The Aloha EQ Podcast

Two Worlds, One Heart

I didn't grow up in the islands. I grew up in the land of fry sauce, snow-capped mountains, and "I'm fine" said with a tight smile. Emotions were a bit like Jell-O salad: colorful, but often covered up and served with whipped cream. Then I moved to the South Pacific Islands. Let's just say, it was like going from muted pastels to full technicolor. Suddenly, emotions weren't something you hid in your journal; they were woven into daily life like the laughter of kids chasing chickens.  I talk about some obvious differences between the places I have lived and share my gratitude for both worlds. I tell what the differences are and explain how they both bring much to my life and contribute to my coaching parents and teaching about emotional intelligence. 

Hawaiian Style EQ

After living in Hawaii for 21 years, I was exposed to Hawaiian pidgin, which I enjoyed hearing. This is a brief preview of some of the idioms and humor heard by parents raising children in Hawaii. Please excuse the very poor accent. I thought it might be fun to get an idea of how some keiki (children) are brought up in the Hawaiian Islands. It is emotional intelligence, Hawaiian pidgin style. Not all people in Hawaii speak pidgin, but several do. If you want a list of several pidgin words or phrases, send an email to rkongaika@gmail.com requesting it.

The First of Aloha EQ Podcast

Introduction to The Aloha EQ  Podcast

Raising Emotionally Smart Keiki

Welcome back. Today we're talking about raising emotionally smart keiki - our children. In a world full of noise, our kids need more than rules. They need emotional tools. I'll share personal stories, practical tips, and cultural insights to help the next generation grow up emotionally whole.

The Aloha EQ Podcast Episode 3

This episode of The Aloha EQ Podcast blends South Pacific and Mainland American emotional intelligence.  In the South Pacific, EQ involves showing emotions that reflect what your community would expect. In mainland America, emotions are mainly centered on self-expression. Although they are very different, both are beneficial and rooted in deep culture and traditions. Islanders show emotions through actions rather than verbal expressions. Mainlanders express themselves verbally in contrast. Although very different, they can both be very effective. 

EQ The Island Way

Today we're talking about the unique emotional wisdom that lives in the islands. Have you ever wondered why someone raised in a village seems to carry calm even in chaos? There's a reason - and it's rooted in cultural emotional intelligence. So, let's explore how island life teaches us to lead with grace, restraint, and deep connection.
Ruth Kongaika