Teaching Timeless Truths That
Transform Lives

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THE SAVVY U® | It's An Inside Game

Speaking that sticks.
Coaching that clarifies.
Training that transforms.
Consulting that catalyzes.
Leadership rooted in trust.

 

Leadership today isn’t broken—it’s buried beneath noise, pressure, and performance. It’s time to dig in and lead from the inside out.

 

Too many leaders are running on empty—overscheduled, silently stuck, and unsure how to shift the culture.

Too many organizations are drifting—unclear on values, uncertain on direction, and unable to build momentum.

Too many teams are losing trust, talent, and time—confusing motion as momentum.

 

If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. That’s where I come in.

 

I’m Michelle Backes—keynote speaker, leadership coach, and senior consultant with the Trust Edge® Leadership Institute/John Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. I created The Savvy U® to equip leaders, coaches, and executives like you with practical tools to build high-trust, high-performance cultures—from the inside out.

My background spans coaching Fortune 500 executives, WNBA athletes, and Division I coaches and teams. I’ve walked with leaders through stress, transition, and uncertainty—helping them find clarity, elevate trust, and lead with conviction.

Whether I’m delivering a keynote, facilitating a retreat, or walking one-on-one through The Inside Game, my mission is the same:

 

To serve leaders by teaching timeless, trust-building truths that strengthen their inside game and transform how they live and lead.  

 

If that sounds like you, I’d be honored to partner with you and your team through speaking, coaching, consulting, or tailored leadership training. Or—join our next The Inside Game cohort and become part of a like-minded community of growth-minded leaders doing the inner work together.

AND...I equip you to answer the...

#1 question everyone is asking about you...

Can I trust you?

 

Sign up for a live keynote, a half or full-day live/virtual training, 1 on 1 consulting, or join us in The Inside Game 8 Week Course today.

Let's Connect

Together let's explore how to

Sharpen Your Trust Edge

and

PURSUE THE SAVVY U!

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“Michelle is someone who is committed to seeing people thrive. I’ve seen her creativity and hard work propel growth in the lives of me and my teammates, and I’m excited to see how she continues to impact others!”

Maya Moore Irons , 4x WNBA Champion, 2x Olympic Gold Medalist

"Michelle goes the extra mile for everyone she serves. She is high-energy and interactive on stage. She does the homework to customize her message. You won't meet anyone you can count on more to be there for you and to be ready for your audience.”

David Horsager, Trust Edge Leadership Institute

"The Savvy U Trust Edge Experience was a huge difference maker for our team. We learned some valuable tools to build trust and Michelle was an incredible communicator and really connected with our team. She helped take our team to the next level and we had a fantastic year. I would highly recommend having share with your program if you want to build trust in their organization."

Matt Bollant, Division I Women's Basketball Coach

"Michelle laid out the foundation pillars of the Trust Edge program for our school district. The program is a powerful opportunity toward building a culture of trust, transparency, and accountability. By providing our staff with the tools to create an environment where innovation thrives, collaboration is valued, and every person in the organization feels they have a voice will foster the groundwork necessary for long-term achievement and meaningful connections across our school and the greater community."

Shelly Bauer, Superintendent for The Madelia Public School District

"What a fantastic adventure! Michelle has so much energy and spunk yet balances it with sharing deep research and relaxing peaceful campfires. A trip like I've never been on before and just what I needed. So good for my soul. THANKS! Will go again..."

J.B.

Designation

"TRUST me!! Michelle rocks! Her dynamic and fun session at our leadership conference this summer had everyone engaged and excited and everyone left with actionable ideas and motivation to be better leaders. I strongly recommend booking Michelle for your next event!"

Jennifer Schmitz, Executive Director, ALASBO

“Michelle is an engaging, personal, and relevant speaker. Her ability to relate to all ages with both her humor and content shows her experience and talent as a professional speaker. Her charismatic personality brings it all to life and draws you in. I highly recommend Michelle as a speaker.”

Lanita Stutzman, Executive Director