Nutrition Connection by Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof

Kristen Hicks-Roof
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Nutrition Connection is where science meets storytelling. Hosted by Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof, RD, this podcast highlights the dietitians and nutrition experts shaping the future of food and health. Each episode dives into the inspiring journeys of nutrition professionals whose work touches every corner of the food system and healthcare landscape. From research and clinical practice to culinary innovation, public health, food industry leadership, and beyond—dietitians are everywhere, and their impact runs deep.

  1. 2d ago

    68: Erik Bustillo MS, RD, FISSN, CSC, CF-L2, CPT - PERFORMANCE / TACTICAL

    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. Takeaways Passion for helping peopleDiverse career journey Passion for serving those who serveIndividualized nutrition and wellnessAdvocacy for the profession Chapters 00:00 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 Nutrition Connect with Erik: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikbustillo/ Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/   Check out the Nutrition Connection website https://www.nutritionconnection.us/

  2. 2d ago

    67: Alyssa Smolen MS RDN CDN - COMMUNITY / MEDIA

    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. Takeaways Passion 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 beans Chapters 00:00 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 Nutrition Connect with Alyssa Website: https://www.arugalyssa.com/ Ig: https://www.instagram.com/arugalyssa?igsh=aWdpcjIxYnpmcmdk&utm_source=qr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@arugalyssa?_t=8lC6fE8Ykpf&_r=1 LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/alyssasmolen Facebook: Arugalyssa Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/   Check out the Nutrition Connection website https://www.nutritionconnection.us/

    67: Alyssa Smolen MS RDN CDN - COMMUNITY / MEDIA

  3. Sep 9

    66: Dr. Zach Conrad PhD, MPH - RESEARCH / FOOD SYSTEMS

    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. Takeaways Nutrition 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 sustainability Chapters 00:00 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 Models Connect with Dr. Conrad Website: ZachSConrad.com Academic: https://www.wm.edu/as/health-sciences/faculty/conrad-z.php LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachconrad1/ Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/   Check out the Nutrition Connection website https://www.nutritionconnection.us/

    66: Dr. Zach Conrad PhD, MPH - RESEARCH / FOOD SYSTEMS

  4. Sep 9

    65: Kelly Patterson MS, RD, LDN, CSSD - INDUSTRY / BIOMARKERS

    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. Takeaways Versatility 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. Chapters 00:00 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 Communications Connect with Kelly LinkedIn: 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-Roof LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/   Check out the Nutrition Connection website https://www.nutritionconnection.us/

    65: Kelly Patterson MS, RD, LDN, CSSD - INDUSTRY / BIOMARKERS

  5. Sep 2

    64: Briana Reamer MS, RDN, LDN - FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY / MEDIA

    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. Takeaways Diverse Nutrition CareersEmbracing Cultural Foods Chapters 00:00 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 Representation Connect with Briana IG:  @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-Roof LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/   Check out the Nutrition Connection website https://www.nutritionconnection.us/

    64: Briana Reamer MS, RDN, LDN - FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY / MEDIA

  6. Sep 2

    63: Cathy Carmichael MS, RDN, LDN - COMMUNITY / CHILD NUTRITION

    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. Takeaways Passion for community and public healthImportance of visual appeal in nutrition Veggie Meter's potential in clinical practiceImportance of science communication in nutrition Chapters 00:00 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 Development Connect with Cathy FB: https://www.facebook.com/louisianafitkids IG:https://www.instagram.com/louisianafitkids/ Louisiana Team Nutrition: https://www.louisianafitkids.com/Home/TeamNutrition2017 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-carmichael-ms-rd-4827875/ Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/   Check out the Nutrition Connection website https://www.nutritionconnection.us/

    63: Cathy Carmichael MS, RDN, LDN - COMMUNITY / CHILD NUTRITION

  7. Aug 26

    62: Dr. Wesley McWhorter DrPH, MS, RDN, LD, CSCS - FOOD IS MEDICINE / RESEARCH

    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. Takeaways Inspiration 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 medicine Chapters 00:00 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 Nutrition Connect with Dr. McWhorter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-mcwhorter/ Suvida Healthcare: https://www.suvidahealthcare.com/ Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/   Check out the Nutrition Connection website https://www.nutritionconnection.us/

    62: Dr. Wesley McWhorter DrPH, MS, RDN, LD, CSCS - FOOD IS MEDICINE / RESEARCH

  8. Aug 19

    61: Kait Richardson RDN, LD - SPEAKER / COUNSELING

    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. keywords nutrition, dietitian, TEDx, public speaking, personal branding, nutrition communication, career development, creator economy, community engagement, professional growth key topics Personal journey from eating disorder to nutrition professional Building a niche career in nutrition and communication Steps to becoming a TEDx speaker and professional speaker The importance of understanding your audience in speaking engagements Leveraging books and media to establish credibility takeaways Authenticity 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." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nutrition Connection Podcast 02:23 Kait Richardson's Journey to Nutrition 05:38 Career Path and Experiences in Dietetics 12:20 Day-to-Day Life as a Dietitian 15:19 The Process of Writing a Book 19:09 The Importance of Credibility in Nutrition 21:12 Navigating Information Overload 22:57 The Importance of Writing and Reflection 26:13 Understanding Your Audience as a Speaker 28:58 Personal Growth and Professional Development 32:10 The Role of Community Engagement 35:01 Transitioning to Professional Speaking 37:50 The Future of Nutrition and Dietetics guest links @kaitrichardsonrd www.kaitrichardsonrd.com (speaking) LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitrichardson497/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nutritionawareness/ Connect with the host, Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-hicks-roof/   Check out the Nutrition Connection website https://www.nutritionconnection.us/

    61: Kait Richardson RDN, LD - SPEAKER / COUNSELING
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About

Nutrition Connection is where science meets storytelling. Hosted by Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof, RD, this podcast highlights the dietitians and nutrition experts shaping the future of food and health. Each episode dives into the inspiring journeys of nutrition professionals whose work touches every corner of the food system and healthcare landscape. From research and clinical practice to culinary innovation, public health, food industry leadership, and beyond—dietitians are everywhere, and their impact runs deep.

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