Balancing two amazing jobs, Kelly Powers, RD, enjoys working at both a start-up company and an eating disorder clinic. I originally met Kelly when we worked together at a private practice. She has always been innovative and extremely focused with her goals. Working with people who are driven is an inspiration and she is definitely moving forward in her career. Read on to learn about the exciting months ahead as her start-up grows and expands. – Sarah

What attracted you to the field of nutrition and dietetics? I have a strong, innate connection with food and the love it holds. My passion lies in sharing that love with others.

Your Job Title? RD and Co-Founder of Alola + Lead RD at Cielo House

Company you are with now? Alola, personalized grocery lists, and Cielo House

Website:
www.alola.co

Social Media:
 – Instagram: @kelly.powers

Describe a typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you? This can greatly vary depending on where I’m working [Alola vs. Cielo House].

A day at Alola generally starts at 9 am and ends close to 7 pm – though the schedule is never set and the work never truly ends.

It’s safe to say I’m catching up on email, team communication and food related news while sipping my coffee and having breakfast each morning. I’m working on my iPad on my way to the office and often on my way home.

My team and I meet in the morning to discuss our product development, marketing strategy, partnerships, user acquisition, funding, and/or anything Alola related. We always have lunch together, and I usually take a break to box or go to yoga.

After my workout I’ll reconvene with my team and work on the backend of our software. I’ll also develop copy and educational materials for our users in the afternoon. Additionally, this is when I meet with advisors, investors and interns.

We have a Zen room in our office we’re I’ll often escape to around 4 pm.

Lately we have been conducting interviews and UX feedback sessions with users. They are very informative and a lot of fun, but they take close to 90 minutes and are often held after traditional work hours.

I’ll generally head home or to yoga at this point if I didn’t get a workout in that day.

At home I’ll go through emails again and tie up loose ends before bed.

How did you get your current job in dietetics? The director of Cielo House reached out on LinkedIn and I met the founder of Alola through a good friend and fellow dietitian – we talked for two hours and have been co-founding Alola since.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? I’ve always been independent, resourceful and self-sufficient. Often, I know what I want and I work hard to attain it. I’m very motivated and determined to reach my goals.

Along the way, I’ve learned A LOT. Most importantly, I’ve learned the importance of gratitude and humility. I’ve found there is power in returning to your breath and listening to your intuition.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? Be genuine. Be kind. Learn to say no and ask for what you want. Listen, really listen to yourself – you already know what’s best.

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what  would it be? Travel, good wine and incredible food. By far the easiest question I’ve ever answered.

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.