FIND A WAY with DUSTY

In this milestone episode of Find A Way with Dusty, I open up about hitting episode 300 and what that number means in my journey from losing 300 pounds to learning that perfection isn’t the goal. After two major skin surgeries, I’ve realized the scars, swelling, and imperfections tell a far more powerful story than any “after photo.” Survival, not perfection, is what drives inspiration.I talk about pacing the 4:30 marathon in St. Charles, training through recovery, and how I’m mentally resetting to chase the next phase—dialing in my nutrition, rebuilding strength, and chasing the long-term goal of qualifying for Boston. I also reflect on balancing family life, fatherhood, and the responsibility of sharing my story with authenticity, not vanity.This one’s about embracing the messy middle, owning the grind, and finding a way forward when perfection isn’t on the table—but progress always is.

In this short but powerful episode, Dusty dives into what it really means to find a way when life throws you off track. Using the metaphor of an old radio dial, he compares the weight loss journey, recovery from surgery, and day-to-day life to constantly adjusting your frequency to get a clear signal.From post-surgery struggles and shifting routines to the unpredictable chaos of raising two young kids, Dusty shares how staying “in tune” with your goals requires constant recalibration. The lesson? You’ll always face disruptions, but your success depends on how quickly you fine-tune and get back in rhythm.If you’ve ever felt “off-frequency” in your fitness, mental health, or personal growth, this episode is your reminder to grab the dial and find your signal again.Key Takeaways: • Why progress isn’t a one-and-done event, it’s a continual fine-tuning process • How to adjust when life throws off your rhythm • The mindset shift from “I’m done” to “I’m always adapting” • Why long-term success is about consistency, not perfectionLength: 9 minutesListen for: A reality check on growth, resilience, and finding peace in the process.

In this deeply personal episode, Dusty returns after a long break to share some of the toughest challenges he’s ever faced — from recovering after his second skin removal surgery, to a traumatic car accident, to the heartbreak of a miscarriage. Through it all, he opens up about the power of habits and coping mechanisms that have kept him grounded during the darkest moments. Dusty talks about why building strong routines matters before life gets messy, how staying busy through marathon training helps him process grief, and why “time doesn’t heal all wounds” — it teaches us how to manage them. If you’re navigating your own storm, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone and that the systems you build today could save you tomorrow.

It’s been a minute, but Dusty is back behind the mic with a raw, unfiltered update on life post-skin removal surgery — and it’s been a ride. In this episode, Dusty opens up about the last two wild months, including the reality of recovering from chest skin removal (eight pounds gone!), the mental challenge of jogging again for the first time, and what it’s like navigating stress, setbacks, and family chaos while trying to stay consistent.From dealing with swelling and strange nipple placement to finding peace in finally feeling “normal” in his own skin, this one gets personal. Plus, Dusty talks about his upcoming race goals, his son’s post-accident trauma, and why consistency isn’t always sexy — but it’s always necessary.If you’ve ever struggled to bounce back after a big life shift, this one’s for you.

Welcome back to another episode of The Find a Way Podcast with Dusty! In this episode, I’m diving into the pros and cons of home gyms vs. commercial gyms—what I love about each, what’s worked for me, and how my own setup has evolved since building a DIY squat rack out of wood back in 2020. I talk about how the Find a Way Garage was born, how my partnership with Force USA came together, and why the right space can make or break your consistency. Whether you’re chasing privacy, convenience, or accountability, I break down how to find what works for you. Oh, and if you’ve been waiting for a sign to build your home gym—this might just be it.

In this episode, Dusty opens up about the unexpected turns in his 300+ pound weight loss journey—from running form shaped by decades of obesity to the mental shift required when reality doesn’t match the original vision. He dives deep into how embracing imperfection, pivoting when plans fall apart, and building resilience can be the difference between quitting and finding a way forward. Whether you’re just starting, stuck in the middle, or navigating maintenance, this raw and real talk will help you accept that it won’t go perfectly—and that’s exactly how progress is made.

In this episode of The Find A Way Podcast, Dusty tackles the controversy surrounding weight loss influencers who use GLP-1 medications or surgery without full transparency. He shares a recent comment from a listener that sparked this conversation and opens up about his own journey, including the ethics of coaching when assistance like surgery or medication has played a role. Dusty emphasizes the importance of integrity, personal responsibility, and mental health in weight loss—and warns against following influencers purely motivated by profit. It’s a real, raw, and necessary conversation about the difference between helping and harming in the world of weight loss support.

In this episode of Find A Way with Dusty, I’m checking in from St. Louis—just one day before running the St. Louis Marathon. I dive into the importance of anchor routines while traveling and how staying consistent with workouts and nutrition keeps me grounded, even away from home.You’ll hear how I’ve been fueling up this week (yes, Costco nuggets made the cut), why prioritizing protein matters—even on vacation—and how I’m mentally and physically preparing for 26.2 miles.Plus, I talk through the tapering process, trusting your training, and my go-to recovery routine before race day. Whether you’re chasing a goal, planning a trip, or just trying to stay consistent, this one’s for you.

In this episode of The Find A Way w/ Dusty Podcast, I open up about the real reason I’ve been able to keep moving forward in my weight loss journey — and it has nothing to do with a perfect plan. I share how I’ve learned to eliminate stress, protect my peace, and mentally train for the punches life throws. This isn’t just about losing weight — it’s about becoming unshakable.Let’s talk about boundaries, mindset, and the raw reality that no one’s coming to save you — it’s on you to find a way.

In this episode of Findaway with Dusty, we zoom out from the glamor of influencer highlight reels and zoom in on real life. Dusty drops a heavy dose of perspective for anyone juggling marriage, kids, a 9-to-5, and still showing up for their health journey. He reminds us that your 30-minute workout amidst the chaos of life is just as powerful—if not more—than a three-hour influencer training session. Plus, Dusty gives an update on his upcoming skin removal surgery, his cookbook grind, and the truth about long-term success in weight loss. If you’ve ever felt “less than” because your journey doesn’t look like theirs, this one’s for you.

In this quick-hit episode of The Findaway Podcast, Dusty challenges the idea that success is only found on the scale. He breaks down 20+ alternative markers you can use to track your progress—like blood pressure, heart rate, sleep, clothing size, and even how you respond to stress. Dusty also shares a personal story about crash dieting and its long-term consequences, driving home why sustainable, holistic health matters. If you’re stuck measuring your journey by just pounds lost, this episode will help you shift your mindset, find new motivation, and track victories that actually last. Let’s find a way—together.

In this raw and revealing episode of Find A Way with Dusty, I take you back to one of my most extreme weight loss attempts — dropping 40 pounds in just 30 days using HCG drops and a 500-calorie-a-day crash diet. Spoiler: it didn’t end well. I gained all the weight back (plus more) and developed gout from the damage I did to my body.This episode dives into the long-term consequences of fast fixes, the mental traps of “just 20 more pounds,” and why sustainable change always beats short-term wins. I also unpack how to mentally prepare for setbacks, and how asking “What if this doesn’t work?” can help you make smarter choices now.PLUS: Quick updates on my cookbook launch, skin surgery fundraiser, and a heads-up about Legion’s sleep aid — spoiler: it works too well.

I’ve been getting a lot of messages and comments lately about how I started running and what that looked like in the beginning. Now that I’m nine years into my weight loss journey, it’s easy to forget just how hard those early days were. But I never want to lose touch with where I started because that’s what keeps me from getting complacent.Starting at a Higher WeightWhen I was at my heaviest, running wasn’t even a thought. Just walking was a struggle. But every time I lost weight—whether it was 75 or 100 pounds—I always had the desire to run. It was something I really wanted to do, but my body just wasn’t ready.I remember the first time I really tried to run, I was around 350 pounds. It wasn’t smooth, it wasn’t easy, and honestly, it wasn’t even much faster than a speed walk. I’d go for a run and then be so sore in my knees and hips that I’d need two or three days to recover. That inconsistency made it tough to progress.How the Stair Machine Helped Me Build EnduranceOne of the biggest game-changers for me was the stair machine. I realized that using the stair climber helped me build strength and endurance without the same impact that running had on my joints.I would run, get sore, then switch to the stair machine while I recovered. That cycle allowed me to stay active without stopping completely and eventually made running more manageable.This is why I always recommend the stair machine for anyone at a higher weight who wants to run. Start with the stair machine, build up your stamina, and then transition to running.How I Started RunningIn the beginning, my runs weren’t structured. There were no races, no 5K plans—just one mile at a time. Sometimes I’d push for two miles, but five miles felt impossible.When I finally started getting serious about running (years later), I realized I could have approached things differently. I wasn’t tracking my times or setting goals, but looking back, having a structured plan might have helped me improve faster.Overcoming Mental BarriersRunning in public was tough. I knew people might stare or judge, so I did everything I could to block out distractions. I’d wear a hat, sunglasses, headphones, even a hoodie—whatever it took to stay in my own world.If you’re worried about what people think, just remember this: they’re not the ones putting in the work—you are.My Advice If You Want to Start Running​ If you’re at a higher weight, start with the stair machine to build strength and endurance.​ Use whatever helps you feel comfortable—hats, headphones, sunglasses—to tune out distractions.​ Start small. Running a mile is still progress.​ Take rest days when needed. In the beginning, soreness is normal.​ Forget about times or races at first—just focus on movement.Final ThoughtsLooking back, I’m grateful for the process. Running has taken me places I never imagined—literally and figuratively. But it all started with small, painful, inconsistent runs. If you want to run, start where you are. Use tools like the stair machine to build your base. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to take that first step.

In this episode of the Findaway Podcast, Dusty discusses the next step in his health journey—getting his biomarkers and testosterone levels checked. He explains that he partnered with HONE Health to undergo blood work, as he wants to better understand his hormone levels, especially after turning 40 and having two kids.Key Takeaways: • Why Check Biomarkers? • Hormones play a significant role in overall health, weight management, muscle building, and energy levels. • Factors like aging, parenting, and lifestyle changes can impact hormone levels, including testosterone. • Dusty has never had his testosterone levels checked before and wants to see if optimization is needed. • Concerns About Testing & Gimmicks • A follower raised concerns about health companies being gimmicky. • Dusty reassures that he is sharing his journey transparently, not promoting a product blindly. • He acknowledges skepticism but believes in the importance of getting hormone levels checked. • Testosterone & Its Effects • Lower testosterone can make weight management and muscle-building harder. • Hormonal imbalances can affect metabolism, energy, and how the body responds to food and exercise. • He mentions his wife’s experience with PCOS, emphasizing how hormone imbalances can make weight loss more challenging. • The Testing Process • Bloodwork was done at home via a LabCorp professional. • He expects to receive results soon and will share them openly. • If levels are normal, he’ll accept the natural shifts that come with age and life changes. If not, he’ll explore potential solutions. • The Value of Sharing the Journey • Dusty reflects on how he originally didn’t share his weight loss journey out of fear of failure. • He sees value in sharing the in-between moments rather than just before-and-after results. • He hopes this process helps others understand the importance of hormone health.Final Thoughts:Dusty is waiting for his test results and will share what he learns. Whether or not his testosterone needs optimization, he sees this as an opportunity to educate others on hormone health and how it impacts fitness and well-being.

Thanks for turning in

In this episode of The Find A Way Podcast with Dusty, we break down a powerful mindset shift: You’ve already proven your strength. If you’ve ever doubted your ability to push through tough moments in your journey, this is your reminder that you’ve already carried the heaviest load—literally.Dusty reflects on the weight he once carried daily and how his body adapted and persevered. If you were strong enough to live at your highest weight, you are more than strong enough to push through the challenges of your health and fitness journey today. The key? Making it non-negotiable. It’s not optional. It’s not a maybe. It’s a must.Don’t wait for a health crisis to make a change. Start now. Tap into the strength you’ve always had, shift your mindset, and take action. Let’s go!

In this episode of The Find A Way Podcast with Dusty, we dive into a powerful yet often overlooked tool for managing stress, anxiety, and emotional eating—breathing techniques. Inspired by a recent reflection on a past marathon training run, Dusty shares insights on how our breath plays a crucial role in weight loss, stress regulation, and overall well-being.He revisits the concept of box breathing, a simple yet effective method that can help regulate emotions, reduce stress, and prevent impulsive decisions like stress eating. Plus, he breaks down the science behind why nose breathing is more beneficial than mouth breathing and how it can shift our response to high-pressure situations.If you’ve ever struggled with emotional eating, stress management, or simply want to improve your focus and control, this episode is a must-listen. Be sure to check out the earlier Box Breathing episode for a deeper dive into this game-changing technique!👉 Listen now and take control of your breath, your stress, and your journey!

Podcast Episode Summary – “Acclimating to the Journey”In this episode of the Find a Way Podcast, Dusty reflects on his return to the gym after three months of working out at home. He shares how winter, past experiences with illness, and concerns about gym cleanliness led to a break from his regular gym routine. Now, stepping back into the gym environment, he realizes how much it has positively impacted his mental state, reinforcing the importance of movement as an anchor in his weight loss journey.Dusty dives into the idea of acclimating—how humans adjust to new circumstances, whether it’s a tough job, seasonal changes, or prioritizing health. He emphasizes that although taking care of yourself may feel difficult at first, pushing through the discomfort will ultimately prevent the exhausting cycle of losing and regaining weight. Instead of waiting for a “perfect time,” he encourages listeners to commit now, push through the struggle, and break free from unhealthy patterns for good.This episode is a reminder that growth comes through persistence, and by acclimating to the challenges of a healthier lifestyle, long-term success is within reach.

On today’s episode of Find A Way with Dusty, we’re breaking down one of the biggest misconceptions in weight loss—fat burners. For years, I believed they were melting fat away, but the truth is, they’re actually appetite suppressants. I’ll be sharing my own experience, how I use Legion Phoenix in my routine, and why you don’t need supplements to lose weight (but the right ones can help). Plus, we’ll talk about the importance of ingredient transparency and what to look for if you’re considering an appetite suppressant. Let’s dive in!”

In this episode of The Findaway Podcast, Dusty dives into the mental side of the weight loss journey and personal growth, expanding on a recent story about recording from the car. While physical obstacles exist, the biggest challenge often comes from within—self-doubt, excuses, and fear of failure.Drawing inspiration from marathon training, David Goggins’ book Can’t Hurt Me, and TikTok videos about positive affirmations, Dusty emphasizes the power of words and mindset. The key message? You already have what it takes to succeed—you just have to tap into it. Success isn’t about following a perfect plan or buying the right program. It’s about realizing that the ability to change is already within you.Plus, an exciting announcement—Dusty’s high-protein cookbook is almost finished! Packed with 75+ recipes, step-by-step instructions, and insights from his 300-pound weight loss journey, this cookbook is designed to be a valuable tool—but not a necessity because, as Dusty reminds us, you already have what you need to succeed.Listen in for motivation, practical takeaways, and a reminder that the right mindset can change everything.