Get To Know Us: Dietitian Entrepreneur Interview Part 3
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This is part 3 of a 3-part interview collaboration between two seasoned Dietitian entrepreneurs - Amber & Larissa. Learn about their skills, challenges, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs! Click the YouTube link below to watch the interview or read the Q & A below.
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Strengths & Technical Skills
Host: “Amber, what strengths do you believe you’ve developed over your career?”
Amber: “Since I have telecommuted for over 12 years now, I have strong organization and coordination of tasks for people working in a remote or virtual workspace. I’m even ready to bring our team into virtual reality, but I need to work on getting more buy-in. I am becoming known for my project management approach for contract tasks. Generally, I’m skilled in data analysis, visual presentations, nutrition knowledge, scientific writing, and problem solving with technology tools.”
Host: “And Larissa, where do you think your strengths lie?”
Larissa: “As a ‘type A’ person, I have always been very detail-oriented, but I also have the ability to see the ‘big picture’ at the same time. As previously mentioned, I have technical skills as a dietitian, lactation counselor, and researcher. I am a great multi-tasker and like to stay productive. These strengths have been really key in running a business. Like Amber, I also really enjoy project management, leading teams, and creating dissemination materials such as scientific articles, posters, and presentations. This is why I’m always collaborating with other health professionals.”
Amber: “This is definitely where we are most similar.”
Challenges
Host: “Although you both are quite skilled, I can’t imagine your journeys have been smooth sailing. What are the biggest challenges you have faced?”
Amber: “Well, I’m comfortable being an introvert, so I have to push myself to be talkative and share personal information since I tend to observe people and I prefer to connect on a deeper level. Public health policy seems to move at a glacial pace toward progress toward meaningful improvements for people’s health, so I struggle to stay engaged and find motivation to stay inspired to overcome the setbacks and challenges to public health and nutrition initiatives.”
Host: “Larissa, can you talk about the challenges you’ve encountered?”
Larissa: “There has definitely been a huge learning curve for me when it comes to business and marketing skills. These were not subjects I learned much about in school. Luckily, I have been a member of the Nutrition Entrepreneurs Dietetic Practice Group (NE DPG) of The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (The Academy) for the last 4 years, so I have been able to learn a lot from others who have followed a similar path. I am also learning to take things at my own pace. When you are a solo entrepreneur, you are working in multiple roles. If you don’t try to find a good routine and balance, it’s easy to get derailed.”
What Would You Say to Any Aspiring Entrepreneurs?
Host: “Thanks for sharing that. I’m sure others will be able to relate to those challenges. Amber, what advice would you give someone who is looking to create their own business?”
Amber: “Before you walk off the cliff and quit your paycheck job, make sure the people that financially support you are on board. Try to make at least half your income before you move on completely, or just scale back gradually, if you have that option. Networking events are so full of optimistic people talking about their dreams. If you have time, go to those for inspiration when times are hard. Collaboration and mentorship is very enriching, don’t just look for a mentor for yourself, mentor someone else too. Remember we all have different journeys, so sharing your knowledge is beneficial at any level. Moderate your social media use because it is curated and distorted. Don’t compare yourself and judge yourself based on what you see there.”
Host: “Larissa, what would you say to any aspiring entrepreneurs out there?”
Larissa: “There is no one ‘right way’ to pursue your career. Listen to your intuition and follow your passions - the things that make you get up in the morning. It’s ok to try new things if you feel that you are being pulled in a new direction. Success is how you choose to measure it - don’t let comparing yourself to others sway you off-course.”
What are you looking forward to?
Host: “Amber, what are you looking forward to in the future?”
Amber: “We live in an amazing era. I put my head down and completed my studies to be able to have a career that works toward the greater good. Meanwhile, I never let my artistic pursuits go. Now, through the advance of technology and persistence, I am mixing all of these things together to create in ways I never considered in the past. I look forward to learning more and sharing even more with others and making more connections with people through art or in person. It truly is an exciting time.”
Host: “Same question - Larissa, what are you most excited about in this new endeavor?”
Larissa: “I decided from the start of my business that I was going to take it slow, use this time to learn as much about business as possible, and take intentional steps towards building a successful business. I am excited to see my business grow, work on creating quality content that I love, and help more clients achieve their goals along the way.”
Host: “Thank you both for sharing your stories, insights, and expertise with us. It's clear that you're not only dedicated registered dietitians, but also innovative entrepreneurs shaping the landscape of health and creativity. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of your work. To our audience, thank you for joining us. We wish you well on your journey to find health and balance!
Thank you for watching and/or reading along! Please visit our websites and follow us on social media (below) to be the first to hear about new services and products.
~Larissa & Amber
Larissa’s Business:
Website: TheGlobalHarvestRD.com
Etsy Shop: TheGlobalHarvestRD.etsy.com
Instagram: @The_Global_Harvest_RD
Amber’s Business:
Website: MysteryMaracuja.com
Spatial.io: @mysterymaracuja
Pinterest: @mysterymaracuja
Instagram: @mysterymaracuja
Suggested Citation: Loufman, Larissa M. Dietitian Entrepreneur Interview Part 3: Get To Know Us Series. (October 13, 2024). The Global Harvest RD LLC, 2024. Available at: https://www.theglobalharvestrd.com/resources/articles/dietitian-entrepreneurs-interview-part-3.
Author Bio
Larissa M. Loufman, MPH, RD, LD, CLC, CCRC is a Registered Dietitian and Public Health Professional with a passion for healthy living & supporting people in their wellness journey’s. As Founder & Owner of The Global Harvest RD, she empowers others to discover their healthiest & happiest lives through nutrition, gardening, and travel.
Follow Her Online
Website: www.TheGlobalHarvestRD.com
Etsy Shop: TheGlobalHarvestRD.Etsy.com
Instagram: @The_Global_Harvest_RD
Disclaimer: Although Larissa holds the designation of Registered Dietitian (RD), it is important to clarify that she does not provide Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) through this website and her company, The Global Harvest RD. The information presented on this site is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. It is crucial to recognize that nothing within this site or the resources provided should be construed as professional medical advice. Readers are advised that the author assumes no responsibility for any losses or damages arising from actions or the failure to act based on the content found on this website. It is emphasized that the information presented here is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of any health conditions. For personalized medical advice, it is strongly recommended to consult directly with your local healthcare or medical provider team to make sure that this advice is right for you.
