Nutrition Entrepreneurs Membership 2024

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Ventures MEMBERSHIP 2024 | VOLUME LII | NUMBER 4 ORANGE YOU HAPPY YOU JOINED NE? In This Issue: Orange You Happy You Joined NE? I Am! 3 Guide to Bringing On An Intern 4 Energize Yourself So You Can Energize Your Business 5 Out With the Old, In With the New: Refreshing Your Business Practices 6 Creative, Alternative Income Streams to Add to Your Business 7 Services Can Help You Stand Out �� 8 Success from the Apple Barrel Bar 9 Celebrating the Journey: Reflections on Receiving the 2023 Outstanding Nutrition Entrepreneur 10 Openness to New Information Conversational Intelligence: Effective Interpersonal Communication in a Digital World 11 Diversity Corner 15 The Medical Nutrition Therapy Act: What NE Members Need to Know 16 Product Reviews 17 Spring Summit Recap 18 What Spring Summit Attendees Are Saying 19 Why Renew? ������������������������������������������������� 19 Upcoming Events 20 THIS ISSUE INCLUDES A CPEU ARTICLE!

Ventures

MEMBERSHIP 2024

EDITOR

Leda Medina, RDN, LDN, CDCES

INCOMING EDITOR

Amy Brownstein, MS, RDN

EDITORIAL BOARD 2023-2024

Lauri Egan, RDN, CPT

Jessica Oswald, MS, RDN/LD

Leah Tsui, MS, RDN

Stephanie Dorfman, MS, RD

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

© 2024 Nutrition Entrepreneurs All rights reserved

WE WELCOME FEEDBACK FROM OUR MEMBERS. PLEASE CONTACT THE EDITOR:

Leda Medina, RDN, LDN, CDCES newsletter@nedpg org

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS:

Email NEadmin@NEdpg org

Note From the Editor

As Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, we’ve stepped into this field with dreams of positively impacting the health and wellness of others Yet, in between the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, it's easy to lose sight of our initial passion and purpose We find ourselves navigating through overwhelming tasks, perhaps underpaid, perhaps feeling a bit like a broken record, endlessly repeating the same advice

What has made a difference for me, that has become a source of support and inspiration, is our community of fellow dietitians Joining Nutrition Entrepreneurs has been a gamechanger for me, offering a space where we can troubleshoot together, reignite our passion, and forge connections with dietitians walking similar paths

Especially for those of us who predominantly work in virtual realms, seeking out this sense of community is crucial� It's where we find solace, camaraderie and the fuel to keep our passion burning bright Whether it's sharing tips, celebrating wins or simply lending an empathetic ear, our community provides much support needed to continue promoting the great work we put out as dietitians I invite you to become an active player

with NE - whether as a member, a volunteer or as part of the executive committee - so you can continue being the best dietitian you can be

Reflecting on my journey as the newsletter editor this past year, it's been a fantastic opportunity to keep everyone abreast of the latest developments in our field� From insightful articles to expert interviews, it's been a pleasure to curate content that's both informative and inspiring I’m excited to pass the baton to Amy Brownstein, who promises fresh perspectives and valuable contributions to our community

As we embark on this new year, I'm excited to see where our collective journey takes us Here's to a year filled with growth, success and achieving every one of our business goals!

Leda Medina, RDN, LDN, CDCES, is the founder of Dietitianyourwaycom, an online directory of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists with the goal to help RDNs thrive in their businesses When she isn’t working to help our communities’ health one dietitian at a time, she is spending time with her English bulldog, Capone, in sunny Florida She is always excited to connect over a cup of coffee with fellow RDNs

Enjoying our new layout?

Snap a selfie with this magazine in a fun place and post it to IG or Facebook with #VenturesNEwhere

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Orange You Happy You Joined NE? I Am!

It’s quite fitting that my last chair message for the newsletter has the theme, “Orange You Happy You Joined NE ” I am quite glad that I joined the Nutrition Entrepreneurs (NE) Dietetic Practice Group (DPG)

I’ve been a member of the Academy since my dietetic internship (minus a brief hiatus that didn’t quite last a full year) During those years, I’ve joined a variety of DPGs As an intern, I joined the DPGs that sounded interesting As a new dietitian, I joined the DPGs that matched my career and sounded interesting As I’ve progressed in my life as a dietitian, the list of DPGs that I’ve joined has shrunk This is partially because I’ve narrowed down my area of the dietetics worlds but largely because I have chosen to stick with the DPGs that I have found most valuable to me

NE is one of the few - very few - in which I have consistently and happily renewed my membership year over year� For me, NE is absolutely worth it� NE is worth my finances and NE is worth my volunteer time and energy

Prior to volunteering for NE’s Executive Committee, I found a huge amount of value in receiving the Ventures Newsletter and watching the webinars This is not at all surprising because year after year, the NE membership lets us know these are the things that they value as well

Volunteering for NE’s Executive Committee has also provided value to my world I will say, I am someone who needs to find somewhere to channel volunteer energy The opportunity to volunteer with NE managed to happen at the perfect time for me as I was rolling off a four-year stint as a member of the board of directors for a women’s organization Volunteering with NE has given me numerous opportunities to grow as a leader, a dietitian, a member of a community of nutrition visionaries and entrepreneurs, and as a human�

That brief hiatus from the Academy membership that I mentioned earlier - I decided to rejoin the Academy because I missed the DPGs In my opinion, NE is a DPG that provides a substantial amount of value if you are an entrepreneur, if you want to be an entrepreneur, or if you simply want to join a community that is inspiring

I can firmly and happily say yes when someone asks me “Orange you glad you joined NE?” I hope that you can as well and I hope that you plan to renew your membership (psst - if you rejoin by May 31, 2024, you’ll be entered into a drawing for a FREE registration to FNCE®)

MS,

is a

living in Fort Worth Her primary dietitian role is as a pediatric dietitian at a small hospital for children with developmental disabilities Jessica also owns her own business, Friendly Nutrition, which has recently gone through a change in direction and is now focusing on meal planning Jessica is obsessed with Peloton (yes, it’s a problem) You can find her on the leaderboard as @Go_JesO_Go

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Jessica Oswald, RDN/LD, dietitian

Guide to Bringing On An Intern

You’ve decided to bring on an intern; congratulations! But what’s next? How do you become a preceptor and onboard your intern? Find out here!

There are a few ways you can become a preceptor You can sign up to become a preceptor on the Nutrition and Dietetics Educators and Preceptors (NDEP) Website (Scan the QR code here)

This will allow interns and program directors to search for you on the NDEP website to see if their interests align with yours and might be a good fit for your business�

You can also work directly with a program through its program director or clinical placement coordinator Viterbo University (also my place of employment) places interns all throughout the country for both onsite and remote rotation experiences and is the only program that finds these sites for interns, while other programs require interns to find their own distance sites Keep in mind that remote

experiences can be just as beneficial as onsite experiences for both you and the intern Indeed, there are just as many telehealth/remote RD positions now as onsite so providing an intern with a remote experience can really help build the intern’s resume� If you are interested in working with interns from Viterbo University, you can contact its clinical placement coordinator The clinical placement coordinator helps align the intern’s career interests with your business model to ensure a great fit for the rotation

So, you have become a preceptor and have found an intern to rotate with you Now what?

First, be sure to work with the program director to determine what competencies the intern will need to meet while working with you If you are stumped by some of the competencies, the program director can help provide ideas for experiences or projects to meet each competency

Then it is time to on-board your intern Set aside about an hour or two for this initial onboarding Prior to this onboarding meeting, send the intern any pertinent information about your business that may be helpful - for example, your website link, an

outline of services provided, typical client demographic, etc During the onboarding meeting, walk the intern through what to expect during the rotation with you, communication expectations, and any processes for completing charting, blogs, educational handouts, etc You might even opt to put together a schedule for the rotation and deadlines for any projects This isn’t a requirement, but I have found it useful in making sure all of my goals for the intern are accomplished in a timely manner

For communication expectations, this will vary depending on if you are onsite with the intern or working remotely When working remotely with interns, it is important to have regular check-in points I typically meet with my interns at the beginning of the week for 30 minutes and the end of the week for 30 minutes I also ask them to email regularly throughout the week if questions or concerns come up

For an example of outlining processes, I typically have interns write blogs for my website I explain to them that the process for this is to send me an outline Once approved by me, then to send me a draft of the blog post and then a final version for my approval before it is posted on the website

There will be a bit more work on your end as you on-board your intern However, after the first couple of weeks the intern is providing staff relief for you and paying you back exponentially for your time with all the great products they create for you and your business!

Maria MorganBathke, MBA, PhD, RD, CD, LD, FAND, received a B S in Dietetics with a minor in Spanish from UW-Stout in May 2009 She received her Ph D in Nutritional Sciences with a minor in Cancer Biology from the University of Arizona in July 2013 and her MBA with an emphasis in health care management from Viterbo University in 2020 Maria also recently started her own business

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Energize Yourself So You Can Energize Your Business

Energize yourself� How do we embody the energy needed to run our business day after day? When we venture out into creating our businesses, how do we think about the sustainability of the #1 product, ourselves?

As Nutrition Entrepreneurs, we are the backbone of our businesses For the solopreneurs out there, self-care is needed to bring top energy to the business For the business owners with a team, you are the leader who sets the tone and the pace of the company Keep on reading for specific tips to get “energized”!

E - ENJOY

Enjoy the process We can get caught up in the pursuit of an end-goal, yet if we’re not enjoying ourselves on the way to get there, we may lose out on enjoying the present moment We chose to be a business owner, we chose this way of bringing about change in the world, and we can absolutely have fun along the way Psychology professor Laurie Santos hosts “The Happiness Lab,” a podcast based off her Yale psychology course She shares the latest scientific research along with personal anecdotes showing how our happiness and enjoyment of life may come from different sources than we typically think

N - NETWORK

Networking - the dreaded term for the introverts among us! But it doesn’t have to be the intimidating mixer where you don’t know anyone It can be the trusted friends from your school, dietetic internship or old colleagues Checking in with each other on a regular basis can give you the renewed energy to keep on working, to keep pushing against the challenge that is entrepreneurship

E - EXERCISE

Raise your hand if a business idea has come to you while working out – I’m with you! Stepping away from the desk to get fresh air and blood circulating can lead to

freed-up brain space, which in turn may allow for your creative side to show itself

We know exercise is fundamental to our self-care, so finding a way that you love to move is benefiting your business�

R - RELAX

Relax and let go� There is a lot out of our control when it comes to our businesses

We can’t control social media algorithms or people’s decision-making What are your favorite things to do to relax so you feel energized for your workday? A few ideas: intentional movement, sipping on your favorite hot beverage, meditation, or reducing screen time until a designated work time�

G - GRATITUDE

Gratitude� Expressing thanks for the loved ones in our lives that support us in entrepreneurship, for the people who trust us as their dietitians, for the ability to create meaningful change can be part of what helps energize us to show up each day for our business When our business throws us a curveball, how are we reacting? Sure, we can feel the emotions of anger and frustration, AND if it’s possible, express gratitude that this is the challenge we’re up against We chose this path for our career: to be outside the conventional dietetics 9-5, to have time freedom, to have financial freedom, and to be our own boss

I - IMAGINE

Imagine if Imagine when Our brains are powerful organs that have the capacity to imagine what life could look like as a business owner When we think of showing up as our best selves for work and for life, what does that look like? Let’s use that to guide our business decisions, so that we’re not feeling burnt-out or exhausted from our work

Z - S

We know sleep is crucial to our wellbeing Depending on where you are in your stage of business and in your stage of life, sleep may be hard to come by But however you are able to add in some restful sleep, your business can only gain from getting enough of it

E - EMBRACE

Embrace all of it We are business owners; there are going to be ups and downs, ebbs and flows� If we embrace the downs and the ebbs, we can ride the ups and flows with a lot of grace Embrace our choice to be entrepreneurs, and show up for ourselves

Enjoy, Network, Exercise, Relax, Gratitude, Imagine, Zzzs, Embrace ENERGIZE yourself to bring more energy to our businesses

Leah Tsui, MS, RDN, LDN is the owner of Limitless Nutrition, where she does 1:1 virtual counseling, corporate workshops, and consults for several start-ups Leah combines her love of sports nutrition with an intuitive eating approach She’s also the partnerships + outreach coordinator for Weight Inclusive Nutrition and Dietetics (WIND) In her time off from being an RDN, you can find her coaching functional fitness at her favorite gym, reading a book (or two!) for the book clubs she's in, or running along the beach�

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Out With the Old, In With the New: Refreshing Your Business Practices

Take a step back - try to look at your business from a different perspective It is super-tricky to balance working “in” your business and working “on” your business When we are so deep “in” our business, we could get lost in it and lose sight of the goals we are trying to accomplish and the goals we are trying to help our clients accomplish�

So - out with the old, and in with the new! Businesses are supposed to change and grow over time as you change and grow as a business owner, and as our clients change and grow on their own nutrition journeys with us Every year (or maybe more frequently depending on the growth of your business), follow these helpful recommendations/prompts to keep your business fresh and up-to-date!

REVIEW YOUR BRAND.

Does it still match your business mission and values? If we change, it’s OK for our branding to also change� Do the colors on your website still match your vision? Does your logo match your mission? Does your business name need to shift due to growth? Businesses rebrand more than you think It may be a tedious process, but it’s also exciting and a great way to keep things fresh and new

REVIEW YOUR SYSTEMS.

Do they all still make sense? First off, are you still using all the systems you have in place? Does your scheduling application have all the features you need to keep your schedule organized? Is your electronic health record customizable for your liking? Is your customer-relationship software making things more complicated rather than streamlined? Is the site you are using to stay on task actually keeping you on task? Maybe there is a new company with a new software you want to try out; you won’t know if you like something better until you give it a try Many companies also have free trial periods

REVIEW YOUR CONTENT.

Does it still align with your values and your mission? It’s OK for our values and visions to change Do your Instagram posts need to be rearranged or edited? Maybe you need a blog post to explain the change in values� Do you need to remove blog posts and explain why you are doing so? Does your “about you” page on your website need an update? Does your website need a refresh? Do you want to post more reels rather than images? Do you want to post more on TikTok rather than Instagram? Social media is constantly changing; sometimes our content needs to change with it�

REVIEW YOUR FINANCES.

Are you still budgeting accurately? Get into the nitty-gritty numbers of your business Are you still using all the systems you are paying for? Are there new platforms that you need to invest in to help your business grow? Do you need to raise your prices? Do you need to reach out to a financial advisor? Money is a tough subject and, especially in private practice, it is hard to plan for or budget If reviewing financial data is not your thing, it is OK to ask for help!

REVIEW YOURSELF.

Are you still working in your zone of genius? Ask yourself some hard-hitting questions Maybe your schedule isn’t making sense anymore and needs

some shifting Have you gotten caught up in tasks that are taking you away from your clients, growing your business, or reaching other goals? Is it time to hire someone to help with your business?

Our lives are ever-changing, which means our business needs to change along with them� I originally started my business in the thick of the pandemic I was not traveling as much for my other job, everyone wanted to meet virtually, and no one was really making social plans I had so much time to work “on” my business! Flash-forward almost four years (wow!) and business travel has picked back up, clients are looking for more in-person connection, and I now have more social commitments All amazing changes, but I had to do some business reflection and go through these prompts and questions with myself

These recommendations/prompts may lead to more questions, but that’s good It’s OK to get rid of things, or question things that don’t work There may be new things out there that work better If we don’t ask the questions, we will never know� Try not to get lost in your business - it’s important to zoom out every once in a while to keep your business fresh!

Stephanie Dorfman, MS, RD, is passionate about all things wellness, running outdoors,

puppies, seltzer and spreading all of the joy Stephanie is the owner of Stephanie Dorfman Nutrition and also works for a corporate food service company When she's not working or snuggling with her puppy Norman, you can find her running (usually in Astoria or Central Park), baking challah, or laughing with family and friends During the summer months, look for her at her favorite sleep-away summer camp, where her family still works and where her grandparents met Stephanie loves being able to combine all her passions into her profession every day

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Creative, Alternative Income Streams to Add to Your Business

As dietitians and nutrition entrepreneurs, we're passionate about making a difference in our clients' lives But let's face it, financial sustainability is crucial for us to keep spreading our message and supporting ourselves While nutrition coaching or nutrition counseling remain the core of many practices, adding alternative income streams can not only boost your income but also help you reach a wider audience and create more impact After coaching women 1:1 for many years, I realized that they could use additional support, which is why I decided to create an online course as an addition to my 1:1 program I also provide meal-plan subscriptions as an add-on to my coaching services�

Here are some ideas for creating additional streams of income designed specifically for dietitians:

1 Sell Digital Products Such as an E-Book or Online Course: Identify a common problem or struggle your clients face, or an area of expertise you excel in Create a comprehensive guide (e-book) or in-depth video course (online course) offering actionable strategies and resources Promote it through your website, social media channels and email list Consider offering different tiers with bonus materials for added value

Actionable Takeaway: Choose a specific topic, define your target audience and outline your content Utilize platforms like Teachable, Thinkific, Practice Better or Kajabi to easily create and sell your course�

2 Create Meal Plans and Subscription Boxes: Design flexible meal plans for different dietary needs, preferences and lifestyles� Offer these plans as downloadable PDFs or curate customized meal plans for a premium service You can use services such as That Clean Life, EatLove or LivingPlate to easily create customized meal plans Alternatively, explore curated subscription boxes featuring healthy pantry staples or snacks aligned with your niche or expertise�

Actionable Takeaway: Partner with local farmers’ markets or businesses to source ingredients for subscription boxes Offer discounts or free guides to incentivize longer subscriptions

3 Host Virtual or In-Person Cooking Classes: A common barrier to behavior change is the inability to cook simple meals at home Showcase your knowledge of food and nutrition and teach your clients basic cooking skills that can help them implement consistent habit change

Actionable Takeaway: Invest in good lighting and basic video equipment for virtual classes For in-person, you may need to partner with a local business or hospital that has a full-size kitchen and cooking equipment

4 Recommend Supplements: As qualified healthcare professionals, dietitians can partner with supplement brands By doing the research on which supplements are the best quality or which brands have the best reputation, you wind up taking away a lot of the legwork from your clients This has been a great additional income source for my business, since many women in perimenopause are interested in supplements to support their hormonal health�

Actionable Takeaway: Set up a free account with Fullscript This allows you to provide specific recommendations to clients� When they make a purchase, you’ll get a portion of the proceeds�

5 Host Webinars or Workshops: Partner with other health professionals or businesses to host informative webinars on relevant topics Offer recordings of these webinars for purchase or include them as bonus materials in your online courses Alternatively, organize in-person workshops in your community�

Actionable Takeaway: Choose engaging topics with broad appeal Utilize free webinar platforms like Zoom or collaborate with local community centers for in-person workshops�

6 Freelance Writing: If you enjoy writing, freelance jobs can be a fruitful source of income It does take some time and consistent effort, but setting up accounts with platforms like Upwork, Fiverr or Freelancer can be helpful You can also leverage LinkedIn by indicating you do this type of work on your profile Companies may then reach out to you for this service�

Actionable Takeaway: Create a free account on one of the platforms mentioned above Set up your profile, include a few writing samples; then you’ll be on your way!

7 Sell Physical Goods: This can be a really fun way to make extra income, especially if you have a creative side and/or love design Some examples I’ve seen are dietitian coloring books, clothing with puns or fun sayings, coffee mugs, wine tumblers or branded notebooks or journals The possibilities really are endless

Actionable Takeaway: Brainstorm some ideas that go along with your niche, such as an intuitive eating journal or coloring book for dietitian entrepreneurs Bring your ideas to life by using Canva, Adobe or Vistaprint to create your custom designs

Remember, building passive income streams takes time and consistent effort One way to help is by repurposing your content Leverage blog posts into e-books, condense courses into shorter workshops or classes, or offer exclusive content bundles with your various offerings

By exploring these creative ideas and taking action, you cannot only fuel your income but also expand your reach and make a lasting impact on the lives of more people through your unique brand

Leslie Weidner, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a virtual practice where she provides 1:1 nutrition coaching for women in perimenopause She enjoys helping women over 40 learn how to eat in a healthy, balanced way that supports their hormonal health without any strict rules or diets Leslie is passionate about the principles of mindful and intuitive eating, which she discusses often on her IG and FB accounts On the weekends, you can find Leslie hanging out with her husband and watching their two boys play basketball, football, baseball or soccer, depending on the season

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How Bridging Nutrition and Added Services Can Help You Stand Out

In the ever-evolving landscape of nutrition and wellness, dietitians are continually seeking ways to expand their services and provide comprehensive support to their clients While nutrition counseling remains a core component of their practices, incorporating additional services such as exercise guidance, supplements recommendations and lab tests can offer clients a more holistic approach to health and well-being

1

EXERCISE GUIDANCE:

Exercise and nutrition go hand in hand when it comes to achieving optimal health and wellness By incorporating exercise guidance into their services, dietitians can help clients develop personalized fitness plans tailored to

their goals, preferences and fitness levels This may include recommending specific types of exercise (e g , cardio, strength training, flexibility exercises), creating workout routines, providing guidance on proper form and technique, and offering motivation and support to help clients stay on track

2 SUPPLEMENTS

RECOMMENDATIONS:

While it's important to prioritize nutrient-dense whole foods in a balanced diet, supplements can sometimes be beneficial for filling nutritional gaps or addressing specific health concerns As experts in nutrition, dietitians are wellpositioned to provide evidencebased recommendations on the use of supplements This may involve assessing clients' dietary intake and potential nutrient deficiencies, recommending appropriate supplements based on individual needs, and educating clients on proper dosage, safety and potential interactions with medications

3 LAB TESTS:

Lab tests can provide valuable insights into clients' nutritional status, metabolic health and overall wellbeing By incorporating lab tests into their services, dietitians can obtain objective data to inform their nutrition recommendations and track clients' progress over time� This may include blood tests to assess nutrient levels (e g , vitamin D, iron, B vitamins), metabolic markers (e g , cholesterol, blood sugar), and food sensitivities or intolerances Interpretation of lab results and collaboration with other healthcare providers, such as physicians and specialists, can further enhance the effectiveness of dietitians' services

In my private practice, I enjoy being able to provide clients with the recommendations for certain supplements based on their nutritional concerns� Just today, a client asked

about recommendations for hairgrowth support I use a FullScript Practitioner account and can either get a percentage of the sale or pass that on as a discount to my clients� I also know some great nutrition coaches and dietitians who provide GI-MAP (Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus) testing and interpretation This is a great way to add more services, provide in-depth personalized nutrition care, and stand out from the crowd as a provider

Incorporating these additional services into their practices can help dietitians provide more comprehensive and personalized support to their clients, ultimately leading to better health outcomes By expanding their scope of services beyond traditional nutrition counseling, dietitians can empower clients to make informed decisions about their health, address underlying factors contributing to their health concerns, and achieve lasting changes in their dietary and lifestyle habits

Whichever way you decide to levelup your services, remember - we are working toward elevating our profession and our work matters

Jessica Kelly, RDN, LDN, currently works as a contract dietitian for Dietitians on Demand at a site in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania She counsels clients with DM and/or HTN and CHF She also sees clients for 1:1 counseling sessions in her private practice, Nutrition That Heals Powered by Berry Street She is so honored to be a part of the NE community again this year and so excited to continue to get involved When she is not working, she can be found spending quality time with her boyfriend (Bernard), cat (Gary), and golden retriever (Lola) in their new home in Lancaster City

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Self-Publishing Secrets for Success from the Apple Barrel Bar

After years of jotting down ideas, evaluating my 2211 EAT MOVE GROOVE concept with clients and small groups, and surveying 500+ consumers about ways to make well-being simple, easy and doable, I got serious about writing my self-published book It’s been an adventure of a lifetime, and I’d like to share my best tips with you� If you have a book in you, make it happen!

Tip #1: Be prepared to go back to school Not in the traditional sense But there is so much to learn about self-publishing (and it’s changing all the time) that you need to carve out time to learn as much as you can about the craft For me, I “retired” early from teaching at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to make time to realize my dream I’m learning new things every day

Tip #2: Join writing and publishing organizations If you’re writing nonfiction, explore the Nonfiction Authors Association (NFAA) It’s collaborative, and well-run with training programs for first-time authors One of the best pieces of advice I received early on was from NFAA founder Stephanie Chandler, who said “Build your community of influence, and reach out to everyone you know to gain support ” As entrepreneurial dietitians, we can support one another on our self-publishing ventures

Tip #3: Work with high-quality editors This brings me back to the Apple Barrel Bar, where I happened to meet a self-published author over a glass of wine more than two years ago She highly recommended I reach out to the editor she worked with on her book, and that’s how Sheila Buff became my developmental editor, or my content editor You might not be so lucky, so you can find an editor through the Editorial

Freelancers Association at the-efa org using its free job list to post to over 3,500 members After the developmental edit, collaborate with a copy editor, who will help you revise your book to improve quality and readability and ensure your book is accurate, clear and correct Then it goes to the proofreader My copy editor, Sandra Wendel with Write On, Inc , also served as a book coach, helping me get my book to the finish line

Tip #4: Hire professionals for your cover, interior design and illustrations I must have heard “Your book is only as good as your cover” hundreds of times in the last few years It’s true! Consumers often choose books by their covers I had to change my interior designer midway through my book design, but that worked to my advantage I found a topnotch local designer, and we worked through needed changes seamlessly Consider Fiverr if you need an illustrator It’s all worth the money you pay upfront when you’re proud of your finished work

“You may be limited by a budget, and constrained by knowledge of how selfpublishing works, but two mandatory keys to publishing a professional book are having a professional edit (not the English teacher next door or your sister-in-law who says she can spot typos) and hiring a pro who does cover and interior design (not the graphic arts student your kid knows) Susan did everything right, once we got her to finish writing the damn book (don’t procrastinate),” noted Wendel

Tip #5: Writing and publishing your book is only the first part of your journey Take it from our esteemed colleague Nancy Clark, MS, RD, CSSD, author of Nancy Clark’s Sports Nutrition Guidebook, 6th ed She recently told me “The hardest part of being an author has just started … marketing ” Let the fun begin!

Susan Kundrat, MS, RDN, LDN is the author of Eat Move Groove: Unlock the Simple Steps to Lifelong Nutrition, Fitness & Wellness, and the founder of Eat Move Groove (eatmovegroove com) This fall, look for the Eat Move Groove RV near you as she embarks on a cross-country book tour Contact Susan to schedule a stop in your area

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Celebrating the Journey: Reflections on Receiving the 2023 Outstanding Nutrition Entrepreneur

As a dietitian with almost four decades of experience, being named the 2023 Outstanding Nutrition Entrepreneur of the Year was an honor and a testament to my career as a Registered Dietitian who evolved into a nutrition entrepreneur This recognition symbolizes a journey of passion, perseverance and a relentless pursuit of excellence in nutrition care and therapy

The road to entrepreneurship in nutrition was not always smooth It demanded foresight, adaptability and a willingness to embrace change in a continuously evolving field From the early years of one-on-one counseling sessions to the digital age of online coaching and content creation, each era brought its own set of challenges and opportunities�

What sets an exceptional entrepreneur apart is the ability to innovate while staying true to the core principles that underpin the profession� For me, this meant blending evidence-

based nutrition science with empathy and understanding, fostering a holistic approach that addresses not only dietary habits but also the psychological and social aspects of eating

Over the years, I’ve witnessed remarkable shifts in public perception and awareness regarding nutrition From fad diets to evidence-based practices, the landscape has transformed As an entrepreneur, I’ve strived to be a guiding light amidst the noise, advocating for sustainable lifestyle changes rooted in science�

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been the opportunity to empower others Whether it’s through educational workshops, media appearances or mentorship programs, the ability to inspire positive change in individuals and communities is a privilege that fuels my passion year after year

Receiving the title of Outstanding Nutrition Entrepreneur serves as a reminder of the collective impact of our efforts It’s not just about personal achievement but also a recognition of the tireless work of fellow dietitians, researchers, educators and healthcare professionals who share the vision of a healthier world

Reflecting on my years as a dietitian, I am filled with gratitude for the support of colleagues, clients and loved ones who have been integral to this journey Every success and challenge has been a lesson learned and an opportunity for growth

Looking ahead, the honor of being named the 2023 Outstanding Nutrition Entrepreneur motivates me to continue pushing boundaries, exploring new avenues and advocating for the vital role of nutrition in optimizing health and well-being� Each year, the journey continues, fueled by a passion that only grows stronger with time

Rebecca is passionate about empowering Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) and their clients In 1987, Rebecca started a private practice in nutrition counseling that has grown to sixteen RDNs in four locations in Maryland, including Greenbelt, Columbia, Rockville, and Annapolis, and now offers a strong Telehealth program for virtual nutrition counseling Rebecca loves to train dietitians via business coaching to dietitians in private practice who want to expand their practice and start hiring dietitian employees When Rebecca is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, knitting, taking photos, hiking, paddle boarding, kayaking, doing pet therapy, or playing Mahjongg

Rebecca Bitzer is the founder and senior advisor to Rebecca Bitzer & Associates: A Dietitian for Every Condition
10 | nedpg org AWARD WINNERS
Rebecca Bitzer with Yvette Quantz, Awards Coordinator for NE

Openness to New Information Conversational Intelligence: Effective Interpersonal Communication in a Digital World

OBJECTIVES

By reading this article, the reader will be able to:

y 1 Identify factors that build trust and distrust when communicating digitally

y 2� Initiate strategies that will yield higher engagement with intended receivers in the various channels of digital communication

y 3 Determine the best practices that align the messaging to objectives and outcomes to communicate effectively with stakeholders and/or constituents

Performance Indicators: 2.1, 2.2, 2.3

When it comes to communication with our clients, friends, bosses or partners, trust is the currency of successful relationships The way we communicate with others influences the level of trust others will give us As dietitians, it is vital that we form trusting relationships Without trust, clients are reluctant to offer their resources as they are uncertain of the return on their investment, and our peer or business relationships won’t be as enterprising or positive as they could be With so many communication platforms at our disposal, is there any wonder that there is confusion, miscommunication or missed opportunities due to misuse of these digital communication tools? In this article we will explore how we can effectively communicate in a digital world

At the heart of our communication is the ability to develop trust with our audience Over millions of years of evolution, our brain has evolved and is hard-wired to detect trust or distrust as well as to determine our safety, connection and respect in our social and emotional environments

(1) The ability to determine someone’s trustworthiness was necessary for our survival In today’s world, trust is still essential to our work with clients and constituents�

Our clients want to work with us in safe and respectful environments where a connection can be made, and they feel confident in getting what they need Our ability to quickly connect with clients builds trust and leads to positive results Additionally, connecting with multidisciplinary teams or our co-workers enables us to engage more deeply, collaboratively, and productively to achieve successful outcomes� The challenge for many of us, however, is that in fast-paced settings or in virtual environments, we need to develop trust quickly

The first step in building trust is defined as “priming ” Priming for trust is all about creating an environment where trust can live In creating a trusting environment, our first need is to feel psychologically safe, and that starts with honest and positive intentions in our communication (2) A psychological

safe environment creates a space where connections are built and respect for others is sustained

Prior to the pandemic, we all knew and understood the rules of effective in-person communication Over the past few years, many of us have shifted to more remote or hybrid work� This has forced a heavy reliance on digital communication Without the aid of nonverbal communication such as facial expressions or tone of voice, understanding the new norms and unwritten rules of digital communication is vital if we want to avoid lack of clarity or miscommunication� When considering the best channel for your communication, think through these four questions:

y What is the priority/urgency for this message?

y Who is the intended audience for this message? Who needs to be included?

y What is the formality in my messaging?

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y What is the main point in my messaging? What is the context? Is there emotional content?

Slowing down to think through these questions can enable you to be more effective and efficient in your communication (3)

Another strategy is to look at the theory of rich communication which examines the different forms of media and how adept each form is in conveying information with depth, clarity and context to facilitate effective understanding and engagement (4) Rich communication theory emphasizes the utilization of various communication channels and tools to convey not just the message but also its intricacies, emotions and subtleties In other words, the simplicity or complexity of the message, the formality or informality, the urgency of action to be taken by the recipient of the message, and the depth of emotional content in the messaging, will determine the best channel for the message for its recipient(s)

The following are the five most utilized channels of communication listed from the richest channel to the least rich, and the most effective way to use them:

1 Video Calls. Video calls (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meets) involve real-time audio and video interaction between two or more participants

Effectiveness: Video calls are ideal for important discussions, team meetings for dispersed teams, counseling/coaching, interviews or any communication requiring a visual and personal connection This form of digital communication provides the highest degree of nonverbal communication cues, which better enables resolving complex problems

The downside to this channel of communication is that participants can be easily distracted, can multitask during the call, and are less likely to engage for long periods of time There could also be delays in

the audio which make it difficult for some to contribute to the call

Effective communication through this channel requires good leadership and facilitation skills Have all participants turn their cameras on, use a hand-raise feature for contributions to the discussion so that it does not get cacophonous, and provide an agenda with timelines prior to the meeting This will ensure a higher level of engagement and productivity

2 Phone Call. Phone calls involve real-time audio communication over the phone

Effectiveness: Phone calls are best for urgent matters, in-depth conversations, and situations where vocal tone and nuance are crucial Phone calls offer immediate feedback and clarification with complex or emotional communication

The downside to this channel of communication is that if the call has not been planned, the caller often goes into voicemail Even if the call has been planned, either party can be less focused due to multitasking during the call

3 Email: Asynchronous electronic messages sent through email platforms

Effectiveness: E-mail is best for formal communication, documentation, sharing detailed information, and when a written record is essential While this channel allows for careful crafting of messages, communication needs to be direct and concise While response time for emails is getting shorter, best practice is to respond within 24 hours of receiving an email, if a response is needed Reduce or eliminate pleasantries such as “Hope you are having a good day!” and get to the point of your message Research has indicated that most people read only three to five lines of an email, so place your call-to-action at the beginning of your email Additionally, an action-oriented subject line increases the likelihood that action will be taken

12 | nedpg org

The downside to emails is that inboxes are generally full Be sure that the tone of your email reflects your corporate culture� Refrain from using “reply-all” if the message is not relevant to all in the thread

Conciseness is critical for an effective email

4 Text/Instant Message:

Description: Short, casual, real-time asynchronous written messages sent via SMS or messaging apps

Effectiveness: Good for quick and convenient for brief updates, quick exchanges, informal communication, or when a response is needed urgently Emojis, exaggerated punctuation and acronyms are accepted within this channel of communication The expectation for this channel is that the recipient will respond within the hour, if not within a few minutes of receiving the message

The downside for this channel of communication is that it is less suitable for detailed or complex information as it is the least-rich channel of communication� Be aware that all recipients may not be familiar with acronyms you may use, and boundaries may need to be set if messages come in after work hours Concise is still key for effective communication in this channel

The chart below is a quick reference with examples of when to use what channel for digital communication (5):

PURPOSE OF MESSAGE

A little-known consideration that occurs in our communication is the neurochemical components that result from how we communicate with others and how we receive communication

The way we communicate can promote the production of hormones and neurotransmitters that can shift our neurochemistry in our bodies, and these reactions only take a fraction of a second to occur Awareness of how our communication influences

BEST CHANNEL JUSTIFICATION

Quick update or urgent matter Text, IM

Formal Documentation Email

Personal Connection

In-person conversation, video call, phone call

Allows for a quick response, little to no emotional context in the messaging

Provides a record of the communication

Communication is complex or emotional; enables back and forth

others can have a profound impact on building trust and connection (6)

One example is our ability to exhibit empathy, or the ability to share other people’s emotions When we empathize with others, we produce the hormone oxytocin Oxytocin promotes trust and bonding with others, so we naturally want to help and cooperate We produce oxytocin when we experience a positive interaction with others Oxytocin is known to increase our ability to communicate, collaborate and build trust (7) The release of oxytocin activates networks in your prefrontal cortex which leads to more expansive thought and creativity Oxytocin is more easily metabolized by our bodies, and its effects are less dramatic and enduring, than cortisol It has been said that positive words can be considered the glue that holds our relationships together

On the other hand, when we experience a negative emotion, one that is a result of criticism, blame, judgment or feeling excluded, your body produces higher levels of our stress hormone, cortisol This activates your flight-or-fight response and shuts down the prefrontal cortex, the part of your brain that is involved with

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thinking Cortisol is more difficult for our bodies to metabolize, so it ends up staying in our system for up to 24 hours� We also tend to ruminate about this negative event which leads to sustaining the negative feeling

This “chemistry of our communication” is why it’s so critical for all of us – to be more mindful in our digital interactions Keep in mind, there are millions of second-by-second neurochemical reactions that are occurring within our brains as we send verbal and nonverbal messages that influence our receivers’ state of mind These states of mind not only shape our relationships, but they also influence our relationships Most importantly, our state of mind impacts the health and well-being of you and others Effective communication starts with empathy, which enables trust to occur in both our verbal and written communication, which ultimately impacts our effectiveness

REFERENCES:

1 Blake, A (2018) Your Body is Your Brain: Leverage Your Somatic Intelligence to Find Purpose, Build Resilience, Deepen Relationships and Lead More Powerfully. Trokay Press, CA

2 Glaser, J (2019) The Neuroscience of Conversations https://www psychologytoday com/us/blog/ conversational-intelligence/201905/the neuroscience-of-conversations Retrieved December 1, 2023

3 Vandehei,J , Allen,M , Schwartz, R (2022) Smart Brevity. Workman Publishing Co , New York, NY

4 Rasters, Gaby & Vissers, Geert & Dankbaar, Ben (2002) An Inside Look: Rich Communication Through Lean Media in a Virtual Research Team. Small Group Research. 33 10 1177/1046496402238622 Retrieved 2/26/24

5 Dhawan, E (2021) Digital Body Language. St Martin’s Press New York, NY

6 Zak, P (July 19, 2010) https://hbr org/2017/01/the-neuroscience-of-trust Retrieved 12/1/2023

7 Zak, P (July 19, 2019) https://hbr org/2019/07/how-our-brains-decide-when-to-trust Retrieved 12/1/2023

Sonja Stetzler, MA, RDN, CPC is the CEO and founder of Effective Connecting, a coaching and consulting practice specializing in developing the communication and leadership skills of minto-senior level business and healthcare professionals Sonja works with her clients to craft their message, convey it with confidence, and most importantly, connect with their audiences

Head over to NEdpg.org CPE library to take the quiz and claim your certificate. 14 | nedpg org

Q: Tell us a little about your background

A: I am a first-generation MexicanAmerican dietitian I grew up on the border, about 10 minutes away from Mexico I currently work as a renal dietitian and run an Instagram account (Latinakidneydietitian) and podcast�

Q: How has your background enhanced your dietetic practice?

A: Being in dialysis, I realized there aren’t many Hispanic dietitians in the renal world It makes such a difference for patients to have someone who speaks their language and can provide counseling and explain medical care within the framework of their culture I realized I was not reaching enough people with only clinic work, so I started my Instagram The same information I share with patients in the clinic is valuable to other Spanish-speaking patients Often, patients hear from providers that they can’t eat their cultural foods I talk to patients about how to incorporate cultural foods into their diet

Q: What is your definition of diversity and why it is important in the dietetics field?

A: The renal population is diverse, and there are not enough dietitians to meet the different needs Having someone who understands your holidays and typical foods, and teaches you how to modify them, is important for every single population

My podcast provides other dietitians with awareness and tools for considering cultural aspects when working with various populations

Q: How do you encourage people to honor the uniqueness of each individual?

A: Do not make any assumptionsever If you’re trying to be culturally inclusive, do not mistake that for perpetuating stereotypes� Just because patients are of a specific culture doesn’t mean they eat a certain way Cultural foods are influenced by everything - where we live, where we work, who we marry, and our families It is essential to know the patient and ask the person questions For example, I always ask patients, “What food cultures do you identify with?”

Q: How do you challenge and promote sensitivity and inclusion in the dietetics field?

A: I challenge and promote sensitivity and inclusion in dietetics through my podcast and speaking engagements at different conferences� I have spoken about the importance of cultural inclusivity at FNCE®, Diversify Dietetics, and the Texas Nutrition Conference

Q: How has diversity helped you in your job role?

A: Diversity has opened my eyes to the type of questions I should ask so the person feels comfortable and seen I should be specific in asking people about not just what they eat but how they prepare foods and what other ingredients are added to dishes

Q: What is one tip you have for others to be more culturally sensitive/aware?

A: Always be curious! Many aspects shape our food cultures: our heritage, where we grew up, what families we married into, etc So, the most important thing is never to make assumptions and always ask questions about the types of foods, spices and cooking methods our patients use

Just as RDs should always be learning about the science of nutrition, I also think we should make efforts to always learn more about different cultural foods Try restaurants of different cultures, listen to podcasts, read books on food history, and watch/ read recipes online Talking to RDs of

different backgrounds about their food cultures is really helpful and eyeopening

Q: How would having more diversity in dietetics providers improve our field?

A: More diversity in dietetics providers would make nutrition support more doable and easier for people� Nutrition recommendations are easier to understand and implement from a provider who understands their background

I aim to empower more dietitians of other cultures to enter business and private practice, filling the need for more culturally inclusive providers

INTERVIEWED BY: AMY BROWNSTEIN MS, RDN INCOMING EDITOR

Amy Brownstein, MS, RDN is a private-practice dietitian and consultant She is passionate about translating nutrition science into tangible, digestible information and recommendations Amy is an outdoor enthusiast, spending most of her time biking, hiking or running When she’s not outside, she enjoys baking and trying natural wines

nedpg org | 15 DIVERSITY CORNER
Areli Gutierrez, MS, RD, LD, Kidney Dietitian

The Medical Nutrition Therapy Act: What NE Members Need to Know

If you are anything like me, you want expanded Medicare Medical Nutrition Therapy, since currently Medicare Part B only covers medical nutrition therapy services if you have diabetes or kidney disease, or you’ve had a kidney transplant in the last 36 months Expanding the scope of MNT for additional disease states under Medicare would be a huge benefit for our Medicare population and those RDNs who work with recipients of Medicare services

In 2022, there were 65,994,457 Social Security beneficiaries, most of whom will be eligible for Medicare services Given the large number of potential recipients of expanded Medicare services, and the potential for helping this many individuals, it is obvious why passage of the Medicare Nutrition Therapy is a policy priority for The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

On April 4, 2024, Academy members gathered in Washington, D�C� to meet with congressional offices to discuss the priorities of passage of the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act and nutrition security

Passage of the MNT Act would:

y Expand Medicare coverage for MNT to beneficiaries with chronic diseases including prediabetes, obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, malnutrition, eating disorders, cancer, gastrointestinal diseases (including celiac disease), cardiovascular disease, HIV/AIDS any other disease or condition causing unintentional weight loss�

y Authorize nurse practitioners, physician assistants, clinical nurse specialists and psychologists to refer their patients for MNT

y Promote health equity for racial and ethnic minority communities that have a higher burden of chronic disease

The MNT Act also allows the U S Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand coverage for MNT to other disease or condition as determined medically necessary�

All Academy members (including NE membership) are encouraged to advocate for these issues in a few ways:

y Join the monthly meeting of the Advocacy Affinity Groups (especially the MNT Expansion Affinity Group) Information about this Affinity Group can be found at: https:// www eatrightpro org/advocacy/ take-action/grassrootsresources/join-theacademy-affinity-groups

y Take two minutes to complete the Action Alert for Expand Medicare MNT Coverage (as well as other Action Alerts from The Academy) (https://www eatrightpro org/advocacy/takeaction/action-alerts)

y Learn more about the Academy’s public policy priorities at: https://www eatrightpro org/about-us/our-work/ public-policy-priorities

Your individual voice as The Nutrition Expert is powerful Do not miss this opportunity to voice your support for expanded Medicare MNT coverage passage� Your community, patients, clients and residents will thank you

Susan Adams, MS, RD, LDN, FAND, is a registered dietitian who consults with assisted-living accounts and an educator at La Salle University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Be Well Solutions Dietetic Internship Susan specializes in educating the next generation of nutrition professionals She believes that food and nutrition heal others, and enjoys helping the next generation and the greatest generation Susan finds joy in spending time with her family and would never pass up a cup of tea with a good friend

16 | nedpg org POLICY ADVOCACY CORNER

Product Reviews

Price: $29 95

Review:

Title: EAT MOVE GROOVE: Unlocking the simple steps to lifelong nutrition, fitness, and wellness

Author: Susan Kundrat, MS, RDN, LDN

Date: 2024

Publisher: Self-published

EAT MOVE GROOVE is a simplified, flexible approach to achieving your health and wellness goals Its target audience is for just about anyone —from the newbie beginning the wellness journey to the expert needing a fresh take on motivating clients The author uses her memorable 2211 framework in the healthy habit categories of eating, moving and grooving for optimal well-being The 2211 framework outlines specific food group goals for each meal, target minutes of daily activity and supportive actions that bring joy and enhance overall well-being

The 2211 framework is used in several ways in each of the 3 categories:

y In the EAT category: Every meal starts with 22: 2 cups of produce and at least 2 ounces of protein Then add in the 11, which equals 1 serving of grain or starch and 1 serving of a healthy fat source� When serving each meal, think 2 baseballs of produce, 1 tennis ball of protein, 1 tennis ball of grain and 1 golf ball of fat

y In the MOVE category: Move 33 minutes (22+11) a day or more Move at least 22 minutes a day in a way that boosts your heart rate, 11 minutes a day doing strength/stretching/stability activities, & move often during the day, getting up at least 1 hour to walk, stretch, or take a movement break

y In the GROOVE category: This is daily support for your personal well-being and includes anything that brings you joy and enhances your health inside and out

The essential elements of EAT MOVE GROOVE are easy to follow and make for a relaxed, uncomplicated read

The author offers step-by-step instructions, as well as recipes and ideas, making for a no-stress, all-questionsanswered journey to Wellness Susan’s 2211 framework is THE characteristic that makes this book unique Her fresh, unique approach offers a fun, usable roadmap to anyone needing motivation on their EAT MOVE GROOVE journey

Reviewer: Brittany Michels, MS, RDN, LDN, CPT,

Title: Integrative and Functional Dietitian

Affiliation: The Dietitian Life

Price: Free

Review:

Title: Dietitian Your Way

Creator: Leda Medina, RDN, LDN, CDCES

Date: 2023

Have you ever wished there was a free online directory that allowed clients to easily find your business? What if that directory also served as a place for RDNs to connect with each other? Dietitian Your Way is on a mission to revolutionize the field of nutrition by creating a dynamic network that unites dietitians of diverse expertise, empowering them to collaborate, learn, and amplify their impact�

Dietitian Your Way is like an Angie’s List for dietitians

Potential clients can shop for their ideal dietitian by reviewing profiles including location, financials, specialty, etc The specialties range from consulting and media/ content creation to private practice and RDN2RDN services Since dietitians are versatile in the services they offer, they can choose several specialties

Membership is free and provides RDNs a community forum and an online listing that can serve as a landing page By choosing to upgrade from a free membership to $24 99/mo RDNs can increase their visibility, publish social media links, promote and publish articles, videos, photos, or products, inviting their ideal customer to get to know them better

By putting RDNs at the helm, DYW has a vision to drive positive change for individuals and communities alike

Reviewer: Heather Rudalavage, RDN, LDN

Title: Founder and CEO of Intuitive Nutrition

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“This convergence of expertise and shared experiences is pivotal to my business development, offering unique insights and strategies directly applicable to my practice. It catalyzed my growth by allowing me to learn from the successes and challenges of others, and to integrate innovative approaches into my own entrepreneurial journey.”

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“I was so impressed with the Summit! I will be joining the practice group ASAP! The topics were so timely for my business. I've been in business for eight years and know that I have much more to learn. I took away many solid pieces of wisdom and connected with several exhibitors that will help me go to the next level. Thank you!”

“I thoroughly loved the summit and all of the networking opportunities that occurred.”

Time to Renew

Renew before May 31st to be entered in for a chance to win a Free 2024 FNCE® Registration

WHY RENEW? 3,000 Members 500 Students 40 International 60 Retired 36+ CPEU Eligible Courses on the Website 3 Networking Platforms Engage with 6,000 Followers 585 NE Members 5 Printed Issues of Ventures Newsletter 25+ CPEU Offered Annually 12+ Webinars 10+ Annual Spring Summit Conference FREE Access to Mentoring 12 Halfie Hours NE Hub 2 CPE Ventures Articles
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Ventures

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Upcoming Events

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WEBINAR

TUESDAY, MAY 14 AT 1:00PM EST

Picture This: Food Photography Basics to Elevate your Business

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HALFIE HOUR

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15 AT 12:30PM ET

Lauren Minchen, MPH, RDN, CDN

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