In this episode, D and I wrap our stance series by exploring Types 4, 5, and 9, the so-called “withdrawn” types. We unpack what “withdrawing” actually looks like at work (hint: it can be deep engagement happening on the inside), how each type’s strengths show up on teams, and where friction tends to arise under pressure. We also share quick, practical “stretch” moves for each type and reframes that managers can use to turn perceived quiet into powerful contribution.

What You’ll Learn

• What “withdrawn” actually means: the difference between internal engagement and disconnection, and how to tell which one you’re seeing.
• Type 4 (The Visionary): depth, authenticity, and storytelling superpowers, plus the pull toward what’s missing and how to re-ground in action.
• Type 5 (The Strategist): the “quiet genius” who protects limited energy, leads with data, and benefits from defining “enough information.”
• Type 9 (The Consensus-Builder): the calm bridge-builder who sees every side, along with the risk of fading out or numbing when things get intense.
• Adaptive vs. maladaptive (via Awareness to Action)
• Pairings & chemistry

Quick Stretch Practices (Try These This Week)

• For 4s: Notice when emotion is pulling you inward; name one next action to move your insight forward.
• For 5s: Decide “what’s enough” before you research; share work-in-progress to invite collaboration (even if it’s not perfect).
• For 9s: Speak before consensus—offer your “current take” and say you’re open to revising it.

Reflection Prompts

• When I’m overwhelmed, do I retreat into feelings (4), thoughts (5), or comfort/peace (9)?
• Where’s the line, for me or my teammate, between internal engagement and disconnection?
• What’s our re-entry plan after someone steps back to process (time box, next touchpoint, decision deadline)?

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 follow-up on trust and the Enneagram.
• Book D as a speaker for your conference event: Check out potential topics here.
• Book Sarah as a speaker for your conference event: Check out details here.

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

In this episode of Enneagram at Work, I’m joined by Dina Smith, licensed therapist, clinical director, certified Enneagram practitioner, and one of our Enneagram MBA visiting faculty members, to explore an important (and sometimes confusing) question:

What’s the difference between Enneagram coaching and Enneagram-informed therapy?

Dina and I dig into:

• How they differ – Why therapy often looks at symptoms, diagnoses, and the past, while coaching focuses more on present-day growth and future goals.
• Practical examples – How Dina uses the Enneagram both in her therapy practice and as a leader of her team.
• Ethics and responsibility – The boundaries coaches and therapists need to keep in mind, and when it’s time to refer out.
• The real benefits – How the Enneagram helps us create shared language, build faster connections, and uncover blind spots.
• Misconceptions – Including why the Enneagram isn’t “just like astrology” and how to use it responsibly in professional settings.

You’ll also hear Dina share what it’s like leading as a Type 3, including some of her blind spots, strengths, and how feedback from her team has helped her grow as a leader.

Resources & Links

• Connect with Dina on LinkedIn
  
  
• Find Dina on Psychology Today
  
  
• Interested in a typing session with Dina or having your team members clarify their types? Start here and tell us more: https://www.enneagrammba.com/contact
  
  

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

In this episode, I’m joined again by my co-host, Demetrius (“D") Parker, as we continue our Coworker Chemistry series. Last time, we looked at the high-energy types (3, 7, and 8). This week, we shift gears to talk about another powerful trio: Types 1, 2, and 6, commonly known as the dutiful types.

These three strategies bring such a strong sense of responsibility and group cohesion to their work and teams, though they each express it in different ways. In our conversation, we covered:

• Type 1 (Striving to Feel Perfect): integrity, high standards, and the pressure of an inner critic.
• Type 2 (Striving to Feel Connected): empathy, connection, and the challenge of people-pleasing.
• Type 6 (Striving to Feel Secure): loyalty, risk-awareness, and the courage it takes to ask hard questions.

We also dig into how these types can complement one another, where they might clash, and what growth looks like for each...from turning “the way” into “a way,” to setting clear boundaries, to transforming fear into collaboration.

Whether you identify with a 1, 2, or 6 (or work with someone who does), I think you’ll find this episode full of both practical insights and real-life examples you can take back to your team.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• The strengths and blind spots of Types 1, 2, and 6.
• Why these types are often the backbone of teams.
• Stories and analogies (including the “Mafia boss” and the six’s “BS meter”) that bring these strategies to life.
• Practical tips for collaboration, leadership, and personal growth.

And stay tuned! Our next episode will cover the remaining group: Types 4, 5, and 9.

D and I both facilitate workshops on behalf of Enneagram MBA. Learn more about the options and booking your team's end-of-year experience with us over at enneagrammba.com.

To learn more about working with D or hiring him as a speaker visit: trustleadershipcollective.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