Spirit of EQ

Hosted by Eric Pennington and Jeff East

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181

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Aug 2026

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About the show

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/

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August 19, 202631 min

How Physical Sensations Can Guide Your Emotional Intelligence Journey

Turning Physical Sensations Into Emotional Insight: Tips for Everyday Practice We take an insightful look at emotional literacy—not just as a textbook concept, but as a lived, everyday experience grounded in our physical sensations. Through real-life stories and honest conversations, we explore how emotions manifest in the body, why these physical cues matter, and how learning to recognize them can help us shift from simply reacting to thoughtfully responding. Whether you’ve just started your journey with emotional intelligence or you’re looking for practical ways to build self-awareness, today’s discussion offers encouragement, relatable examples, and useful exercises to help you tune in to what your emotions are truly telling you. We dig into the process of building emotional intelligence, break down the difference between reacting and responding, and remind ourselves that growth is a journey—one where self-compassion matters as much as self-awareness. Resource Mentioned: Kairos Prison Ministry: A Christian prison ministry that involves organized talks and group sessions to help residents (prisoners) make better choices, referencing concepts similar to emotional intelligence. For more information, you can visit the official website: https://www.kairosprisonministry.org/ 3 Key Takeaways: Physical Sensations Are Powerful Messengers: Emotions don’t just happen in your head. Paying attention to where you feel anger, relief, or jealousy in your body can amplify the message your emotions are trying to send you. This awareness is a learnable skill that gets easier and faster with practice. React vs. Respond: There’s always a split-second window between feeling an emotion and choosing your action. Practicing the pause, even for a few seconds, helps shift you from knee-jerk reactions to thoughtful responses that serve you (and your relationships) better. Self-Compassion on the Journey: Don’t judge yourself for where you are. Emotional literacy is just like building a house—it takes time, intention, and sometimes things look messy before they come together. Every step forward is progress worth celebrating. Moments 00:00 Identifying Physical Signs of Frustration 04:00 The benefits of using new tech 06:32 Building habits takes time 11:09 Discovering a property tax lien 15:50 Body as an amplifier analogy 17:48 Recognizing emotional patterns 22:45 Managing internal narratives 24:41 Reflecting on past abandonment issues 27:31 Importance of catching issues early 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 visit 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 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month! Please review our podcast Music from Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Spirit of EQ 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.

August 5, 202631 min

Navigating a Family Crisis with Emotional Intelligence

Real-Life Applications of Emotional Intelligence During Difficult Times Jeff East shares a personal and powerful story about how his practice of emotional intelligence helped him navigate a family health crisis. When his father-in-law faced serious medical challenges, Jeff found himself managing waves of fear, worry, and stress—not just for his father-in-law, but for his wife and her sister as well. Jeff walks us through the practical steps of the KCG model —Know Yourself, Choose Yourself, and Give Yourself—and shows how those tools enabled him to provide support, remain calm, and offer meaningful encouragement during a difficult time. Along the way, Jeff and Eric explore the realities of emotional patterns, the myths around "forbidden" emotions, and the important role self-empathy and listening play in being present for loved ones. Whether you’re new to EQ or looking for real-life applications, this episode offers genuine insights and practical wisdom you can use when life gets tough. KCG Model The KCG model stands for Know Yourself, Choose Yourself, and Give Yourself. It’s a guiding framework for practicing EQ in real-life circumstances 04:16. Moments 00:00 Emergency surgery and complications 05:47 Handling stress and support concerns 07:50 Late-night unexpected events 11:36 Understanding and managing emotions 14:26 Intrinsic motivation and optimism 17:02 Managing expectations in tough times 23:18 Discussing the noble goal 25:43 Emotional intelligence discussion Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone facing tough circumstances, at home or work: Awareness Is Step One: Recognize and name what you’re feeling. Pausing to identify fear, worry, or frustration can stop runaway thoughts and bring clarity to what really needs attention. Intentional Response Over Reaction: Lean on EQ practices like consequential thinking. Ask, “What is my best path forward in this moment?” Responding intentionally, rather than reacting impulsively, helps support those around you. Presence Over Perfect Words: Sometimes being present and listening is more valuable than finding the perfect thing to say. Genuine empathy and simply showing up can be the greatest support. A reminder: you don’t have to get it perfect. As long as you’re practicing awareness and intentionality, you’re moving in the right direction. 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 visit 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 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month! Please review our podcast Music from Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Spirit of EQ 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.

July 15, 20261 hr 10 min

Women’s Retreats and Emotional Growth with Hattie Hawks

How Mindful Retreats Transform Women’s Lives with Hattie Hawks This time, I sit down with Hattie Hawks to talk about the power of emotional intelligence, her Mindful Retreats, storytelling, and how we can create more mindful, connected, and nurturing spaces—both at work and at home. 5 Keys You’ll Learn in This Episode The Power of Storytelling for Healing - Hear how Hattie Hawks uses storytelling in her podcast and retreats to foster connection and help others process life’s ups and downs (01:03). Breaking the Cycle of “Busy” - Discover how learning to slow down and care for your nervous system can dramatically improve your well-being—especially if you’re used to putting everyone else’s needs first (05:02). Why Environments Matter - Eric Pennington and Hattie Hawks explore how leaders (and all of us, really!) can create spaces that are both productive and nurturing, and why that’s absolutely vital—especially for women in high-stress roles (25:20). Intentional Connection in the Tech Age - As life gets busier and technology takes over, intentional relationships become harder…and even more important. Learn simple ways to foster real connection with loved ones and coworkers (35:07). The Stories We Tell Ourselves - Both Eric Pennington and Hattie Hawks get real about how inner narratives (sometimes totally made up!) can hold us back—and how awareness can help us move forward with courage (47:29). This conversation is jam-packed with insights, plenty of laughs, and some touching realness about healing, leadership, and living with intention. Whether you’re a leader, a parent, or just someone trying to keep your head above water, there’s something here for you. Moments 00:00 Exploring mindfulness and stress relief 05:25 Creating a calming environment 15:08 Balancing dreams with business reality 20:09 Importance of self-care and relaxation 26:11 Understanding Gender Perspectives on Safety 27:20 Discussing safety and trauma impacts 37:24 Strengthening intentionality with AI efficiency 39:50 Importance of Meaningful Connections 45:03 Hesitations about reaching out to guests 50:12 Second-guessing and overthinking ideas 59:09 Being a mentor and disciplinarian 01:04:39 Embracing Uncertainty and Faith 01:06:28 Facing challenges head-on Here are a few key takeaways for anyone looking to deepen their own EQ journey or support others: Genuine Connection Beats Busyness: Many of us are feeling more disconnected than ever, even as we scramble to keep up with packed schedules and endless demands. Making time for real conversations and meaningful connections—with family, friends, colleagues, and ourselves—can transform our quality of life and our ability to handle challenges. Psychological Safety Breeds Potential: Creating nurturing environments is not just a “nice to have”—it’s essential, especially for women and anyone facing high expectations at work. When we feel safe (emotionally and psychologically), our nervous systems can rest, our creativity thrives, and we’re more likely to show up authentically and compassionately. Rewrite Your Inner Narrative: The stories we tell ourselves—about what’s possible, what we deserve, what’s “normal”—shape our choices and our wellbeing. By being curious and intentional about these stories and having the courage to question them, we open ourselves to transformation. It may feel uncomfortable, but growth starts when we challenge old patterns. 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 visit 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 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month! Please review our podcast Music from Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Spirit of EQ 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.

July 1, 20261 hr 4 min

Lessons in Faith and Love with Ester Munt-Brooks

Choosing Divine Love First: Ester Brooks on Marriage, Family, and Faith This conversation with Ester Brooks was sparked by something I heard her say in a previous interview. That, in her marriage, she realized she needed to put God first and her husband, Arthur Brooks, second. I share my own reflections as someone married for 35 years, and we open up about the challenges and rewards of reprioritizing relationships. Ester Brooks gives a heartfelt account of her journey from youthful infatuation to the deeper, sometimes harder work of real, sacrificial love in marriage. She talks candidly about recognizing unhealthy expectations, letting go of perfectionism, and how practicing her faith helped her love more selflessly. We discuss the natural tendency to try to change others, especially in long-term relationships, and Ester Brooks shares insights on how genuine curiosity and getting to know her husband anew brought more connection and fulfillment. We also get into parenting, and both of us discuss the importance of not placing children at the center of the marriage but prioritizing the couple’s bond. Ester Brooks shares wisdom about releasing children to find their own paths and the security children gain from witnessing strong parental love. Faith is a thread throughout, as Ester Brooks reflects on how audiences are often most interested in discussions of meaning and spiritual longing, even in secular settings. We touch on the challenge of loneliness in today’s tech-driven world and the need to be present and nurture real-life connections. Throughout, love emerges as the ultimate purpose and goal, both in the everyday and the eternal. I hope you enjoy this thoughtful, warm discussion on what it means to truly love and be loved. Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone seeking more depth in their relationships and personal growth: Prioritize relationships intentionally: True love in marriage or partnership means loving selflessly, letting go of unrealistic expectations, and putting God (or your highest values) first to love others more fully. Stay present: We often lose sight of small, beautiful moments by focusing too much on the future or past. The real opportunity to love and connect happens in the present. Love goes beyond liking: We’re called to love even when it’s inconvenient or difficult, whether that’s a spouse, a challenging colleague, or the stranger at the grocery store. Willing the good of others, even if you don’t “like” them, creates space for growth and understanding. Ester Munt-Brooks is a Catholic educator dedicated to helping ordinary people deepen their faith and apply it to daily life. She speaks widely in parishes and at Catholic events around the United States for both English and Spanish-speaking audiences. She is currently pursuing her graduate education in Theology at the Augustine Institute. Ester also hosts a Spanish language radio show, “Mujer y Palabra,” Tuesdays at 9 am Pacific/12 pm Eastern on Guadalupe Radio Network. Originally from Barcelona, Spain, Ester has three adult children, two daughters-in-law, and four grandsons. She lives in Reston, Virginia, with her husband, Arthur Brooks . Resources Mentioned 1. Guadalupe Radio Ester Brooks hosts a radio show on Guadalupe Radio, a Spanish-speaking station in Los Angeles. Website: https://www.guadaluperadio.com/ 2. The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis Ester Brooks references "The Screwtape Letters," a book by C.S. Lewis. More information: https://www.cslewis.com/us/books/paperback/the-screwtape-letters/9780060652937/ 3. St. Augustine Quoted in reference to, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in God.” Background: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Augustine 4. St. John of the Cross Referenced for his teaching: “At the end of time, we will be judged by our love.” Background: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-John-of-the-Cross 5. San Josemaría Escrivá Referenced as a spiritual influence, specifically a quote about marriage and caring for one’s spouse. Background: https://www.opusdei.org/en-us/article/saint-josemaria/ 6. Dawes Arboretum Eric Pennington mentions this location as a personal inspiration and place of reflection. Website: https://dawesarb.org/ 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 visit 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 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month! Please review our podcast Music from Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Spirit of EQ 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.

June 17, 202623 min

The Stories We Tell Ourselves

Slow Down and Question the Stories Controlling Your Choices Why Do Stories Take Hold? I start by recalling a high school memory: there was someone I admired from afar but convinced myself was out of reach. The story I told myself then—“she’ll never go out with me”—seemed so logical at the time that I never even tried to ask. This early lesson stuck with me in surprising ways as I got older. It wasn’t just a high school crush; the same pattern resurfaces even in adulthood. For example, more recently, I hesitated to invite a high-profile guest to the podcast. The old narrative returned: “they’re too important, they won’t respond.” When I examined it, though, I realized it was just that—a narrative with no real evidence behind it. I didn’t know they would say no. I wasn’t rejected; I simply made up a story and acted as though it were already true. How Our Brains Protect Us Reflecting further, I notice how often these inner stories are about keeping us safe. Our brains, in many ways, are doing their job—shielding us from pain or disappointment. But there’s a danger in allowing this protective instinct to overrule reality. When self-doubt or insecurity becomes the main script running in our minds, we risk accepting fiction as fact. I encourage you to take a step back and observe the impact these stories have on your own life. Whether it’s at home, at work, or in your personal relationships, these internal narratives can hold us back, sometimes for years. The good news is that none of this is set in stone; we all have opportunities to pause and question our assumptions. The Challenge and Reward of Questioning I share a more personal example—the story I internalized during childhood about abandonment. Because of experiences in my early life, I unknowingly carried this fear into adulthood. It took decades before I finally challenged the belief that every relationship could end in abandonment. It wasn’t easy—changing these ingrained stories takes real effort, and our minds are adept at convincing us their version is the truth. Still, through intentional reflection and curiosity, I was able to recognize that while abandonment can happen to anyone, living in constant expectation of it was no longer serving me. When we allow ourselves to slow down and really look at these stories, we can often separate fact from feeling, and open ourselves to new possibilities. Moving from Fear to Intention Whether it’s the hesitation to send a podcast invitation or deeper wounds from our past, the pattern is the same: the stories feel real and comfortable, sometimes more so than the possibility of a positive outcome. Our brains resist new evidence, preferring what’s familiar and “safe.” That’s why it’s so important to confront these narratives with intention and, above all, self-compassion. I’m not here to lecture on brain science, but I am passionate about the importance of being intentional—slowing down, getting curious, and treating disappointment as another temporary guest, not as a permanent state. If we can listen to our disappointment, even give it a “microphone,” we may gain the courage to move past it. Over time, this builds new neural pathways—new patterns that support healthier thinking and richer relationships. Tips for Managing the Inner Narrative Before wrapping up, I offer a few practical suggestions: Slow Down : Find moments in your day to quiet your mind. Turn off music during your commute, take a few deep breaths, or carve out five minutes for reflection. Finding mental stillness, even briefly, makes space for honest questioning. Question Without Judgment : Take an inventory of your thoughts. Ask yourself, “Is this story really true? Why do I believe it? Is it serving me?” It’s not about whether you’re good or bad for believing a story, but whether it’s true and helpful now. Validate and Adjust : Not every story we tell ourselves is false. Some have value and should remain part of our worldview. The key is to ensure they’re valid, not self-limiting myths. Throughout the episode, I reflect on how our value systems shift as we age. As children, what truly matters is straightforward—family, close friends, relationships. But as we grow and life becomes more complex, outside influences (career, money, status) compete for top billing. Our internal stories often reinforce these shifting priorities, sometimes to our detriment. The Lasting Impact of Our Stories As I close, I return to a conversation with a client who realized while watching his children that the simplest values often matter most. It’s a reminder that the stories we tell ourselves don’t just affect us—they shape our relationships and what we pass on to others. By continually examining and updating these stories, we honor what’s genuinely important. 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 visit 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 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month! Please review our podcast 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.

June 3, 202629 min

How to Find Lasting Happiness

Building Emotional Intelligence to Unlock Everyday Happiness We hear about it all the time, right? Especially that old phrase from the Declaration of Independence: “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” It sounds almost like happiness is this thing at the end of a rainbow—a big quest that we’re all supposed to be on. But here’s my take, and it’s what I spend this episode unpacking: I don’t think happiness is some mysterious thing we have to hunt for. I actually believe it’s right in front of us, closer than we realize. In fact, sometimes the hardest part is not finding it, but recognizing that we actually have the ability to choose it—right now, right where we are. I’m a big believer in getting help when you need it. If happiness feels miles away, you’re not alone. There are days when it feels almost impossible to get there. That’s okay. Asking for support or seeking help doesn’t mean you’re failing at this. One big thing I talk about in the episode is how much we let our circumstances decide our mood. Whether it’s the news, your job, or relationships, it’s easy to let outside events call the shots on how happy we feel. I get personal, too. I share about the time my son had a near-fatal car accident—the kind of situation that flips life upside down and fills your days with more fear and uncertainty than anything else. Some days were absolutely miserable, and there’s no pretending otherwise. But even in those dark times, I found small moments of happiness—things like noticing the color of the fall leaves on my walks around the hospital. I had to make a conscious choice to look for those little bright spots when everything else seemed bleak. That’s become my go-to move: a playbook for happiness, you could say. Over the years, I realized that choosing happiness isn’t just something you do when life is good; sometimes, you need it most when things are tough, or even just kind of dull. Our brains are not always on board with this idea! We’re wired to spot problems and threats, not to go looking for things that make us happy. Those negative stories our minds tell us can feel pretty convincing. Emotional intelligence really helps here. I talk about skills like consequential thinking and recognizing patterns—these are tools that let us slow down and actually decide how we want to respond, not just react. It’s important to keep in mind that happiness isn’t a destination you reach and then you’re just done. Life will always have its ups and downs, good days and bad. So instead of waiting around for everything to finally be perfect, I encourage myself (and you) to keep making that choice every day. It may sound like hard work, but I promise it’s worth it. Another tip I share is about building new neural pathways in your brain. If you’re someone who ties happiness to outside circumstances, you can actually train yourself to do it differently over time—just like taking the new expressway instead of the old backroads. 3 Key Takeaways: Happiness Is a Daily Choice, Not a Destination - As I share at 08:38, real happiness isn’t something to wait for or chase endlessly; it’s a conscious decision made, even amidst adversity. Circumstances Shouldn’t Dictate Creative Fulfillment - Using examples like market volatility and personal challenges (05:02), I highlight the pitfalls of tying happiness to external conditions. Build New Neural Pathways Through Intentional Practice - By developing emotional intelligence and forming new habits (23:49), you can train yourself to focus on intrinsic rewards, resilience, and gratitude. This mindset shift boosts both well-being and creative consistency. 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 visit 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 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month! Please review our podcast Music from Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Spirit of EQ 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.

May 20, 202627 min

Rekindling Wonder - Finding Awe and Appreciation in Everyday Life

After some time away from the studio, Eric Pennington and Jeff East share personal stories that reignite their appreciation for the small and large wonders around us. Inspired by Andrew Huberman’s thoughts on awe and the importance of focusing both on the minute and the vast, the hosts discuss practices that foster a deeper connection to the world. Jeff East shares the profound experience of holding his great-grandson for the first time, reflecting on the miracle of new life and the possibilities ahead. He juxtaposes this with memories of the Apollo missions and how, as a child, he gazed up at the moon knowing people stood there. These moments evoke an enduring sense of wonder that can easily be lost amid the speed and demands of modern life. The discussion delves into how our constant drive for quick answers and efficiency—exacerbated by digital culture and endless negative news—can dull our sense of awe. Eric Pennington and Jeff East challenge listeners to intentionally carve out moments for wonder, emphasizing that doing so can add richness and positivity, even amidst challenging times. Key Themes and Takeaways The Practice of Wonder Small to Large Perspective: Just as you might zoom in on a single leaf and then out to the entire tree, shifting your perspective can foster awe. Intentional Pausing: Carving out time to notice beauty or creativity changes your mindset and helps counter negativity in daily life. Integrating Wonder Into Routine: You don’t need to give up your responsibilities; small daily moments of appreciation are enough to nourish your spirit. Breaking Through Cynicism Jadedness Defined: Feeling exhausted, cynical, or indifferent is often a product of overexposure or routine. The antidote is noticing and celebrating what stands out. Practice & Curiosity: Building new neural pathways for wonder requires consistency. At first, your brain may resist, but over time, finding joy and awe becomes more natural. Stories of Personal Wonder Nature and Creativity: Both hosts reflect on the marvels of spring, the unnoticed beauty of well-known places like Dawes Arboretum, and the creativity in music, highlighting Rush’s Neil Peart as an example of seeing beyond the ordinary. Unexpected Adventure: A spontaneous trip, a quiet moment overlooking a river, or simply enjoying a quirky thrift shop—examples of how adventure and wonder are available to anyone willing to look. Navigating Life’s Challenges Beyond Control: Even in times of uncertainty or global unrest, focusing on what you can control—your awareness and appreciation—gives you agency. Time as Currency: Be mindful of how you spend your time. Even a small percentage shifted toward wonder can create meaningful change in your outlook. Practical Tips for Rekindling Wonder Check Your Attitude: Are you feeling “meh” or indifferent? Notice when this happens and gently direct attention elsewhere. Pause & Reflect: Take brief pauses to admire something beautiful, creative, or extraordinary in your immediate environment. Be Curious: Ask yourself, “What did I notice today that wasn’t ‘meh’?” Even one moment counts. Persist Through Resistance: Understand that new habits take time. Your brain’s initial resistance is normal. Share the Experience: Discuss moments of wonder with friends or family to reinforce positive neural pathways. Remember Your Agency: No one is too busy to notice something awe-inspiring, even in the smallest way. What sparks a sense of wonder in you? How do you intentionally integrate awe into your daily life? Have you ever brushed past something “ordinary,” only to discover it was extraordinary when you finally paid attention? 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 visit 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 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month! Please review our podcast 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 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.

May 6, 20261 hr 1 min

The Recurrence Effect with Perry Maughmer

In this episode, Eric and Jeff hang out with Perry Maughmer—a returning guest and one of their all-time favorite people—for an honest, practical (and sometimes funny) discussion about what it really means to grow as a person and a leader. What’s Inside This Episode? Perry’s New Book: Why He Wrote It for Himself - Perry tells us all about his newest book, The Recurrence Effect . But get this—he wrote it for himself first, doesn't care if it sells, and purposely didn’t jam it with easy answers. His goal? Help you realize you have what you need already inside, even if that means sitting with the messy stuff and more ambiguity than you’re used to. Why Copying Someone Else's Life Hacks Never Works - Ever get sucked into those “guaranteed” success frameworks online? Perry has zero time for that. He explains that just because a system or trick worked for one person doesn’t mean it’ll fit you. It’s like wearing someone else’s custom suit—a weird fit at best! Leadership: It's a Doing Thing, Not a Title - There’s a super cool take here—Perry doesn’t think “leader” should be a title. It should be about what you do , not who you are . The best leaders care about people, not KPIs. Results follow from that—not the other way around! How Companies Get People Development Wrong - Why do so many places take their top performer and make them a manager? Spoiler: it almost never works out how they hope. There’s some real talk about how real people development takes YEARS of intentional change. No overnight hacks here. Curiosity vs. Judgment (and Why Saying "I Don’t Know" Rocks) - Perry drops wisdom about choosing curiosity over judgment at work. Admitting you don’t know everything actually makes you a better teammate and leader. Seriously—being curious opens up so many more possibilities. AI Is Eating Up Technical Skills—Now What? - Worried robots are taking your job? Perry says the real winners will be people who love to learn , not just people with mad technical skills. The key is staying adaptable and being comfortable with change and surprise. The Real Treasure is Inside - All the themes circle back to one core idea: stop forever searching for solutions outside yourself. Take ownership, look inward (even if it’s scary), and realize you have what you need to keep growing and leading. It’s not a quick fix, but it’s more real. Real Moments & Laughs Kicking off with some Bigfoot and Canadian toque jokes Honest opinions about why editing a book is “horrendous” and marketing can feel fake Why company learning should be voluntary and nobody should get dinged for “opting out” Featured Book: The Recurrence Effect by Perry Maughmer – Find it on Amazon and wherever you get your books. Get More from Perry: Podcast (he’s starting it up again—no set routine, just genuine thoughts when he has them) Substack newsletter: “Inside the Return” Perry Maughmer is a facilitator, writer, and practitioner, but the center of his work is closer to home. Alongside his wife, Lisa, he actively shapes a life they don’t want to retire from, treating their relationship, choices, and daily rhythms as the primary place where the work is lived, not discussed. He is the author of The Recurrence Effect , which explores how individuals and teams evolve through a rhythm of Explore, Experiment, Evaluate, and Edit. Rather than offering answers, Perry creates space for people to engage their own experience and develop the ability to choose and return to what matters. Join the Conversation! Had any “aha!” moments? Ever felt like you were supposed to have life all figured out—when you really just needed some new questions? We want to hear from you: Have you ever chased outside answers when you maybe needed to look inside? How are you handling all the changes with tech and work? 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 visit 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 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month! Please review our podcast 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 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.

April 22, 20261 hr 9 min

Using AI as a Mirror for Growth with Teresa Escrig

If you’ve ever wondered how AI can be used to deepen emotional intelligence, or you’re searching for practical steps to drive meaningful change in your life, this episode will spark fresh insights and inspiration. Welcome to Spirit of EQ! I’m Eric Pennington, your host, and in this episode, I have the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Teresa Escrig, an expert in artificial intelligence, an entrepreneur, and a spiritual practitioner. Our conversation explores the fascinating intersection of AI and human consciousness, revealing how tools like ChatGPT can serve as powerful mirrors for our self-discovery and growth. Teresa Escrig shares her innovative “mirror method,” which is built around four key pillars: awareness, alignment, boundaries, and empowered decision-making. As we break down some common misconceptions about spirituality, we discuss the challenges of setting healthy boundaries, taking responsibility for our lives, and the ways technology can both amplify our strengths and reflect our struggles. This is a thought-provoking conversation connecting science, spirit, and everyday personal growth. Moments 00:00 Integrating AI and Consciousness 06:56 AI & Human Ascension Dialogue 11:55 "Authenticity as Personal Value" 16:55 "Alignment: Value, Purpose, Direction" 26:04 "Demystifying Clarity and Focus" 32:13 "Self-Knowledge for Life's Path" 37:10 "Discovering Tools Within" 39:50 "Transformation: Tools and Process" 43:44 "Human Regression, AI Advancement" 49:06 Rejecting Divisiveness for Positivity 58:27 "Brain Makes Best-Guess Decisions" 01:00:26 Rewiring Mindset for Positivity Here are my top 3 takeaways: AI as a Mirror for Growth: Teresa introduces the concept of using AI chatbots as a "mirror method"—a way to reflect on our own behaviors and patterns, helping us gain invaluable self-insight. When we interact intentionally, AI can amplify our awareness and support clearer, healthier decision-making. Four Pillars for Aligned Decision-Making: Teresa shares her four-pillar method (awareness, alignment, responsibility, and decision-making) that guides users to interact with AI (and people!) in ways that are consistent with their deepest values and goals. Empowerment Through Integration: Rather than viewing technology as something that divides or diminishes us, Teresa encourages us to integrate it into our self-development practices. When used mindfully, AI can accelerate both our emotional intelligence and spiritual evolution. 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 visit 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 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month! Please review our podcast Music from Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE 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. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ Spirit of EQ 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. To obtain the report, individuals need to contact Spirit of EQ via email at info@spiritofeq.com and complete an online assessment that takes about 15 to 20 minutes. After the assessment, a debrief session is required to review the comprehensive information provided in the report. Spirit of EQ also offers further coaching to support individuals in their personal development journey. 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.

April 8, 20261 hr 2 min

Thoughtful Technology for Every Learner with Preston Zeller

This is an authentic and thoughtful conversation about leveraging new tools and ancient wisdom to build resilience, emotional health, and deeper connections—whether you’re a longtime believer, just curious, or somewhere in between. Welcome to Spirit of EQ! In this episode, I sit down with Preston Zeller—an inspiring technologist, artist, and committed believer—to explore the fascinating intersection of faith, technology, and emotional intelligence. Preston shares the story behind Psalm Log, an app he created to deliver personalized biblical advice, using AI technology to help people navigate both their spiritual and emotional journeys. Together, we discuss the role artificial intelligence is playing in faith practice today, discussing its ethical implications, potential pitfalls, and how it can actually support reflection and personal growth—no matter your religious background. We also talk about Preston’s moving experience with grief and creativity, highlighted by his award-winning documentary, “The Art of Grieving.” Preston reveals how artistic expression can serve as a powerful outlet for healing, and why embracing creativity isn’t just for artists, but for anyone seeking to work through life’s toughest challenges. Moments 04:09 AI-Assisted Journaling for Growth 06:22 "Faithful AI Alliance Initiative" 12:18 AI Adoption: Categories and Insights 15:02 Navigating Uncertainty in Information 17:49 "The Value of Authentic Writing" 20:30 Sunday Christians and Spiritual Stagnation 25:41 "Finding Hope Amid Struggles" 29:02 "Psalm Log: Grief in Art" 30:52 "Painting Grief into Mosaic" 35:46 "Navigating Loss and Connection" 36:40 "Grief, Discipline, and Healing" 40:19 "Creative Expression for Healing" 45:56 "Creativity Opens New Possibilities" 47:02 "Grief, Emotions, and Healing" 50:37 Approaching Gospel with Nonbelievers 55:38 "Less Can Be More" 57:07 Faithful AI and Biblical Guidance Here are 3 key takeaways: AI as a Tool for Reflection & Growth: Preston emphasized that Psalm Log uses AI responsibly to supplement personal and spiritual reflection, not replace it. Technology can facilitate deeper self-awareness and biblical guidance, but it shouldn’t override the human side of processing and agency. Creativity & Grief as Catalysts for Healing: Preston’s documentary, The Art of Grieving , explores how creativity can be a powerful outlet in navigating loss. Whether through art, music, or journaling, giving emotions their “mic” leads to genuine healing and growth. Inclusivity & Impact Beyond Belief: While Psalm Log is inspired by biblical wisdom, its benefits aren’t limited to Christians. Preston noted the app is designed to help anyone—regardless of faith background—find encouragement and tools for emotional wellness. Preston Zeller sits at an unusual intersection: faith-tech founder, growth executive, documentary filmmaker, and abstract artist. As founder of Psalmlog, he's building an AI-powered biblical guidance app that helps believers access relevant Scripture for any life situation—addressing the universal Christian challenge of knowing God's Word has answers but not knowing where to look. His approach is informed by proprietary research with 200+ Christians and 15 years scaling companies from $25M to $300M ARR. As Chief Growth Officer at BatchService, he oversaw the GTM teams, leading to two successful exits. He previously led digital marketing and growth at A Cloud Guru (acquired by Pluralsight for $2B) and ZoomInfo (IPO’d). Preston brings equal depth to creative work. His documentary The Art of Grieving (2022) follows his year-long project of painting daily after his 35-year-old brother Colin died suddenly from a fentanyl overdose. The film explores grief through personal narrative, art therapy, and cultural history. It's available on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and Tubi, and has won Best Documentary at the LA Film Awards, Bridge Film Fest, and Love Wins International Film Festival. 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 visit 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 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month! Please review our podcast Music from Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE 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 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ 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. To obtain the report, individuals need to contact Spirit of EQ via email at info@spiritofeq.com and complete an online assessment that takes about 15 to 20 minutes. After the assessment, a debrief session is required to review the comprehensive information provided in the report. Spirit of EQ also offers further coaching to support individuals in their personal development journey.