RAISING EQ

Ruptures in connection with our kids are inevitable — we lose our patience, misunderstand their needs, or get caught up in our own stress. But according to leading psychologists, what matters most is not avoiding these ruptures, but repairing them. In this episode, Dr. Holly Symons takes you inside the science and practice of repair from the lens of emotional intelligence and attachment theory. We...

What if the fastest way to grow as a parent was also the scariest — asking for feedback? In this episode, we dive into the power of self-awareness and why it matters so much when raising kids, but especially teenagers. Drawing on research from Dr. Tasha Eurich and Yale’s Center for Emotional Intelligence, we unpack the difference between internal and external self-awareness, the blind spots that t...

Conflict is an inevitable part of parenting—but it doesn’t have to divide us. In this episode of Raising EQ, we dive into why conflict matters, how emotional intelligence shapes the way we respond, and the powerful lessons kids learn when they see healthy conflict resolution in action. You’ll discover:💫Why conflict can actually strengthen family bonds💫The four pillars of emotional intelligence e...

Social skills aren’t just about getting along on the playground—they’re life skills rooted in emotional intelligence. Research indicates that children with strong social and emotional skills are more likely to excel academically, foster healthy relationships, and succeed in the workplace later in life. In this episode of Raising EQ, we unpack the powerful connection between social skills and emoti...

Empathy isn’t just about being nice — it’s about truly understanding and connecting with others. In this episode of Raising EQ, we explore why empathy is essential for kids’ emotional development, friendships, and long-term success. Backed by research and neuroscience, the discussion reveals how empathy works in the brain and why parents need to actively nurture it. Listeners will hear real-l...

In today’s episode of Raising EQ, we delve into empathy—the key to raising resilient kids. Backed by research and real-life examples, you’ll discover:🌱Why empathy matters for secure attachment, communication, and resilience🌱The three core layers of empathy in parenting: perspective-taking, staying out of judgment, and communicating understanding.🌱Everyday tools to help kids name, validate, and...

The transition from summer to school can stir up big emotions in families—new schedules, morning rushes, and first-day jitters can easily lead to stress. But with emotional intelligence, you can turn this hectic season into an opportunity for growth and connection. If you want to know how, this episode is for you! In this episode of Raising EQ, we’ll dive into:💫Why transitions feel so tough for k...

Parenting is messy, loud, and unpredictable — and sometimes, our emotional thermostat spikes before we even know it’s happening. In this 10-minute episode, Dr. Holly unpacks how gratitude can help parents regulate their emotions, respond with more patience, and model emotional intelligence for their kids. You’ll discover:💫The neuroscience behind gratitude and why it’s more than “positive thi...

Starting school is a major milestone—for children and parents. In this episode of Raising EQ, we sit down for an honest, heartfelt conversation with a parent navigating the emotional and practical realities of school transitions. From first-day jitters to finding the right rhythm at home, we explore the anxieties, hopes, and small wins that come with supporting your child through new beginnings. W...

Parenting is full of big feelings — for our kids and us. When emotions run high, it’s easy to react instead of respond. That’s where breathwork comes in. In this episode of Raising EQ, we dive into why intentional breathing is one of the most powerful tools for self-regulation, supported by research and real-life parenting challenges. You’ll learn four practical breathwork techniques — including 4...

Parenting can push all your buttons — but staying calm is possible. In this episode, discover why self-regulation is the key to better parenting, plus 5 simple tools to help you respond with patience, not just react.✨ If you find this episode helpful, please subscribe, share it with a fellow parent, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps us reach more families and keep the conversations...

Play is more than just fun — it’s one of the most effective ways to build emotional intelligence, strengthen your bond with your child, and even reduce stress for both of you. But if you’ve ever felt awkward, unsure, or just too busy to play, you’re not alone. In this episode of Raising EQ, I explain why play is such a powerful parenting tool, what the research says about its impact, and how you c...

What if your child’s bedtime story was doing more than building vocabulary? In this episode, host Dr. Holly explores how reading with children can be a powerful tool for developing emotional intelligence. From naming feelings to building empathy and social skills, storytime becomes a safe space for kids to learn about their inner world—and the world of others. Backed by research and filled with pr...

How we feel — and how we handle those feelings — has a powerful, often invisible impact on everyone around us, especially our children. In this episode of Raising EQ, we explore the vital role of self-awareness in shaping our emotional environment and raising emotionally intelligent kids. Host Dr. Holly unpacks:How our unspoken emotions influence the room. Why children absorb our energy and behavi...

In this episode, we sit down with Marie to explore the whirlwind world of parenting an 18-month-old. From sudden emotional outbursts to the struggle of early communication, we unpack the challenges and breakthroughs that come with this intense developmental stage. Together, we discuss practical tools for nurturing connection, supporting emotional regulation, and building a foundation of understand...

As parents, it’s easy to focus on what our children do—the angry outbursts, defiance, or meltdowns. But what if we paused and asked: What is my child really trying to communicate? In this episode, we explore the powerful emotional intelligence insight that behind every behavior is an unmet need or feeling. When we begin to decode behavior through this lens, we move from reacting to connecting. Thr...

In this episode, Dr. Holly walks you through practical ways to support your teen with exam stress.  You will come away with a better understanding of why our children feel stressed in exams and how to help them with simple tools that will help them thrive. Exam stress is not just about the exam or the outcome; rather, it’s about identity, fear of failure, peer comparison, and future uncertain...

In today's episode, we welcome our first parent guest! Victoria and Dr. Holly talk about the difficulty of introducing a new sibling and suddenly feeling a pull between your two children for your attention and the increased needs that arise. Victoria shares the difficulties her 3.5-year-old is having, and Dr. Holly supports her with some practical everyday tools she can use to support him while st...

In this episode, you will hear from Dr. Holly as she walks you through Goleman's theory of emotional intelligence and begins digging deeper into Self-Awareness. You will learn a tool to support you in gaining more self-awareness. From here, you will be able to understand your triggers more as well as how they affect those around you. Yes, your kids! You will also start learning more about your kid...

In this introductory episode to the Raising EQ podcast, Dr. Holly shares with you why emotionally intelligent parenting is the best way to promote a harmonious home and successful children, no matter what parenting style you have. Dr. Holly outlines what to expect when listening and introduces the listener to some of the foundational concepts in emotional intelligence. Looking for success? Jo...

Dr. Holly Symons is a mother of two and a clinical psychologist who has seen firsthand the power of raising emotional intelligence, not only in her own home, but also with the families she has supported while working for the United States Government, the United Kingdom National Health Service, and in her London private practice. She is here to share the positive impact it can have on you and your...