The Game Changer Podcast

Michelle Dutro
  • 4.8 (106)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
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The Game Changer Podcast explores the intersection of health, purpose, and performance—spotlighting leaders, clinicians, and creators who turn adversity into growth. Hosted by Air Force veteran, former firefighter, and PTSD nonprofit founder Michelle Dutro, each episode blends candid conversations with science-backed tools for stress mastery, mental fitness, and resilience. With over two decades in biofeedback and wellness, Michelle brings a trauma-aware, compassion-forward approach that helps listeners elevate their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing while living with clarity, courage, and purpose. 

  1. 167: Why Motivation Fails: The "Identity Stability" X-Factor, with Bryan Hedrick

    3D AGO

    167: Why Motivation Fails: The "Identity Stability" X-Factor, with Bryan Hedrick

    Send a text Most high achievers think they need more motivation or better tactics to succeed, but that is actually a recipe for burnout. The true foundation of sustainable performance isn’t what you do—it’s how stable your identity is when the pressure hits. Discover why identity stability—not motivation or tactics—is the true foundation of sustainable performance and leadership. In this episode of The Game Changer Podcast, Michelle Dutro sits down with leadership coach, researcher, and U.S. Army Chaplain Bryan Hedrick to explore the hidden “X-factor” behind clarity, resilience, and lasting change. While this work emerged from elite military and high-pressure environments, it applies to anyone navigating leadership, transition, or personal growth. We discuss how strengthening your sense of self transforms the way you make decisions, respond to pressure, and lead—both personally and professionally. In this episode, you will learn: ⭐ Why identity stability drives performance more than motivation or strategy  ⭐ How tying identity to roles and labels leads to burnout and loss of direction  ⭐ The difference between short-term performance and sustainable high performance  ⭐ How internal alignment creates clarity in health, relationships, and leadership Key discussion points: 00:01 Welcome + Who Is Bryan Hedrick  01:41 Why Identity Stability Matters  03:03 The “X-Factor” in Human Performance  06:46 When Identity Is Tied to Labels  07:52 Sustainable Performance vs. Chasing Metrics  10:39 Why Some People Change and Others Don’t  14:03 The Stability of Self Inventory (S2I) Framework  16:07 Values, Agency, and Internal Alignment  22:00 Identity Under Pressure  31:02 Coaching, Growth, and Inner Work  35:59 Leadership Is for Everyone  38:31 Final Truth: An Upright Inner World To learn more about Bryan's work: https://www.corefocusperformancecoaching.com/ For Bryan's assessment: https://www.lacunaleadership.com/ 🤝 Let’s Connect: linktr.ee/michelledutro 🌐 Learn more: www.michelledutro.com 🏞️ Retreat Center: www.innernorthstar.com

    41 min
  2. 166: How To Rewire Your Brain... (The Method) with John Kennedy, Founder of Combat Brain Training

    JAN 26

    166: How To Rewire Your Brain... (The Method) with John Kennedy, Founder of Combat Brain Training

    Send us a text Summary: Discover how to rewire your brain for permanent high performance and limitless focus. In this episode of The Game Changer Podcast, Michelle Dutro sits down with John Kennedy to reveal the science behind neuroplasticity and cognitive training. While these methods started in high-stakes environments, they are now available to help ANYONE improve focus, reduce anxiety, and sharpen decision-making.    We discuss how specific brain training exercises can transform the way you think, helping you reach your full potential regardless of your starting point.  In this episode, you will learn:  🧠 How neuroplasticity allows you to physically change your brain structure at any age  🧠 Simple neuroscience hacks to instantly improve focus and mental clarity  🧠 Why cognitive training offers a permanent solution to burnout and stress  🧠 How to turn unique brain traits into hidden strengths through targeted practice    Key discussion points:    00:00 Introduction to Brain Training  01:20 John Kennedy's Journey  08:39 The Impact of Brain Training on Performance  12:29 Exercises and Techniques for Brain Training  16:27 Addressing Anxiety and Stress through Brain Training  20:26 The Role of Brain Training in Goal Setting  27:27 Understanding Brain Training Solutions  29:12 The Impact of Environment on Cognitive Development  30:37 Transforming Mental Traits into Superpowers  33:30 The Longevity of Brain Changes  35:04 Neural Primers for Quick Mental Boosts  36:45 Training for High-Stress Situations  39:53 Addressing Trauma Symptoms  42:05 Practical Advice for Everyday Awareness  45:10 Accessing Brain Training Programs    To learn more go to: https://combatbraintraining.com/ 🤝 Let’s Connect: linktr.ee/michelledutro 🌐 Learn more: www.michelledutro.com 🏞️ Retreat Center: www.innernorthstar.com

    51 min
  3. 165: Rucking for Beginners: How to Build Strength While Walking with Kayla Girgen

    JAN 19

    165: Rucking for Beginners: How to Build Strength While Walking with Kayla Girgen

    Send us a text Summary Have you ever considered walking with weight? In this episode of the Game Changer podcast, host Michelle Dutro interviews Kayla Girgen, a registered dietitian and founder of Sugar and Strength Academy. They discuss the concept of rucking, which is walking with weight, and its benefits for both physical and mental health. Kayla shares her journey into rucking, the importance of nutrition, and how to create a sustainable lifestyle that focuses on overall well-being rather than just weight loss. The conversation emphasizes the accessibility of rucking for all fitness levels and the necessity of spending time in nature for mental clarity and health.   Takeaways  Rucking is a simple and effective way to build strength. It offers both physical and mental benefits. Rucking is low impact and suitable for all ages. Proper footwear is crucial for a safe rucking experience. Nutrition plays a key role in overall health and fitness. Balancing blood sugar can help manage cravings and energy levels. Creating a goal lifestyle is more important than focusing on weight loss. Small, sustainable changes lead to long-term success. Spending time in nature is essential for mental health. Rucking can be done anywhere, making it a versatile exercise.    Get Kayla's New Book: Ruck Fit -  https://www.amazon.com/Ruck-Fit-Strength-Endurance-Walking/dp/1324111526 To Keep Up with Kayla's latest projects, and her Sugar And Strength Academy: https://kaylagirgenrd.mn.co/   Chapters- 00:00 Introduction to Kayla Girgen 02:23 Understanding Rucking: A New Approach to Fitness 06:20 Physical and Mental Benefits of Rucking 11:10 Rucking for All Ages: Addressing Joint Concerns 15:59 Getting Started with Rucking: Tips and Techniques 21:20 The Importance of Footwear in Rucking 22:44 Nutrition Insights: Balancing Calories and Blood Sugar 28:50 Creating a Goal Lifestyle: Beyond Weight Loss 34:32 Final Thoughts: Nature as a Necessity 🤝 Let’s Connect: linktr.ee/michelledutro 🌐 Learn more: www.michelledutro.com 🏞️ Retreat Center: www.innernorthstar.com

    37 min
  4. 164: Neurosurgeon Reveals The Future Of Stem Cells, with Dr. Jeff Gross

    JAN 12

    164: Neurosurgeon Reveals The Future Of Stem Cells, with Dr. Jeff Gross

    Send us a text "What if you could repair your body without going under the knife? Discover why a top neurosurgeon is pivoting to stem cells and what this 'cutting edge' science means for your longevity." In this episode of the Game Changer podcast, host Michelle Dutro engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Jeff Gross, a neurosurgeon who has ventured into the realm of regenerative and immune-based therapies. They discuss the importance of mindset in embracing new medical innovations, the mechanisms behind stem cell therapy, and its applications in treating injuries and chronic diseases. Dr. Gross shares insights on the role of natural killer cells in cancer treatment and the significance of rebuilding the immune system post-treatment. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning and seeking reliable information in the evolving landscape of healthcare. Takeaways The new year is a time for new perspectives.Innovation in medicine can be uncomfortable but necessary.Patients often resist new possibilities despite their potential benefits.Stem cell therapy taps into the body's self-healing mechanisms.Aging affects our healing capabilities due to accumulated cellular junk.Inflammation is a common factor in many chronic diseases.Natural killer cells play a crucial role in cancer treatment.Rebuilding the immune system is essential after traditional treatments.Mindset is key in embracing alternative health approaches.Continuous learning is vital in the ever-evolving field of medicine.To learn more go to: https://recellebrate.com/ Chapters 00:00Introduction to New Perspectives in Medicine 03:09Dr. Jeff Gross: A Journey Beyond Traditional Medicine 05:57Understanding Stem Cell Therapy and Its Mechanisms 09:00The Role of Stem Cells in Injury Recovery 11:48Exploring Chronic Diseases and Inflammation 15:11Natural Killer Cells and Cancer Treatment 17:56Rebuilding the Immune System Post-Treatment 20:59Mindset: Embracing Change in Health Approaches 24:11Finding Reliable Information and Resources 26:48The Future of Regenerative Medicine 29:59Conclusion: The Importance of Continuous Learning 🤝 Let’s Connect: linktr.ee/michelledutro 🌐 Learn more: www.michelledutro.com 🏞️ Retreat Center: www.innernorthstar.com

    40 min
  5. 163: Mindful Art For Stress, Burnout, And Emotional Healing with Cynthia Hauk

    JAN 5

    163: Mindful Art For Stress, Burnout, And Emotional Healing with Cynthia Hauk

    Send us a text What if creativity wasn’t about talent or productivity—but about presence, healing, and self-compassion? In this episode of The Game Changer Podcast, host Michelle Dutro is joined by Cynthia Hauk, founder of Mindful Creative Muse, for a deeply grounding conversation on how mindful art can support stress reduction, emotional healing, and personal growth. Cynthia shares how combining mindfulness with simple, accessible art practices helps quiet the inner critic, soften perfectionism, and gently process emotions—without forcing stillness or creating “good” art. This episode explores: Why mindful art is especially helpful for people who struggle with meditationHow creativity can release emotional and mental blocksThe role of art in healing during illness, trauma, and burnoutHow slowing down—safely and gently—can restore clarity and connectionSimple ways to begin using mindful art as self-careWhether you’re navigating overwhelm, burnout, a health challenge, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself, this conversation offers a compassionate and practical invitation back to presence. 🔗 Resources Mentioned Free Workbook: Mindful Art for Self-Care (linked below)Website: https://mindfulcreativemuse.comYouTube: Mindful Creative Muse Download your Free Workbook Mindful Art for Self-Care --> https://learn.mindfulcreativemuse.com/mindful-art-workbook-for-self-care SoulCollage® for Stress Relief and Self-Love --> https://learn.mindfulcreativemuse.com/3-hour-intuitive-collage-for-self-love-retreat  00:01 – Welcome & Introduction Michelle introduces Cynthia and sets the tone for a gentle, inspiring conversation on art and mindfulness. 01:45 – What Is Mindful Art? How Cynthia blends mindfulness with accessible art practices for healing and self-care. 02:49 – “I’m Not Creative” & Other Common Blocks Why mindful art is especially helpful for people who resist art or meditation. 07:30 – Releasing Creative & Mental Blocks How mindful art lowers pressure and opens creative flow. 09:54 – Perfectionism, Self-Criticism & Kindness How mindful art softens harsh inner narratives and changes how we show up in life. 11:41 – When Self-Care Becomes Another To-Do The difference between presence and productivity—even in wellness practices. 13:49 – Avoidance, Trauma & Fear of Slowing Down How mindful art offers safe anchor points when emotions feel overwhelming. 18:22 – Art, Healing & Medical Challenges How creative practices supported Cynthia during illness, isolation, and grief. 21:16 – Art vs. Vision Boards Using images as reflection—not manifestation. 23:50 – Mindful Art & Communication How connecting with yourself improves connection with others. 25:55 – 15-Minute Mindful Art Practices You Can Try Today Simple exercises using breath, music, and body awareness. 28:28 – How to Learn More with Cynthia Free resources, website, and guided practices. 29:28 – One Truth Cynthia Lives By Why creativity is everyone’s birthright. 29:54 – Closing Reflections & Invitation Michelle wraps up with gratitude and encouragement to explore mindful a 🤝 Let’s Connect: linktr.ee/michelledutro 🌐 Learn more: www.michelledutro.com 🏞️ Retreat Center: www.innernorthstar.com

    32 min
  6. 162: Your Body Knows Before You Do, with Quantum Biofeedback Expert Jake Cunningham

    12/29/2025

    162: Your Body Knows Before You Do, with Quantum Biofeedback Expert Jake Cunningham

    Send us a text Your body is always giving you signals—fatigue, stress, anxiety, pain—but most of us don’t know how to listen. What if your body knows something long before your mind catches up? In this episode of the Game Changer Podcast, I sit down with longtime friend and quantum biofeedback expert Jake Cunningham to explore how stress patterns, frequency, and the nervous system quietly shape your health—and how you can stop guessing and start listening. If you’ve ever felt “off” but couldn’t explain why…  If you’ve tried doing all the right things but still feel stressed, tired, or out of balance… This conversation is for you. In this episode of the Game Changer Podcast, I’m joined by Jake Cunningham, Founder & CEO of White Dove Global, to break down quantum biofeedback and frequency-based wellness in a grounded, practical way—without hype or jargon. We talk about why energy medicine used to be considered fringe, why it’s becoming more mainstream now (especially as wearables normalize real-time health data), and how biofeedback can reveal blind spots—the things you don’t know to ask about but that quietly impact your nervous system, emotions, and physical health. We also share the true story of how Jake and I first met over 20 years ago at an advanced training in Santa Barbara—including a moment where we literally jumped off a moving boat—and why that experience became a metaphor for life, health, and entering a new year differently. In this episode, we explore: • Why your body sends signals long before symptoms appear  • How stress responses and cortisol quietly drive imbalance  • The difference between measuring stress and retraining it  • How frequency and resonance help the body regulate itself  • Why proactive wellness beats “wait-until-something’s-wrong” care  • What it really means to listen to your body—without judgment This episode isn’t about diagnosing or fixing you.  It’s about awareness, agency, and giving your body the chance to do what it was designed to do—heal and self-regulate. A question to sit with: What if the thing you’ve never tried… is the thing your body has been asking for all along? 👇 Share in the comments what stood out to you most and subscribe for more conversations where science meets spirit. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Quantum Biofeedback and Personal Journeys 10:54 The Evolution of Energy Medicine and Its Impact 17:49 Understanding Frequency Devices and Their Applications 28:40 Identifying Blind Spots in Personal Growth 32:22 The Role of Technology in Uncovering Blind Spots 39:18 The Importance of Willingness in Personal Transformation 42:58 Creating a Supportive Environment for Change 49:12 Proactive Healthcare and Optimal Performance 55:34 Embracing New Experiences for Growth 58:45 What is one thing you absolutely believe to be true? To Learn More About Jake and Quantum Biofeedback:  https://whitedoveglobal.com/ 🤝 Let’s Connect: linktr.ee/michelledutro 🌐 Learn more: www.michelledutro.com 🏞️ Retreat Center: www.innernorthstar.com

    1 hr
  7. 161: Reinventing Your Life After A Near Death Experience with Holly Porter

    12/08/2025

    161: Reinventing Your Life After A Near Death Experience with Holly Porter

    Send us a text In this episode of the Game Changer podcast, host Michelle Dutro interviews Holly Porter, a successful entrepreneur and author who shares her incredible journey of starting and scaling 11 businesses, her near-death experience, and the profound transformation that followed. Holly discusses the importance of time management, self-care, and the lessons learned from her spiritual experiences. She emphasizes the significance of presence in relationships and the impact of nutrition on health. Holly also shares insights into her upcoming book, Near Death Shift : What Dying Taught Me About Life, Business, and Purpose and future projects, encouraging listeners to live with purpose and authenticity. Takeaways Holly Porter has started and scaled 11 businesses over 40 years.Time management is crucial; time blocking can help prioritize self-care.A near-death experience can lead to profound personal transformation.Holly emphasizes the importance of loving others where they are.Spirituality has shifted from religious to a more personal relationship with God.Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for helping others.Holly's upcoming book shares lessons learned from her near-death experience.Living with purpose and authenticity is key to fulfillment.To connect and learn more go to www.hollyporter.com Find Holly Porter’s new book: Near Death Shift : What Dying Taught Me About Life, Business, and Purpose, on Amazon: https://a.co/d/clVeTLJ Chapters 00:00Introduction to Holly Porter 02:01The Journey of an Entrepreneur 04:36The Power of Time Management 09:11Transformative Near-Death Experience 15:02Life After the Coma 20:12Spiritual Insights and Lessons Learned 33:54Shifts in Spirituality and Purpose 41:47Health, Nutrition, and Self-Care 45:41Looking Ahead: Future Projects 🤝 Let’s Connect: linktr.ee/michelledutro 🌐 Learn more: www.michelledutro.com 🏞️ Retreat Center: www.innernorthstar.com

    49 min
  8. 160: Redefining Strength and Success with JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation

    12/01/2025

    160: Redefining Strength and Success with JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation

    Send us a text Show Summary: When your identity is built around a role—your job, your uniform, your marriage—what happens when that role disappears? Today, former Army Ranger and Commit Foundation CEO JC Glick joins Michelle Dutro for a powerful conversation about identity, transition, mental health, and becoming who you're truly meant to be. JC shares openly about losing his sense of self after the military, battling suicidal ideation, and the long journey toward rebuilding his purpose and worth. Together, Michelle and JC unpack the difference between roles and identity, why life requires transformation—not just transition—and why you only need to be “great” 2% of the time. If you’re navigating change, feeling lost, or wondering what's next in your life, this episode will help you reflect, reset, and reclaim your path forward. ⏳ Chapters in the description below! ________________________________________ What You’ll Learn: • How to rebuild identity after major life transitions • Why reflection—not rumination—leads to clarity • How suicidal thinking really feels from the inside • Why being wrong is a superpower for growth • The danger of comparison in the age of social media • Why community, purpose, and belonging matter more than ever • How to live your legacy every single day ________________________________________ 🏛 About JC Glick JC is a retired Army Ranger, author of A Light in the Darkness, and CEO of The Commit Foundation, an organization helping veterans and their families navigate identity, purpose, and life after service. His work in leadership and transition has been featured globally for its depth, honesty, and humanity. Learn more: https://www.commitfoundation.org Find him on Linked In: @ JC Glick _______________________________________ Chapters: 00:00 – Intro & Air Force vs. Rangers banter 01:57 – JC’s bio, Commit Foundation & the “Who am I now?” question 05:36 – Losing identity: roles vs. who you are as a human 11:02 – Inside suicidal thinking: “I’m the problem, so I’ll solve it” 16:57 – How Jen helped: empathy, accountability & real support in crisis 21:02 – What changed: vulnerability, maturity & seeing reality as subjective 27:20 – For the listener who feels stuck: wanting one small step forward 28:53 – Reflection vs. rumination, challenging assumptions & using AI as a mirror 36:40 – Transformation in action: when fellows say “I’ve got nothing” 41:08 – Changing your mind, social media, comparison & measuring backward 45:07 – Blue Zones, purpose, community & why we all need each other 47:20 – Living your legacy now: being a good teammate in the ecosystem 51:56 – You only need to be great 2% of the time 53:25 – How to find JC & learn more about The Commit Foundation 54:38 – Final question: “What is one thing you absolutely believe to be true?” 56:30 – Michelle’s closing takeaway: “Don’t always be so sure” _______________________________________ 🔔 If this episode moved you, make sure to: 👍 Leave a Review! 📌 Subscribe for more conversations that change your life ________________________________________ 🤝 Let’s Connect: linktr.ee/michelledutro 🌐 Learn more: www.michelledutro.com 🏞️ Retreat Center: www.innernorthstar.com

    58 min
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4.8
out of 5
106 Ratings

About

The Game Changer Podcast explores the intersection of health, purpose, and performance—spotlighting leaders, clinicians, and creators who turn adversity into growth. Hosted by Air Force veteran, former firefighter, and PTSD nonprofit founder Michelle Dutro, each episode blends candid conversations with science-backed tools for stress mastery, mental fitness, and resilience. With over two decades in biofeedback and wellness, Michelle brings a trauma-aware, compassion-forward approach that helps listeners elevate their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing while living with clarity, courage, and purpose. 

Information

  • Creator
    Michelle Dutro
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    166
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Game Changer Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Game Changer Podcast