I met Elise Compston, RD, LD, online through Instagram. Her and her husband are both dietitians and they have an incredible blog and social media following. She shares her career path towards becoming an influencer while doing what she loves (recipe development and content creation) and reaching thousands of people every week. Her top tip of advice, “just START!” Learn how she jumped in. - Sarah

What attracted you to the field of nutrition and dietetics?
Growing up, I always had an interest in all things nutrition, but saw it more as a hobby than a possible career option. It wasn’t until I left for college, that I really saw food in a new light. I moved from my hometown of Las Vegas, Nevada, to the heart of the Midwest and was immersed into a new world of food and traditions unlike any I had experienced before. I began to see food as more than just a source of nourishment, but also having huge social and cultural importance in people’s lives. It was there that I realized my true passion for learning and teaching others about nutrition.

Your Job Title?
I am a self-employed recipe developer, blogger, and content creator. I also contract locally with an insurance group, providing nutrition education and creating learning materials for corporate wellness programs.

Describe a typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you?
I work from home with 1, some days 2, toddlers at home, so days consist of doing what I can, with the time I have! I plan recipe development, photo shoots, writing, editing, and meetings around nap schedules. Some days I get up early to work or continue working after the kids go down for bed. My husband (and number 1 taste tester) is also a huge support and helps me wherever he can. Each day looks a little different, but I wouldn’t change a thing about it. And that says a lot coming from a type A planner like myself!

How did you get your current job in dietetics?
After the birth of my first child, I felt a very strong pull to be at home more during those early years. With 10 years of recipe development under my belt, I had often wondered if I could somehow put that experience to use in a fun, creative outlet, while also supporting my family financially. My husband and I launched our blog 6 months after our son was born, and are so grateful for the journey it has brought us on!

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way?
I have always had a very strong work ethic, belief in myself, and the ability to see big picture. I may not always be the “best”, or most skilled, but I truly believe we all have something to bring to the table. Growing up, I was very shy and timid and had to work on developing public speaking skills. I devoted years of my life to theatre and choir, which really translated into the work I do now within public health. I am STILL learning a lot about websites, technology, and the ever-changing world of social media. There are always new things to learn!

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you?
When building a brand or business, it’s important to remember that it takes time to for things to develop: your audience, your voice, your products, etc. Just START. There are far less “qualified” people who are successful simply because they got going. Do not let fear or imperfection stop you from doing what you want. Start and learn as you grow.

It’s important to remember your mission (your WHY) and continuously take small steps towards your goal. When we first launched our blog, we had 3 recipes to our name, no Instagram account, and no idea what social media algorithms were. We got turned down from brand partnerships, a LOT. Today, we get to share our family’s recipes with hundreds of thousands of people each week!

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what
would it be?
Pizza! And sushi! And quality time with my family.

Find her here:

- https://www.straightouttacompstonkitchen.com

- Instagram: @straightouttacompstonkitchen

- Facebook: Straight Outta Compston Kitchen

- Pinterest: @straightouttacompstonkitchen