Typology

This week on Typology, we welcomed the incomparable Lynn Smith—former national news anchor turned communications strategist, executive coach, and proud (and newly discovered) Enneagram Three with a Two wing. And friends… buckle up. This conversation is a masterclass in emotional intelligence, presence, and what it means to pursue success without losing yourself in the chase. Fresh off taking the Typology Assessment, Lynn joined us in that familiar Three-ish blend of humor, candor, and high-octane energy, joking that the results made her want to immediately call her therapist. What unfolded from there was a remarkably vulnerable exploration of people-pleasing, approval-seeking, identity, and the hidden costs of a lifetime spent earning applause. Lynn pulled back the curtain on her years in broadcast news—an industry where worth is measured in seconds, headlines, and flawless delivery—and revealed the deeper story beneath her polished exterior: a lifelong drive to achieve, a tenderness inherited from her family's immigrant narrative, and a powerful desire to help others communicate with confidence and authenticity. But the real gem of this episode is Lynn's groundbreaking work on what she calls "the brain bully." That inner critic. That saboteur whispering that you're one misstep away from failure. That internal voice Threes know far too well. Lynn not only names it—she teaches you how to outsmart it. Her framework for dismantling fear and building resilient confidence is practical, empowering, and deeply human. And when she reveals her own brain bully's name—"Bob"—you can't help but laugh and exhale. Sometimes the most powerful breakthroughs come with a wink. We also wandered into a juicy conversation about magnetism versus authenticity, why your energy enters a room a full tenth of a second before you do, and how the Enneagram can radically improve communication across teams, industries, and families. Connect with Lynn Smith at www.lynnsmith.com or on socials at @lynnsmithtv CONNECT WITH IAN Learn more about the Enneagram at www.ianmorgancron.com or follow Ian at @ianmorgancron and @typologypodcast on Instagram and Facebook P.S. Interested in a 30-minute one-on-one virtual coaching session with Ian? Fill out our interest form here.

Explore the transformative power of gratitude through the lens of the Enneagram types. Healthy Ones shine with purpose, while Twos deeply connect and prioritize self-care. Threes inspire through inner motivation, and Fours find beauty in vulnerability. Fives excel in insights and listening, whereas Sixes balance imagination with logic. Sevens embrace awe and adaptability, and Eights blend humor with a quest for justice. Lastly, Nines embody mysticism and presence, showcasing the unique traits to be grateful for in each type.

Heath Hardesty, a California pastor and author, delves into the essence of human longing and authenticity. He shares insights into the Enneagram Two's desire to help and the shadow sides of such behavior. The conversation explores the deep ache for beauty and the journey of becoming whole through surrendering false selves. Heath reflects on his literary influences, imposter feelings, and the significance of sacramental imagination in spiritual growth. This engaging dialogue offers a poetic exploration of connecting meaningfully with ourselves and others.

Steve Taylor, a filmmaker, writer, and professor known for his creative provocations, explores the depths of aging and spiritual maturity. He shares his journey of shifting from a possibility mindset to embracing life's limits at 67. Steve discusses the importance of compassion, the struggle with dark emotions, and the balance between ambition and presence. He reflects on the legacy he aims to leave as an encourager and the unfinished projects still chasing him. This conversation is rich with insights on emotional intelligence and the inner work of becoming whole.

Join Jenny Wood, a former Google executive and bestselling author, along with her Chief of Staff, Carlina Daugherty, as they dive into the complexities of ambition and fear. They uncover how fear, not talent, often blocks success and introduce the nine 'wild' traits fueling courageous leadership. Jenny shares her candid journey of self-awareness as an Enneagram Three, exploring the balance between personal brand and authenticity. Their heartfelt conversation reveals that true success lies in relationships and presence rather than mere achievement.

Joel J. Miller, a publishing veteran and author of The Idea Machine, dives into the intricate mind of the Enneagram Five. He shares how Fives navigate the balance between intellect and intimacy, often using books as a connection mechanism. Joel discusses his marriage with a Type Four, revealing how it helps him engage more deeply with emotions. He emphasizes the importance of moving from mere information sharing to meaningful relationships, and how literature can influence both thought and personal connections, transforming the Five’s inner world.

Join Dr. Les Parrott, a clinical psychologist and bestselling author, along with Judah Smith, a dynamic pastor and communicator. They explore the five toxic thought patterns—guilt, shame, insecurity, entitlement, and unworthiness—and how reframing these can lead to healing. Judah shares personal struggles with his inner critic, and they discuss the church's potential to embody vulnerability akin to AA meetings. Their engaging conversation weaves together spirituality and psychology, shedding light on transforming harmful thoughts into growth.

Drs. Bill and Kristi Gaultiere, therapists and spiritual directors from Soul Shepherding, delve into the power of empathy in fostering deep love. They reveal how shame and emotional wounds hinder our ability to receive love. With insights from their book, they discuss the importance of self-empathy and how various Enneagram types uniquely struggle with it. The Gaultieres also differentiate between tactical and transformational empathy and explore how experiencing God’s empathy can bring healing, even amid suffering.

Elan Benami, a licensed professional counselor and the creator of the EnneaApp, shares insights into the Enneagram's instinctual stack. He discusses the three instincts—self-preservation, social, and one-to-one—and their impact on behavior. Elan explains how these instincts shape subtypes and influence personal dynamics. Drawing on his experiences as a self-preservation Six, he illustrates how differing dominant instincts can create relationship challenges. This engaging conversation helps listeners deepen their Enneagram understanding and self-awareness.

Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby is a licensed marriage and family therapist, author of "Exaholics," and founder of Growing Self Counseling. In this engaging discussion, she unpacks why love can feel addictive, linking it to our biological wiring for attachment. Lisa explores how different Enneagram types interact in relationships, exposing myths of compatibility and power dynamics. She offers insights on spotting blind spots in partnerships and shares practical exercises for understanding and improving relational patterns. A hopeful conversation about love, healing, and growth!