The Independent Minds
Understanding the Enneagram – a conversation with R. Karl Hebenstreit
Enneagram—a powerful motivation‑based personality framework In this episode of The Independent Minds, host Michael Millward talks with executive coach, international speaker, and author R. Karl Hebenstreit to explore the Enneagram, a powerful motivation‑based personality framework that is transforming workplaces around the world. Karl explains how the Enneagram goes beyond traditional personality tools by revealing the core motivations that drive human behaviour. In organisational development terms the Enneagram explains the thought processes that generate the behaviour.” Michael and Karl unpack: The nine Enneagram types and how each reflects a distinct motivational lens Whynature and nurture shape your dominant type How leaders can use the Enneagram to improve team dynamics, engagement, and retention The role of self‑awareness in building healthier, more effective workplace relationships Real‑world examples of how organisations shift when they understand what truly motivates their people Karl shares insights from his book The How and Why: Taking Care of Business with the Enneagram, now in its third edition, offering practical guidance for applying the Enneagram in leadership, HR, and organisational development. Whether you're an HR professional, a leader seeking better team cohesion, or simply curious about what drives human behaviour, this episode will challenge your assumptions and expand your thinking. True to the show’s mission: “We won’t tell you what to think, but we hope to make you think.” Michael reflects on optimism, conflict resolution, and the “iceberg” metaphor Karl uses to explain how unseen motivations shape visible behaviour. Keywords Enneagram, personality types, workplace motivation, organisational psychology, leadership development, team engagement, R. Karl Hebenstreit, Michael Millward, The Independent Minds podcast, HR tools, motivation typing, organisational development, business psychology, self‑awareness at work. Discover more about Karl and Michael at Abeceder.co.uk Audience Offers – listings include links that may create a small commission for The Independent Minds The Independent Minds is made on Zencastr, because Zencastr really does make creating content so easy. With discounted membership of the Ultimate Travel Club , you travel anywhere at trade prices. Fit For Work We recommend The 39-health marker Annual Health Test from York Test. Visit York Test and use this discount code MIND25 . Visit Three for information about business and personal telecom solutions from Three, and the special offers available when you quote my referral code WPFNUQHU . Being a Guest We recommend the podcasting guest training programmes available from Work Place Learning Centre . Matchmaker.fm is where great guests and great hosts are matched and great podcasts are hatched. Use our offer code MILW10 for a discount on membership. We appreciate every like, download, and subscriber. Thank you for listening .
