67. How to Become Triggerproof: Managing Emotional Triggers in the Workplace with Jeff Gaines

Mission First People Always's podcast

In today’s fast-paced world, it seems like everyone is talking about being “triggered.” But what does it really mean, and how can leaders and employees manage their triggers to stay focused and productive? In this episode, Dr. Mike Patterson and Jeff Gaines dive into how to become “triggerproof,” offering practical strategies to overcome workplace stress and emotional reactions.

Dr. Mike welcomes Jeff Gaines, a personal development expert with over 30 years of experience working with leaders across industries. Jeff introduces his latest offering, Triggerproof, a program designed to help leaders and teams manage their emotional responses in high-stress environments.

Jeff breaks down human motivation into two drives: the urge to create and the urge to protect. When we’re triggered, we move into protection mode, often subconsciously. Jeff explains how triggers aren’t always obvious—most people don’t look visibly upset or angry. Instead, they quietly disengage, reduce productivity, or withhold valuable feedback that could improve decision-making.

Throughout the conversation, Jeff discusses his Three Drivers model, which explains how our thoughts and emotions are shaped by a "screen" of unconscious processing. This screen often distorts reality, leading to emotional responses that seem disproportionate to the situation. Jeff’s program teaches leaders how to recognize these distortions and manage them effectively.

He also emphasizes the importance of emotional resilience and collaboration in the workplace. Whether you’re a leader looking to encourage honest feedback or a team member trying to overcome stress, understanding and managing triggers is key to thriving in today’s work environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Triggers Are Not Always Visible: People may not outwardly express when they’re triggered, but it impacts their work.

• Managing the "Screen": Our emotions and logic are shaped by a filter that distorts reality. Learning to manage this screen is crucial.

• Emotional vs. Logical Decisions: While we often think we're making logical decisions, emotions play a larger role than we realize.

• Resilience Tools: Building emotional resilience helps us bounce back faster when triggered, leading to better collaboration and decision-making.

Jeff Gaines’ approach offers practical, real-world strategies for managing emotional responses in the workplace. By understanding how our brains process information and learning to manage our reactions, we can foster healthier, more productive work environments.

Call to Action: Hit play to hear the full episode and learn how you can become Triggerproof and foster resilience in your leadership style!

Links for This Episode:

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/triggerproof
• http://triggerproof.us
• [e-mail]

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 - Welcome and Introduction to the Episode
• 02:00 - Jeff Gaines' Background and Experience
• 03:34 - Introducing Triggerproof and Why It's Needed
• 05:14 - The Role of Technology in Creating Triggers
• 09:12 - What It Means to Be Triggerproof
• 10:21 - Common Responses to Triggers: Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Fawn
• 12:48 - Overview of Triggerproof Course and the Three Drivers Model
• 19:13 - How Emotional Triggers Impact Decision-Making in the Workplace
• 23:16 - Changing the Screen: Aligning Logic and Emotion for Better Outcomes
• 29:31 - The Business Case for Managing Triggers in Organizations
• 31:00 - Jeff’s One Piece of Advice for Leaders: Define Your Purpose