Welcome to Enneagram at Work, your Saturday leadership download. We're bringing you insights for your weekend so you're ready for Monday.
This is a podcast about understanding people at work and navigating professional relationships. We spend so much of our time at work, why not make it more enjoyable by working on creating more enjoyable relationships with our teammates? Listen in each week to gain self-awareness, relationship management, leadership development, personal growth insights, and real-life application ideas through the lens of the Enneagram inside educational episodes and interview conversations. Learn about bringing the Enneagram to your organization or group and view the current workshop menu at: enneagrammba.com
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Check latest episodes from Enneagram at Work podcast
213. Considerations for Leaders with Young Teams Using the Enneagram
2026/01/31
Get access to the DIY Workshop Kit plus get the "Coworker Chemistry" add-on slide deck for free (a $95 value):
Step 1: Add the DIY Kit to your cart:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-workshop-kit
Step 2: Check the box under the checkout section to add your free access to the Coworker Chemistry slide deck using the coupon code FEBENNSIDER (valid the whole month of February 2026).
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In this episode, we're talking about why Enneagram results often feel less clear early in someone’s career, the most common mistakes leaders make when trying to apply personality tools with young employees, and what it actually looks like to use the Enneagram in a way that supports growth, confidence, and self-awareness.
We'll cover:
How young professionals are still forming identity and how that impacts workplace behavior and understanding "their type" Why Enneagram typing can feel fuzzy early in a career (and why that’s completely normal)The difference between using the Enneagram as a label vs. a conversationCommon patterns I see in young teams (hustle, people-pleasing, perfectionism, overthinking, blending in)How to focus on stress and growth patterns instead of locking in a “number”How to use the Enneagram to build feedback skills, communication confidence, and self-trustWhy curiosity and experimentation matter more than accuracy at this stageIf you lead young professionals (or you are one!) this episode will help you use the Enneagram as a practical tool for understanding motivation, navigating pressure, and building healthier patterns early in your career.
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Explore the self-led Enneagram workshop at: https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-workshop-kit
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
212. How to Run Your Own Enneagram Workshop (Without Overcomplicating It)
2026/01/27
Get access to the DIY Workshop Kit plus get the "Coworker Chemistry" add-on slide deck for free (a $95 value):
Step 1: Add the DIY Kit to your cart:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-workshop-kit
Step 2: Check the box under the checkout section to add your free access to the Coworker Chemistry slide deck using the coupon code FEBENNSIDER (valid the whole month of February 2026).
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More and more companies are interested in adding the Enneagram into their leadership and team development programs, but many aren’t sure where to start, how to structure it, or how to make it work within their budget.
If you can relate, I got you.
You don’t need a massive program or outside facilitator to get meaningful value from the Enneagram (although we're here if you prefer a guided experience!). With a simple, practical structure, you can run a meaningful team workshop internally, without overcomplicating it.
Whether you’re an HR partner, team leader, or internal champion, this 6-part workshop framework is here to help you get started.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
211. Enneagram Type 9: Striving to Feel Peaceful - How It Shows Up at Work
2026/01/17
In this episode of Enneagram at Work, we are wrapping up the 9 Types Overview Series with a look at Enneagram Type 9: Striving to Feel Peaceful, one of the most quietly influential and calming energies on any team.
Type 9s are often seen as easygoing or agreeable, but what I experience in leadership teams and workshops is something much more meaningful. Type 9s bring stability, empathy, and the ability to hold space for everyone, even when things feel tense or uncertain. In this episode, we'll explore together how their drive for peace shapes communication, decision-making, and leadership at work.
What You’ll Learn:
What it really means to strive to feel peacefulWhy Type 9s are natural mediators and stabilizers on teamsHow their desire for harmony can sometimes lead to self-neglectThe Consensus-Builder leadership style and how it creates psychologically safe workplacesHow instinctual biases shape different expressions of Type 9Growth insights through Type 9’s arrows to Type 3 and Type 6How to give feedback to Type 9s in ways that build confidence and voiceTry This at Work:
If you’re a Type 9: Speak your opinion before being asked. Your perspective matters more than you think.If you work with a Type 9: Invite their input and don’t mistake silence for agreement.For Teams & Leaders:
Type 9s bring calm, empathy, and steadiness to teams, especially in times of stress or change. They are often the emotional glue that holds groups together.
Teams thrive when Type 9s are encouraged to take up space, voice their ideas, and step into their influence, not just keep the peace.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
210. Enneagram Type 8: Striving to Feel Powerful - How It Shows Up at Work
2026/01/10
In this episode of Enneagram at Work, we are continuing with the 9 Types Overview Series with a closer look at Enneagram Type 8: Striving to Feel Powerful.
Type 8s are often labeled as controlling or aggressive, but what I see in real teams and leadership rooms is something very different. At their best, Type 8s are decisive, protective, and deeply committed to fairness and truth. In this episode, we'll unpack how their drive to feel powerful shows up at work in areas such as communication, leadership, and decision-making.
What You’ll Learn:
What it really means to strive to feel powerfulWhy Type 8s value autonomy, honesty, and impactHow their intensity can be a strength, and when it cause issuesThe Commander leadership style and how it creates clarity and momentumA few potential workplace friction points for Type 8sHow instinctual biases influence different expressions of Type 8 energyGrowth insights through Type 8’s arrows to Type 2 and Type 5How to give feedback to Type 8s in a way that builds respect, not resistanceTry This at Work:
If you’re a Type 8: Practice pausing before reacting. Ask for input, even when you already have a strong opinion.If you work with a Type 8: Be direct and honest. Don’t read intensity as anger, ask clarifying questions and name what you’re experiencing.For Teams & Leaders:
Type 8s bring courage, clarity, and protection to teams, especially in high-pressure situations. They are often the ones willing to say what others won’t and take responsibility when things get hard.
Teams work best with Type 8s when there’s mutual trust, direct communication, and space for vulnerability. When Type 8s feel respected and included, their leadership becomes a powerful force for good.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
209. Enneagram Type 7: Striving to Feel Excited - How It Shows Up at Work
2026/01/03
In this episode of Enneagram at Work, we are continuing the 9 Types Overview Series with a deep dive into Enneagram Type 7: Striving to Feel Excited. This is a type I know well, and one I see bringing incredible energy, creativity, and forward momentum into teams and organizations.
Type 7s are often described as optimistic, fun, and high-energy, but there’s much more going on beneath the surface. In this episode, we'll explore how the drive to stay excited and avoid feeling trapped influences how Type 7s communicate, lead, and make decisions at work, especially during change or uncertainty.
What You’ll Learn:
How Type 7s bring creativity, optimism, and possibility into the workplaceWhere overusing these strengths can lead to overcommitment or avoidanceHow the Enthusiast leadership style inspires momentum and innovationCommon friction points for Type 7s at work, and how to navigate themHow instinctual biases shape different expressions of Type 7 energyGrowth insights through Type 7’s arrows to Type 5 and Type 1Try This at Work:
If you’re a Type 7: Notice when you’re jumping to the next idea to avoid discomfort. Practice staying present long enough to finish what you start.If you work with a Type 7: Help channel their ideas into clear priorities and timelines. Their optimism isn’t avoidance; it’s often a way of protecting morale.For Teams & Leaders:
Type 7s bring vision, adaptability, and enthusiasm to teams, especially in fast-moving or uncertain environments. They help others see what’s possible and keep energy high when things feel heavy.
Teams work best with Type 7s when there’s a balance between freedom and structure, allowing space for creativity while also supporting follow-through and accountability.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
208. Specific Ways We Use the Enneagram - A Conversation with Co-Host D Parker of Trust Leadership Collective
2025/12/20
Listen to this fun conversation with Demetrius "D" Parker, founder at Trust Leadership Collective and Enneagram MBA Leadership Coach as we each share key insights or ways we've used what we've learned about the Enneagram in our own lives!
Learn more about working with D: https://trustleadershipcollective.odoo.com/
Or hire him to lead your executive team through the Enneagram: https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
207. Enneagram Type 6: Striving to Feel Secure - How It Shows Up at Work
2025/12/14
In this episode of Enneagram at Work, we are continuing the 9 Types Overview Series with a closer look at Enneagram Type 6: Striving to Feel Secure. This can be one of the most misunderstood types, and also one of the most important energies on any team.
In many descriptions, you'll seeType 6s often labeled as anxious or fearful, but what I see again and again in workshops and leadership teams is something very different: brave, caring, thoughtful, prepared, and deeply committed people who care about doing things the right way and keeping the team safe. In this episode, I unpack how that drive for security shows up at work.
What You’ll Learn When You Listen:
Why Type 6s ask questions and why that’s a strength, not a problemHow Type 6s build trust, loyalty, and reliability on teamsThe Guardian leadership style and how it protects organizationsCommon stress points for Type 6s at work (especially during change or uncertainty)How the three instinctual biases shape different expressions of Type 6Growth insights through Type 6’s arrows to Type 9 and Type 3How to give feedback to Type 6s in a way that builds confidence instead of doubtTry This at Work:
If you’re a Type 6: Notice when your questions are actually asking for reassurance. Pause and remind yourself of the evidence that you can handle what’s in front of you.If you work with a Type 6: Don’t dismiss their questions or concerns. Most of the time, they’re thinking ahead and protecting the team from issues others haven’t considered yet.For Teams & Leaders:
Type 6s bring steadiness, commitment, and preparation to teams, especially when things feel uncertain. They’re often the people thinking through worst-case scenarios so everyone else can move forward with confidence.
Teams work best with Type 6s when there’s clear communication, follow-through, and trust. When Type 6s feel informed and included, they become some of the most reliable and supportive teammates and leaders you can have.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
206. Enneagram Type 5: Striving to Feel Detached - How It Shows Up at Work
2025/12/06
In this episode of Enneagram at Work, we continue the 9 Types Overview Series with a focused look at Type 5: Striving to Feel Detached, as described in the Awareness to Action framework.
We'll’ll explore how Type 5s bring clarity, analysis, and innovation to the workplace, and how their need for independence, energy conservation, and mastery can shape communication and collaboration on a team.
Whether you are a Type 5 or work closely with deep thinkers who prefer a bit more space and autonomy, this episode offers practical ways to support their strengths and growth in real-world work environments.
What You’ll Learn When You Listen In:
The core motivation behind Type 5’s drive to feel detachedHow Type 5s process information and determine when they’re “ready”Why they avoid emotional pressure and interruptionsThe strengths they bring to teams: expertise, curiosity, and clear analysisOverused strengths that become withdrawal or over-observingThe role of The Strategist as a leaderHow instinctual biases create different expressions of Type 5Growth practices through their arrows to Type 8 and Type 7How to give feedback in a way that feels respectful and empoweringTry This at Work: Experiments
If you’re a Type 5: Share ideas sooner, perfection isn’t required to be valuable. Connect even when you’d prefer to retreat.If you work with a Type 5: Give advance notice before asking for input. Respect their need for boundaries and solo focus time.For Teams & Leaders
Type 5s bring wisdom and vision that help teams make smarter decisions and avoid risks others overlook. They are steady under pressure and masterful at breaking down complex information.
But when energy feels scarce or expectations feel intrusive, they may retreat into their minds, leaving teammates unsure how to engage.
Teams thrive when they invite Type 5s in without demanding too much too fast.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
205. Gratitude for What Each Enneagram Type Brings to the Workplace
2025/11/29
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, this episode is a celebration of the people you work with; the ones who keep projects moving, solve problems behind the scenes, strengthen relationships, and hold your team together in ways that often go unnoticed.
Instead of focusing on potential friction points or growth edges, we’re taking a moment to appreciate the strengths each Enneagram type brings to a team and why your workplace is better because of them. Whether you lead people, work closely with a diverse group, or simply want to feel more grounded in gratitude, this episode gives you language to recognize and celebrate the nine unique ways people contribute.
What You’ll Hear for Each Type:
Type 1 – Striving to Feel Perfect:
Integrity, follow-through, and the commitment to doing things right.
Type 2 – Striving to Feel Connected:
Empathy, support, and the ability to make people feel seen.
Type 3 – Striving to Feel Outstanding:
Drive, momentum, and the energy that inspires others into action.
Type 4 – Striving to Feel Unique:
Creativity, emotional depth, and the ability to bring meaning into the work.
Type 5 – Striving to Feel Detached:
Calm clarity, expertise, and thoughtful problem-solving.
Type 6 – Striving to Feel Secure:
Group cohesion, preparedness, and forward-thinking protection for the team.
Type 7 – Striving to Feel Excited:
Optimism, adaptability, and the ability to bring possibility into any conversation.
Type 8 – Striving to Feel Powerful:
Passion, advocacy, and the willingness to speak the truth plainly.
Type 9 – Striving to Feel at Peace:
Stability, inclusion, and a grounding presence that keeps teams connected.
A Thanksgiving Invitation:
Take one moment this week to share appreciation with someone on your team, whether you know their type or not. Name one strength you see in them. The smallest acknowledgment can change someone’s entire experience at work.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
204. Enneagram Type 4: Striving to Feel Unique - How It Shows Up at Work
2025/11/24
In this episode of Enneagram at Work, we're continuing the 9 Types Overview Series with a deep dive into Enneagram Type 4: Striving to Feel Unique, often called The Individualist or, in the Awareness to Action framework, The Visionary.
This episode explores how Type 4s bring creativity, emotional depth, and originality into the workplace, and how their search for meaning and authenticity shapes their leadership, communication, and team dynamics. You’ll learn how this type adds emotional depth and richness to teams, where they can get stuck, and how to better collaborate with people driven by purpose and identity.
What You’ll Learn:
The core motivation or "root logic" behind Type 4’s drive to feel uniqueWhy Type 4s are often the emotional and creative heartbeat of a teamHow strengths like depth, empathy, and originality can become overusedHow Type 4s approach work, purpose, and self-expressionHow the 3 instinctual biases create different expressions of Type 4 energyGrowth practices using their arrows to Type 1 and Type 2How to give and receive feedback in a way that feels safe and meaningfulTry This at Work:
If you’re a Type 4: Practice grounding your ideas in structure. Ask, “What’s the smallest step I can take today?”If you work with a Type 4: Invite their perspective. Ask what something means to them, not just what they think about it.For Teams & Leaders:
Type 4s bring heart, storytelling, and emotional intelligence to teams. They help organizations connect to purpose, humanity, and meaning. But they can also feel misunderstood, left out, or undervalued if their emotional world isn’t acknowledged.
Teams that work well with Type 4s make room for both performance and meaning, honoring feelings without letting them derail progress.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
203. Enneagram Type 3: Striving to Feel Outstanding - How It Shows Up at Work
2025/11/15
In this episode of Enneagram at Work, we continue the 9 Types Overview Series with a fast-paced, insightful look at Enneagram Type 3: Striving to Feel Outstanding, often known as The Achiever or, in the Awareness to Action model, The Pacesetter.
We’ll explore how Type 3s bring drive, confidence, and high performance to the workplace, and how their desire to succeed and be seen as capable influences their leadership style, communication, and relationships at work.
Pulling from real client examples and team dynamics from recent workshops, we'll look at what helps Type 3s thrive, what derails them, and how teams can support the “go-getters” who keep everyone moving forward.
What You’ll Learn When You Tune In:
The core motivation behind Type 3’s drive to feel outstandingWhy Type 3s are often seen as natural leaders and high performersHow their strengths - drive, focus, adaptability - become blindspots when overusedKey characteristics of the Pacesetter Leadership StyleWhat energizes vs. drains Type 3s at workHow instinctual biases (Preserving, Navigating, and Transmitting) create three distinct flavors of Type 3Growth practices using their arrows to Type 6 and Type 9How to give feedback in ways that build trust, not defensivenessTry This at Work: Quick Experiments
If you’re a Type 3: Track how you showed up, not just what you achieved. Practice slowing down long enough to rest, reflect, and reconnect with your own values.If you work with a Type 3: Acknowledge accomplishments and effort. Set clear, meaningful goals. Invite authenticity by asking how they’re doing behind the successes.For Teams & Leaders
Type 3s bring momentum, optimism, and ambition to the workplace. They raise the bar, inspire confidence, and help teams deliver results. But they also carry the weight of constant expectation, both from others and themselves.
Teams that work well with Type 3s create space for connection, authenticity, and rest, not just performance. A healthy Type 3 doesn’t just do great work; they model sustainable success and motivate others to grow with them.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
202. Enneagram Type 2: Striving to Feel Connected - How It Shows Up at Work
2025/11/10
In this episode of Enneagram at Work, I continue the 9 Types Overview Series with a deep dive into Type 2: Striving to Feel Connected, also known as The Coach in the Awareness to Action framework.
We'll explore together how Type 2s build trust, foster belonging, and strengthen relationships at work, and how those same strengths can sometimes lead to burnout or blurred boundaries.
Whether you lead with this type or work closely with someone who does, this episode will help you recognize the impact of connection-driven leadership and find the balance between giving and grounding.
I also share how the three instinctual biases (Preserving, Navigating, and Transmitting) shape how Type 2s express their feeling need for connection, from behind-the-scenes nurturers to charismatic connectors.
What You’ll Learn When You Listen
The core motivation behind Type 2’s drive to feel connected.How this type’s strengths, empathy, generosity, and intuition, help teams thrive.The overused strengths that can create stress, exhaustion, or resentment.The leadership style of The Coach and how Type 2s inspire loyalty and growth.How to give (and receive) feedback in a way that builds trust with a Type 2.How instinctual biases create three distinct expressions of Type 2 energy.Growth insights from their arrows to Type 8 and Type 4, learning to assert boundaries and honor their own emotions.Try This at Work
If you’re a Type 2: Before saying yes to help, pause and ask, “Is this mine to carry?” Practice receiving appreciation without deflection.If you work with a Type 2: Acknowledge their efforts often and clearly. Don’t assume they’re fine just because they’re the ones helping everyone else.For Teams & Leaders
Type 2s bring warmth, empathy, and emotional intelligence to every workplace — qualities that make collaboration feel human. But they can struggle when their giving goes unreciprocated. Teams thrive when Type 2s are encouraged to express needs, receive support, and celebrate connection as a shared responsibility.
---> Note on gender: Type 2 energy is often mislabeled as “feminine,” but connection isn’t gendered, it’s human. Many men are Type 2s, and their empathy and support can be just as powerful in leadership. Every person, regardless of gender, can bring strength and influence to this type’s relational energy.Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
201. Enneagram Type 1: Striving to Feel Perfect - How It Shows Up at Work
2025/11/01
In this episode, we're kicking off a 9 Types Overview Series, taking it back to the basics with a fresh look at Type 1: Striving to Feel Perfect.
Whether you’re brand new to the Enneagram or returning to deepen your understanding, this quick overview offers both clarity and real-world examples of how Type 1s lead, communicate, and collaborate at work.
You'll also hear how different instinctual biases (Preserving, Navigating, and Transmitting) influence the way Type 1s express their “perfection-striving” energy.
Inside You’ll Learn
The core motivation behind Type 1’s drive to feel perfect and how it shows up in daily work and leadership.Common strengths: organization, fairness, high standards, and accountability.Overused strengths that can lead to micromanagement or burnout.How Type 1 leaders (known as “The Administrator” in the Awareness to Action framework) model integrity and inspire excellence.How to give and receive feedback effectively with Type 1s.The differences between Preserving, Navigating, and Transmitting Ones, and why they can look so different on the surface.Growth practices: what Type 1s can learn from their arrows to Type 7 and Type 4, bringing in more celebration, creativity, and emotional awareness.Try This at Work
If you’re a Type 1: Before giving feedback, start by naming what’s working well. Train your eye to notice strengths as much as errors.If you work with a Type 1: When sharing a new idea, explain the structure, process, and steps behind it—they’ll appreciate the thoughtfulness and clarity.For Teams & Leaders
Type 1 energy brings structure, order, and excellence to teams, but also needs balance, celebration, and empathy to thrive. If your team is heavy in Type 1 leadership, consider how you can bring in more lightness, spontaneity, and creativity to sustain motivation.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
200. Against, Towards, Withdraw: How We Move Through the World at Work
2025/10/25
Before we dive in: Most of our work at Enneagram MBA is rooted in the Awareness to Action model developed by Mario Sikora and team. But from time to time, we like to explore other Enneagram approaches and insights that come up in the workplace and coaching conversations. This is one of those episodes, so you may hear some differences from the ATA model we typically use.
In this week’s episode, D and I wrap up our three-part conversation on the Enneagram’s movement strategies: the compliant, assertive, and withdrawn ways we move through the world. These patterns influence how we lead, collaborate, and connect under stress and in safety, whether we lean toward others for belonging, push against for control, or pull away for clarity.
Together, we explore how each movement shows up at work, what it looks like in meetings, and how it impacts team relationships. You’ll hear us break down:
The core logic of each strategy: If I align, I’m safe. If I take charge, I’m safe. If I retreat, I’m safe.What leadership strengths each brings, from empathy and reliability to bold vision and deep insight.The blind spots that can trip us up, like over-pleasing, control, or disconnection.How to apply this awareness in real life, using self-checks and reflection prompts to flex between all three strategies instead of staying stuck in one.We also talk about the power of awareness in managing our instincts when “life gets loud,” how to communicate what you need before others misread it, and even how a “pineapple” code word or LED light system can help you hit pause before you hit conflict.
If you’ve ever wondered why some coworkers want to talk everything out while others disappear to think, or why your team clashes when deadlines hit, this episode can help you see those dynamics with more clarity, compassion, and choice.
Key Takeaways
Each movement strategy serves a purpose. Compliant types seek connection, assertives create motion, and withdrawns bring meaning. We need all three for healthy collaboration.Awareness creates choice. Once you know your instinctive movement (toward, against, or away), you can flex as needed.Communicate your coping strategy. “I’m taking a day to think” can go a long way toward preventing misunderstandings.Reflection practice: Think of a recent workplace conflict. How did you move...toward, against, or away? What might a different movement have looked like?Listener Challenge
Reflect on your go-to strategy this week.
Where do you naturally thrive: connection, courage, or clarity?Which situations call for the opposite?How can you intentionally lead with one of the others when the moment calls for it?Resources & Next Steps
Bring this to your team: We’re already booking year-end closers and 2026 kickoffs. Explore workshop options at EnneagramMBA.com and invite us in to blend theory with your team’s real dynamics.Say hello / suggest a topic: enneagrammba.com/contact... I’d love to hear your 4/5/9 stories or questions for a Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
199. When Everyone Gets Along… But No One Says What They Really Think: Heavy 2, 4, 9 Team Map Review
2025/10/18
Ever worked on a team where everyone genuinely gets along? Where collaboration, kindness, and support come naturally, yet honest, direct conversations can be harder to come by?
In this short team map review, we'll unpack the group dynamics of a team heavy in Type 9s, 2s, and 4s, a mix that creates one of the most emotionally intelligent and people-focused teams you’ll find. They care deeply, collaborate well, and truly want everyone to feel valued.
But when keeping the peace becomes the top priority, clarity and direct communication can take a back seat. When you listen in, together we'll walk through why that can happen through the Enneagram lens, and how teams like this can pair care with candor to strengthen trust and communication without losing the warmth their team dynamic is known for.
Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!
🗓️ Book a Guided Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops
✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet
Podcast reviews
Read Enneagram at Work podcast reviews
5 out of 5
20 reviews
★★★★★
Kathy Farah 2023/06/26
Learn real life applications of Enneagram at work
This is a must listen podcast for people seeking to unlock their potential, foster harmonious relationships, and develop strong leadership skills. Sar...
★★★★★
Jodi | Women Taking the Lead 2022/12/03
A compassionate way to understand yourself better
One of the keys to a happier life is to know thyself. Sarah is an amazing interviewer, Enneagram, expert and coach, who brings curiosity and compassio...
★★★★★
Elizabeth Cook Consulting 2022/07/29
Great variety of topics and biz application
I have used the Enneagram as a personal development tool for years, so I was delighted to see how Sarah brings it to so many business applications. He...
★★★★★
olivia.myles 2021/11/18
Great podcast
Just started listening and I subscribed! Great content on the enneagram and business. I’m looking forward to more episodes. I just binged listened to ...
★★★★★
RShaia 2021/11/15
Amazing content
Sarah does a great job of explaining enneagrams and how to use it in all aspects of your life!
★★★★★
Rdub88 2021/09/13
Awesome!!!
Love the mix of self-awareness topics from the Enneagram paired with specific strategies for upgrading your marketing.
★★★★★
miguel812 2021/09/01
Just wow!
Her questions always blow me away! I keep finding myself saying “wow what a great question…”.
★★★★★
kt.tylr. 2021/08/18
Sarah is kind, brilliant, + such a great educator!!
I was 1000% thrilled when I learned Sarah was launching this podcast. This is HER ZONE of genius as a result of 15+ years of career history and develo...
★★★★★
withLindsayBennett 2021/08/14
Two energetic thumbs up
I highly recommend this podcast if you want to understand the difference between and strengths of each enneagram type. I have listened to Ep 1 and Ep ...
★★★★★
Hannahmation 2021/08/13
I'm a huge fan!
I'm a huge fan of Sarah's and was so excited when she started this podcast! She does a great job at breaking down the Enneagram so that listeners can ...