYU–Hawaii) discusses his Tongan heritage, bicultural upbringing, and anthropological work on tauhi vā (maintaining good relations) and fatongia (sacred duties), drawing on fieldwork in Maui, Seattle, and Auckland. He explores how Tongan cultural arts, religion, and communal practices adapt in the diaspora, shares family influences and personal stories—including his grandfather’s priesthood blessing during a hurricane—and highlights his book Marking Indigeneity. Thank you for listening to this episode of "The Aloha EQ Podcast". The reason for creating this podcast is to make emotional intelligence a priority in the lives of all who hear it. It is not just a buzzword - it is a lifestyle. You and your family will benefit from making emotional intelligence a part of everyday life. Listen to the other episodes, and leave your thoughts and share them with others. Aloha!  Ruth Kongaika rkongaika@gmail.com

  2. Sep 22

    From The Pumpkin Rollers to Tonga

    From a tiny farming town called Minersville to the remote island of Lofonga, Steven’s mission in Tonga becomes a quiet masterclass in gratitude, resilience, and emotional intelligence. Between a miraculous birthday package of Kool‑Aid, a life‑changing friendship with Shoni, and the slow work of learning a language and healing a wound, the episode shows how small, repeated acts and a shift in perspective turn scarcity into meaning. Short, moving, and full of humor—this story reminds us that ‘enough’ is a mindset, built one small choice at a time. Thank you for listening to this episode of "The Aloha EQ Podcast". The reason for creating this podcast is to make emotional intelligence a priority in the lives of all who hear it. It is not just a buzzword - it is a lifestyle. You and your family will benefit from making emotional intelligence a part of everyday life. Listen to the other episodes, and leave your thoughts and share them with others. Aloha!  Ruth Kongaika rkongaika@gmail.com

  3. Sep 18

    Faka’osi “Frank” Mo’unga's Story

    Join Ruth Kongaika as she shares the life of Faka'osi “Frank” Mo'unga—from a childhood of scarcity in Tonga and a mother’s quiet resourcefulness to mission service, repeated U.S. visa denials, and a moment of prayer that stopped a runaway truck. Through humor, faith, and unexpected turns, Frank’s story traces how community and commitment shaped a life across islands and continents. This episode highlights endurance, the ties that bind families, and why, despite travels around the world, Tonga remains the place he calls home—an intimate Pacific story of memory, meaning, and hope. Thank you for listening to this episode of "The Aloha EQ Podcast". The reason for creating this podcast is to make emotional intelligence a priority in the lives of all who hear it. It is not just a buzzword - it is a lifestyle. You and your family will benefit from making emotional intelligence a part of everyday life. Listen to the other episodes, and leave your thoughts and share them with others. Aloha!  Ruth Kongaika rkongaika@gmail.com

  4. Aug 31 ·  Video

    The Light at the End of the Tunnel: A Survivor’s Story

    On this episode of Aloha EQ host Ruth Kangaika interviews Rita Dane, author of The Light at the End of the Tunnel, who shares her true story of surviving the murder of her family in Baghdad, escaping danger, and rebuilding her life in the United States. Rita talks about the trauma of loss, living day to day while fleeing violence, discovering a personal faith and spiritual connection, and finding hope, safety, and healing after a long journey. Her memoir and message offer a powerful reminder of resilience and the possibility of new beginnings. Thank you for listening to this episode of "The Aloha EQ Podcast". The reason for creating this podcast is to make emotional intelligence a priority in the lives of all who hear it. It is not just a buzzword - it is a lifestyle. You and your family will benefit from making emotional intelligence a part of everyday life. Listen to the other episodes, and leave your thoughts and share them with others. Aloha!  Ruth Kongaika rkongaika@gmail.com

  5. Aug 6

    This is an episode of The Aloha EQ Podcast.. My son recently retired after 30 years serving .

    Listen to this episode about by son, Robert aftere 30 years service. Videos that reflect my passions and interests. https://digitalnestforparents.online Thank you for listening to this episode of "The Aloha EQ Podcast". The reason for creating this podcast is to make emotional intelligence a priority in the lives of all who hear it. It is not just a buzzword - it is a lifestyle. You and your family will benefit from making emotional intelligence a part of everyday life. Listen to the other episodes, and leave your thoughts and share them with others. Aloha!  Ruth Kongaika rkongaika@gmail.com

  6. Jun 8

    Purpose Over Popularity - The Legacy of a Colonel

    Born in Tonga and inspired by flight, Robert James Kongaika pursued education and a 30-year career in the United States Air Force, serving around the world and rising to the rank of colonel. This episode celebrates his quiet sacrifice and the unwavering support of his family, and encourages listeners—especially young people—to choose a meaningful life of service and commitment. Thank you for listening to this episode of "The Aloha EQ Podcast". The reason for creating this podcast is to make emotional intelligence a priority in the lives of all who hear it. It is not just a buzzword - it is a lifestyle. You and your family will benefit from making emotional intelligence a part of everyday life. Listen to the other episodes, and leave your thoughts and share them with others. Aloha!  Ruth Kongaika rkongaika@gmail.com

  7. Jun 8 ·  Video

    Purpose Over Popularity - Legacy of Robert Kongaika

    Host Ruth Konaika shares the life and legacy of her son, Colonel Robert James Kongaika — a boy from Tonga whose love of flight and dedication led to 30 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. The episode highlights the quiet sacrifices of military life, the strength of family support, and the lessons of purpose and character that come from choosing service over comfort. Thank you for listening to this episode of "The Aloha EQ Podcast". The reason for creating this podcast is to make emotional intelligence a priority in the lives of all who hear it. It is not just a buzzword - it is a lifestyle. You and your family will benefit from making emotional intelligence a part of everyday life. Listen to the other episodes, and leave your thoughts and share them with others. Aloha!  Ruth Kongaika rkongaika@gmail.com

  8. Jun 8 ·  Video

    Wings of Sacrifice - Purpose Over Popularity

    Host Ruth Konaika shares the life of her son, Colonel Robert James Kongaika — from a Tonga childhood and a love of flight to 30 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, including global assignments and academic achievement. This episode highlights quiet sacrifice, family resilience, and the choice to serve, inviting young listeners to consider how commitment and love create a meaningful life. Thank you for listening to this episode of "The Aloha EQ Podcast". The reason for creating this podcast is to make emotional intelligence a priority in the lives of all who hear it. It is not just a buzzword - it is a lifestyle. You and your family will benefit from making emotional intelligence a part of everyday life. Listen to the other episodes, and leave your thoughts and share them with others. Aloha!  Ruth Kongaika rkongaika@gmail.com

See All (59)

About

The Aloha EQ or emotional intelligence podcast examines and compares US mainland EQ with island wisdom. Having lived in the islands for thirty six years with my husband and children, I share my experiences and knowledge gained in the islands of Tonga, American Samoa, and Hawaii. There are also missionary stories from the islands that we served with in Tonga as well as special guests that are friends from our many travels.  Come and listen to the fascinating islands where we lived, loved, and were nurtured in a fascinating world, very different than the one I grew up in. Delve into the world of Aloha, Talofa, and learn of the many cultures, traditions, and family relationships in the islands.

Information

  • Creator
    Ruth Kongaika
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    59
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Aloha EQ Podcast