Spirit of EQ

Eric Pennington and Jeff East
  • 5.0 (21)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY
Spirit of EQ

Life is a journey. We help shape and guide the road ahead for individuals, leaders, teams, and organizations wanting to realize their full potential through emotional intelligence. https://spiritofeq.com/

  1. NOV 13

    Lessons From a Mountain Hike

    Hello everyone, and welcome back to the Spirit of EQ podcast! I'm your host, Eric Pennington, and in today's episode, we're diving into a personal and transformative experience I recently had hiking near Mount Rainier in Washington State. Despite my fear of heights, I pushed through a challenging 6-mile trek, rising from 7,000 to 8,000 feet in elevation. Along the way, I encountered a myriad of emotions and found valuable lessons in vulnerability, the importance of naming emotions, and the power of taking life one step at a time. Join me as I share my journey, the strategies that helped me overcome my fears, and the insights gained from this unforgettable adventure. Life Lessons from the HikeEric wraps up the episode by summarizing the life lessons he gathered from this hike: Life as a Hike: He emphasizes that life is a series of moments or "chapters," and recognizing each moment as part of a larger story can help us navigate difficulties. This perspective prevents us from being overwhelmed by challenges, as they are just a part of the larger narrative of our lives.Authenticity and Ego: Eric discusses the importance of showing up as your true self. When ego becomes too dominant, we risk becoming inauthentic. Vulnerability can indeed be risky, but if people abandon you for being vulnerable, it says more about them than it does about you.Emotional Intelligence: Naming and understanding emotions can transform them from an internal enemy to an ally. Eric credits EQ (Emotional Intelligence) skills for helping him manage his fear during the hike. These skills are essential tools that can be learned and honed over time.Success One Step at a Time: True success doesn’t come from skipping to the end goal but from the journey itself. Each step holds its own value and lessons. This approach applies not just to hiking but to all aspects of life, including career, relationships, and personal growth. 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 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....

    22 min

  2. OCT 23

    Exploring Creativity and Community: Stacie Boord’s Vision for Shadowbox Live

    How does embracing discomfort and resilience play a role in effective leadership, especially in creative environments? We have an amazing conversation with the incredibly talented Stacie Boord from Shadowbox Live. Stacie Boord is the CEO and creative powerhouse behind Shadowbox Live, the nation’s largest resident theater ensemble. Stacie brings her passion for the arts, her leadership insights, and personal reflections to this enriching discussion. **5 Keys You'll Learn:** 1. **Pandemic Lessons**: Stacie shares her hopes on the important lessons we can take from the pandemic and how they shape our future. 2. **Creative Leadership**: Discover how Stacie’s role as CEO hasn’t stifled her creativity but enriched it, providing invaluable experiences she transfers to her art. 3. **Quality of Life for Artists**: Stacie compares the lifestyles of artists in Columbus versus other cities and emphasizes the supportive community in Columbus. 4. **Curiosity and STEM in the Arts**: Learn how a STEM mindset and a curious nature benefit both artists and business leaders. 5. **The Artistic Journey**: Stacie deep dives into the significance of the journey, challenges, and the resilience required in the life of an artist. **Fun Fact from the Episode** Did you know? Shadowbox Live has revamped its performance schedule to run single shows over 6-7 weeks instead of 4 months with two simultaneous shows, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience for both artists and audiences! Memorable Moments 00:00 Nation's largest theater ensemble with diverse performances. 05:07 Imitating idols helps develop your unique voice. 07:29 Artists use STEM approach for creative experimentation. 11:11 Embrace feedback, adapt, improve, don't get behind. 13:33 Adaptation led to unexpected life lessons. 15:43 Showmanship in singing conveys emotional storytelling. 20:09 Artists must be present; audience notices disengagement. 22:13 Process involves sending video, then interview, guidance. 26:46 Don't add undue pressure; you're where you are needed. 31:32 Shift mindset to accept and navigate challenges. 35:06 Grateful for amazing father, shaped life's perspective. 38:25 Balancing CEO role enhances my creative work. 40:25 Long-term artistry enabled by supportive community funding. 45:40 Improving but inspired by colleagues, still artists. 48:39 Embrace adaptability and support personal and professional growth. 51:25 Reviving creative assets and expanding reach collaboratively. 54:15 Young musician wants to create artist retreat. 56:42 Providing opportunities and nurturing skills is exciting. 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 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...

    1h 2m

  3. OCT 9

    Don't Borrow Trouble: Staying Grounded in Uncertain Times

    What are some strategies you use to stay present when you’re feeling overwhelmed or distracted? In a world that constantly bombards us with information and stress, learning how to navigate uncertainty and stay grounded is crucial for mental and emotional well-being. We expand on their conversation, offering practical strategies to help you focus on the present and avoid wasting energy on future uncertainties. While political and socioeconomic challenges are ever-present, it's essential to remember that everyone faces unique personal hurdles. Whether financial stress, health concerns, or emotional isolation, these challenges can overwhelm our ability to manage daily life. The core message is clear: worrying excessively about future events depletes your mental and emotional resources. **Understanding "Don't Borrow Trouble"** Jeff introduced a phrase that carries timeless wisdom: "Don't borrow trouble." It's a reminder not to waste energy worrying about future events that you cannot control. "If you’re always looking at the next thing, you’re never going to be in the moment now," Jeff says. This divided mind and presence hinders your ability to make correct decisions today. Eric echoes this sentiment, quoting the biblical wisdom, "Don't worry about tomorrow, for today has enough trouble of its own." **Navigating Personal and Global Stressors** The hosts discussed the mental toll of overconsumption of media, particularly news outlets that thrive on sensationalism. When outlets constantly encourage us to worry, it’s vital to take a step back and evaluate the necessity and healthiness of the information being ingested. Here’s a helpful practice: make use of a "lockbox" strategy. As Jeff mentioned, mentally place worries you can't address immediately into a lockbox in the back of your mind. Save your emotional and mental energy for the present moment when you can effectively and meaningfully use it. **Developing Emotional Intelligence** Eric and Jeff bring in concepts from emotional intelligence to help avoid borrowing trouble: 1. **Emotional Literacy**: Recognize and name the emotions you are experiencing. Are you feeling fear, anger, or anxiety? Understanding these emotions sets the stage for dealing with them effectively. 2. **Consequential Thinking**: Reflect on the consequences of your thoughts and actions. If worrying about the future doesn't benefit you or others, why continue? 3. **Empathy**: Exercise empathy towards others and yourself. Understand that everyone is struggling with their own challenges. Remember, as Eric notes, giving empathy aligns with being fully present and supportive to those who rely on us. 4. **Noble Goal Alignment**: Assess whether your thoughts and actions align with your noble goal. Jeff’s goal, for instance, is to help people find the art in themselves. Borrowing trouble detracts from his ability to live out this noble purpose and be present with others. **Practical Steps to Avoid Borrowing Trouble** 1. **Limit Media Consumption**: Choose reliable, balanced news sources, and allocate specific times to catch up on news. Constant news notifications can serve as unnecessary stress triggers. 2. **Practice Mindfulness**: Meditation, deep-breathing exercises, and yoga can help you stay grounded and focus on the present moment. 3. **Seek Professional Help**: If you find it exceptionally hard to let go of worries, consult a therapist or a coach who can provide strategies tailored to your unique circumstances. 4. **Set Realistic Priorities**: Concentrate on what you can control today. Utilize to-do lists and prioritize tasks that have immediate impacts over hypothetical future problems. 5. **Engage in Healthy Distractions**: Hobbies, exercise, and social activities can help shift your focus from worrying about future uncertainties to enjoying the...

    30 min

  4. SEP 25

    Progress to Vigilance

    Eric Pennington and Jeff East get into the journey of personal growth and the challenges we all face along the way. They explore the importance of self-reflection, community support, and the persistence needed to overcome struggles. Eric shares his personal experiences, touching on societal pressures and the balance between striving for more and finding contentment. How do our brains process change? Jeff and Eric discuss the resistance we face, and the pivotal role curiosity and practice play in avoiding stagnation. From understanding the emotional toll of past traumas to celebrating small daily progress, Eric and Jeff provide valuable insights and encouragement to help you navigate your own path to growth. Plus, hear about the inspiring journeys of individuals who defy the norm, and discover why empathy and consequential thinking are key to transforming your mindset. Top Takeaways 1. **Self-Reflection and Community Support**: Integral components for personal growth, providing the foundation for understanding oneself and receiving the encouragement needed for development. 2. **Embracing Challenges**: Essential for growth, acknowledging that struggling is a normal part of the journey and a catalyst for progress. 3. **Persistence Is Key**: Continuous effort and persistence are crucial in achieving meaningful change and developing new behaviors and habits. 4. **Curiosity Prevents Stagnation**: Staying curious and maintaining regular practice are necessary to avoid stagnating and to facilitate breakthroughs. 5. **Societal Pressure and Personal Growth**: Understanding the impact of societal messages on personal decisions and behavior, and the pressure to constantly strive for more. 6. **Understanding Resistance to Change**: Exploring why people resist change, the role of the brain in this process, and how the brain can become an ally in overcoming this resistance. 7. **Consequential Thinking and Empathy**: Approaching setbacks and disappointments with empathy towards oneself and viewing consequential thinking from a positive perspective. 8. **Transformation Through Empathy**: The importance of empathy in transforming how one views the people who have caused past trauma and abandonment, facilitating healing and growth. 9. **Daily Progress and Small Improvements**: Focusing on daily progress and small, compounded improvements over time, rather than immediate large-scale changes. 10. **Updating Mental "Software"**: The necessity of updating outdated mental patterns formed from childhood traumas and fears, allowing new, healthier ways of thinking to guide growth and development. Key Moments 00:00 People fear change, friend struggles with commitment. 03:47 Brain signaling and self-doubt in experience. 18:41 Neuroscience experts say brain works on best guesses. 20:55 Fear: brain's protective response, personal experience. 23:26 Belief in overcoming abandonment trauma through therapy. 30:09 Seek help for deep trauma, don't isolate. 36:44 Impressions hinder understanding of personal growth. 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 EQ. You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your...

    43 min

  5. SEP 11

    Finding Your Authentic Self: Lessons in Creativity and Belonging with Lee Ann Lander

    How do you think the fast pace and constant connectivity of modern life affect one's ability to live authentically? What strategies could help maintain authenticity in a fast-paced society? We're back with another soul-stirring episode that's all about finding your true self amidst the chaos of modern life. We sit down with our beloved and frequent guest, the inspiring Lee Ann Lander. 5 Key Takeaways:The Cost of Inauthenticity: Eric explores the downsides of living an inauthentic life. The conversation explores how suppressing your true self not only eats away at your happiness but can have spiritual and emotional costs.The Power of Creativity: Creativity isn't just for artists! Lee Ann breaks down how everyone has an intrinsic creative trait, whether you're a fast-food manager radiating joy or a logistician bringing new ideas to the table.Belonging vs. Authenticity: The delicate balance of wanting to belong and staying true to who you are. Lee Ann and Eric discuss how societal pressures and the fear of judgment can lead to self-censorship.Curiosity and Self-Improvement: Jeff suggests looking at past mistakes through the lens of curiosity for emotional growth. Eric and Lee Ann discuss how understanding your emotions can turn moments of anger or regret into growth opportunities.Support Systems Matter: Discover the vital role a supportive network plays in your journey to authenticity. Even one like-minded person can make a world of difference. Fun Fact from the Episode:Lee Ann gives a heartwarming example of a fast-food manager whose joy and enthusiasm left a lasting impression, showing that authenticity and positivity can shine through in any job. Memorable Moments 00:00 Chose education and natural resources over writing. 05:56 Fear of judgment fosters inauthenticity for belonging. 11:43 Fearful management stifles team creativity and participation. 20:39 Creativity fosters growth by reframing past mistakes. 23:57 Embrace moments, correct them, and move forward. 29:25 Episode highlights dad's unintended influence on playing. 33:54 Respect others' values while sharing unconventional ideas. 39:19 Recognizing authenticity requires seeking external perspectives. 44:07 Progress takes time; it won't happen overnight. 50:23 World needs authentic people like Lianne's journey. 54:04 World loses much to time-consuming distractions. 01:01:52 Are you helping people move forward or backward? 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 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:...

    1h 9m

  6. AUG 28

    Emotional Taxation

    The hidden costs of our emotional expenditures. Jeff and Eric navigate the taxing effects of emotions in our everyday lives. We often think of taxes solely in monetary terms, but how burdensome charges can also apply to our emotional well-being. They explore how concerns like worry, envy, workplace unease, and relationship strains can deplete our emotional reserves, leaving us drained and overburdened. Jeff and Eric will also provide insightful strategies for identifying what’s within our control to change and what isn’t, offering paths to reclaim our emotional energy. It's all about gaining the courage to make changes where we can and the wisdom to accept what we cannot. Top Takeaways 1. **Emotional Taxation** - The idea that just as there are financial taxes, there are emotional taxes that can burden individuals, such as worry, envy, and the stress of relationships and work. 2. **The Power of Expectations** - Setting appropriate expectations can mitigate emotional taxation. Just as you wouldn't expect a team with a poor track record to win a championship, managing expectations in life can reduce emotional burden. 3. **Address vs. Worry** - There's a distinction between addressing an issue proactively and worrying about it. Proactive approaches can alleviate emotional taxes, whereas worry can exacerbate them. 4. **Reevaluating Relationships** - It's crucial to assess personal relationships and consider if they're beneficial. Staying in unhealthy relationships can be an unnecessary emotional tax. 5. **Workplace Challenges** - Changes at work can be perceived either as a tax or an opportunity. Embracing challenges can lessen the emotional taxation. 6. **Reflection and Control** - Reflecting on what elements of a situation are within one's control can help in making effective decisions to reduce emotional taxation. 7. **Actionable Changes** - Identifying and focusing on things one can change, rather than those one cannot, is key to decreasing emotional taxes and improving quality of life. 8. **Serene Acceptance** - The serenity prayer or a similar sentiment helps highlight the importance of accepting what can't be changed and finding the courage to change what can, thereby reducing emotional taxation. 9. **Curiosity and Reflection** - Employing curiosity and reflection helps to break out of negative emotional loops like continuous worry, thereby reducing emotional taxation. 10. **Think, Feel, Act** - This process involves thinking about a situation, identifying one's feelings about it, and then taking appropriate action. This cognitive approach can help manage and reduce emotional taxation. Memorable Moments 00:00 "Worry as a form of tax imagery." 03:29 Worrying about job loss and financial insecurity. 09:00 Inability to take responsibility in relationships acknowledged. 11:15 Control worry, envy, and mindset in work. 13:48 Reflection on self-awareness and decision-making process. 18:54 Differentiate between what can and cannot change. 19:32 Explore new job opportunities for better fit. 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 EQ. You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts,...

    24 min

  7. AUG 14

    Demystifying Spirituality with Dr. Veronica Tracy-Smith, Lynette Vaive and Jim Vaive

    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 seeking ways to enhance your spiritual intelligence or looking for some inspiration on your journey of self-discovery, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge, practical tips, and heartfelt reflections. Top Takeaways 1. **Defining Spirituality**: Dr. Veronica Tracy-Smith defines spirituality as a connection to something larger than oneself, being in service to that spirit, and engaging in practices to ground oneself physically and emotionally. 2. **Spiritual Awareness**: Lynette Vaive emphasizes going beyond the physical realm to become aware of another piece of oneself that guides in the right direction, which is pivotal in her spiritual journey. 3. **Connection and Essence**: Jim Vaive discusses spirituality as the essence inside oneself that connects with the universe, other people, and the world at large. 4. **Somatic Practices**: Both Dr. Veronica Tracy-Smith and Lynette Vaive talk about the importance of somatic practices like breathing exercises and yoga to enhance spiritual awareness and presence. 5. **Impact of Life Stages**: The guests agree that different life stages and experiences shape one's spiritual journey, prompting introspection about purpose and legacy. 6. **Self-Reflection and Self-Care**: Lynette Vaive highlights the importance of making time for self-reflection and nurturing one's spirit, including scheduling specific time for self-care activities. 7. **Emotional Intelligence**: Jim Vaive and Lynette Vaive stress the importance of understanding and integrating one's personality type and emotional intelligence into one's spiritual development. 8. **Tools for Personal Growth**: The comprehensive report linking emotional and spiritual intelligence is designed to aid personal growth and coaching purposes, providing language to describe emotions and experiences. 9. **Spiritual Intelligence Assessment (SQ21)**: Dr. Veronica Tracy-Smith discusses SQ21, which consists of 21 skills based on emotional intelligence and includes aspects like recognizing ego and exploring one’s mission, vision, and values. 10. **Breathing and Mindfulness**: Practices like the box breath technique and finding quiet stillness are recommended as small steps to begin one's spiritual journey, enhancing personal growth and self-awareness. Memorable Moments 00:00 Define spirituality, connect to something larger than self. 06:21 Religious upbringing, cognitive intelligence shift, emotional journey. 07:55 Understanding inner guidance and spiritual awareness through experience. 12:01 Encouraging embracing attention, reflection, and spiritual growth. 14:51 Enhancing emotional intelligence through spiritual consideration. 24:02 Developing emotional intelligence is about self-awareness. 25:23 Understanding triggers, self-awareness, growth, and continuous journey. 34:51 Connecting with ourselves and others is essential. 36:06 Interpersonal connections are vital for personal growth. 42:44 Starting with the breath, finding quiet stillness. 43:28 Notice thoughts, create space, practice mindfulness activities. Psychologist, coach and teacher. With a multi-faceted lens towards growth and well-being I weave in healing of the body, emotions, thoughts and our spiritual Self in the work with clients. Dr. Tracy-Smith has a deep level of training in Somatic Experiencing, trauma healing, polyvagal therapy, adult, emotional and spiritual development. She is also an instructor for the College of Executive Coaching in

    53 min

  8. JUL 24

    Redefining Health Goals with Quincy Williams

    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 62 and 67. Top Takeaways 1. **Anticipating Future Health**: Understanding that the decisions and actions made in one's fifties will significantly influence their quality of life in the subsequent decade, stressing the value of planning and maximizing the present to benefit future well-being. 2. **Mindset Over Metrics**: Highlighting the necessity for a shift in focus from short-term physical health metrics like weight and blood pressure to broader goals about what one wishes to be doing in the future. 3. **Interdisciplinary Collaboration**: Emphasizing the importance of transparency and collaboration between healthcare providers and fitness professionals to ensure comprehensive client care and the consideration of medication impacts on fitness programs. 4. **Holistic Health Approach**: Advocating a balanced emphasis on sleep, nutrition, exercise, and recovery as essential components of well-being, rather than quick fixes like weight loss drugs. 5. **Emotional Intelligence in Fitness**: Recognizing the value of emotional intelligence in managing emotions, making better lifestyle choices, and finding the personal motivation for maintaining fitness goals. Memorable Moments 00:00 Valid studies invite scrutiny and skepticism for improvement. 06:57 Validate, understand, and give yourself grace. Trust. 14:51 Finding the why behind fitness and health. 16:36 Using tools for exercise and longevity is important. 22:40 Plan for the future and maintain well-being. 29:55 Small injuries impact movement and lifestyle choices. 33:54 Incorporate EQ, functionality, and specific fitness goals. 37:02 Open communication with your doctor is crucial. 44:47 Importance of weight loss and muscle building. 50:14 Enhancing emotional intelligence for better decision-making. 56:22 Individual choice is important but consider consequences. 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 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...

    1h 11m
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About

Life is a journey. We help shape and guide the road ahead for individuals, leaders, teams, and organizations wanting to realize their full potential through emotional intelligence. https://spiritofeq.com/

Information

  • Creator
    Eric Pennington and Jeff East
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2024
  • Episodes
    134
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Spirit of EQ
  • Show Website
    Spirit of EQ

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