Episode 330: Understanding the Challenger and Enneagram 8's with David and Sissy

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Dec 2, 2025

Dive into the dynamic world of Enneagram 8s, where boldness and loyalty reign supreme. Discover the strengths of these challengers, including their protective instincts and honesty. Sissy and David unpack the struggles of intensity and vulnerability, offering practical advice for parents to nurture their eight children. Learn how to foster respect, encourage autonomy, and channel their desire for justice. This insightful discussion provides tools for embracing softness while raising confident, balanced leaders.

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INSIGHT

Strengths Of The Challenger

Enneagram 8s are bold, protective, and driven by honesty and justice.
They show fierce loyalty and deep tenderness beneath a strong exterior.

INSIGHT

Fear Drives Intensity

Eights protect themselves with intensity, independence, and power when threatened.
Their core fear is being harmed, controlled, or betrayed, which shapes many reactions.

ADVICE

Soften Voice And Body

Slow your tone and lower your body to reduce intimidation for kids.
Practice vulnerability instead of masking tenderness with anger.

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Sissy and David explore the bold, protective world of Enneagram 8s, celebrating their fierce loyalty, honesty, and justice‑driven strength while also naming common struggles like intensity, difficulty showing vulnerability, and quick reactions. They offer practical guidance for eight parents and caregivers—soften tone, stay calm, practice vulnerability and repair—and ideas to help eight kids use their power for good, feel respected, and grow into balanced leaders.

Resources mentioned:

The Enneagram Made Easy by Elizabeth Wagele and Renee Baron – used as a simple tool to help kids identify their number.
The Road Back to You by Suzanne Stabile
Love And Logic Series – multiple books for different ages, educators, and grandparents; recommended especially for parents raising potential eights because of its focus on getting out of power struggles.

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⁠Owen Learns He Has What it Takes: A Lesson in Resilience⁠

⁠Lucy Learns to Be Brave: A Lesson in Courage⁠⁠

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