Ep 287 The Life-Changing Realization That Set Cris Duval Free

Are you tired of feeling stuck—emotionally, physically, or in your relationship with food and your body? Do you sense that procrastination or self-doubt is holding you back from living the life you really want? What if the key to moving forward isn't just another diet or goal, but a deeper decision about who you're willing to be—for yourself? In this episode, we're joined by Cris Duvall, a dental hygienist, patient-health advocate, and wellness coach who knows firsthand the toll that being stuck can take. She opens up about how procrastination once froze her in place, slowly chipping away at her self-esteem, her health, and her relationships. Like many of us, Cris tried to push through on her own—until she realized that healing starts when we tell ourselves the truth and ask for help. She reflects on the ways we often look outside ourselves for answers, when the real power comes from becoming what she calls an "internal sorter"—someone who trusts their own voice again. Through her story, you'll hear how she moved from survival mode to what she now calls living on the "fun bus," surrounded by people who support her joy, growth, and truth. Cris's journey is a powerful reminder that transformation begins with a single choice: to be fully present for your own life. By putting herself first, not out of selfishness but out of self-respect, she found new energy, purpose, and connection. Whether it's health, relationships, or simply feeling alive again, her story offers a path forward for anyone ready to stop settling and start showing up. If you've been wondering when it's time to change—this might be your moment. Let Chris inspire you to finally invest in yourself, and make decisions that honor who you are and who you're becoming. "After that breakthrough session, I am much more calm and at peace with what I get to do over here as opposed to what I was feeling like I'm going to be disappointing God or disappointing somebody if I decide to do something else with my life. And so now it's much easier to combine and enjoy my life and to be free of those inner struggles. So it was very powerful for me." - Cris Duval What you will learn from this episode: 04:09 - Breaking free from procrastination and negative self-talk leading to healing, freedom, and overcoming emotional eating 07:57 - A near-death experience and profound personal loss helped shape her lifelong mission to save lives and foster health, values, and meaningful connections. 15:25 - How facing the long-term consequences of poor health choices has deepened her belief in living intentionally and prioritizing well-being now 19:53 - Sharing how breaking free from food-related suffering allows people to rediscover their true purpose, potential, and inner voice 26:11 - What made her seek Leslie's coaching 28:58 - A turning point that freed her from judging others and empowered her to create a more purposeful and positive life 33:49 - How these three dynamics in her life created a desire to have an inner peace 37:02 - The most important highlight in her breakthrough session 40:47 - Talking about the conscious versus the unconscious mind 43:48 - The cost of being stuck 45:30 - Emphasizing the importance of seeking counsel only from those committed to telling the truth, not just what you want to hear 50:00 - Sharing about her 'Fun Bus' philosophy and a heartwarming story about meeting Mel Robbins 56:19 - Cris' words of encouragement and wisdom Connect with Cris Duval: Website: https://www.thelifeguardapproach.com/cris-duval Email: cris@thelifeguardapproach.com Valuable Resources: Join my next LIVE masterclass Join the 8-week Fastrack to Food Freedom Program -Guaranteed mental and emotional freedom from food Connect With Leslie Thornton: Book A Clarity Call Website Facebook LinkedIn Email: Leslie@hpwl.co If you enjoy the podcast, Would you please consider leaving a quick review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes in under 60 seconds? It brightens our day and helps us bring you incredible guests for top-notch content. Plus, I cherish reading every review! Click here to make a difference!