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Childhood and the Enneagram : The Stories that Shape Us
Childhood and the Enneagram: Stories That Shape Us is a podcast for parents, educators, therapists, and anyone ready to heal their story and help others do the same.
Hosted by licensed therapist, Enneagram practitioner, and author Susan Parker Jones, this series explores how our earliest experiences shape the way we see ourselves, relate to others, and show up for the next generation.
Grounded in attachment theory, trauma-informed care, and the Harmony Model of the Enneagram, each episode unpacks the unconscious narratives we carry from childhood — and how those stories show up in our parenting, leadership, and self-talk.
Through real-life reflections, practical tools, and compassionate insight, you’ll learn how to:
- Recognize and rewrite your Inner Childhood Narrative (ICN)
- Understand children’s behavior through the lens of connection and nervous system safety
- Use Enneagram wisdom to foster emotional growth and secure relationships
- Break generational patterns with clarity, presence, and grace
Because healing your story is where generational change begins — and every small shift has the power to create lasting transformation.
Childhood and the Enneagram : The Stories that Shape Us
Type One - Why Is My Child So Hard on Themselves?
In this episode, we explore the tender heart and high standards of the Type One child—often called the Improver or Reformer. These kids are responsible, principled, and driven by a deep desire to get it right. But behind the helpfulness and maturity is often an inner critic that never quiets down.
We’ll talk about how Type One children manage their anger, why they may struggle with black-and-white thinking, and how their need to be good can come at the cost of joy. You’ll learn practical strategies to help them embrace self-compassion, integrate their full Harmony Triad (1-4-7), and build a new inner narrative: “I don’t have to be perfect to be loved.”
This one’s for every parent, teacher, or caregiver supporting a child who carries the quiet weight of being the good one.