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The 90-Second Reset for Spikes in Stress episode artwork

Feb 20, 2026 8 min

The 90-Second Reset for Spikes in Stress

from Whisky Wednesday Hosted by Jason Hotchkiss, Executive Calm & Performance Consultant

The "Spike" is Real. Your Reaction is Optional. We’ve all been there: You’re in the flow when a "URGENT" email hits your inbox or your boss sends that dreaded message: "Do you have a second to pivot?" In an instant, your chest tightens, your throat goes dry, and your brain starts looking for the nearest exit. This isn't just a busy moment; it’s a neurological hijack. In this episode, we break down the science of the 90-second cortisol surge and give you the exact tool you need to reclaim your logic before you send a reply you’ll regret. The Anatomy of a Hijack: Why your Amygdala treats a change in project scope like a physical predator. The 90-Second Rule: Understanding the chemical lifespan of a stress spike and why "outlasting the chemistry" is the ultimate leadership skill. The "2-to-1" Reset: A guided, 60-second physiological hack. We’ll practice inhaling for 3 and exhaling for 6 to manually flip the "off switch" on your nervous system. The Identity Anchor: Shifting your mindset from being a victim of the pressure to being the steady hand in the middle of it. "Pressure is a shadow, but your response is the light. Don't let a 90-second spike dictate a 24-hour day." Stop reacting from your primitive brain and start leading from your Prefrontal Cortex. Whether you’re facing a high-stakes meeting or a collapsing deadline, this 90-second reset is your secret weapon for maintaining clarity when the heat is on. Inside This Episode: Take Back the Driver’s Seat

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This episode was published on February 20, 2026.

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