This episode introduces the Hornevian Triads, which describe three distinct social stances — the ways we instinctively move in relation to others and the world around us. Every type belongs to one of three groups: Compliant (Ones, Twos, and Sixes), Withdrawn (Fours, Fives, and Nines), or Assertive (Threes, Sevens, and Eights). Understanding which group you belong to can be just as illuminating as knowing your type.

We start with a panel representing the Assertive Grouping. Assertives tend to lead with themselves first. They're self-referencing — their inner compass, desire, or agenda naturally orients them before they check in with the room. That's not selfishness. It's a wiring. And recognizing it can change a lot — in the workplace, in relationships, and in how you lead.

Representing Type 3 is Michele Lonergan. Representing Type 7 is Anthony Pleetanino. And Type 8 is represented by Rachel Leduc. Learn more about Rachel and her work at https://www.rachel-leduc.com

This episode concludes our exploration of the Enneagram's Harmonic Triads, which describe common ways people respond to conflict, stress, and disappointment.

In previous episodes, we explored the Catalyzer Grouping (Types 4, 6, and 8) and the Positive Outlook Grouping (Types 2, 7, and 9).

In this episode, we focus on the Competency (or Efficiency) Grouping—Types 1, 3, and 5. People in this group tend to respond to problems by stepping back, analyzing the situation, and finding the most effective solution. Their goal is to identify what's wrong and fix it so progress can continue. In this process, emotions may be set aside in favor of objectivity and efficiency.

This panel discussion explores the goals, motivations, and strategies Competency Types use to address problems and resolve conflict.

Panelists include Stephen Garlow (Type 1), Lynda Rands (Type 3), and Eric Woolf (Type 5).

What happens when we encounter conflict, stress, or disappointment?

The Enneagram's Harmonic Triad reveals patterned ways of responding that various Enneagram Types hold in common. In this episode, we explore the Catalyzer—also known as the Intensifier—group, consisting of Types 4, 6, and 8.

Catalyzers push into the tension and meet it with energy, intensity and emotional truth. Their goal is to address the situation clearly and honestly in order to resolve and transform.

In this episode we unpack the motivations, emotional dynamics, and growth path of the Catalyzer Harmonic Triad.

The panel consists of Dan Kuhlman (Type 4), Lou Flessner (Type 6), and Bill Ryan (Type 8).

This episode explores the Enneagram's Harmonic Triad—specifically the Positive Outlook group.

In the Enneagram, the Harmonic Triads describe how we respond when things don't go the way we want. The Positive Outlook group—Types 2, 7, and 9—tend to cope with conflict, disappointment, or pain by reframing, focusing on what's good, or moving toward possibility rather than sitting in the negative.

But "positive" doesn't mean shallow or naive. Each of these types has a distinct strategy for staying upbeat—and each comes with its own strengths and blind spots.

This panel features Richard Haynes (Type 9), Kimberly Holt (Type 2), and Sister Anna-Camille (Type 7). We hear how each experiences conflict, avoids or reframes discomfort, and how they gravitate toward optimism.

Find more about Richard at https://empowerpotentialcoaching.com

Find more about Kimberly at https://councilforrelationships.org/therapist/kimberly-holt-ms-mft

Learn more about Sister Anna-Camille's community at https://stplacid.org

Identifying the Enneagram Type we lead with is often a journey of self-discovery. While online assessments can point us in the right direction, they are not precise instruments.

A more reliable process for discovering and clarifying your Enneagram Type is the Enneagram Type Discovery Interview—often called a Typing Interview. Facilitated by a trained Enneagram teacher or practitioner, the Typing Interview creates space to explore your core motivations, fears, and internal biases at a deeper level than online tests.

In this episode, I sit down with my good friend, Tom Wells, and guide him through the Typing Interview process. You'll get an inside look at what a Typing Interview is like and why it's so important to move beyond surface behaviors to uncover the motivations that drive our Enneagram Type.

As you listen, you may gain fresh insight into the Enneagram Type you lead with—and perhaps decide that a Typing Interview would be a valuable next step in your own Enneagram journey.

My sincere thanks to Tom for generously allowing us to witness his process. Tom and his wife are the owners of Wells Virtual Bookkeeping, LLC, a bookkeeping service supporting small businesses. Find out more at https://www.wellsvirtualbookkeeping.com.

In this honest and heartfelt conversation, I sit down with David Hayward — also known as The Naked Pastor — to explore his journey of self-discovery, healing, and creative expression.

David opens up about his path through discouragement, his passion for social justice, and how discovering he leads with Enneagram Type Four felt like a "born again" moment that brought him home to himself. We talk about art, music, writing, and the emotional toll of standing up for what's right.

Known for his powerful cartoons and bold honesty, David continues to inspire with his vulnerability and vision. Tune in for a moving episode about purpose, transformation, and asking the big question: how long is the arc of justice?

Find David (The Naked Pastor) at nakedpastor.com or on your favorite social platform.

Kathy Escobar returns to Nine LIves to explore the joys and struggles of living in community—especially through the lens of an Enneagram Two. She opens up about learning to set boundaries, navigating faith shifts, and the deeply personal journey of learning to receive help.

In this powerful episode, Kathy shares how the loss of her son to suicide continues to shape her story and her ongoing evolution. She speaks candidly about grief, healing, and the loss of a faith community—and how those experiences have deepened her understanding of compassion and connection.

Kathy highlights the crucial stretch for Enneagram Twos: receiving help from others.

Kathy draws from the nurturing nature of Type 2 to create safe, authentic spaces through The Refuge in Denver and CommunityHeals, which she co-leads with her husband, Jose. She's also the author of several books, including her latest: Turning Over Tables: A Lenten Call for Disrupting Power.

Learn more at kathyescobar.com and communityheals.com.

Leslie Quilico offers an honest and insightful look at life through the lens of an Enneagram Type Three. While Threes are known for their drive and success, Leslie shares how she's learning that there is more to life. That said, she's also learning to embrace her drive for meaningful accomplishment.

A natural achiever, she admits: "If we can make it a competition, it will be more fun!" — yet she challenges herself (and us) to stay grounded in what really matters.

As a leadership coach and Certified TrustCentric Guide, Leslie blends Enneagram wisdom with her passion for trust-building, especially among women leaders and small businesses.

She drops gems like:

✨ "Everyone can have a PhD in doing what you say you're going to do." ✨ "If you're willing to do the work at work, it affects your whole life." ✨ "Trust is simple—follow through with your promises."

Connect with Leslie on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook, or reach her at [email protected] or [email protected].

Enneagram Eight energy is on full display in this episode with author and award-winning drama teacher Deborah Baldwin. With a no-nonsense approach and big-picture leadership, Deb is all about meaningful work and cutting through the noise.

Her passion for theater education shines in her book, We're Live! Radio Theater #101, which brings a fresh, engaging approach to teaching drama through the exciting genre of radio theater.

Though she calls herself a newcomer to the Enneagram, Deborah puts on a clinic in understanding Type Eight. She's driven, bold, and unafraid to take charge. She leads with confidence, pushes for results, and struggles with those who get stuck in negativity.

We also see the often-overlooked tender side of the Enneagram Eight. Deb exemplifies how self-awareness and personal growth leads to balance, integration, and a deeper sense of purpose.

Her book is available on Amazon Check out dramamommaspeaks.com to fine additional teaching resources. Follow her on social media at #dramamommaspeaks.

Brian Mueller on the Enneagram One Journey

Brian Mueller shares his experience as an Enneagram One, exploring the inner critic's powerful call to "do the right thing."

Brian discusses how recognizing his Type One structure helps him regulate it, using awareness and practice to avoid being confined by his Type.

Brian also highlights the ongoing work of returning to presence—not just getting grounded, but continually regrounding.

He helps men discover identity and purpose through powerfully unique processes through Illuman. Find his poetry at brianmueller.com. Find his work with spiritual formation at Choosing Presence.