Teaching Timeless Truths That Transform Lives

Let’s take a closer look at the Good Book & apply it to your life.

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Are You a Leader Hungry for More Than Wins and Results?

Michelle Backes is the founder of The Savvy U, whose mission is to teach God’s transforming truths and empower people to live lives of purpose, peace, and victory.

As an award-winning senior certified consultant at Trust Edge Leadership Institute, she specializes in leadership development and training. She has contracted with everyone from USAA, Bayer, National Guard, Department of Natural Resources, State of Oregon Fire Chiefs, National Association of Fleet Administrators, Nevada Department of Transportation, College of Bermuda, and several other meducational institutions and sports teams.

She is in her 25th year as a WNBA chaplain of the Minnesota Lynx and shares wisdom from all her diverse experiences on the stage, delivering high-energy, keynote presentations that inspire, motivate, and challenge people to be their best selves. Clients and audiences love her practical strategies and tools for developing a high-trust culture in work and life.

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Are You a Christian Leader Who Wants to Win in Ways That Last?

Whether you’re a coach, executive, educator, or team leader, you might be carrying challenges that never show up on a scoreboard or board room.

  • Finding your voice in the middle of noise and expectations.

  • Balancing the pressure of work, family, and faith without losing yourself.

  • Navigating conflict with grace instead of frustration or fear.

  • Managing your inside game with confidence and grace.

If that sounds familiar, you’re in good company.
Many leaders feel stretched thin by nonstop schedules and the weight of influence.

And that’s where I come in.
I guide and strengthen Christian leaders who want to grow from the inside out—leading with clarity, confidence, and Christ-centered trust.
Because when Jesus anchors the inside, everything on the outside finds its order.

Through The Inside Game course, one-on-one coaching, and personalized retreats at Respiree—our home for private, confidential hospitality and soul-level training—you’ll find space to pause, process, and grow stronger in the Lord.

Whether we meet online or in person, the goal is the same:
to help you lead with wisdom that lasts—managing your inside game with confidence, grace, and the peace that only Christ can give.

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What I Do

I serve leaders who feel stretched thin by nonstop schedules and expectations—guiding them to lead with clarity, confidence, and Christ-centered trust. When Jesus anchors the inside, you can thrive on the outside.

The Ultimate Win

The ultimate victory isn’t just success on the scoreboard or in the office. It’s laying your head on the pillow each night knowing you are aligned with God’s calling—using your gifts and talents for His glory, leading in a way that impacts eternity.

It’s choosing daily to pursue the Savvy U—for Him.

The Kingdom Edge

That’s more than leadership; it’s discipleship. It’s what I call The Kingdom Edge—the true advantage gained when others confidently believe in you because they first see Christ in you.

Are You a Christian Leader Who Wants to Win in Ways That Last?

Whether you’re a coach, executive, educator, or team leader, maybe you’re wrestling to:

  • Find your voice in the noise.
  • Balance the pressure of work, family, and faith.
  • Resolve conflict with grace.
  • Align your team—or your home—around a healthy culture. If that sounds familiar, you’re in good company.

I serve leaders who feel stretched thin by nonstop schedules and expectations—guiding them to lead with clarity, confidence, and Christ-centered trust. Because when Jesus anchors the inside, everything on the outside finds its order.

ThroughThe Inside Game course, one-on-one coaching, and personalized retreats at Respiree —our home for private, confidential hospitality and training—you’ll find space to pause, process, and grow stronger from the inside out.

Whether online or in person, the goal is the same: to help you lead with wisdom that lasts.with clarity, confidence, and Christ-centered trust. Because when Jesus anchors the inside, everything on the outside finds its order.

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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