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D and I wrap up our three-part conversation on the Enneagram’s movement strategies: the compliant, assertive, and withdrawn ways we move through the world.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 f

Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!

🗓️ Book an 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

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 an 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

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.

Today’s conversation is such a special one, and honestly, a huge honor. I had the chance to sit down with two incredible leaders from a company you’ve probably heard of (and maybe even ordered from): ButcherBox.

In this episode, you’ll hear directly from Mike Salguero, founder and CEO, and Eliza Jackson, Chief People Officer, about how they’ve woven the Enneagram into the DNA of their 200-person organization. From onboarding to manager development, the Enneagram isn’t just a one-time workshop at ButcherBox; it’s part of their shared language and leadership culture.

We talk about:

• How Mike first discovered the Enneagram and why it resonated with him as a leader.
• The practical ways ButcherBox is integrating the framework into hiring, feedback, and team communication.
• What’s surprised them most about using the Enneagram company-wide.
• The connection between self-awareness, organizational trust, and scalable culture.

If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like when an entire company uses the Enneagram to build connection, accountability, and clarity at scale, this conversation is a must-listen.

Tune in to learn how the Enneagram is shaping leadership and culture at one of the most mission-driven consumer brands out there.

Learn more about ButcherBox and take advantage of their Fall sale ending 10/13: https://www.butcherbox.com/

Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!

🗓️ Book an 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