Mastering Stress and Nervous System Regulation for High Performance: Insights from Kristen Boss

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge welcomes Kristen Boss, Founder of Sondera, executive coach, keynote speaker, and host of The Kristen Boss Podcast. Kristen dives deep into the power of nervous system regulation, helping high achievers and leaders understand how to perform sustainably under pressure. Her approach bridges neuroscience, leadership, and emotional intelligence—offering strategies that empower professionals to thrive without burning out.

How Nervous System Intelligence Fuels Resilient Leadership

Kristen opens by revealing how intentional stillness, creativity, and mindful hobbies—like skiing or crafting—help her stay grounded. These moments of calm, she explains, are not indulgences but essential tools for recovery and innovation. High achievers often push through stress, but learning to slow down can enhance clarity and unlock creativity.

She also introduces the concept of stress types—fight, flight, and freeze—explaining how each reflects an automatic safety response that shapes our behavior in business and leadership. Recognizing these patterns allows leaders to manage reactivity, strengthen decision-making, and create more emotionally intelligent teams.

Throughout the conversation, Kristen emphasizes that sustainable high performance isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about learning to regulate your internal state. By calming your nervous system, you unlock greater focus, empathy, and resilience, enabling you to lead with intention rather than impulse.

About Kristen Boss

Kristen Boss is an executive coach, keynote speaker, and Founder of Sondera. A sought-after thought leader on high performance and nervous system intelligence, Kristen has built a global brand helping professionals and entrepreneurs master sustainable success. She is also the host of The Kristen Boss Podcast, where she explores leadership, mindset, and emotional resilience.

Connect with Kristen on LinkedIn.

About Sondera

Sondera is dedicated to helping leaders, teams, and organizations integrate nervous system intelligence into their approach to business and life. Through coaching, programs, and training, Sondera equips high achievers with the tools to perform at their best—without sacrificing wellbeing or fulfillment.

Links Mentioned in This Episode

• Sondera Wensite
• Kristen Boss on LinkedIn

Key Episode Highlights:

• Why intentional stillness enhances creativity and performance
• How to identify your unique stress type (fight, flight, or freeze)
• Practical regulation tools—breathwork, micro-pauses, and reflection
• The role of empathy and curiosity in effective leadership
• Why nervous system intelligence is the foundation of sustainable growth

Conclusion

Kristen Boss reminds us that in a world obsessed with doing more, the real edge lies in being regulated, present, and self-aware. Nervous system intelligence isn’t just a wellness trend—it’s a leadership essential. By mastering emotional balance and responding rather than reacting, leaders can build trust, inspire teams, and sustain success in the long run.

🎧 More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners.

Schedule your guest spot here »

🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures? Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source.

See how here »

📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast? We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly.

See the system here »

🚨 What’s Your PodVerified Score? 🎯 Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.

✅ 2 free podcast matches

✅ Dashboard with warm-up plans

✅ Media badges to showcase your guest authority

✅ Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)

👉 View the platform »

📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

New episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence. Thanks for listening — now go build something extraordinary!