Nutrition Entrepreneurs Membership Issue 2019

Ventures Enterprising News & Ideas for Nutrition Entrepreneurs

Membership 2019 Volume XLI Number 5 NE Unfiltered: Let’s Get Real About Life As an Entrepreneur

Behind the Scenes of Entrepreneurial Life (at least one person’s tale) Elana Natker, MS, RD Chair Life of an entrepreneur is … unique. I don’t necessarily mean it’s so different from other jobs (although it can be); what I mean is that every entrepreneur has her or his own challenges, goals, triumphs and worries.

Julie Harrington, our newsletter editor, and I came up with the theme of this newsletter when we realized that our entrepreneurial world, as networked as we think we are, can be pretty isolating. As we Instagram and photofilter our comings and goings for the world to see, real life can be very different. So, much like the current trend of showing celebrities without makeup, or dietitians eating food with abandon, here’s a peek behind the scenes of my life as an entrepreneur. Maybe you can relate to something here:

big phone person to begin with, but having a real, back-and-forth conversation in real time makes for strong connections. It’s not something texting or social media posting can accomplish.

How I overcome this: I still text some close friends back home, just to let them know I’m thinking of them, and I know not to expect a text back for several hours - or maybe not at all. I also have recurring appointments with my sister and mom to catch up by phone. Blogging about my life here, to a small, select audience, also helps. But sometimes blogging and social media posting make me sadder, in that it’s no substitute for in-person, curl-up-onthe-couch-with-a-glass-of-wine conversations that I really crave with my close girlfriends.

4. I prioritize fitness. I’m like a dog in that I’m at my best when I’ve been exercised. If I go more than three days without a run or some kind of outdoor activity, I get cranky. It’s as if the fresh oxygen itself stimulates serotonin release.

How I make this work: My husband and I are both early-morning exercisers. We switch off who gets to work out outside the house each morning, and who has to stay at home (our kids are too young to be left alone). Luckily, since I am self-employed, if I accidentally sleep in (I’m also not my best unless I’m well-rested, too), I try to fit in a quick workout at some other point in the day, whether at home using an app, outside if the weather is good, or at a nearby gym.

1. It’s hard. Not just the usual stuff, like hustling for work or keeping track of quarterly tax payments; it can be hard to just have a regular day. When you have the ability to set your own schedule, it’s funny how hard it can be sometimes to just get your day started. Or to keep on task when, oh wait - I’ll just grab a quick snack from the fridge before I do this and catch a quick article online while I eat (and before I know it, an hour has passed and I’m still eating … and reading.)

How I overcome this: I set a schedule for myself: a 5. I give myself a personal day. I mentioned in the time to start my day and a time to end it. If I don’t, I’ll last issue of Ventures that I’m on antidepressants, end up feeling like I’m working all the time and not a fact I’m not ashamed of. But yet I still have some getting anything done. I also shower each morning days where life just seems to be too much, where and put on real clothes. Sometimes I put on makeup, getting out of bed and putting myself into second too. I also use timers a lot, both to track my work gear takes a tremendous amount of effort for (since I bill by the hour) and to track my free time. whatever reason.

I just tell Siri:“Set timer for 30 minutes.”When the How I overcome this: When those days happen, I alarm goes off, I’m jolted back to work and the task do what a regular 9-to-5 office person might do at hand.

- I take a personal day. I give myself the space to wallow, maybe take a nap or read a book or just set 2. I talk to myself a lot. I sometimes hope the NSA is work aside because all I’m really doing is spinning watching me like some conspiracy theorists believe, my wheels. Unless there’s no big food/nutrition because I’d like to think I give them some comedy. I emergency (and there never is!), work can wait work from home, and my house is quiet. I don’t turn another day. on music or the TV, since I find the ambient noise distracting. But I will talk to the dog, and to myself. I Last but not least, I do what I can to make myself actually find it funny when I catch myself doing it. available to other nutrition entrepreneurs who need How I overcome this: I don’t. It doesn’t hurt anyone, a sounding board, a listening ear, or just a friend. If you and it amuses me. I just laugh at myself and move ever find yourself in that position, shoot me an email on. and we’ll set a time to talk.

3. I get lonely. This feeling has only gotten worse since Elana Natker, MS, RD, is the owner of Sage Leaf Communications, a moving halfway around the world last August, and eight to 12 time zones away from my closest friends nutrition communications agency, which is still going strong from and family. Before when I felt this way, I might call her home office in Muscat, Oman. There, she is able to find some my mom or my sister, or text a friend just to say hi equilibrium by stopping work and taking laps around the house when and see if now is a good time to catch up. I’m not a she needs a break.

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In This Issue: Behind the Scenes of Entrepreneurial Life ���������������1 The Big Entrepreneurial Secret �������������������������������������������2 A Round Peg in a Square Hole �������������������������������3 Own It, You Are An Entrepreneur! ���������������������������3 Attention Makes It Bigger! ���4 Openness to Opportunity ���4 Feast or Famine �����������������������5 5 Strategies to Improve Work-Life Balance ����������������������5 Scared Into Greatness ��������������6 The Rollercoaster Ride! ��������������8 People Come Into Our Lives for a Reason, a Season, or a Lifetime ��������������9 Behind the Scenes of Corporate Wellness �����������������9 How to Make An Impact as a Social Entrepreneur ��� 10 Let's Get Real - It Can Be Lonely Out Here �������������������������11 How to Be a Money Magnet �������������������������11 The Other Side ��������Back Cover Earn CEUs With NE ������������������������Back Cover

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Ventures EDITOR Julie Harrington, RD

INCOMING EDITOR Kim Hoban, RDN, CDN, CPT

EDITORIAL BOARD, 2018-2019 Elana Natker, MS, RD Lisa Jones, MA, RDN, LDN, FAND Erin Hendrickson, RDN, LD Julie Harrington, RD Kim Hoban, RDN, CDN, CPT Rosanne Rust, MS, RDN, LDN Lauri Egan, RDN, CPT The newsletter pertains to the Nutrition Entrepreneurs Dietetic Practice Group of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and reproduction rights are reserved. Publication of an advertisement in the Ventures newsletter should not be considered as an endorsement of the product or advertiser by the DPG. Viewpoints and statements in this newsletter do not necessarily reflect policies and/or positions of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. © 2018 Nutrition Entrepreneurs.

All rights reserved.

WE WELCOME INPUT FROM OUR MEMBERS. PLEASE CONTACT THE EDITOR: Julie Harrington, RD NewsletterEditor@NEdpg.org

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS Email NEadmin@NEdpg.org.

ADDRESS CHANGES AND MISSING ISSUES If you have a change of address, please contact the Academy with your new address information. If you missed an issue, email Lauri Egan at NEadmin@NEdpg.org

The Big Entrepreneurial Secret Kim Hoban, RDN, CDN, CPT Incoming Newsletter Editor As an RD dipping her toes into entrepreneurship with a side hustle, I’ll be totally honest in that sometimes I feel as though I don’t belong in this group, let alone as a member of the executive committee. Imposter syndrome is real for all of us and I especially fall victim to it in this entrepreneurial world. After all, if I’ve always maintained a full- or part-time job that helps to pay my bills, what do I know about the struggles to make my business succeed?

Well, I may not have all of the answers about crafting a marketing strategy or filing quarterly taxes, but I can share one of the biggest secrets to entrepreneurial success.

It took me a long time to uncover this secret that has now become something of a mantra I hold very tight to in times of doubt in myself and my business. And since we’re getting real about entrepreneurial life in this issue of Ventures, I think it’s about time to share this big secret with you!

If you also often fall into the comparison trap and feel unsure of yourself, your work and your business, you’re ready to learn this secret too. If you see others accomplishing something you wish you could, try adopting the secret as a mantra as well.

Here it is, simple and real: no one else knows what he or she is doing either.

No one, not even the most successful person you can think of, knows what she or he is doing one-hundred percent of the time.

Isn’t that such a relief to realize? The most confident of entrepreneurs has doubts and fears, but continues on in spite of them.

I know how overwhelming it can feel to look around and see the amazing career moves our colleagues are making, convinced they surely have it all figured out. Until I remind myself of the secret and repeat my mantra: no one else knows what she or he is doing either.

All the people you look up to have had to make mistakes, learn from others, ask for help and probably fake it a little bit too.

Here’s the thing, though. We have to start getting real more often. We have to be vulnerable enough to acknowledge that we don’t have it all together all the time. Just as a rising tide lifts all boats, admitting that we don’t have all the answers benefits everyone by breaking down barriers and making space for real support and growth to happen.

Honesty, vulnerability and transparency can go a long way in creating real connections with our clients, colleagues and even family and friends.

Kim Hoban, RDN, CDN, CPT, is a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and NASM Certified Personal Trainer who blogs at KHNutrition.com, sharing about food, fitness and more recently, her journey with pregnancy and becoming a new mom. When she’s not busy helping others find freedom in food, you can find Kim running, hiking or in the kitchen cooking herself (or more often procrasti-baking). She lives in Long Island, NY with her fiancé, their son Easton and dog Annie.

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A Round Peg in a Square Hole Lisa Jones, MA, RDN, LDN, FAND Chair Elect As entrepreneurs, most of us often feel like a round peg trying to fit in a square hole. We may have or have had full-time jobs in any facet of our profession, yet still envision a future of entrepreneurship. Regardless of where we are on the entrepreneurial path, we all view it through our own lens.

Here are my top three quotes I view differently:

“Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels.

The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently.”

– Walter Isaacson I have heard this quote often - especially from my parents - when I first started out on the entrepreneurial path. They wanted to know why I was giving up a great full-time job with excellent benefits to work for myself, and work more hours than I was currently working. The reality is … we should all be seeing things differently, especially if we want to innovate and create our own paths. When

Own It; You Are an Entrepreneur!

Kerri Hawkins, MS, RDN, LDN, CPT Director of Member Services This month we were asked to write on the topic “Let’s Get Real About Life as an Entrepreneur” and my first thought was Do I really consider myself an entrepreneur?

I stopped myself right in my tracks and said of course you are an entrepreneur, Kerri!

It is a title that I often struggle to give myself, despite co-founding a nonprofit and launching my own telehealth practice, all

we first start down this path, I do not think we need to specifically define the shape of our peg or the hole in which we are trying to fit.

After all, we are unique and diverse, and these traits should be celebrated.

“When one door closes, another opens.”

- Alexander Graham Bell I have heard this quote many times over the years when I did not land a contract I wanted, or was chosen to speak at a conference for which I submitted a proposal. After hearing this, I often thought, what other door and how long will I have to wait? Now, when something I am trying to accomplish doesn’t come to fruition, I accept it and move on to the next potential opportunity. The version of this quote I prefer is, “When one door closes, go knock on another door because someone has to answer.” There are many opportunities for consulting work everywhere; you just have to continue to network and keep your options open.

“Sometimes the people around you won’t understand your journey. They don’t need to; it’s not for them.”- Joubert Botha Not everyone understands the passion to pursue an entrepreneurial path, and might not “get” the reasons for why you do the

while working my 9-to-5 job. And from the conversations that I have had with so many other accomplished dietitian friends and NE members, I know I am not the only one who struggles owning the title of “entrepreneur.”

I initially joined NE to be inspired and learn from these amazing RDNs that I admired from afar on Instagram, at conferences, reading their books and blog posts. What they have accomplished just seems so untouchable. I found myself saying “When my business makes X amount of dollars I will consider myself an entrepreneur” or “When I have X number of Instagram followers then the world we see me an entrepreneur.” I kept making lists of when I reach X then I will own that title.

What I have recognized as I serve on the NE Executive Committee and connecting with our amazing membership that is full of creative and generous people is

things that you do. For example, I have a passion for volunteerism which not everyone appreciates. For me, it enriches my life, and brings me into contact with many other likeminded people, exponentially expanding the opportunities available to me, in business and other avenues. As entrepreneurs, networking is key, and I have gained many valuable experiences and contacts as a result of my volunteer work. It’s something I would do regardless of this, but it’s a wonderful side benefit. Though others may not understand why I devote so much time to volunteerism, they don’t have to … they are on their own paths.

As you continue down the entrepreneurial path, think of the different quotes that may inspire you, and how you view them differently. Be whatever peg you want to be and make yourself fit where you belong!

Lisa Jones, MA, RDN, LDN, FAND, is a funny speaker and former stand-up comedienne. She is not just mildly amusing - she is really funny. Lisa was bitten by the comedy bug at a young age, entertaining her family at the dinner table with knock-knock jokes. Soon, she discovered SNL and would memorize bits and make her siblings perform them. Today, you can find Lisa chasing after her one-year old daughter, and after volunteers to watch her daughter so she can perform improvisational, sketch and stand-up comedy again.

entrepreneurs are disruptors who are always looking around the corner to identify a need ... any need ... and filling it! We are defining the future of the nutrition field and that can’t be measured in dollars or Instagram followers. It is measured in creativity, radical ideas and taking action. There are no check boxes that have to be filled to own that title “entrepreneur;” it is inside each and everyone of us as we go against the grain and create things the world never even knew it needed. I’m pretty sure true entrepreneurship can’t be taught. I do hope it can be encouraged and that starts by owning that prestigious entrepreneur title.

Kerri has a telehealth practice named Perfect Pear Coaching. Her sessions take the focus off "dieting" and help clients create a sustainable lifestyle with ongoing support and accountability.

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Attention Makes It Bigger Jenna Bell, PhD, RD Delegate’s Corner As NEDPG members, we recognize the importance of networking, mentorship and making the right connections for professional advancement. I also think there are qualities that have helped each of us thrive outside the box and create our own opportunities. While professional success pays the bills, the real entrepreneurial achievement is getting more of what you want out of life.

While it sounds like a holiday card, I just want more peace and joy. I don’t achieve it all day; I shoot for most of the day. Here’s what I focus on: BE GOAL-ORIENTED. When I wake up in the morning, I set my goals right away - be patient and calm.

EMPLOY PRAGMATISM. Anxiety and frustration have no practical application. They don’t make breakfast or dress the kids or address your work emails and they definitely don’t get you out the door faster or improve your day.

WATCH OUT. When I leave the house, I look around. I pay attention to birds, admire the trees and take a few minutes to just breathe. (It’s really lovely down here in St. Petersburg, Florida.)

USE YOUR VOICE. Sing. Loudly, if alone. It releases pent-up frustrations, and remembering words to songs is difficult, so it makes you forget about anything that is bugging you.

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST. Find your workout. Love it. Put it on your calendar. And never, NEVER opt out of it because of other projects. Unless you want to, then skip it.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE PRIZE. Time is the prize. Time with family, time exercising, time at the beach. Everything you do is for times like those.

TELL ‘EM LIKE IT IS. Be straightforward about how you feel. If someone is really awesome, fun to be around, wise, remarkable or any other trait that is making your interaction with her or him more enjoyable - tell the person. Email the person or say it. It can be in private or public.

DON’T TAKE ANY BS. Someone bringing nothing but heartache, negativity or BS with him or her - don’t take it.

Let the other person keep it. You don’t need any of that.

ME FIRST. Always smile first. Say thank you, strike up a conversation, wave thank-you while driving, make eye contact, pause to listen, laugh easily and share anecdotes or be funny. Walk through your day as though you are in charge of spreading joy like pixie dust on a Disney cruise.

STEAL IT IF YOU HAVE TO. Prioritize activities that are meaningful to you.

Steal away for 30 minutes to have lunch with your soon-to-be six-year-old, pick up your fouryear-old early and get a free cookie at Publix.

LOOK OUT FOR NUMBER ONE. And two. Joy and peace. Those are really the only things that matter.

PAY ATTENTION. Give the good stuff as much attention as you can. Attention makes things bigger. The more attention you give something, the more it will grow.

Jenna A. Bell, PhD, RD, is a senior vice president at Pollock Communications in New York, New York. She and her family find peace and joy in St. Petersburg, Florida.

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Openness to Opportunity Jennifer Watson, MS, RD Website Coordinator I heard a presentation yesterday from a marketing director who always thought her career would be linear - graduate the top of the high school class, graduate the top of the college class, enter rat race, become CEO. It was simple, right? Until it wasn’t - life took her sideways, with changes in education, changes in life and changes in finances that made her step back and think.

To recover, she took a ski trip and promised herself to be open to meeting “someone.”

Her original thought was to meet a romantic partner, but instead she met a future colleague who pulled her into the world of chef-driven restaurants and sustainable foods, where she rediscovered a long-buried passion for fine cuisine.

Being open to change is hard - especially when we don’t know what form it will take. Who will be at my next meeting or conference? Will it be worth my time?

Changing your mindset to being excited instead of dreading the rigamarole is hard - especially as we get more ingrained in our careers. Taking a new opportunity comes with some risk - What am I giving up? Will it be worth it? What will I do if I’m wrong? Can I recover?

In my career, when I’ve adopted an open mindset, I’ve found more opportunities, both professionally and personally. I do more creative thinking when I allow myself to embrace new projects, even if I don’t have a lot of previous experience. I took this position as website coordinator somewhat blindly - it was advertised as a “tech position in dietetics.” I stumbled into my current teaching position by sending the email equivalent of a “cold call” to the department head. I feel like these have been successful ventures (pardon the pun) for me because I was passionate about the subject, but also because I started them with an attitude of being open to what was to come.

You don’t have to be open to opportunity alone. I found it much easier to pursue these

opportunities with support from my husband, who encouraged me to pursue tech jobs and my passion for teaching foods classes. If you see an opportunity but hesitate, consult a friend or colleague who knows you well they will likely see the positives for you, as well as help you evaluate the risks. Even in new and exotic fields, it never hurts to do your research before jumping in with both feet.

As our membership year winds down and we evaluate what is to come next year, stretch your mind a little further to see what awaits you in the corners. Be open to what may come, even if it was never what you expected.

Your best future opportunities may just be waiting for you to notice them.

I'm only here for the food - at least that's what Jennifer would say! Jennifer has traveled the world trying exotic and delicious foods including roasted guinea pig in Ecuador to a donut-wrapped hot dog in Korea. Jennifer is an adventurous eater and can't wait to tell you about (and share her pictures from) her latest trip to an ethnic market, food truck, or farmto-table cafe.

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Rosanne Rust, MS, RDN, LDN Past Chair Being an entrepreneur isn’t for the faint-hearted.

We are all risk-takers to some degree. And while you may execute a perfect marketing plan or pitch, sometimes it’s either feast or famine. At least that’s been my experience as a communications consultant.

All five of the books I co-authored were published within a five-year period. It was a really busy five years, and I also had young children at the time. Some years I may have huge piles of writing deadlines and also travel to speak at conferences or participate in immersion tours. Then comes a year where I may find myself with only half as much work.

Feast

Famine

Sometimes there seems to be no control over this, so I’ve learned to just say yes to every great opportunities (even if it means a fivemonth period of running ragged), and then use the “famine” months to focus on my blog editorial calendar and consider future goals.

The extra time can serve as time needed to give my business a check-up, re-organize, and follow up with any potential clients.

As you read through this issue you may see the theme - “people don’t get why you do what you do," as well as one of isolation. For many of us, as solo-preneurs, it can feel lonely at times. There’s nobody at the proverbial “water cooler” and even our close friends don’t “get” our day-to-day challenges (I often feel that my friends can’t imagine what I could be complaining about when I’m my own boss, set my own hours and can almost take any day off I want). But you people get me! Believe me, it’s okay to be vulnerable. Tell three entrepreneurs

what you are feeling and I guarantee you that those three people will echo your thoughts.

I encourage you to reach out to fellow NE members, who WILL understand what you’re going through, and WILL get you. Enjoy the feasts, and relax and regroup during the famines.

Rosanne Rust, MS, RDN, LDN, is the owner of Rust Nutrition Services, and blogs at Chew the Facts. She’s written a few books and works as a nutrition communications consultant.

Her passion is fact-finding and translating nutrition data into well-reasoned dietary advice, so people can enjoy eating for good health. As an adventurous mom of three sons, she considers herself a boy expert. She’s been there, done that, and is almost done with that. If you call and say “let’s go,” she’s ready, especially if it’s to hop a plane to her happy place in Venice, Florida.

Five Simple Strategies to Help You Improve Your Work-Life Balance as an Entrepreneur Nicole Aucoin, MS, RD, LDN Specialty Groups Chair: Authors and Writers Life as a business owner is a lot of moving parts.

You have the big picture of working ON your business, promotion of your business to grow it, supporting your employees, performing your day-to-day tasks and handling unexpected daily “emergencies” that must be handled in the moment.

Not to mention that you have the weight and pressure of running a successful business all on your shoulders. With the overwhelming pressure to ensure your business succeeds, what can you do to relieve some of the responsibilities?

There are some key steps that successful nutrition business owners can take to alleviate the time-consuming tasks. While they may seem trivial, these steps can save hours while keeping your business running.

1

Pre-Schedule. Do you know that you are having a meeting on the same day and time each month? Schedule it into your calendar for the year. Put every event and meeting into your calendar for the year

ahead. Even if it is a tentative event, add it in. This will reduce the chances of doublebooking or missing an important event, life or business-related.

2

Automate. Find ways to automate any tasks that are consistent, including emails, reminders and even social media posts. For example, if your clients receive the exact same email when they first sign up, find a way to automate this email.

This can be done through various programs, including Zapier.

3

Write new processes in the moment.

You came up with a new process for your nutrition business. Great! Now write it down. If you wait, you may not remember exactly how you did it. Even if you work alone, writing down these processes ensure that each client has the same experience. Then, when you expand your team, you do not have to stress about what you did the first time.

4

Template emails. Did you receive a question from a client that you are likely to receive again? Save it in a template. Did you welcome a client after signing up? Save it! It make take a few extra minutes when you first start the process, but it will save time in the long run.

5

Block out YOU time. It is easy to fall into the trap of “I will just do one more thing,” or “I can take a break on the weekend.” Not taking time for yourself can be detrimental to you and how you run your business. Block out time for yourself and stick to it. Your mental and physical health are just as important to your business as clients are.

Being able to be present in the moment and block out distractions is tough for all of us; know that it takes practice!

You didn’t start your own business because it was easy; you did it to change people’s lives.

Make sure that you take the time to set up a strong foundation so you can do it, while also taking care of yourself.

Nicole Aucoin, MS, RD, is the founder of Healthy Steps Nutrition, CrossFit HSN and HSN Mentoring. Nicole left the corporate setting to start her own business helping others achieve optimal health through proper nutrition and exercise. She mentors hundreds of gym owners and dietitians to build successful nutrition businesses. HSN Mentoring provides a turn-key solution to launching and building a successful private practice. Nicole is the author of Nourish: Grow Your Nutrition Business From The Ground Up which is available on Amazon, and is an active contributor to the CrossFit Journal and Box Pro Magazine. She offers free help on her website, growyournutritionbusiness.com. She can be reached at Nicole@healthystepsnutrition.com.

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SCARED INTO GREATNESS Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD. Specialty Groups Chair: Speakers/Media Ever heard the phrase “If if doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you?” Many times, our biggest challenges, fears and obstacles are what end up launching us into greatness. After all, the road less traveled is hard to walk. Some start along the path, but few are willing to put in the grit and grind to keep pursuing the path full force.

It’s scary to look challenges in the eye and say, “Let’s do this!” And it gets scarier when there are obstacles, letdowns and disappointments.

Sure, there will be successes mixed in, but many times you hear more nos than yesses in the entrepreneurial world, and that can be

hard. However, if you let those scary moments fuel you, it’s likely you will go further than you would have hanging out in your comfort zone playing it safe. Being a little SCARED might be just what you need to fulfill your dreams and have a successful business.

SURPRISES - There will be surprises,

RELAX - Seems like an oxymoron to entrepreneurialism, but if you live stressed out all the time, you will not enjoy what you are doing. At some point you have to come to a place of peace knowing you are giving it all you have, and the right doors will open at the right time.

both good and bad, when working as an entrepreneur. It’s the reality of the game.

Good things will come when you least expect them and will launch you forward, but there will be bad surprises as well. A contract will fall through, your speaking proposal will get denied and the TV station will tell you no. Be ready for both the good and bad.

EXCITEMENT - As an entrepreneur there

CHALLENGES - Take challenges as an

DREAM - Keep dreaming. Even when it

opportunity to conquer more, expand your strengths and go further. Choose to let challenges change you for the better; remember life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it.

seems like things are slow and not going your way, keep your dream and passion alive. It will eventually be what propels you to greatness.

ACCOUNTABILITY - Get a friend, colleague or mentor that you can confide in and ask for guidance. These types of people are essential as an entrepreneur, as you will not have all the answers, and that is okay.

will be exciting seasons and some less than exciting. It is the ebb and flow of the business.

It likely has nothing to do with you personally, more about companies and brands going in different directions. Learn to manage your excitement and be prepared for times where it is a little duller.

Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, owns her own consulting business and is a Certified Sports Specialist in Sports Dietetics.

With a bachelor’s degree in communications and a master’s degree in exercise and sports nutrition, she is passionate about marrying the two to provide quality, science-based nutrition information through speaking, media, writing and consulting.

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The Rollercoaster Ride!

Nicole Goodrich, MS, RDN Specialty Groups Chair: Private Practice The ups and downs, the jerk to the left followed by a quick turn to the right, the pit in your stomach, the excitement and the thrill ... that is my life as an entrepreneur. Embarking on my 15th year in private practice, all I can say is it’s a been a rollercoaster ride for sure!

THE UPS, EXCITEMENT AND THRILL This sense of freedom, accomplishment and ownership in something you created is actually a real thing. You are living your dream. You are climbing higher and higher each year; in fact you exceeded last year’s numbers and it’s only the first quarter of the new year. You feel like you are a rockstar. You are on the ups!

The thrill that the brand you created and the programs you designed are front-andcenter and people are coming in to see.

Sometimes the simple words of saying you are a business owner can be such a thrill.

The excitement you get to experience when you see a true change in your clients’ lives.

They are healthier persons because of you.

You are inundated with positive emotions.

And it’s those feelings that keep you in the game.

THE DOWNS, THE TURNS AND THE PITS Most days in private practice are filled with the positive moments, until you open the mail, read a survey, indulge in too much social media, check your bank account - and the list goes on. It is HARD! It is NOT perfect!

The down of being a private practice owner is that you feel that you are on this island and alone. You are not sure how to fix what is broken or what direction to go. In your head you thought it was a great idea; however you have not had a sell in weeks or even months. There are very little life lines available. And it is just you!

You got into this business for work/ life balance, but you are struggling with multiple directions you have to go, praying it all comes together. You are the CEO, CFO, marketing director, VP of sales, and nutrition expert! You are learning one minute what SEO is and then providing MNT the next.

There are so many turns that you must take.

The pits in your stomach are more severe than you thought. You start to compare yourself to others and judge success based

on others. You read a bad survey result, and, of course, take it to heart. You have been working so hard and after all of that, a negative comment and sense of failure sets in.

ENJOY THE RIDE The rollercoaster ride is a crazy one. I’ve been there and while it does get better, there is still the ride. Some days are amazing, and others still have me thinking,“Why did I go down this path?” But the truth is, I think it’s more positive than negative and I have built a support system with fellow RDNs that has me feeling more up than down. I am not so alone on this island.

Here are some quick helpful tips to enjoy the ride: 1. Focus on the positive.

2. Set boundaries and realistic expectations.

3. Learn to say no.

4. Find RDNs in your area to connect with.

Nicole Goodrich, MS, RDN, LDN, CHWC, is the president of Anderson’s Nutrition, and the founder of Nutrition Business Consultants & Services. This Arizona native just moved back to the Philadelphia area and is excited to explore the restaurants and history that surrounds her. She left her full-time job after a decade in the nutrition business world to embrace her passion of assisting others achieve their goals. She currently coaches clients in one of her Pennsylvania locations and works virtually with nutrition entrepreneurs on their business developments.

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People Come Into Our Lives for a ,a or a Maria McConville, MS, RDN, LD, CPT Specialty Groups Chair: Coaching Being a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for over three decades has always brought me pride. Although the average American changes jobs an average of 11.7 times over the course of his/her working life, I find that many RDs love what they do and remain in the field for many years, if not a lifetime.

In addition to changing jobs frequently, opportunities for employment have expanded exponentially; RDs included. Linda Eck Mills, a seasoned and esteemed RDN and entrepreneur, provided some great insight. Linda’s advice unplugged:

1. BUILD A NETWORK BOTH INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE PROFESSION: As the focus of her career has changed, Linda has expanded her network through joining organizations outside of nutrition. For years she has belonged to the Association for Talent Development (ATD) and their Consultants SIG. She has been able to apply the concepts and ideas she learned from these groups to her nutrition business.

2. DESIGNATE A SPECIFIC ROOM FOR YOUR BUSINESS: If you have a home-based business, Linda advises that you designate a specific room to separate your business and personal lives. This helps you close the door and walk away so that you aren’t working 24/7. But it also allows you to organize your space or even leave it unorganized at times.

3. WORK WITH AN ACCOUNTANT AND FINANCIAL PLANNER TO MAXIMIZE YOUR INCOME AND SAVINGS:Linda realizes that there are things we as RDNs are good at and some we aren’t.

If finances are not your forte, hire someone up front to set yourself up for success. Use the expertise of an accountant or financial planner to take advantage of business owner tax savings and optimizing options for retirement accounts.

4. BUILD TIME IN YOUR SCHEDULE FOR OBTAINING CONTINUING EDUCATION: Between the 75 CEU hours needed for CDR, states licensure and other licensing organizations we belong to, keeping track of CEUs can get daunting.

Linda recommends having a system of getting and logging CEUs. For example, she strives to get a minimum of 4 CEUs per quarter. This prevents her from procrastinating and scurrying last minute to try to meet the CEU requirements.

5. EVALUATE YOUR STRATEGIC PLAN ANNUALLY: Linda recommends not wasting time on tasks that are not relevant to your business now. If your task doesn’t align with your current passion, move on. Surround yourself with people who have like-minded goals; remember, “People come into our lives for a reason, season or lifetime.”

Maria is the owner of Balanced Body Nourishment, LLC. In addition to guiding clients to find better health, Maria is passionate about helping them change their thought processes to become victors over life’s circumstances and manage stress. She finds her inspiration and enlightenment at her seaside home and you can find her each evening walking on the beach collecting sunsets.

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Behind The Scenes of Caroline Susie, RDN, LD Specialty Groups Chair: Corporate Wellness Let’s get real about corporate wellness … not everyone loves it! I know. It’s sad, but true. In fact, some view this as nutrition “fluff.” If you are in the corporate wellness space, you get it. You see the value in wellness initiatives. You see the benefit in wellness challenges and effective disease management programs. You love contributing to workplace culture of health. But what about all those naysayers? How do you not only gain buy-in, but gain respect in the workplace?

It can sometimes be exhausting selling wellness. Here are some tips for gaining buy-in:

1. Know your audience. Knowing your audience, you can tailor your message. If your meeting is with the HR director, know all things HR. Find out the company’s benefits. Know the HR team. Demonstrate value by showing how you will be an extension of HR (not creating more work for the team but assisting in lightening the load). CFO in the room, know your numbers (and I don’t mean BP, glucose, etc.). Be ready to demonstrate financial impact.

2. If you don’t measure it, does it even happen?

Measure. Measure.

Measure. Measure everything. Participation, engagement, any objective metrics you can get your hands on. Discuss member experience via testimonials, much like our counterparts in weight management do. Track educations and referrals to other programs in the company’s ecosystem. All these metrics will help get buy-in. Buyin equates to more wellness programming.

3. Understand value on investment. Outside of return on investment, how else is the wellness program contributing to company culture? Boosting morale? Contributing retention? As dietitians, we tend to think very black and white. But what about the gray area? We must think out-of-the-box when we are reporting on wellness programming and how we are contributing to the overall benefits strategy. We need to think not just the calendar year, but a three-to-five-year strategy. Building your program (and you) into a three-year plan, each year expanding on previous years’ program components, will not only be job security for you but will contribute to creating a culture of wellness.

4. Get your stats ready.

Gain access to aggregate reporting on the company’s employee health. Claims reports can show gaps and opportunities to tailor your wellness solution to the company.

Identify gaps and provide solutions. If you can’t gain access to reporting, grab CDC data and you can project company health stats from there. Statistics speak to people. Statistics validate your wellness proposal. Explain the “why wellness,” then provide tactical next steps.

Don’t give up, NE Corporate Wellness! Wellness is not a trend. We know the value of helping the U.S. workforce make the healthy choice the easy choice via strategic wellness programming.

Caroline Susie, RDN, "Have passport, will travel." I have a passion to see the world! Not counting any country twice, I have visited 26 countries and counting. I love experiencing local food speciality cuisine when I travel and will NEVER pass up on a cooking or cocktail-making class. My tagline says it all, "Dietitian by day, foodie by night."

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How to Make an Impact as a Social Entrepreneur Julie Lanford, MPH, RD, CSO, LDN Second Career Dietitian Specialty Group Guest Author The term “social entrepreneur” has gained some traction as more people venture out to improve their world with a new business concept. A social entrepreneur can refer to those who start or run a nonprofit or integrate social responsibility and justice into their business models. They can be professionals in social work, community building, environment, and of course nutrition and wellness. Social entrepreneurs find creative ways to run a business that will benefit society by improving things like health, access to resources, equality or environment. As dietitians and entrepreneurs, many of us are social entrepreneurs who seek to improve the lives of our clients and community by giving them education, resources and skills to choose and cook healthful food and balance lifestyle.

THE JOURNEY STARTS WITH RECOGNIZING THE PROBLEM: There are many ways to incorporate social entrepreneurship into your practice. In 2006, when I was first working with cancer patients in an outpatient cancer center, I was exposed to many who were interested in the latest nutrition information as it applied to their cancer. They were also looking for the best information on how

to get “back in shape” after treatment was completed. I was constantly looking for a resource that would fit this need and was never able to find the right fit.

NEXT IS FINDING THE ANSWER: To address this need, I created cancerdietitian.com. Originally thinking that it would become a business for me, I decided to try to generate income from ads on the site and also by recruiting clients. I quickly learned that neither of these options was a good fit for me. I felt like the ads decreased the credibility of the site. Also, I prefered to do more education than counseling. Most important, I wanted to serve patients that I was seeing in the cancer center who generally couldn’t afford to pay for nutrition counseling (and it wasn’t covered by insurance).

THEN WE CONTINUE TO IMPROVE (AN ITERATIVE PROCESS): In March 2008, I accepted a position at Cancer Services, Inc, a local nonprofit that provides support to people facing cancer, and education on risk reduction for the community. My website, blog and nutrition programs for survivors are free to our clients and community.

The agency budget for programs covers the cost of website, software, time I spend on writing, speaking and social media outreach, and we are also able to apply for grant funding to cover the costs of developing and implementing new ideas that meet the needs of our community.

Are you interested in using your entrepreneurial skills for the social good?

There are many ways you can partner to benefit the community:

1. C hoose a nonprofit group that has a mission that matches with your passion.

Before you jump in with new ideas, simply show up and volunteer wherever needed. Start building a relationship with them, and once you become a trusted volunteer they will be open to hearing and implementing your great ideas.

2. W ork full- or part-time for a non-profit that has a mission that matches your passion.

Consider contracting with one to provide a program for a discounted rate.

3. A ssist in writing a grant to secure funding for a nutrition or wellness program at a local nonprofit as well as providing the program for which you have a vision.

4. D onate one or two sessions a month to clients of your nonprofit of choice. You can provide nutrition classes or one-on-one counseling. Recruit some like-minded dietitians to join you in volunteering your time and skills.

Julie Lanford is the wellness director at Cancer Services LLC, a nonprofit in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She is the original Cancer Dietitian and creator of the blog and podcast at www.CancerDietitian.com. She is an advocate for healthy eating and consumer education for cancer survivors and the wider community.

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How to Be a Money Magnet Chere Bork, MS, RDN Abundance Ambassador Are you working hard and not getting what you want? It all starts with your beliefs. There are two kinds of thinkers: negative, fear-based thinkers who focus on overcoming, and positive, freedom-based thinkers who focus on becoming. Fear-based thinkers focus on the feeling of struggle and the need to overcome something, while freedom-based thinkers focus on becoming.

They know each day is a fresh new start.

The first step to becoming a money magnet is to notice your beliefs. What are your first thoughts when you say the word money?

I will never make that much money. No one will hire me for that much. Drop your negative, fear-based beliefs. Decide there is abundance. Replace negative thoughts with abundance thoughts. Become very aware of your thoughts around money.

Whenever you notice yourself in “lack” or “not enough” money, visualize abundance.

Tell yourself STOP and dump the poverty thoughts like that’s too expensive. I don’t have enough money for that.

Your thoughts and feelings create your reality. If you think negative, fear-based thoughts about money, you will attract negative bank balances. Decide it is easy to be an entrepreneur as this increases your abundance consciousness. Focus on what you do have. Recognize where there is wealth already in your life. Take a piece of paper and on the left write down your negative, fear-based money thoughts and on the right, replace every fear-based belief with a positive, freedom-based money thought.

The second step is to write a “law of abundance check.” Get a blank check and write out a check to yourself for whatever amount that you want. Write the date you will receive this money. In the memo area write, “Paid in full.” Sign the check in the signature space with the words “The Universe.” Put this check in your wallet. Feel RICH! Remember the world is full of possibilities.

What you focus on gets bigger and bolder.

I wish for each of you a RICH life, one that is rewarding, inspiring, confident and happy. Better get busy writing that check as your life is waiting! So, is your best year ever? You are what you think about. So. Stop. Comparing. Measure your joy and abundance. You can’t change anything if you can’t change your thinking.

Join the dietitian abundance club today!

“Life is one big experiment so we just have to keep on trying new ways of being and get rid of unhelpful thoughts.”

Kristen White, RD, New Zealand “What’s weird is when you start to see things through abundance lenses, it’s everywhere!” Jill Castle, MS, RD, Connecticut “Since I have kept my abundance journal for the past two days it’s been so odd. I have gained two medium-sized projects from different clients. Also a product I ordered was back-ordered for months and was shipped last week. Why wasn’t I doing this sooner?” Carlene Thomas, RD, Virginia

Chere Bork, AKA “The Dietitian Energy Igniter,” is the happy owner of cherebork.com and the Law of Attraction dietitian life coach. She gives RDNs a confidence boost to live the lives they have always wanted. She helps them find clarity so that they can be the best they can be. She thought she was a failure many times in her career but finally realized all those darn challenges created a more beautiful meaningful life. She wants that for you – a beautiful meaningful life!

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Ventures

www.nedpg.org

Enterprising News & Ideas for Nutrition Entrepreneurs

Julie Harrington, RD 15 Joyce Dr. Succasunna, NJ 07876

Let’s Get Real - It Can Be Lonely Out Here Nicole Rodriguez, RDN, NASM-CPT Specialty Groups Chair: Technology & Social Media If you’re reading this, chances are you don’t report to anyone but yourself. And to be perfectly frank, if you DO have an actual boss other than yourself, there are times when I’m downright envious of you.

Truth be told, this entrepreneur life can be isolating.

Lonely. There’s no office gossip or water-cooler small talk. None of the beckoning vending machines my clients so often lament, or coworkers priding themselves on taking up the latest fad diet (OK, maybe I don’t envy that bit).

One could argue that social media has the capability of intensifying those feelings of loneliness – whether you’re an entrepreneur or not. The constant “comparitis,” FOMO and never-ending onslaught of curated lives and staged photos can get anyone down.

As I transition out of the role as Technology and Social Media Specialty Group Leader (and into that of Chair-Elect), I have to leave you with this: evaluate your time spent on social media and consider scaling back. See what logging out feels like. Try it for a day.

Maybe an entire weekend. See what it feels like.

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If the above sounds like too grand a prospect, consider the following to put the “social” back in social media, and combat its negative aspects: Keep an eye on the HUB – with the Listserv phased out, the HUB is where you’ll be able to connect with fellow NERDs, and find info on events such as mini meetings.

Meet your tribe IRL (In Real Life) – as lone wolves, our online community can feel like a virtual lifeline.

Take the opportunities to meet up in real life, and don’t wait for FNCE®. Even an actual phone call from time to time can go a long way.

Find your non-profitable niche – adjust the lens through which you see your purpose on social. Are you ALWAYS selling? Is there a cause or community to which you can lend your voice? Think about spreading someone else’s good word without the promise of monetary gain and see how good it makes you feel.

If your loneliness feels overwhelming and you’re struggling with feelings of hopelessness, call the Samaritans hotline – 877.870.HOPE

Blogger behind enjoyfoodenjoylife.com. When Nicole's not experimenting with global flavors or working on the latest glute-sculpting program, she's tuned in to late ‘70s disco-soul.

Though a native New Yorker, her heart beats to The Sound of Philadelphia - and lots of Teddy Pendergrass.

EARN CEUS WITH NE You can view these and many other webinar recordings and still get CEU credits in the NE CEU Library 1. Login to NEdpg.org - First Time logins need to request a password set up using your Academy email address.

2. In the Left Navigation bar go to “Get Informed” 3. Underneath “Get Informed" click "CEU library" to access recorded webinar courses A few examples include: nnCorporate Wellness and the Dietitian's Role nnEstablish A Ditch The Diet Mindset In Your Coaching Practice nnModulating the GI Microbiome Using Key Dietary Nutrients nnKnow Your Value: Charging What You’re Worth nnPlus, many more!

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