Warm. Joyful. Radiant. Peaceful. That is how I feel—like my body, mind, and spirit have been wrapped in a beautiful blend of confidence, purpose, love, and wonder.
I feel like I can write again. I have been writing for what feels like forever, yet I can’t remember the last time I felt this deeply connected to my words. I’m more in touch with what I want and what I don’t. I even had a rough weekend and didn’t feel like posting yesterday, so for the first time in years I skipped a Monday post—and I’m okay with that.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your honest responses to my “I Have Been Changed” post. I was nervous to publish those thoughts, but your feedback confirmed a truth I’ve observed for years: some health care professionals, influencers, bloggers, and passionate wellness enthusiasts may have unintentionally contributed to a rise in disordered eating. I want to be clear that I’m not saying everyone in the wellness community is responsible—many people genuinely love health and do not have eating disorders. I am one of those people. However, my perspective is shaped by my roles as a blogger, an influencer, and a registered dietitian working in both media and private practice—and that gives me a different vantage point.
I sit with undernourished men and women who break down in my office after seeing triggering social media content. I witness patterns many people don’t, and that has changed how I see the world. If I want to be a voice for change—what my dad calls an “upward climb”—I know I’ll ruffle feathers. As a highly sensitive person, that’s difficult; my intention has never been to upset people. I’ve always tried to lead with integrity, but standing up for a new or unpopular opinion is complicated. I’m trying to keep this shift positive so I don’t get overwhelmed by fears that people may misinterpret my words.
What’s clear to me is that more people today struggle with body image and dieting concerns than with straightforward weight loss. We truly live in a different world.
Many readers asked, “What’s next?” For me, the next step is education: I’m diving into resources on self-love, body image, eating disorders, and intuitive eating. I’m captivated by books like Body Kindness and Health at Every Size. I follow voices on social media that emphasize nourishing both body and soul, and I’m much more selective about the content I engage with.
Last year, my content revolved around vegan paleo, refined-sugar-free muffins, running a juice bar, and helping clients lose weight. Things are very different now. At Alchemy we sell more donuts than ever. Clients come to me wanting to heal their relationship with food. Trism, a new restaurant concept opening on OSU’s campus in May, embraces balance—being health-conscious without being health-obsessed. It feels like the stars are aligning.
I pledge to share more joyful, nourishing food posts. I’ll write about things that warm the heart—books that bring me joy, self-care rituals, and everyday moments. I want this space to be more fun and to reflect what I love most about myself: my zest for life, honesty, passion, ambition, empathy, and vulnerability. I’m open to suggestions if you have them.
I want to be more honest with you. I’ve been through experiences you might not expect—difficult, formative times that helped shape me into the determined woman I am today. Sharing those stories could lift you up and remind you that if I can keep going through hard times, you can too. I didn’t feel ready to get that personal until now.
Shifting content to reflect evolving passions isn’t easy. Including labels like “vegan” and “gluten-free” makes posts more searchable and SEO-friendly, and that drives page views. My practical side—my business mind, my need to cover student loans—understands that. But I care less about clicks than I used to. Recently I read that the secret to a fulfilling life isn’t Facebook, page views, Instagram followers, or money. It’s deep, meaningful relationships. It’s love. That’s what matters.
I will move forward with authenticity and joy. I know that making a positive difference by inspiring others feels right—that’s what’s always mattered to me. I can’t remember the last time I felt this happy.
Your comments, emails, and messages humbled me this week in a way that brand contracts never have. If I were to write you a love letter by hand, it would be tear-stained.
What can you do? Be real—honest with yourself and with others, both offline and online. Connect through imperfections and embrace them. Compliment others in ways that don’t focus on body size. Imagine replacing “you look so thin” or “you’re so tiny” with “you’re so smart” or “you inspire me.” Be mindful of your words, especially around children—what message does constant body talk send to a young person?
It’s surprising how often people bond by putting themselves down. Don’t add fuel to that fire. When you become aware of it, you’ll notice it everywhere—and you’ll likely want no part of it.
Talk about these issues with friends, children, and family. Question your choices and do what feels right for you. Eat for your body, your mind, and your soul. Eat the bagel when you crave it. Set aside the FitBit sometimes. Enjoy dessert. Get a massage. Read a book. Hug yourself. Love yourself. Change the norm. Change the game.
I feel like I’m finally being true to myself, and it feels nothing short of magical. I can’t wait to see where this journey leads.