Nutrition Connection by Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof

Episodet

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  71: Abbie Gellman MS, RD, CDN, Chef - CULINARY / CONSULTING 30.09.2026 35min

  The conversation covers the journey of Chef Abby Gelman from a career in finance to becoming a dietitian and chef, her role as the Director of Culinary Medicine, and the importance of stability in nutrition. It also explores the concept of career transition and diversification in the field of nutrition and culinary arts. The conversation covers topics such as portion size awareness and the impact of GLP-1, career highlights and achievements, career path and advice for dietitians, integration of nutrition services, and the role of dietitians in culinary medicine and expertise. The discussion also emphasizes the need for dietitians to take on leading roles in various spaces within the nutrition industry.TakeawaysCulinary Medicine and NutritionCareer Transition and Diversification Portion size awarenessCareer advice for dietitiansChapters00:00 The Journey to Culinary Medicine05:58 Career Transition and Diversification12:13 Director of Culinary Medicine19:50 Stability in Nutrition21:22 Portion Size and GLP-122:09 Career Highlights and Achievements24:37 Career Path and Advice29:42 Integration of Nutrition Services33:01 Culinary Medicine and Dietitian ExpertiseConnect with Abbie:LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbie-gellman/Website: https://chefabbiegellman.com/Check out the website:https://www.nutritionconnection.us/Connect with Dr. Kristen Hicks- RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/
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  69: Emily Levin MPH, RDN - PUBLIC HEALTH / GOVERNMENT 23.09.2026 38min

  Emily Levin, a public health analyst and registered dietitian, shares her journey into the field of nutrition, highlighting her early passion for nutrition, the impact of nutrition on health, and her transition into public health. She discusses navigating career opportunities, building a network, the role of nutrition in policy, the influence of women in nutrition, entering the policy space, and the future of nutrition.TakeawaysPassion for nutrition from an early ageImportance of building a network in the nutrition fieldChapters00:00 Journey into Nutrition02:53 Early Passion for Nutrition06:06 Impact of Nutrition on Health08:58 Transition into Public Health11:56 Navigating Career Opportunities15:11 Building a Network18:08 Role of Nutrition in Policy21:06 Influence of Women in Nutrition23:56 Entering the Policy Space35:49 Future of NutritionConnect with Emily:https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyclevin/Check out the website:https://www.nutritionconnection.us/Connect with Dr. Kristen Hicks- RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/
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  73: Tambra Raye Stevenson MPH, MA, PhD(c)- AGRICULTURE / NONPROFIT 07.10.2026 35min

  Tambra Raye Stevenson shares her journey into nutrition, the inspiration behind Wanda, and the intersection of nutrition, media, and technology. She emphasizes the importance of communication, community, and cultural identity in shaping nutrition and health. Kristen Hicks-Roof discusses the interconnectedness of science, communication, and public health, highlighting the challenges of science communication in the nutrition space. The conversation explores the intersection of nutrition, culture, and storytelling, emphasizing the importance of food democracy and the role of technology in shaping the future of nutrition. It also delves into the significance of community support and mentorship in the field of nutrition and the need for a more inclusive approach to cultural foodways.TakeawaysCultural identity and community play a significant role in shaping nutrition and health.The intersection of nutrition, media, and technology presents opportunities and challenges for science communication and public health. Narrative nutritionFood democracy and cultural foodwaysCommunity support and mentorshipChapters00:00 Journey into Nutrition and Wanda01:24 The Role of Cultural Identity in Nutrition03:20 The Power of Communication and Community in Nutrition05:47 The Intersection of Science, Communication, and Public Health10:39 Nutrition, Media, and Technology16:06 The Interconnectedness of Science, Communication, and Public Health18:42 Narrative Nutrition and Cultural Significance of Food20:04 Maternal Nutrition and Community Support22:21 Creating Impact Beyond Traditional Clinical Pathways26:47 Building Depth and Range in Nutrition Careers29:51 Empathy, Communication, and Community Engagement34:22 The Future of Nutrition and Food DemocracyConnect with Tambra:Website: iamwanda.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tambra/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  68: Erik Bustillo MS, RD, FISSN, CSC, CF-L2, CPT - PERFORMANCE / TACTICAL 16.09.2026 48min

  The conversation covers Eric Bustillo's journey into the nutrition profession, his early career, roles in corporate wellness and human performance, challenges and setbacks, and his career highlights and achievements. Eric's passion for helping people and his diverse career journey are evident throughout the discussion. The conversation covers Erik's career decision, passion for serving those who serve, the Human Performance Optimization Program, the role of scientific data and evidence in nutrition, professional achievements and impact, getting involved in the tactical nutrition space, and the future of nutrition. Erik emphasizes the importance of individualized nutrition and wellness and advocates for the profession.TakeawaysPassion for helping peopleDiverse career journey Passion for serving those who serveIndividualized nutrition and wellnessAdvocacy for the professionChapters00:00 Inspiration for Nutrition Profession04:08 Early Career and First Roles08:00 Corporate Wellness and Human Performance12:03 Challenges and Setbacks15:59 Career Highlights and Achievements21:38 Career Decision and Passion23:53 Human Performance Optimization Program26:43 Scientific Data and Evidence32:22 Professional Achievements and Impact37:16 Getting Involved in Tactical Nutrition Space42:54 Future of NutritionConnect with Erik:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikbustillo/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  72: Dani Pezzuto RD, CCTD, CNSC, LDN - CLINICAL / TRANSPLANT 30.09.2026 35min

  In this episode, Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof interviews Dani Pezzuto, a transplant dietitian, about her journey into the field of nutrition and her role as a transplant dietitian. They discuss the unique challenges and responsibilities of working with transplant patients, the interdisciplinary nature of the role, and the future of nutrition in the healthcare landscape.TakeawaysTransplant dietitians play a crucial role in the care of transplant patients, addressing nutritional needs before, during, and after the transplant process.The future of nutrition may involve a balance between processed, shelf-stable food options and the enjoyment and affordability of fresh, home-cooked meals.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Transplant Dietitian Role01:16 Inspiration to Become a Nutrition Professional02:21 Transition from Engineering to Nutrition03:13 Journey to Becoming a Transplant Dietitian05:17 Role of a Transplant Dietitian in Patient Care07:36 Interdisciplinary Team Collaboration10:23 Day-to-Day Work of a Transplant Dietitian11:36 Use of AI and Technology in Nutrition13:25 Involvement in Food Safety and Scientific Data15:14 Challenges and Opportunities in Nutrition31:11 Future of Nutrition and Food TrendsConnect with Dani:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dani-pezzuto/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  70: Stacey Woodson MS, RDN - ENTREPRENUER/MEDIA 23.09.2026 33min

  Stacy Woodson shares her journey from aspiring doctor to becoming a nutrition professional, author, and media dietitian. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and the impact of nutrition on personal health. Stacy's diverse career includes clinical work, teaching, entrepreneurship, and storytelling around food and agriculture. She discusses the future of nutrition, focusing on local food systems and the role of dietitians in bridging the gap between communities and food producers.TakeawaysMentorship is crucial for guiding and nurturing the next generation of dietitians.Storytelling around food and agriculture can create a deeper connection and understanding of nutrition.Dietitians can play a key role in bridging the gap between communities and local food systems.Chapters00:00 The Journey to Nutrition Professional01:18 Inspiration and Transition to Nutrition03:24 Biology Background and Career Transition05:43 Balancing Multiple Roles and Entrepreneurship12:14 Day-to-Day as a Business Owner28:02 The Future of NutritionConnect with StaceyLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-woodson-ms-rd-ldn/Website: staceywoodson.comConnect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  67: Alyssa Smolen MS RDN CDN - COMMUNITY / MEDIA 16.09.2026 43min

  Alyssa Smolen shares her journey from aspiring artist to becoming a dietitian, blending her passion for nutrition with her love for writing and journalism. She discusses the importance of communication skills in the nutrition field and the impact of mentors on her career. Alyssa also details her diverse roles in community wellness and media dietetics, emphasizing the creative freedom and scientific evidence communication in her day-to-day work. The conversation covers the validation of food choices, the impact of recipes on children, the role of dietitians in corporate wellness, the changing perception of healthy eating, the journey of a media dietitian, and the future of nutrition.TakeawaysPassion for Nutrition: Alyssa's journey from an aspiring artist to a dietitian is driven by her personal experience with an eating disorder and the inspiration she found in a dietitian who helped her.Communication and Creativity: The blend of communication skills, creativity, and scientific evidence is essential in Alyssa's diverse roles in community wellness and media dietetics.Mentorship and Impact: The impact of mentors and the importance of saying 'yes' to opportunities have been pivotal in shaping Alyssa's career and approach to her work. Validation of food choices is importantRecipes can have a positive impact on children's perception of foodThe role of dietitians in corporate wellness is crucialThe perception of healthy eating is changingBuilding relationships is key in the media and community wellness rolesThe future of nutrition may involve a focus on fiber and beansChapters00:00 Journey to Dietetics03:38 Blending Communication and Nutrition07:09 Balancing Diverse Roles17:27 Creative Freedom and Scientific Evidence22:56 Validation of Food Choices23:33 Impact of Recipes on Children24:23 Role of Dietitians in Corporate Wellness27:09 Changing Perception of Healthy Eating31:34 Journey of a Media Dietitian39:31 The Future of NutritionConnect with AlyssaWebsite: https://www.arugalyssa.com/Ig: https://www.instagram.com/arugalyssa?igsh=aWdpcjIxYnpmcmdk&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@arugalyssa?_t=8lC6fE8Ykpf&_r=1 LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/alyssasmolenFacebook: ArugalyssaConnect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  66: Dr. Zach Conrad PhD, MPH - RESEARCH / FOOD SYSTEMS 09.09.2026 53min

  The Nutrition Connection Podcast features a discussion on the intersection of nutrition, sustainability, and economics. Dr. Zach Conrad shares insights into the impact of food on society, health, and sustainability, while Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof explores the practical implications for health professionals and policy makers. The conversation covers the impact of scientific data on policy and clinical guidelines, trade-offs in nutrition and sustainability, consumer behavior and food waste, optimizing health and sustainability through policy, mentorship and its impact on career trajectory, interdisciplinary collaboration in nutrition, and the future of nutrition with databases and computational models.TakeawaysNutrition and food systems have a broad impact on society, health, and sustainability.Research in nutrition and food systems involves interdisciplinary training and mathematical modeling. Scientific data informs policy and clinical guidelinesTrade-offs exist in nutrition and sustainabilityChapters00:00 Introduction to the Nutrition Connection Podcast01:18 Inspiration for Becoming a Scientist03:22 The Broad Impact of Nutrition03:50 Research and Degrees in Nutrition and Food Systems06:16 Academic Journey and Interdisciplinary Training09:01 Academic Background and Research Experience13:06 Trade-offs and Decision-making in Nutrition and Agriculture14:07 Crop Varieties and Market Value16:07 Mathematical Representations of Food Systems20:20 Research Impact on Health Professionals and Policy25:39 The Impact of Scientific Data on Policy and Clinical Guidelines26:55 Trade-offs in Nutrition and Sustainability29:16 Consumer Behavior and Food Waste30:20 Optimizing Health and Sustainability Through Policy32:20 Mentorship and Impact on Career Trajectory36:18 Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Nutrition45:56 The Future of Nutrition: Databases and Computational ModelsConnect with Dr. ConradWebsite: ZachSConrad.comAcademic: https://www.wm.edu/as/health-sciences/faculty/conrad-z.phpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachconrad1/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  65: Kelly Patterson MS, RD, LDN, CSSD - INDUSTRY / BIOMARKERS 09.09.2026 44min

  Kelly Patterson, a clinical nutrition educator with Omega Quant Analytics, shares her journey and insights into the evolving field of nutrition science and practice. From her athletic background to her diverse career path, Kelly's experience highlights the versatility and impact of nutrition professionals in various sectors. The conversation also delves into the changing landscape of nutrition careers, the role of omega-3s in health, and the importance of biomarker measurement in nutrition interventions. The conversation covers the importance of biomarkers in nutrition, the role of dietitians in personalized nutrition, and the future of nutrition communications. It also delves into the significance of relationships and networking in career development.TakeawaysVersatility of Nutrition CareersImportance of Omega-3s Biomarkers play a crucial role in motivating patients and demonstrating the effectiveness of nutrition changes.Dietitians have a vital role in personalized nutrition and will continue to be needed in the future.Chapters00:00 The Journey to Nutrition03:21 Diverse Career Paths in Nutrition12:04 Transition to Industry and Biomarker Measurement19:04 The Science of Omega-3s and Nutrition Biomarkers24:15 The Role of Biomarkers in Nutrition25:40 Career Opportunities for Dietitians28:11 Working with Special Forces and Tactical Athletes32:09 Career Tips and Networking38:16 The Future of Nutrition CommunicationsConnect with KellyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-patterson-ms-rd-ldn-cssd-93bb054a/Omega Quant Analytics: https://omegaquant.com/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  64: Briana Reamer MS, RDN, LDN - FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY / MEDIA 02.09.2026 37min

  The conversation covers the diverse career journey of Briana Reamer, from her inspiration to become a nutrition professional to her transition into health education and photography. It delves into her challenges, personal growth, and the future of nutrition and food representation. The discussion emphasizes the importance of embracing cultural foods and the authenticity of nutrition careers.TakeawaysDiverse Nutrition CareersEmbracing Cultural FoodsChapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:12 Inspiration for Becoming a Nutrition Professional03:24 Challenges and Cultural Influences in Nutrition Education05:21 Career Journey and Photography Passion08:06 Transition to Health Education and Photography Education10:26 Overcoming Adversity and Personal Growth16:17 Balancing Multiple Roles and Authenticity in Nutrition Careers25:36 Future of Nutrition and Food RepresentationConnect with BrianaIG:  @more_than_a_dietitian Website: https://morethanadietitian.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briana-v-reamer-rd/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  63: Cathy Carmichael MS, RDN, LDN - COMMUNITY / CHILD NUTRITION 02.09.2026 38min

  The conversation covers Cathy Carmichael's journey from childhood inspiration to becoming a nutrition professional, her work with the Native American Health Center, transition to Pennington Biomedical Research Center, and her role as Project Director at Louisiana Team Nutrition. It also delves into the unique aspects of Pennington Biomedical Research Center and the initiatives at Louisiana Team Nutrition. The conversation covers the introduction and application of the Veggie Meter, its comparison, and potential use in clinical practice. It also delves into the impact of scientific data on day-to-day roles, career highlights, mentorship, and tips for career development. The discussion concludes with insights into the future of nutrition and the importance of science communication.TakeawaysPassion for community and public healthImportance of visual appeal in nutrition Veggie Meter's potential in clinical practiceImportance of science communication in nutritionChapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast06:24 Graduate School and Transition to Pennington13:11 Transition to Pennington and Louisiana Team Nutrition18:21 Culinary Training and Veggie Meter Research26:20 Impact of Scientific Data on Day-to-Day Role31:39 Tips for Career Path and Skills DevelopmentConnect with CathyFB: https://www.facebook.com/louisianafitkidsIG:https://www.instagram.com/louisianafitkids/Louisiana Team Nutrition: https://www.louisianafitkids.com/Home/TeamNutrition2017LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-carmichael-ms-rd-4827875/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  62: Dr. Wesley McWhorter DrPH, MS, RDN, LD, CSCS - FOOD IS MEDICINE / RESEARCH 26.08.2026 43min

  In this episode of the Nutrition Connection Podcast, Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof interviews Dr. Wesley McWhorter, Vice President of Lifestyle Medicine at Suvita Healthcare. The conversation covers Dr. McWhorter's journey from childhood inspiration to become a nutrition professional, navigating a non-linear career path, pursuing a Doctorate in Public Health, and his transition to Suvita Health. The discussion highlights the challenges and triumphs of a multifaceted career in nutrition and healthcare. Dr. McWhorter shares his journey from virtual culinary medicine programs to business expansion, day-to-day operations, and learning the business side of healthcare. He emphasizes the importance of interprofessional education, opportunities in food as medicine, and the future of nutrition, including the rise of AI and public interest in nutrition.TakeawaysInspiration can come from personal experiencesA non-linear career path can lead to unexpected opportunities Virtual culinary medicine programs can reach a wider audienceSuccess in reducing A1C levels through virtual programsTransition from academia to businessSuccessful expansion to 14 clinicsShift from academia to corporate managementPractical application and implementation in day-to-day operationsUnderstanding reimbursement and compliance in healthcareRole expansion for dietitians through technology and AIImportance of interprofessional education and collaborationChanging perceptions of dietitians in healthcareIncreasing opportunities in food as medicineOvercoming fears and barriers in healthcareEngagement in interprofessional educationRise of AI in nutritionPublic interest in nutritionInvolvement in culinary medicine and food as medicineChapters00:00 Introduction to Nutrition Connection Podcast08:30 Pursuing a Doctorate in Public Health13:36 Transition to Suvita Health21:33 Virtual Culinary Medicine Programs27:16 Learning the Business Side of Healthcare32:28 Interprofessional Education and Collaboration41:29 The Future of NutritionConnect with Dr. McWhorterLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-mcwhorter/Suvida Healthcare: https://www.suvidahealthcare.com/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  59: Dr. Dustin Moore PhD, RD- SUPPLEMENTS / COMMUNICATIONS 05.08.2026 45min

  The conversation covers the evolution of nutrition science, the journey to becoming a nutrition professional, the influence of dietitians and nutrition experts, the transition to Swanson Vitamins, and the role at Swanson Vitamins. The discussion emphasizes the dynamic nature of nutrition science and the importance of evidence-based communication in the field. The conversation delves into the importance of science communication, teaching research methods, professional integrity, pride in the dietitian profession, effective nutrition communication, and the future of nutrition, highlighting the role of evidence-based practice and human connection in the field.TakeawaysNutrition science is dynamic and constantly evolvingEvidence-based communication is crucial in the field of nutrition Importance of science communicationTeaching research methods and evidence-based practiceProfessional integrity and evidence-based decision makingPride in the dietitian professionEffective nutrition communicationThe future of nutrition and the role of evidence-based practiceChapters00:00 The Evolution of Nutrition Science06:11 Transition to Swanson Vitamins21:10 Role at Swanson Vitamins26:18 Teaching Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice32:22 Pride in the Dietitian Profession41:47 The Future of NutritionConnect with Dr. MooreWebsite: https://www.swansonvitamins.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopl5nhTdbXbLv4NXTKKikXinNIe6dei5wPKriY6lc6IijtsW948 IG: https://www.instagram.com/realwellnesshq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustin-moore-phd-rd-a1bb294a/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  61: Kait Richardson RDN, LD - SPEAKER / COUNSELING 19.08.2026 44min

  In this episode, dietitian and author Kate Richardson shares her inspiring journey from overcoming an eating disorder to becoming a TEDx speaker and nutrition advocate. She discusses building a niche career in nutrition, the importance of authentic storytelling, and practical tips for aspiring speakers and professionals.keywordsnutrition, dietitian, TEDx, public speaking, personal branding, nutrition communication, career development, creator economy, community engagement, professional growthkey topicsPersonal journey from eating disorder to nutrition professionalBuilding a niche career in nutrition and communicationSteps to becoming a TEDx speaker and professional speakerThe importance of understanding your audience in speaking engagementsLeveraging books and media to establish credibilitytakeawaysAuthenticity and personal stories can powerfully connect with audiences.Building credibility takes time, consistency, and strategic efforts like writing a book and speaking engagements.Understanding your audience is crucial for effective communication and impactful presentations.Treat your speaking career as a profession—seek mentorship, practice, and refine your skills.Networking and making genuine connections can open doors to new opportunities.sound bites"Just pitch yourself to TEDx talks and go for it.""Know your audience and tailor your science.""Treat your speaking career as a profession."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nutrition Connection Podcast02:23 Kait Richardson's Journey to Nutrition05:38 Career Path and Experiences in Dietetics12:20 Day-to-Day Life as a Dietitian15:19 The Process of Writing a Book19:09 The Importance of Credibility in Nutrition21:12 Navigating Information Overload22:57 The Importance of Writing and Reflection26:13 Understanding Your Audience as a Speaker28:58 Personal Growth and Professional Development32:10 The Role of Community Engagement35:01 Transitioning to Professional Speaking37:50 The Future of Nutrition and Dieteticsguest [email protected] (speaking)LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitrichardson497/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nutritionawareness/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  60: Stacey Dunn-Emke MS, RDN - CAREER COACH / OWNER 12.08.2026 37min

  In this episode, Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof interviews Stacey Dunn-Emke, the founder of NutritionJobs and DietitianSalaries.com. Stacey shares her journey as a nutrition professional, her career path, and her experience as an entrepreneur in the nutrition industry. The conversation also explores the future of nutrition and the impact of AI on the field.TakeawaysEntrepreneurship in NutritionThe Future of Nutrition and AIChapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview06:10 Nutrition Jobs and Dietitian Salaries19:10 The Role of Science in Business Management24:52 Tips for Finding a Job in Nutrition and Entrepreneurship33:42 The Future of Nutrition and AIConnect with Stacey:@nutritionjobs https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceydunnemke/ https://www.nutritionjobs.com https://dietitiansalaries.comConnect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  58: Karman Meyer RDN, LDN, RYT - PRIVATE PRACTICE / MEDIA 29.07.2026 38min

  The Nutrition Connection Podcast features a conversation between Kristen Hicks-Roof and Karman Meyer, focusing on the intersection of nutrition, health, and wellness. Karman Meyer shares her journey as a dietitian, her work in culinary nutrition, and her expertise in sleep health. The conversation highlights the evolving role of dietitians in the healthcare landscape and the future of nutrition and health tech.TakeawaysCulinary nutrition and culinary medicine are gaining recognition as essential components of healthcare.The integration of health tech and nutrition is shaping the future of nutrition and health, with a focus on sleep health and nutrition.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Nutrition Connection Podcast09:34 Exploring Sleep Health and Nutrition17:30 Day-to-Day Work and Integration of Sleep and Yoga23:17 Culinary Nutrition and Culinary Medicine32:20 The Future of Nutrition and Health TechConnect with Karman: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karmanmeyer/Website: https://www.karmanmeyer.com/ Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  53: Gretchen Zimmermann, MBA, RDN, CDCES, CSOWM, DipACLM - MEDIA / Health Tech 24.06.2026 37min

  In this episode, Kristen Hicks-Roof interviews Gretchen Zimmermann, a spokesperson and cardiometabolic and digital healthcare expert. They discuss Gretchen's journey from a career in skincare to becoming a registered dietitian and her transition to roles in digital healthcare and as a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. They also explore the impact of AI in healthcare and the future of dietitians in the evolving healthcare landscape. The conversation covers the role of scientific evidence and data in healthcare, the integration of lifestyle medicine into clinical practice, the significance of career pivots and entrepreneurship, the importance of networking and saying yes, and the future of nutrition and AI.TakeawaysCareer transitions in nutritionRole of dietitians in digital healthcare and AI integration Scientific evidence and data play a crucial role in healthcare decision-making.Lifestyle medicine is an essential component of clinical practice and patient care.Chapters00:00 Introductions and Virtual Connections05:39 Role in Digital Healthcare20:31 The Role of Scientific Evidence and Data25:36 Lifestyle Medicine and Clinical Practice32:39 The Future of Nutrition and AIConnect with Gretchen:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-zimmermann-17736117/ Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  57: Sam Kramer MS, RDN/LDN, CISSN, CSSGB - ENTREPRENUER / FOOD INDUSTRY 22.07.2026 41min

  Sam Kramer, CEO and co-founder of ProSo LLC, shares his journey from a non-traditional nutrition professional to founding his own company. He discusses the challenges, successes, and strategic decisions that led to the creation of a unique protein soda product. Sam's experience highlights the intersection of nutrition, product development, and entrepreneurship in the supplement industry. Sam Kramer discusses the importance of protein and its diverse applications, as well as the day-to-day operations of his startup. He also shares insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and the future of the nutrition industry.TakeawaysNon-traditional career paths in nutrition are driven by passion and a willingness to learn.The protein industry is evolving to meet the needs of diverse consumer demographics. Protein has diverse applications beyond muscle healthEntrepreneurship requires perseverance and a willingness to say yes to new experiencesChapters00:00 The Journey to Nutrition06:07 Creating a Niche Product17:37 Unique Positioning in the Protein Space23:24 Day-to-Day Operations32:31 Advice for Aspiring ProfessionalsConnect with Sam:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-kramer-ms-rd-cssgb-ldn-cissn-3bb17368/ProSo: https://drink-proso.com/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  56: Dr. Dean Elbe PharmD, BCPP - PHARMACIST / DRUG-NUTRITION INTERACTIONS 15.07.2026 36min

  The conversation explores the intersection of pharmacy and nutrition, the importance of drug nutrition interactions, and the potential of AI in nutrition and pharmacology. It emphasizes cross-professional collaboration and the evolving landscape of clinical recommendations and evidence-based practice.TakeawaysCross-professional collaborationThe importance of drug nutrition interactionsThe potential of AI in nutrition and pharmacologyChapters00:00 Introduction to the Nutrition Connection Podcast05:09 The Intersection of Pharmacy and Nutrition in Clinical Practice12:10 The Role of AI in Nutrition and Pharmacology28:56 The Future of Nutrition and PharmacologyConnect with Dr. Elbe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-elbe-40a6a216/Drug Nutrition Interactions: www.drugnutritioninteractions.comConnect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/
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  55: Breanna Chavez BS WIC / MS/DI STUDENT 08.07.2026 33min

  The conversation covers topics such as early inspiration and the impact of FFA on career choices, navigating undergrad and career beginnings, the day-to-day at WIC and balancing work and school, and the future of nutrition and AI. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, self-awareness, and the role of science in nutrition.TakeawaysAI in nutritionBalancing work and schoolThe impact of FFA on careerThe role of science in nutritionThe importance of mentorship and self-awarenessChapters00:00 Early Inspiration and FFA Impact11:54 Day-to-Day at WIC and Balancing Work and School28:02 The Future of Nutrition and AIConnect with Breanna:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/breanna-chavez-050540217/Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-RoofLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/ Check out the Nutrition Connection websitehttps://www.nutritionconnection.us/