Meet Jenni Leslie, MS, RD, LD, who has combined her passion for nutrition, food, and counseling by working in both private practice and at an eating disorder clinic. Learning the ins and outs of both sectors is great to grow one’s skillset and knowledge. Read on to learn more. – Sarah

What attracted you to the field of nutrition and dietetics? I’ve been curious and fascinated with food since I was little; I’m a total foodie! I also have a passion for overall health and wellness, so the profession of Dietetics was a no-brainer choice for me.

Your Job Title? Registered Dietitian

Company you are with now? McDaniel Nutrition Therapy and McCallum Place for Eating Disorders

Website: – McDanielNutrition.com

Describe a typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you? My days are really all over the place lately which I prefer! A random weekday could look like me seeing a client in the morning, doing some marketing throughout the day mixed in with trying to find those sneaky free CEU’s online to further my knowledge, and then leading a group and a dinner outing with ED clients at night. Planning a wedding has been taking up a lot of my time recently, not complaining!

How did you get your current job in dietetics? I had been working with eating disorders for the past year when I decided to take a chance and join a private practice team of dietitians. Jennifer McDaniel graciously swooped me under her wing and I’m loving every moment of getting into private practice! I also work PRN at McCallum Place for Eating Disorders.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? I was born with the skill of being a good listener and knowing how to make people feel comfortable. The skill I’ve learned along the way is how to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Great things don’t from comfort zones!

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? Don’t be afraid to go out on a limb with your career. If something doesn’t work out perfectly, you still gained confidence and experience along the way.

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be? An endless supply of gourmet nut butters ;)

Sarah Koszyk is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta. A family-based wellness program and blog focusing on recipes, family health tips, and videos with kids cooking in the kitchen. She is a Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Coach specializing in sports nutrition and adult and pediatric weight management. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, or LinkedIn.