In this enlightening episode of Passion Struck, we welcome the remarkable Dr. Deborah Egerton, affectionately known as Dr. E, who shares her profound insights on belonging, kindness, and the transformative power of the Enneagram.
As the author of Enneagram Made Easy: Explore the Nine Personality Types of the Enneagram to Open Your Heart, Find Joy, and Discover Your True Self, Dr. Egerton takes us on a journey through the nine personality types. By learning how to read your enneagram chart, you can gain deeper self-awareness, foster meaningful connections, and live a more intentional life.
You can watch the interview on YouTube below.
What is the Enneagram?

The Enneagram is a nine-pointed geometric figure representing nine distinct personality types. Unlike traditional assessments, it is a roadmap to understanding our core motivations, fears, and desires. It is divided into three centers of intelligence:
- The Body Center: Types 8, 9, and 1
- The Heart Center: Types 2, 3, and 4
- The Head Center: Types 5, 6, and 7
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Belonging: Dr. Deborah Egerton discusses the necessity of recognizing one’s inherent right to belong, regardless of societal pressures or discrimination.
- Kindness in Action: She introduces the concept of “kinetic kindness,” emphasizing that kindness must be actively practiced to create a positive impact.
- Personal Experiences: Dr. Egerton reflects on her childhood experiences and how they influenced her understanding of dignity and belonging.
- Enneagram Insights: The conversation touches on how to read your Enneagram chart as a tool for self-discovery, helping individuals understand their motivations and behaviors.
- Community and Support: She highlights the importance of community in personal growth and the value of shared experiences in the journey toward authenticity.
- Spiritual Growth: Dr. Deborah Egerton explains how understanding oneself through the Enneagram can enhance spiritual practices and foster a deeper connection with others.
WHY IS THIS A MUST-LISTEN?
This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships with others. Dr. Egerton’s insights on kindness, belonging, and the Enneagram provide valuable tools for personal growth and self-acceptance. Her heartfelt stories and practical advice inspire listeners to embrace their authentic selves and cultivate a more compassionate world. Whether you’re struggling with feelings of isolation or simply looking to enhance your emotional intelligence, this conversation offers profound wisdom and actionable steps to help you on your journey.
Exploring the Nine Enneagram Personality Types
Dr. Deborah Egerton shed light on how to read your Enneagram chart, a powerful tool for personal growth and self-discovery. The Enneagram is not just another personality test but a roadmap to understanding our motivations, fears, and desires. Unlike traditional assessments that focus solely on behavior, learning how to read your Enneagram chart helps you delve deeper into the underlying reasons for your actions, uncovering the essence of who you are.
The Nine Enneagram Types

- Type 1 – The Reformer: Driven by a strong sense of integrity, Type 1s strive for perfection and improvement. They are principled and responsible, often feeling frustrated by the imperfections they see in themselves and others.
- Type 2 – The Helper: Caring and nurturing, Type 2s are motivated by a desire to be loved and appreciated. They often prioritize the needs of others over their own, which can lead to burnout if they neglect self-care.
- Type 3 – The Achiever: Ambitious and success-oriented, Type 3s focus on achieving their goals and gaining recognition. They thrive on validation and often measure their self-worth by their accomplishments.
- Type 4 – The Individualist: Creative and introspective. Type 4s seek authenticity and self-expression. They are often in touch with their emotions and can experience deep feelings of longing and melancholy.
- Type 5 – The Investigator: Analytical and curious, Type 5s are driven to understand the world around them. They value knowledge and often prefer solitude to recharge their energy.
- Type 6 – The Loyalist: Committed and responsible, Type 6s are known for their loyalty and preparedness. They often anticipate potential problems and seek security, which can lead to anxiety.
- Type 7 – The Enthusiast: Optimistic and adventurous, Type 7s are motivated by a desire for new experiences and joy. They often avoid pain and discomfort, seeking to keep their lives exciting and fulfilling.
- Type 8 – The Challenger: Assertive and strong-willed, Type 8s are natural leaders who seek control and challenge injustice. They are decisive and often confrontational, embodying a powerful energy that drives them to take charge.
- Type 9 – The Peacemaker: Known for their desire for harmony, Type 9s avoid conflict and seek to create peace in their environments. They are often seen as easygoing and supportive, but may struggle with inertia and complacency.
Key Takeaways from Dr. Deborah Egerton
- Kinetic Kindness: Dr. E introduces the concept that kindness must be actively practiced to create a positive impact.
- The Right to Belong: A discussion on recognizing your inherent right to belong, regardless of societal pressures.
- Breaking Limitations: How understanding your chart helps you break free from self-imposed limitations and cultivate emotional intelligence.
The Journey of Self-Discovery: As Dr. Egerton emphasized during the interview, the Enneagram is designed to assist individuals on their journey back to their authentic selves. By understanding their dominant type, individuals can gain insights into their deepest desires and fears, allowing them to navigate life with greater intention and purpose.
In her book, Enneagram Made Easy, Dr. Egerton provides practical guidance on applying the Enneagram to their lives, helping readers foster personal growth and improve their relationships. The Enneagram not only enhances self-awareness but also promotes empathy and understanding towards others, making it a valuable tool for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual practice and live more intentionally.
THANKS, Dr. Deborah Egerton

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RESOURCES FROM THE SHOW WITH DEBORAH EGERTON
Please note that some of the links on this page (books, movies, music, etc.) lead to affiliate programs for which The Passion Struck podcast receives compensation. It’s just one of the ways we keep the lights on around here. Thank you so much for being so supportive!
- Dr. Deborah Egerton’s Website
- Dr. Deborah Egerton’s Instagram
- Dr. Deborah Egerton’s LinkedIn
- Passion Struck Core Value System: https://passionstruck.com/the-passion-struck-core-belief-system/
- Listen to Passion Struck’s interviews with New York Times bestselling authors Gretchen Rubin and Seth Godin.
- Check out Passion Struck’s Episode Starter Packs on Spotify or Passion Struck starter packs to get started with the podcast.
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About Today’s Guest, Deborah Egerton PhD

Deborah Egerton, Ph.D. is a distinguished author, educator, and expert in personality psychology, best known for her book Enneagram Made Easy: Explore the Nine Personality Types of the Enneagram to Open Your Heart, Find Joy, and Discover Your True Self. With a deep passion for personal development and self-discovery, Deborah combines her extensive knowledge of the Enneagram with practical insights, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and cultivate deeper connections with themselves and others.
As a sought-after speaker and workshop facilitator, she shares her expertise on the Enneagram’s transformative power, guiding audiences to navigate their unique personality types and foster meaningful growth. Deborah’s commitment to making the Enneagram accessible and relatable has made her a trusted voice in the field, inspiring countless individuals on their journeys toward self-awareness and fulfillment.
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