In this Season 5 kickoff of Feed Me the Facts, we sit down with Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN, founder of Maya Feller Nutrition, author of Eating from Our Roots, and frequent national media contributor. Maya shares her unique journey from avant-garde theater to nutrition science, her passion for culturally humble care, and her mission to make nutrition education accessible and approachable. We dive deep into what it means to stay credible and authentic in the media space, how dietitians can leverage social platforms without burning out, and why continuous learning and evolving are critical for the future of dietetics. Whether you’re a current or future dietitian, or someone passionate about inclusive health messaging, this episode is packed with insights on growth, media presence, and making a lasting impact. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Maya’s Unconventional Path to Dietetics (00:00) From avant-garde theater to NYU nutrition — and why she initially wanted to work for UNICEF. Early Career Lessons & Community Work (06:00) How working with marginalized communities shaped her approach to care. Building a Private Practice & Breaking into Media (08:00) The pivot from consulting to running her own practice and landing TV opportunities. The Power of Social Media & Storytelling (11:00) Why Maya launched her YouTube series and how she balances evidence-based messaging with relatability. Being a Forever Learner (20:00) How reading research, attending conferences, and collaborating across disciplines keep her credible and fresh. What Influencers Are Doing Well — and What RDs Can Learn (22:00) The importance of storytelling, empathy, and connecting with your audience. Evolving as a Profession (42:00) Why dietitians need to unpack bias, take stronger stances, and meet the needs of today’s diverse populations. Measuring Success in Media & Business (32:00) Redefining success beyond followers — doing the work you love, being compensated fairly, and serving your community. Turning Expertise into Income (35:00) Practical advice on writing, content creation, brand partnerships, and staying authentic. What’s Next for Maya (52:00) Her passion for food science, biodiversity, and connecting with real people through street interviews. Resources & Links: Connect with Maya: Maya Feller Nutrition – Learn more about Maya and her team’s work: www.mayaellernutrition.com Follow Maya on Instagram & YouTube: @mayafellerrd Maya’s Books: Eating from Our Roots Southern Comfort Diabetes Cookbook Watch Maya’s “Ask a Dietitian” YouTube Series: Maya Feller Nutrition on YouTube ️ Stay connected with Feed Me The Facts: Website: www.diversifydietetics.org Instagram & Facebook: @DiversifyDietetics Send in your thoughts/questions: fmtf@diversifydietetics.org Don’t forget to subscribe to The Squeeze, Diversify Dietetics’ monthly newsletter for the latest updates in nutrition and dietetics. Listen now on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

In this rewind episode of Feed Me the Facts, we revisit Basheerah’s inspiring journey from food marketing to launching her own private practice. She shares the challenges of starting out, the realities of working with insurance, and what it takes to succeed as a dietitian entrepreneur of color. She describes how she managed her schedule as she built her private practice on the side while working full-time as an outpatient dietitian. Basheerah shares her insight on how to find clients, discusses marketing strategies that are necessary for a new private practice, explains the technology needed to set up a HIPPA-compliant practice, and more. A must-listen for current and RD2Bes considering private practice!

In this rewind episode of Feed Me the Facts, we revisit an inspiring conversation with Alice Figueroa—registered dietitian nutritionist, public health advocate, culinary expert, and founder of Alice in Foodie Land. Alice shares how her roots in Guatemala shaped her passion for health advocacy, her journey into nutrition and policy, and her experience as a James Beard Foundation National Scholar. She offers valuable advice on pursuing multiple passions, finding balance, and staying connected to the communities we serve. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: From Guatemala to Public Health Advocacy (00:00) How Alice’s upbringing and early experiences shaped her mission to address food insecurity and malnutrition. Discovering Nutrition as a Career Path (06:00) The moment she connected public health and nutrition, leading her to pursue dietetics. Integrating Multiple Passions (10:00) Strategies for blending research, policy, culinary arts, and wellness into a meaningful career. Mentorship & Support Systems (14:00) The impact of family and mentors in navigating a nontraditional career path. Culinary Training & the James Beard Foundation Scholarship (19:00) How Alice became a natural food chef and the importance of culturally relevant, affordable recipes. Balancing Diverse Interests (25:00) Time management, self-care, and setting “non-negotiable” goals for personal growth. Pursuing Passions with Limited Resources (31:00) Practical advice for finding opportunities, funding, and mentorship—plus the importance of taking risks. The Power of Nutrition in Building Community (36:00) How small acts, like teaching cooking classes, can create connection and lasting change.

In this special episode from the DD archives, host Deanna sits down with Trinique Waters, RD, to reflect on navigating career doubt, finding belonging, and building confidence as a woman of color in dietetics. From struggling to find her first job post-internship to discovering her passion for maternal health and lactation consulting, Trinique shares a heartfelt journey that will resonate with any RD or RD-to-be questioning their place in the field. Whether you're early in your career or just feeling stuck, this episode is your reminder that your path doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. This episode was originally recorded in December 2018. Trinique has now been a dietitian for six years and works as Friends Hospital. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Trinique’s Introduction to Dietetics (00:00) How a high school hospital rotation sparked her interest in using food to support health. Facing Doubt After Graduation (03:00) The emotional toll of struggling to find a job and questioning her place in the field. The Impact of Representation & Belonging (04:30) What it felt like being the only Black woman in her program and comparing her path to others. Underutilizing Support & the Power of Networking (06:00) How opening up and seeking community could have made the journey less isolating. From Food Service to Clinical: Embracing Career Detours (08:00) Why her first job wasn’t ideal—and how it became a stepping stone to where she is now. Rebuilding Confidence in Clinical Nutrition (10:00) How reconnecting with clinical skills helped her feel a renewed sense of purpose and belonging. A New Passion: Lactation & Maternal Health (11:00) Her plans to support Black women through nutrition-focused lactation care. Advice for RDs & RD2Bs Questioning Their Place (12:00) Why your passion—not your name, appearance, or background—is what makes you belong. Resources & Links: Connect with Trinique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trinique-rd/ ️ Stay connected with Feed Me The Facts: Website: www.diversifydietetics.org Instagram & Facebook: @DiversifyDietetics Send in your thoughts/questions: fmtf@diversifydietetics.org Don’t forget to subscribe to The Squeeze, Diversify Dietetics’ monthly newsletter for the latest updates in nutrition and dietetics. Listen now on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

In this episode, Morgan McGee shares her journey as a school nutrition leader and dietitian, offering a powerful perspective on intrapreneurship—growing within your organization to build skills, lead change, and create impact. She highlights the role of self-reflection, community, and equity in professional development, while also exploring how to leverage internal opportunities for financial growth. We dive into career advancement, storytelling, facilitation, and collective power, all while centering joy, culture, and authenticity. Tune in for a fresh take on leadership, innovation, and how to thrive in your 9-to-5.

In this episode, Venus Kalami shares her journey as a pediatric dietitian, the importance of cultural humility, and why dietitians of color are vital in pediatric nutrition. We explore career growth, respect, money, and how to avoid burnout while building inclusive practices. Tune in for insights on equity, advocacy, and finding joy in your work.

In this episode of Feed Me The Facts, Deanna is joined by dietitians Alissa Rumsey and Jasmine Hormati to explore their evolving professional relationship—starting as mentor and mentee in the Diversify Dietetics Mentorship Program and growing into collaborative business partners. They discuss building a private practice, navigating the complexities of mentorship, and how they co-created a justice-informed insurance course for dietitians. Alyssa and Jasmine share how strong communication, aligned values, and mutual respect laid the foundation for their work together. This episode is a masterclass in collaboration, entrepreneurship, and doing business through an equity lens.

In this episode of Feed Me The Facts, Deanna sits down with Greg LaFortune, a Registered Dietitian and private practice owner, to talk about his leap into entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a business, and his mission to make nutrition accessible—especially for men. Greg shares his inspiring journey from a type 1 diabetes diagnosis at age 11 to owning his own insurance-based private practice, Optimal Plan Nutrition, LLC. Whether you’re considering private practice or just love a good entrepreneurial success story, this episode is packed with valuable insights, financial transparency, and practical advice on building a nutrition business from the ground up. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: [00:00:00] Meet Greg LaFortune – Greg shares his background, his leap into private practice, and why he’s passionate about making nutrition more accessible. [00:03:00] From Diagnosis to Dietitian – Greg’s journey began at age 11 when he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Hear how that experience shaped his career path. [00:05:00] The Power of Gratitude – Greg explains why contentment, potential, and honor are the three words that define his experience as a private practice dietitian. [00:08:00] Why Private Practice? – What led Greg to take the leap into private practice, and why focusing on men’s health became his mission. [00:11:00] The Reality of Running a Business – Greg breaks down the behind-the-scenes work of running a private practice, from marketing to billing and everything in between. [00:15:00] Talking Money: What Dietitians Can Earn in Private Practice – Financial transparency matters! Greg shares real numbers and his income goals for making private practice sustainable. [00:19:00] Work-Life Balance & Time Freedom – The driving force behind Greg’s business: getting his time back and creating a schedule that works for him and his family. [00:24:00] Finding Your Niche as a Dietitian – Why Greg chose to focus on men’s health and how niching down can make your practice more effective (and less stressful). [00:28:00] How to Market Yourself – From social media to insurance directories, Greg shares the marketing strategies that have helped him grow his client base. [00:31:00] AI & The Future of Private Practice – How artificial intelligence is changing the game for dietitians, from automated note-taking to efficiency tools. [00:33:00] Staying True to Your Values – Greg talks about the importance of authenticity in business and why being yourself is the best way to attract the right clients. [00:35:00] How to Connect with Greg – Want to learn more or work with Greg? Find out how to reach him through his website, social media, and email. Resources & Links: Connect with Greg: Website: gregorylafortune.com Instagram: @menshealthdietitian LinkedIn: Gregory LaFortune Email: nutrition@gregorylafortune.com ️ Stay connected with Feed Me The Facts: Website: www.diversifydietetics.org Instagram & Facebook: @DiversifyDietetics Send in your thoughts/questions: fmtf@diversifydietetics.org Don’t forget to subscribe to The Squeeze, Diversify Dietetics’ monthly newsletter for the latest updates in nutrition and dietetics. Listen now on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

In this episode of Feed Me the Facts, Deanna sits down with Tamara Melton and Deja Ivy to discuss the decision to sunset the Diversify Dietetics Internship Program. They explore the program's origin, challenges in maintaining funding, and the impact of changing DEI priorities. While it’s bittersweet to end the internship, the conversation highlights new initiatives aimed at supporting a more diverse and supportive field of dietetics. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Origins of the DD Internship Program (00:00)How the vision for a barrier-free dietetic internship came to life. The Reality of Running a Nonprofit Internship (03:00)Behind-the-scenes challenges, including funding and logistics. Impact of DEI Changes and Affirmative Action (06:00)How shifting priorities affected program sustainability. The Changing Landscape of Dietetics Education (11:00)Declining enrollment and its influence on internship programs. Lessons Learned in Supporting Students of Color (19:00)Cultural humility, financial barriers, and creating supportive environments. Why Sunsetting the Program Was Necessary (22:00)Balancing human capital, burnout, and financial sustainability. The Future of DD: New Programs and Scholarships (26:00)Exciting initiatives to support diversity in dietetics beyond the internship. Reflections and Celebrations (28:00)Favorite memories and the impact of the program on graduates. Resources & Links: Donate to support the final cohort of the DD Internship - www.diversifydietetics.org/donate Learn more about the DD Scholarships- https://www.diversifydietetics.org/scholarships-grants Diversify Dietetics Internship Webpage - www.ddinternship.org Listen now on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

In this episode of Feed Me the Facts, we sit down with Dr. Navika Gangrade, a visiting assistant professor at NYU and registered dietitian, to unpack the journey of pursuing a PhD in nutrition. We discuss her experiences navigating academia as a woman of color, the financial realities of graduate school, and the power of research to drive real-world change. If you’ve ever considered academia, research, or even wondered about the impact of a PhD in dietetics, this conversation is for you! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Navika’s Journey into Nutrition & Research How her multicultural upbringing and love for food led her to dietetics and academia. Why Pursue a PhD? (06:00)What inspired Navika to continue her education and dive into research. Navigating Academia as a Woman of Color (12:00)The challenges, barriers, and the role of mentorship in her success. Community-Based Research & Youth Advocacy (19:00)How her research empowers young people and promotes health equity. Money & Respect: Does a PhD Pay Off? (25:00)Breaking down financial realities, funding, and salary expectations. Advice for Future Dietitians in Academia (35:00)How to navigate PhD programs, find mentors, and advocate for yourself.

In this episode of Feed Me the Facts, we sit down with Jenny Westerkamp, founder of All Access Dietetics and All Access Dietitians. Jenny shares her incredible journey from launching her first business as a college senior to working as a dietitian for professional sports teams like the Chicago Bulls, Blackhawks, and Cubs. She opens up about creating innovative solutions for future RDs, improving access to nutrition care, and why private practice is the future of dietetics. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The story behind All Access Dietetics and All Access Dietitians Opportunities and challenges in dietetics entrepreneurship Tackling the myth that dietitians can’t make money The importance of data, outcomes, and reimagining the field Links and Resources Mentioned: All Access Dietetics- https://www.allaccessdietetics.com All Access Dietitians- https://www.allaccessdietetians.com All Access Dietitians Fellowship https://allaccessdietitians.com/fellowship/ Jenny’s podcast: Dear Future Dietitian Follow Jenny on Instagram: @allaccessdietetics

Episode Summary: In this episode of Feed Me the Facts, we sit down with Luis Gonzalez, an RDN and account manager at Eat Well Global. Luis shares his journey through food service management, his discovery of media-based opportunities, and how he combines creativity with science to make a broader impact. We also explore the importance of increasing diversity in this space and how dietitians of color can amplify their voices. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - Luis’s career journey from food service director to nutrition communications - How dietitians can explore non-traditional career paths - The role of diversity in shaping impactful nutrition messaging - Insights into collaborating with brands and navigating media opportunities - Practical advice on breaking into the communications field as a dietitian

In this episode, DD Co-founders Deanna Lewis and Tamara Melton sit down with trailblazing dietitians Wendy Lopez and Jessica Jones, founders of Diabetes Digital. They discuss their inspiring pivot from Food Heaven, a beloved 12+ year brand, to their new company focusing on insurance covered, culturally inclusive diabetes care.

Join co-host and dietitians Deanna Belleny Lewis and Danielle Sanders as they talk about what's new for the Diversify Dietetics podcast. This podcast is dedicated to representation and inspiration for students and professionals of color pursuing careers in nutrition and dietetics. Every episode, we’ll bring you expert insights, the latest trends and personal stories that inspire. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned pro, this is your space to learn, grow, and connect.

Are you interested in nutrition but unsure of whether or not you will enjoy working in a clinical setting or one on one with clients? Then you’ll want to tune into this episode as we sit down with Melanie Hall, MS, RD. Melanie was inspired to study nutrition by her mother. Since her mother had a hard time getting an education and had to persevere in order to become a nurse, she fought for her children to receive a quality education in the sciences. This led Melanie to choose a major in nutrition. While pursuing her nutrition degree, Melanie worked as a diabetes educator for Kaiser and it was in this role that she realized she was not meant to save the world just one person, at a time. She went on to obtain a Masters’s degree in Nutrition Communications and begin her career in marketing and is currently the Director of Brand Marketing at Kashi. Tune into this episode, to hear more about her RD journey including her various jobs and “accidents” until she figured out that nutrition communications was the area she was meant to be in. About Melanie With a Bachelor of Science degree in Dietetics from UC Berkeley and a Masters degree in Nutrition Communications from Tufts University, Ms. Hall started her career as a marketing manager with the California 5 a Day African American Campaign, where she helped promote fruit and vegetable consumption through Sacramento and Los Angeles health ministries. Then, as the manager of the Network for a Healthy California–Retail Program she learned the ropes of the produce industry and worked with retailers throughout the state to create in-store marketing and events that increased fruit and vegetable purchases among low-income households. In 2010. Ms. Hall joined the Kellogg Company Wellness team to create and drive the company strategy for partnering with the Women Infants and Children program. In that role, she worked to help brand teams expand their portfolio of WIC foods and helped WIC staff use commercial marketing techniques to find new ways to get participants excited about making healthy choices. In 2020, Ms. Hall joined the Kashi team as the Director of Brand Marketing, where she works with her team to create food, content, partnerships, and programs that help make eating well easy for people and the planet.

On this first episode of Season 3, we talk with two members of our DD Community: Drs. Kate Burt and Shelly Debiasse. They, along with their colleague Dr. Zubaida Qamar have launched a new project called  #InclusiveDietetics, a group on Facebook aimed to increase the awareness about the lack of diversity in the dietetics profession. In this group, they will share important information about diversity and inclusion in general and on topics relevant to facilitating a more diverse and inclusive profession. Join #Inclusive Dietetics to continue the conversation! Drs. Burt and Debiasse discuss why they are launching this project, why they took the extra steps to make the project a part of a research study and what conversations, movements and changes they hope this campaign will spark in the dietetics community. If you have ever wondered how our profession got to where it is today (i.e.- with so little diversity), and what are ways that you can help to change it, you will want to be a part of this project! You can join #Inclusive Dietetics to continue the conversation!

Can you tell we’re excited about the Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo aka FNCE? As the final hours tick away the Diversify Dietetics co-founders talk about where DD will be during the 4 day conference, what their most looking forward to and notable events that you don’t want to miss.

Are you a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics? As the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals we are rightfully invested in what Diversity and leadership looks like in this professional organization. In 2015 the Academy released its first Diversity Strategic Plan along with a handful of other Diversity Initiatives. One key objective of this strategic plan is “to establish strong diversity efforts at all levels of Academy leadership”. So how do we make sure this happens? How do we ensure that diverse leaders are in the room where decisions are being made and are represented at all levels of leadership? Today we talk with Camille Range about just that. She started working with the Academy as a Diversity Leader and is now a member of the Board of Directors and the House of Delegates, representing dietitians under the age of 30. Camille is passionate about leadership and talks to us about why its so important to have a seat at the table even when you may be the only one. She shares insights into the decision making structure within the Academy and what the Academy is working on as it relates to diversity.

Did you first fall in love with nutrition because you were an athlete in high school or college? Or maybe while you were training for a marathon? Lots of folks make their way to dietetics because of their own experience with learning more about nutrition to support their fitness goals. Some RDstoBE and even RDs in other areas of practice are curious about specializing in this area of practice. At the same time, many college and professional sports teams now have an RDN on staff to provide sports nutrition counseling to help their athletes perform their best. But the skill set and demands on sports nutritionists have evolved greatly over the past decade or so. In this episode, Pratik Patel shares how he made his way to his current role as a professional sports team’s Director of Performance Nutrition. Pratik Pratik’s journey to becoming a Sports RD was not without its obstacles. He’s a first-generation American, he hadn’t even heard of the nutrition major when he started college, and he didn’t match to a dietetic internship on his first try. But he overcame these challenges (and SO MANY MORE!) to get to where he is today. During this episode Pratik talks about: How he handled all the aforementioned challenges to achieve his RD The schedule of an RD who works with a professional sports team The resilience needed to manage the uncertainties of working for college and professional sports teams Why he still uses MNT and Food Service skills in his current role What are the critical qualities needed to work with pro athletes If you’re considering working in Sports Nutrition, have your notebook ready for this episode!