True transformation occurs when we reach a point of defeat and surrender to a higher power. When we open ourselves up in a posture of receptivity and allow forgiveness, mercy and power to enter our lives, true healing from the heart can begin.  Today, pastor, leadership coach, and podcast host Christopher Cook returns to discuss the process of transformation through the lens of the Enneagram. We explore the limitations of willpower, self-help books, and life hacks on the spiritual journey and the intentional effort required to find wholeness from the inside out.   Learn the power of securing your thoughts, examining motivating factors, exposing lies and focusing on the truth and how they lead to lasting change.  Listen to Typology   ----------------------------------------------------------------- About Chris Cook Christopher Cook is a pastor, leadership coach, and podcast host focused on transformation and wholeness, and the author of Healing What You Can’t Erase: Transform Your Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Health from the Inside Out. With an aptitude for strategy and execution, he is able to unearth clarity out of complexity, which drives his mission to help individuals and organizations thrive in their true identity. His weekly podcast, Win Today with Christopher Cook, equips wellness-minded listeners to move beyond the limitations of self-help and instead toward an integrated life of wholeness from the inside out. Christopher resides in suburban Detroit, Michigan. Connect with him online at wintoday.tv and on social media @WINTODAYChris.

Have you ever wondered how the Enneagram intersects with the entertainment industry? Do casting directors and writers use the Enneagram in developing your favorite show or movie? Whether it’s Parks and Recreation, Modern Family or Les Misérables, sometimes you can see the archetypes play themselves out on screen. This week, we sit down with multi-award-winning producer, writer and director Gary Wheeler for an illuminating conversation about film and the Enneagram. As an Enneagram 9, Gary shares his experience with asserting himself on set, dealing with conflict, and writing scripts from the voice of each character. As Gary states, “My strengths as a writer tend to be in dialogue […] and here’s why…because I’m a nine, I can see all perspectives. […] it’s easy for me to hear their voices.” With almost 30 years of experience in the film industry, Gary has made more than 40 motion picture and TV productions seen by millions of viewers on platforms including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Peacock, Redbox, Fox Nation, INSP and many more. His works include #1 box office hit War Room, Emmy-nominated The Heart of Christmas, 20th Century’s The Trial, and the award-winning western Far Haven.  His new television series Blue Ridge starring Johnathon Schaech, Sarah Lancaster and A Martinez released on April 7, 2024.

Get ready for a fun interview with HGTV’s Fixer to Fabulous stars, Jenny and Dave Marrs! We started the show thinking Dave and Jenny were both Enthusiasts, but when Jenny radiates a different energy than Dave, the conversation takes a turn.  We kick off with an exploration of Type 7 characteristics, including their enthusiasm, future orientation, and tendency to avoid pain and discomfort.  Then, we get into a pseudo typing interview to figure out what personality traits resonate with Jenny, covering her energy level as compared to Daves and how she feels about conflict and decision-making.    About Jenny and Dave Marrs: Jenny and Dave have been restoring and renovating historic homes since 2004. Now as stars of HGTV's "Fixer to Fabulous," they showcase their work in their beautiful hometown and surrounding area of Bentonville, Arkansas, to millions of viewers while staying true to their renovation philosophy: a home should reflect the personality of the ones who live there. Their spinoff series, "Fixer to Fabulous: Italiano," kicked off in March 2024 and Jenny released her book "House + Love = Home: Creating Warm, Intentional Spaces for a Beautiful Life" in November 2023.  You can find Jenny and Dave on Instagram and Facebook, or visit their website.

Dr. Carol Tanksley joins Typology to discuss her journey of self-discovery and the powerful impact learning to see her emotions as knowledge has had on her life. As Dr. Tanksley explains, “When I finally started to understand that it was not knowledge that I needed to quote ‘fix me,’ then I started to make progress. […] Things started to change in my life. I started to come to terms with the emotional and feeling part of me, hence the wing four. I had all kinds of feelings. They were there all the time.” Learning to befriend our feelings opens the door to wholeness and true connection. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Dr. Tanksley discovered her Enneagram typeA few practices to help fives connect with their feelingsImportance of understanding emotions as information   Dr. Carol Tanksley Resources www.DrCarolMinistries.com  Instagram | X: | Facebook  YouTube  Podcast: Relationship Prescriptions with Dr. Carol Sexpectations: reframing your good and not-so-good stories about God, love, and relationships

In this week’s episode, Molly Stillman, the author of the book "If I Don't Laugh, I'll Cry: How Death, Debt, and Comedy Led to a Life of Faith, Farming, and Forgetting What I Came into This Room For," opens up about her struggles with grief and learning to face hard truths and tough emotions head-on. We explore the complexities of being an Enneagram Two, the importance of genuine vulnerability, and learning to share her story as a powerful tool for healing, connecting with others, and sharing the human experience.  Highlighting the importance of self-reflection and the power of storytelling, Molly’s journey serves as an inspiration for others to embrace their own vulnerabilities and seek healing.

The statistics for loneliness are startling, not just for children but for the human population in general. According to recent research, 61% of Americans report often feeling lonely. The fact of the matter is that loneliness is a universally felt emotion that doesn’t discriminate. It starts young…and it’s growing.  Today, we welcome esteemed bestselling author Max Lucado for a timely discussion about the epidemic of loneliness in today’s connected age and the impact on human connection. We explore what was on Max’s heart when he wrote his new children's book, “Just in Case You Ever Feel Alone,” and delve into how different Enneagram types might experience and cope with loneliness, highlighting the importance of self-awareness, community, and seeking honest feedback as a tool for true closeness.

Today, we had the pleasure of exploring the intricacies of personality and attachment styles with our esteemed guest, Dr. Anita Knight Kuhnley, a mastermind in counselor education and supervision, and the author behind the transformative works, "The Mr. Rogers Effect" and "The Four Relationship Styles." Dr. Kuhnley enlightens us on the four relationship styles – the firefighter, the investigator, the security guard, and the networker. Each style, rooted in attachment theory, offers a unique lens through which we can understand our behaviors in relationships, especially under stress. 🌟 Highlights of the episode: Dr. Kuhnley's personal Enneagram journey: Five or Nine? Insightful connections between Enneagram types and attachment styles. A sneak peek into Dr. Kuhnley's latest book and how understanding your relationship style can lead to more intimate connection. Whether you're a long-time Enneagram enthusiast or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you pondering and wanting more. 🎧 Tune in now to join the conversation and discover more about yourself and the people around you.   P.S. Embrace the human adventure with us. Subscribe, listen, and let the transformation begin!

This week we welcome Enneagram 3, Dr. Joel Muddamalle Director of Theology and Research at Proverbs 31 Ministries and Theologian in Residence with Haven Place Ministries.  Author of the new book, The Hidden Peace: Finding True Security, Strength, and Confidence Through Humility, Dr. Muddamalle shares the route to inner peace – through humility.  Tune in as we explore:  The three Ps of humility How the Enneagram became a huge part of Dr. Muddamalle’s journey into a place of humility, and The important role of self-awareness and humor in cultivating humility

This week we continue our conversation with best friend duo Amy Weatherly (9w8) and Jess Johnston (7w8), co-founders of the viral page all about friendship, Sister, I Am with You. In Part 2, we explore: what each Enneagram type looks for and needs in a friendship how to deal with conflict in relationships and friendships when it's time to end a friendship and how to do it well In an age where everything is about division, this conversation is a breath of fresh air about people coming together to forge meaningful friendships. P.S. Don't forget to follow Typology Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player to get weekly episodes in your feed.

Best friend duo Amy Weatherly (9w8) and Jess Johnston (7w8), co-founders of the viral page all about friendship, Sister, I Am with You, join us for an inspirational look into the hows and whys of doing life together in a culture that constantly tries to keep us separate.  In Part 1 of this two-part episode, co-authors of the Wall Street Journal bestseller I’ll Be There (But I’ll Be Wearing Sweatpants), and Here For It (the GOOD, the BAD, and the QUESO), Amy and Jess share the impact of the Enneagram on friendships and learning to accept and love people not just as they are, but for who they could become. “The enneagram is such an important tool for friendship because I know, accepting the hard, moving through the hard, I feel like the Enneagram helps me understand my friends and where they’re coming from on such a better level. To love people as they are. I think it’s a really powerful tool for loving people as they are and for taking some misunderstanding out of the equation,” explains Jess.  Listen as we explore:  how Amy and Jess first clicked over their shared passion for the Enneagram and how it has shaped their friendship what it’s like for a 9 and 7 to build connection and work together  the definition and purpose of friendship  They remind us that building connections is not easy. It requires intentional investment to accept and move through the hard pieces that establish authentic friendship.  Tune in next week as we continue the conversation and explore what each Enneagram type looks for and needs in a friendship.

This week we revisit our conversation with accomplished actor and screenwriter John Schaech, known for his roles in "That Thing You Do" and the upcoming series "Blue Ridge," and his wife, Julie Solomon, a top branding coach, best-selling author, and podcast host. Together, they share their insights into how the Enneagram has shaped their personal and professional lives. In this episode, we explore: How John and Julie navigate their relationship dynamics as an Enneagram Four with a Five Wing and a Three with a Two Wing. The impact of past-oriented and future-oriented perspectives in their marriage. John's courageous story of addiction and recovery, and how it has transformed his life and career. Julie's experience with Al-Anon and her path to self-discovery and healing. This episode is a testament to the power of self-reflection, the courage to redefine personal beliefs, and the strength found in sobriety. It's a story of hope, growth, and the beauty of self-acceptance.   📚 Get Julie Solomon's book "Get What You Want: How to Go from Unseen to Unstoppable" wherever books are sold. 🎬 Stay tuned for John Sheck's new series "Blue Ridge" coming in 2024. 🎧 Listen to Julie's podcast "The Influencer Podcast" for more insights on personal branding and marketing. --------------------------------------------------------------------- We'd love to hear your feedback and experiences. Share your stories with us by following us on social media @TypologyPodcast.  If you're enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support means the world to us.

We’re amid an epidemic of anxiety.  It affects all of us, our children, our peers, our partners. Yet, what if we could reframe anxiety in a new way that helps people live in a healthy relationship with something we all experience…something it means to be human?   Our guest, Dr. David Rosmarin, Enneagram 3w2, associate professor at Harvard Medical School,  program director at McLean Hospital, founder of the Center for Anxiety, and international expert on spirituality and mental health joins me for a much needed conversation about accepting anxiety as a natural part of life and learning to lean into it as a tool for positive change.  In today’s episode, Dr. Rosmarin and I explore: What brings up anxiety for Dr. Rosmarin The distinction between fear, anxiety, stress and worry Triggers of anxiety for different Enneagram types  We also highlight a couple of practical tools provided in Dr. Rosmarin's book, 'Thriving with Anxiety,' which offers actionable strategies for managing anxiety in everyday life.

In this episode, Enneagram guru Seth Abram returns to the show for an in depth conversation about Shadow Work. The shadow refers to the unconscious aspects of ourselves that we hide or deny. “Really the concept of the shadow is all about what elements in our psyche are unknown to us, what’s outside of our regular awareness [...] it’s not just what’s outside of our awareness, but it’s also what discomforts the sense of self we wish to have,” explains Seth. “Within me, it’s what is true of me that when it’s brought to my awareness, I find it super problematic. It’s threatening to me, it’s contradictory to what I profess my values are.” Only by welcoming and integrating our shadow aspects, can we grow our definition of ourselves and become more authentic and whole.  We’ll explore:  What the shadow is  How self-examination through the Enneagram helps with shadow work What each type denies to be true about themselves Today’s discussion offers valuable insights for anyone interested in shadow work and self-discovery.  To hear the rest of our conversation with Seth where we explore practices and tools to help you with your shadow work, become a Typology Institute Member to gain access to our exclusive membership podcast and watch January’s town hall with Seth where members were able to ask Seth their questions live.

We live in a broken world and suffering is inevitable. But, what are you going to do with what you’ve gone through? Writer and storyteller, Kristen LaValley, Enneagram 5w4, offers a refreshing perspective on faith, spirituality, suffering, and the human experience. She joins me in an exploration of suffering and challenging our beliefs when they don’t hold up in crisis or darkness.  As an Observer, Kristen explains what suffering is like for her, “I go deep inside and compartmentalize like crazy,” which can lead to detachment and broken connections.  As a five, “I feel things deeply but struggle to express them outwardly in expected ways.” This is common for Fives as they typically struggle to experience their feelings in the moment as they arise, and need time to think their way to their feelings.  In today’s episode, we explore:  Why Fives compartmentalize their emotions and impact it has on their loved ones What to do when traditional formulas and catchphrases are insufficient in times of pain and hardship Finding God and experiencing His presence in the midst of our suffering Author of the critically acclaimed book, “Even If He Doesn’t,” Kristen asks, “How can I approach God when I’m struggling to believe in His goodness?” and challenges us to relax into the knowledge that even if things don’t go our way, He is present with us through the pain and turmoils of life.  I hope this conversation challenges you to reflect on your own beliefs and find acceptance that there is no perfect explanation for suffering.  Until next time, "May you have love, may you have joy, may you have peace, may you have healing, and may you have rest.”      ----------- Kristen's Website: https://kristenlavalley.com Pre-Order Your Copy of "Even If He Doesn't"

How does your Enneagram type influence the creative process? Whether we’re in business, cooking a meal, or writing a book, we’re all content creators on some level. Each of us has the capacity to tap into our gifts and bring something new into the world.  Today, we explore the fascinating interplay between the Enneagram and creativity with author and writing coach, Mary Adkins. This conversation shines a light on the unique hurdles and assets each personality type brings to the table in their artistic endeavors. In this episode, we examine:  How Mary discovered her Enneagram type and the role it plays in her coaching The importance of self-awareness in the creative process Why ‘making a mess’ and ‘trusting the process’ is instrumental for all types Mary's journey from Yale Law School and Duke to becoming a renowned writing coach and founder of The Book Incubator program serves as a testament to the power of understanding one's gifts and leveraging them to maximize their creative potential.  Until next time, keep exploring the mystery of your unique personality and remember, "May you have love, may you have joy, may you have peace, may you have healing, and may you have rest.”   ------------------------------ Mary Adkins Website: www.maryadkinswriter.com The Book Incubator 12-month Program Instagram

How does your past shape your present relationships? This week's episode is a treasure trove of insights that you won't want to miss! Join us as we sit down with the insightful Ike Miller, PhD, author, pastor, and Enneagram Three, who brings a fresh perspective on how the baggage we carry from our childhood isn't all bad. In fact, it might just be the key to unlocking healthier relationships and a more authentic self. Ike's new book, "Good Baggage," challenges the notion that all our past experiences weigh us down. Instead, he invites us to sift through our stories and find the hidden tools that can lead to personal growth and relational health. In this episode, you'll discover: Ike's journey with the Enneagram and how it helped him understand his motivations and fears. The core fear of the Enneagram Three and how it can manifest in daily life. Strategies for self-differentiation and setting healthy boundaries The importance of authenticity in leadership and personal relationships. And much more! Whether you're an Enneagram Three wrestling with image management or someone curious about how to leverage your past for a better future, this conversation is for you. As always, we're here to support you in your journey of self-discovery and growth. If you find this episode as enlightening as we did, share it with a friend who might also benefit from Ike's wisdom. Until next time, keep exploring the mystery of your unique personality and remember, "May you have love, may you have joy, may you have peace, may you have healing, and may you have rest.”     P.S. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes and make sure to follow us on Instagram @TypologyPodcast for daily doses of Enneagram knowledge and encouragement! Don't forget to check out Ike's book, "Good Baggage," and if you're looking for more resources to help you on your journey, consider exploring "The Search for Significance" by Robert McGee, a book that has deeply influenced Ike's understanding of identity and value.     TIMESTAMPS (00:00:03) - Introduction to Typology Podcast (00:00:24) - Ike Miller's New Book: Good Baggage (00:01:21) - Reflecting on Past Events and Changes (00:02:43) - Ike Miller's Enneagram Discovery Journey (00:04:31) - Core Fear of Enneagram Three (00:05:12) - Utilizing Baggage from Childhood (00:06:06) - Threes Under Stress and Image Management (00:07:06) - Ike Miller on Identity and Achievement (00:08:03) - Preaching and Identity for Enneagram Threes (00:10:19) - Celebrating Personal Progress (00:12:10) - Moving Theological Understanding to Personal Experience (00:13:04) - Ike's Challenges During the Pandemic (00:14:02) - Ike and His Wife's Enneagram Dynamics (00:15:38) - Risk Aversion and Entrepreneurship in Enneagram Types (00:16:03) - Ike's Experience Leading a Church During COVID-19 (00:17:33) - The Importance of Authenticity in Ministry (00:18:14) - Ike's Book and The Search for Significance (00:19:02) - Therapy and Enneagram Threes (00:20:11) - Ike's Motivation for Therapy and Transparency (00:21:20) - The Challenge of Vulnerability for Enneagram Threes (00:22:49) - The Five Whys Technique for Personal Growth (00:24:34) - Self-Differentiation and Family Dynamics (00:25:41) - Ike's Three Keys to Navigating Dysfunctional Families (00:26:25) - Post-Traumatic Growth and Personal Development (00:27:23) - Tools for Healing and Growth in Ike's Book (00:28:04) - The Story of David and Goliath: A Metaphor for Self-Identity (00:29:20) - Closing Remarks and Ike's Contact Information

This week, we are thrilled to welcome back Sissy Goff, an accomplished counselor and leading voice in parenting and child psychology. As an Enneagram 1, Sissy has served as the director of counseling at Daystar Ministries since 1993, where she has impacted countless families over decades of devoted work. She returns to discuss the connection between parental anxiety and anger and how they impact our children. We also explore:  Her experience as an Enneagram 1 and how it's helped shape her role as a guide and mentor in teaching parents how best to bond and communicate with their children.The difference between worry and anxiety and what you can do to become a better parent for your children. You won’t want to miss Sissy Goff’s thoughtful guidance and timeless advice. This discussion promises to be an essential listen for every parent.

With the Enneagram, what we do is not as important as why we do the things we do. This also applies to confidence.  Behavioral economics pioneer, internationally sought-after consultant, and professor of confidence-driven decision-making Peter Atwater explains,  “The ‘why’ to me is all related to our feelings of certainty and control because when I boil down what confidence is it’s knowing what’s coming and feeling like we are prepared for it.”   Today, we explore what confidence is and how to cultivate confidence….We dig into Peter’s new book and go over his confidence quadrant framework, which includes the stress center, comfort zone, passenger seat, and the launchpad. It’s a tool you can use to not only understand yourself better but to understand those around you better. This is a rich conversation and you’re going to want to grab this book, The Confidence Map: Charting a Path from Chaos to Clarity.  To learn more about Peter Atwater, visit his website, check out his TED Talks and pick up a copy of The Confidence Map.

Today on Typology we welcome a dynamic couple to the show: accomplished actor and screenwriter John Schaech, known for his roles in "That Thing You Do" and the upcoming series "Blue Ridge," and his wife, Julie Solomon, a top branding coach, best-selling author, and podcast host. Together, they share their insights into how the Enneagram has shaped their personal and professional lives. In this episode, we explore: How John and Julie navigate their relationship dynamics as an Enneagram Four with a Five Wing and a Three with a Two Wing. The impact of past-oriented and future-oriented perspectives in their marriage. John's courageous story of addiction and recovery, and how it has transformed his life and career. Julie's experience with Al-Anon and her path to self-discovery and healing. This episode is a testament to the power of self-reflection, the courage to redefine personal beliefs, and the strength found in sobriety. It's a story of hope, growth, and the beauty of self-acceptance.   📚 Get Julie Solomon's book "Get What You Want: How to Go from Unseen to Unstoppable" wherever books are sold. 🎬 Stay tuned for John Sheck's new series "Blue Ridge" coming in 2024. 🎧 Listen to Julie's podcast "The Influencer Podcast" for more insights on personal branding and marketing. --------------------------------------------------------------------- We'd love to hear your feedback and experiences. Share your stories with us by following us on social media @TypologyPodcast.  If you're enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support means the world to us.

How do you discern what God is saying? The Enneagram teaches us that we’re not all the same person. It allows us to be unique and have unique experiences. So, what if the key to hearing Him is understanding the distinct way he speaks to you?  Today’s guest, pastor and author Havilah Cunnington reminds us we can’t assume that God speaks to us all in the same way. “I think that’s really important in life, to be different, to have a uniqueness, to understand that God doesn’t interact with all of His kids the same way.  Just like I have four boys. I don’t interact with [them] in the same way,” explains Havilah. “Understanding how He speaks to you gives us a starting point. It allows us to at least recognize where we might be so we can actually go deeper and build a better relationship and interaction with Him."  In this episode, we dive into her intriguing insights from her latest book, discussing the nuances of discerning divine guidance and how to harness one’s unique spiritual personality for a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God.  We also explore how Havilah’s Enneagram type energizes her approach to spiritual leadership and her passion for helping others recognize and listen to God’s voice in their lives.  If you’ve ever felt lost because you never felt that you could hear the voice of God in your life, this episode could help you discover His unique way of communicating with you.    ABOUT HAVILAH CUNNINGTON Havilah Cunnington has had a remarkable journey of over twenty years in full-time ministry and as the female pastor at Bethel Church, her experience spans from guiding spiritual growth in individuals to leading a nonprofit, and her podcast, Truth to Table.  She’s the author of the book, “Created to Hear God: 4 Unique and Proven Ways to Confidently Discern His Voice.” Website: https://havilahcunnington.com