How To Handle Emotional Triggers At Work Without Losing Your Cool

Why do some things at work hit harder than they should? A comment, a tone, a missed cue — and suddenly, you’re overreacting, spiralling, or shutting down.

In this episode of Altitude Shift, executive coach Kris Verle unpacks what’s really happening when you feel triggered at work — and why your reactions can feel so outsized. We talk about what’s going on in your brain, what old emotional patterns might be getting stirred, and how to stay calm when someone pushes your buttons (or picks the scab of an old wound).

You’ll walk away with science-backed strategies to stay composed in heated moments, communicate without blame, and lead with more emotional authority — even when the heat is rising around you.

00:00 - We all get triggered
01:40 - What happens inside the brain
06:21 - Rapid reset and regulate yourself first
11:41 - Should I say something in the moment? 
14:01 - What if you’re the trigger?
17:44 - What you do next matters