Dietitian Career Spotlight on Elizabeth Ward, MS, RD, Author and Nutrition Consultant
Meet Elizabeth Ward, MS, RD, who is a published author, nutrition consultant, recipe developer, spokesperson and food photographer. This talented dietitian was a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for nine years. Read more about Elizabeth’s career path and be sure to check out her publications. - Katie
What attracted you to the field of nutrition and dietetics?
I was intrigued by the power of food to help prevent illness and to help manage it.
Company you are with now?
I am self-employed
Your Job Title?
Author and Nutrition Consultant
Website:
Social Media:
IG: @menopausedietplan, @ewardmsrd
TikTok: @menopausedietplan
Twitter: @EwardRD
Facebook: @menopausedietplan
A typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you?
Every day is different. I typically juggle two to three writing projects at a time. I have been working at home for more than 20 years and I have a routine that I try to stick to. I typically work out in the morning, watch the news (with a huge cup of coffee, of course), then get to work!
How did you get your current job in dietetics?
I decided to go out completely on my own after having my third child in four years and finding it really difficult to juggle two 10-hour days of seeing patients, with motherhood and my own business, which was, and still is, consulting to commodity boards and food companies, writing, and public speaking.
What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way?
I was definitely born talking! Nobody taught me how to writer per se and I've honed my writing skills with each of my books and writing assignments. In recent years, I have done a lot of recipe development and food photography, which required new skills.
What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you?
Be patient and stick with the science. The competition to be noticed is stiff, and in the rush to be "successful" it's possible to compromise on a research-based approach to nutrition.
Also, take every (worthy) opportunity presented to you. Even though it seems like you can't handle something new and unfamiliar, chances are that you can!
Lastly, know your worth but don't demand exorbitant amounts of money. I've seen a lot of people lose out on work because they won't budge on their price, which may or may not a good thing. In contrast, never work for free unless you are volunteering your time.
If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be?
Respect.
Other Articles You Might Like
Dietetic Work Journal Download
Dietitian Side Hustles to Increase your Dietitian Salary
Virtual Job Interview Checklist
Letters of Recommendation Checklist
How to Become a Sport Nutritionist
Highest Paid Dietitian Jobs by Location
Best Alternative Jobs for a Dietitian
About the Author
Katie Padva, MS, RDN, LDN is a Registered Dietitian passionate about delivering nutrition education through writing, teaching, and counseling to help prevent and manage chronic diseases. She works in a private practice helping individuals be the best version of theirselves through healthy nutrition. She also works as an adjunct instructor at a University educating students on nutrition concepts. When she is not working, Katie enjoys being outside, running, writing, cooking, doing yoga and hiking! Connect with her on LinkedIn.
