Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!

Join Jennifer McGurk, CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, and team member Courtney Vickery, CEO of Declet Designs, to talk about the LEAD stage of business. This stage is focused on the importance of hiring and leading a team. Hear insights on how dietitians can step into leadership roles, overcome the fear of hiring, and build a sustainable business. 

Whether you already have a team, are ready to hire, or may want to hire in the future, this episode is for you. 

1. Introduction to the LEAD Stage: Learn why hiring is essential for expanding your business without compromising self-care and boundaries.
2. New Resources for Hiring and Leading: Discover a free guide and upcoming Team Toolkit to assist in the hiring and leadership process.
3. Challenges and Solutions in the LEAD Stage: Explore common fears in hiring and strategies for building a strong company culture.
4. Combining Business School and the EXPAND Curriculum: The new Business School Mastermind will support dietitians in the LEAD stage of business as well as dietitians starting and growing.
5. Celebrating Success in the LEAD Stage: Emphasize the importance of focusing on your strengths and achieving business sustainability.

Tune in to gain the tools, mindset shifts, and practical strategies you need to confidently LEAD your business to the next level.

Timestamps: 

• 00:28 Free Guide and Team Toolkit: Two resources are highlighted: a free guide for hiring preparation and an upcoming Team Toolkit for the hiring process.
• 01:37 Podcast Series Introduction: Jennifer introduces the podcast series focused on the five stages of business: SET UP, START, GROW, LEAD, and COAST.
• 02:24 Resources for Different Business Stages: Various resources are available for different stages of business, including toolkits for marketing, finances, and team building.
• 03:56 Business School Mastermind Program: The Business School Mastermind program is introduced as a comprehensive support system for dietitians.
• 05:46 LEAD Stage of Business Discussion: Jennifer and Courtney discuss the LEAD stage of business, emphasizing the necessity of hiring to avoid burnout.
• 08:53 Challenges and Mindset in the LEAD Stage: Insights from the EXPAND program highlight challenges in hiring and leadership, focusing on building company culture.
• 18:24 Skills and Requirements for the LEAD Stage: Key skills for moving forward include hiring, training, managing, and leading a team effectively.
• 21:03 Celebrating the LEAD Stage: The celebration involves stepping into one's zone of genius and delegating tasks to maintain business sustainability.

This conversation will leave you feeling empowered to build the team you need, so you can lead with confidence, protect your energy, and grow a sustainable practice. 

🧠 Feeling overwhelmed trying to build your team?

The Lead Your Team Toolkit helps you hire, manage, and lead with confidence. Whether it’s your first hire or your fifth, you’ll get clear steps, templates, and support to grow your business without burnout.

Take up space as the CEO you’re meant to be. Enroll now.

👥 Ready to stop doing it all yourself?

Hire Your Next Team Member is a free training that walks you through the first steps of hiring support for your business. You’ll learn how to plan your team structure, write clear job descriptions, and lead with confidence, without the overwhelm.

Start building the support you need. Sign up for the free workshop today.

📱 Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice

Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!

Join Jennifer McGurk, CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, and team member Courtney Vickery, CEO of Declet Designs, to talk about the GROW stage of business. This is a stage where you'll focus on expanding your reach, refining your marketing strategies, and implementing new systems, all while continuing to serve your clients effectively. This stage of business is all about getting fully booked but on your terms. In this episode, Jennifer walks you through the ups and downs and practical advice for marketing, finances, and much more. 

Whether you're looking to refine your current practice or considering launching new offers, this episode is packed with insights and advice to help you grow sustainably.

1. GROW Stage of Business: Transitioning from the start stage, the GROW stage involves defining "fully booked" and personalizing business goals with systems and strategies.
2. Challenges and Considerations: Key challenges include understanding finances, setting boundaries, and implementing effective marketing strategies.
3. Launching New Offers: Business owners are encouraged to refine current offers and consider audience size before launching new services or products.
4. Graduating from the GROW Stage: Success in this stage involves understanding conversion rates, maintaining sustainability, and celebrating achievements.

This episode will empower you to make strategic decisions, streamline your systems, and confidently step into the next level of your business growth.

Timestamps: 

• 00:29 Introduction to the GROW Stage: Jennifer McGurk introduces the GROW stage, highlighting its personalized nature and the importance of defining "fully booked" for each practitioner.
• 05:13 Defining the GROW Stage: Jennifer explains how dietitians can identify if they are in the GROW stage, focusing on confidence in client work and setting personal business goals.
• 10:36 Challenges in the GROW Stage: The episode addresses common challenges such as setting boundaries and understanding finances, emphasizing the need for experimentation.
• 14:57 Marketing and Finances: Jennifer discusses the critical role of marketing and financial understanding in maintaining a sustainable private practice.
• 16:18 Launching New Offers: The discussion covers the idea of launching new offers, advising caution due to the significant effort and resources required.
• 12:38 Transitioning to Full-Time Entrepreneurship: Jennifer highlights the importance of understanding financial needs for those considering leaving a full-time job.
• 26:36 Celebrating Success: Jennifer encourages listeners to celebrate their achievements in reaching the GROW stage and reflect on their business progress.

No matter where you’re at in growing your business, this episode will help you clarify your goals and take intentional action to build a business that works for you.

🧑‍💻Want more from Pursuing Private Practice? 

Business School is officially open for enrollment, and it’s the best way to get direct support for your private practice. This program combines business coaching, accountability, office hours, and the most supportive community of dietitians you’ll find. 

Plus, it includes a full curriculum designed to help you at every stage, whether you're seeing your first clients, refining your marketing, or ready to hire a team. 

With Business School evolving into a mastermind experience, you’ll have access to two tracks: one for starting and growing your practice, and one for leading and building your team. No matter where you are, you’ll get the resources, support, and confidence to run your business like a CEO.

Enrollment closes July 25th, so now’s the time to join us and take the next step toward building a business that works for your life.

📈 Are you tired of feeling stuck with getting new clients? 

Your Marketing Plan Toolkit will help you map out your marketing strategy to attract more ideal clients to your private practice. This toolkit gives you the strategies, tools, and templates to find, connect, and convert a potential ideal client into a long-term customer in your private practice. 

💸Are you ready to finally make more money? 

Check out the Make More Money Toolkit, designed to get you unstuck with private practice finances. You’ll get the tools and guidance to: 

• Set realistic goals for your life and finances, starting with where you are right now

• Connect your business to your life: figure out the "paycheck" you need and how income, expenses, and taxes all fit together

• Build simple systems that support your financial goals (and make things feel easier!)

• Feel confident about your pricing, your profits, and the big vision you’re working toward

💰 Want to get 3 new clients in just 3 days (for FREE)? 

Join the training - Grow Your Business: Get Clients Now, for actionable strategies to clarify your ideal client, streamline your marketing funnel, and execute a visibility plan that works. With daily videos, workbooks, and steps tailored to grow your business, you’ll build confidence and see real results. 

📱 Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice

Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!

Join Jennifer McGurk, CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, and team member Courtney Vickery, CEO of Declet Designs, to talk about the START stage of business, the time where you transition from setting up your private practice to seeing your first clients. We'll explore the emotions, challenges, and action steps involved in this stage, focusing on the importance of developing strong counseling skills and effective customer service strategies. 

Whether you're just starting to see clients in your private practice or looking to refine your counseling approach, this episode offers valuable insights and resources to help you keep clients coming back.

1. Characteristics of Dietitians in the START Stage: Highlights the experience of working with dietitians and the importance of counseling skills.
2. Thoughts and Feelings in the START Stage: Discusses the excitement, overwhelm, and hopefulness experienced by dietitians in this stage.
3. Challenges in the START Stage: Identifies selling services and customer service as key challenges for dietitians.
4. Requirements to Move Forward: Stresses the need for strong counseling skills and forming therapeutic alliances.
5. Celebrating the START Stage: Encourages recognizing the importance of work and passion in fueling business growth.

By understanding the unique dynamics and realistic expectations of the START stage, you’ll be better equipped to counsel clients and make an impact with your business. 

Timestamps: 

• 04:49 START Stage of Business: Explanation of the transition from SET UP to START stage, focusing on seeing first clients.
• 05:49 Counseling Skills and Client Retention: Emphasis on developing counseling skills to retain clients and build therapeutic relationships.
• 08:28 Challenges in the START Stage: Discussion of common feelings and challenges, including selling services and managing customer service.
• 13:12 Ideal Clients and Business Growth: Encouragement to experiment with different client types to identify ideal clients.
• 14:08 Counseling Skills Toolkit: Announcement of an upcoming Counseling Skills Toolkit focusing on counseling and customer service. Join the waitlist today.
• 15:31 Celebrating the START Stage: Recognition of the significance of the START stage in feeling fulfilled as a dietitian.

Navigating the START stage is not just about getting clients. It's about becoming a confident, capable counselor for your clients, which is the foundation of your private practice. 

🧑‍💻Want more from Pursuing Private Practice? 

Business School is officially open for enrollment, and it’s the best way to get direct support for your private practice. This program combines business coaching, accountability, office hours, and the most supportive community of dietitians you’ll find. 

Plus, it includes a full curriculum designed to help you at every stage, whether you're seeing your first clients, refining your marketing, or ready to hire a team. 

With Business School evolving into a mastermind experience, you’ll have access to two tracks: one for starting and growing your practice, and one for leading and building your team. No matter where you are, you’ll get the resources, support, and confidence to run your business like a CEO.

Enrollment closes July 25th, so now’s the time to join us and take the next step toward building a business that works for your life.

🤝Want to improve your counseling skills? 

Join the Nutrition Counseling Skills Toolkit Waitlist, launching Fall 2025! This brand-new toolkit is designed to equip dietitians with the essential counseling strategies they need to effectively support their clients. Whether you're just starting your private practice or looking to sharpen your skills as you grow, this resource will help you:

• Build confidence in your counseling sessions
• Strengthen your communication techniques
• Navigate tough conversations with compassion
• Enhance client motivation and engagement
• Integrate evidence-based counseling methods into your unique style of counseling

Join the waitlist today! 

✔️Want to see what private practice is all about? 

Download The Ultimate Checklist to Start Your Private Practice and get step-by-step guidance to start your business with confidence. Take the first step toward more freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment today. 

📱 Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice

Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!

Join Jennifer McGurk, CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, as she kicks off the brand new Stages of Business Series with the very first stage: SET UP. In this episode, Jennifer dives into what it really takes to get started - from finding the courage to begin, shifting your mindset for success, and the practical steps to open up a business. This is the first of five episodes, each one dedicated to a different stage of business growth!

If you’re thinking about starting a nutrition private practice, now or in the future, this episode will give you the insight, advice, and resources to help you get set up with confidence.

1. Podcast Series on Stages of Business: The series explores the five stages of business, with episodes dedicated to each stage, focusing on emotions, mindset, challenges, and action steps.
2. SET UP Stage of Business: The SET UP stage is defined by being new to private practice, with resources like the Open for Business Toolkit and Business School to assist in this phase.
3. Challenges and Mindset in the SET UP Stage: Common feelings include imposter syndrome and excitement, with an emphasis on courage and mindset shifts to progress.
4. Celebrating the SET UP Stage: Recognizing the achievement of becoming a business owner, despite challenges similar to those faced by clients in health recovery.
5. Working for Nutrition Tech Companies: Discusses the pros and cons of working for these companies versus owning a private practice, with advice for transitioning.

No matter where you’re starting from, this episode will help you take those first bold steps toward building a business that works for your life.

Timestamps: 

• 00:33 Podcast Series Introduction: Overview of the upcoming series on the five stages of business, emphasizing a personalized approach.
• 04:18 SET UP Stage of Business: Discussion on the initial stage of business, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step.
• 05:40 Challenges and Emotions: Acknowledgment of emotions like imposter syndrome and excitement in the SET UP stage.
• 06:04 Toolkit and Resources: Explanation of the Open for Business Toolkit and its role in setting up a business.
• 10:01 Mindset and Legal Considerations: Importance of mindset shifts and legal decisions in the SET UP stage.
• 12:53 Celebrating Success: Encouragement to celebrate the achievement of becoming a business owner.
• 13:53 Working for Nutrition Tech Companies: Discussion on the pros and cons of working for nutrition tech companies as a stepping stone.

The SET UP stage of business is all about shifting your mindset, executing legal decisions, defining your ideal-ish client, and creating your first offer. And yes, it’s totally possible in 30 DAYS! 

🧑‍💻Want more from Pursuing Private Practice? 

Business School is officially open for enrollment, and it’s the best way to get direct support for your private practice. This program combines business coaching, accountability, office hours, and the most supportive community of dietitians you’ll find. 

Plus, it includes a full curriculum designed to help you at every stage, whether you're seeing your first clients, refining your marketing, or ready to hire a team. 

With Business School evolving into a mastermind experience, you’ll have access to two tracks: one for starting and growing your practice, and one for leading and building your team. No matter where you are, you’ll get the resources, support, and confidence to run your business like a CEO.

Enrollment closes July 25th, so now’s the time to join us and take the next step toward building a business that works for your life.

🧰Just want the Open For Business Toolkit? 

Open For Business is for brand-new beginners! You'll receive step-by-step guidance to set up your nutrition practice, including mindset shifts, the legal essentials, picking an ideal-ish client, and how to design your first offer. This toolkit includes all the paperwork and templates you need to get started. In just one month, you'll be confident, organized, and fully prepared to announce you're "Open for Business."

✔️Want to see what private practice is all about? 

Download The Ultimate Checklist to Start Your Private Practice and get step-by-step guidance to start your business with confidence. Take the first step toward more freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment today. 

📱 Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice

Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!

Join Jennifer McGurk, the CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, and Courtney Vickery, a valued team member and a multi-passionate entrepreneur in the weight-inclusive space, as they dive deep into the journey of building a successful private practice. In this special series, they explore the five distinct stages of business: SET UP, START, GROW, LEAD, and COAST. Each stage comes with its own set of emotions, challenges, and action steps, and they’re here to guide you through them all. Whether you're just setting up your practice or looking to expand and lead a team, they’ve got insights and resources tailored for you. Join them for stories, lessons learned, and expert advice to help you run your business like a CEO. 

Get ready to take up space in business and redefine what success means for you. 

1. Introduction to the Podcast Series: The podcast series explores the stages of business, emphasizing personalized approaches in life and business.
2. Changes to Business School: Business School and EXPAND are being combined into one program with two tracks, providing more direct support.
3. Stages of Business Framework: The framework outlines five stages of business, each with unique challenges and focuses.

Introducing each stage of business:

In the SET UP stage of business, you're laying the foundation to officially open your practice within 30 days. This phase is all about taking action and shifting into the mindset of a business owner. It's a time to make important decisions, like defining your ideal client and creating your first offer, while navigating the legal aspects of your practice. While this stage is filled with excitement and hope, it's also normal to experience anxiety and fear.

In the START stage of business, it's time to actively present your practice and announce that you’re open for business. This phase is all about experimenting with different marketing strategies, refining your systems, setting boundaries, and discovering your unique counseling style. As you build your skills, you'll gain confidence in your ability to market your business and deliver client results. Although this stage is exciting, it can also be frustrating at times, especially when you feel overwhelmed with balancing so many different tasks.

In the GROW stage of business, you'll focus on expanding your reach, refining your marketing, and improving your systems—all while continuing to serve your clients effectively. During this stage, you’ll experiment with different strategies to grow your audience and streamline your business. You may feel proud of your progress but also feel the pull to transition into full-time entrepreneurship, especially if you’re currently balancing a job. Both the excitement and the challenges you face are part of the journey.

The LEAD stage is all about stepping into a leadership role that helps you grow your business without burning out. It’s not just about constantly growing—it's about making your business more efficient, finding ways to take a step back when needed, and setting up systems that keep things running smoothly. Whether you’re preparing to coast or just want to focus on leading your team, this stage is about building a sustainable business that works for you. It’s a chance to refine your leadership skills and make sure your business is set up for long-term success.

The COAST stage is all about reconnecting with your "why" and giving yourself the permission to take a breather when you need it. It might be the most important stage of your business journey because it’s all about recharging, refocusing, and keeping things going at a pace that works for you. Whether you're working through burnout or just enjoying the space after a period of hard work, slowing down can actually be a big step forward for your business.

No matter what stage you’re in, this series will inspire you to take bold action and build a business that works for your life. It’s time to take up space in business! 

Timestamps: 

• 00:01 Introduction to the Podcast Series: Introduction of the new podcast series focused on the stages of business development, emphasizing that "one size does not fit all.”
• 00:24 Structure of the Podcast Series: The series will include an introduction and individual episodes for each business stage, encouraging listeners to download relevant episodes.
• 01:56 Business School Mastermind Program: Business School offers business coaching and a supportive community for dietitians. We're adding more to the program in September!
• 04:09 Co-host Introduction: Courtney is introduced as the co-host, having experienced all stages of business.
• 13:45 SET UP Stage of Business: Focus on laying the foundation to open a private practice within 30 days, addressing emotions and challenges.
• 17:57 START Stage of Business: Emphasis on presenting the practice, experimenting with marketing, refining systems and counseling style.
• 24:20 GROW Stage of Business: Expanding reach, refining marketing, and balancing client work with business growth.
• 32:50 LEAD Stage of Business: Importance of stepping into a leadership role, hiring, and building a sustainable business.
• 38:53 COAST Stage of Business: Emphasis on reconnecting with the business's "why" and taking a breather to recharge and refocus.

This episode gives you a quick overview of each stage, so you can reflect where you are and decide which episodes in the series are going to help move your business forward. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes dedicated to each stage of business this month! 

Courtney Vickery, MS, RD, LD is She's an anti-diet dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor with her own private practice, Vickery Wellness. She is also the CEO of Declet Designs, her website and branding studio for weight-inclusive businesses.

Find Courtney on Instagram at @decletdesigns 

Want more from Pursuing Private Practice? 

Business School is officially open for enrollment, and it’s the best way to get direct support for your private practice. This program combines business coaching, accountability, office hours, and the most supportive community of dietitians you’ll find. 

Plus, it includes a full curriculum designed to help you at every stage of business! 

In September, Business School will evolve into a mastermind program with two tracks: one for starting and growing your practice, and one for leading and building your team. No matter where you are, you’ll get the resources, support, and confidence to run your business like a CEO. Join now to lock in current pricing!

Enrollment closes July 25th, so now’s the time to join us and take the next step toward building a business that works for your life.

📱 Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice

Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!

Join Jennifer McGurk, the CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, and Amy Plano, Founder of The Reimbursement Dietitian, a successful private practice CEO passionate about helping dietitians create profitable nutrition private practices using insurance. Amy shares her journey of expanding The Reimbursement Dietitian by introducing a new service to help dietitians get credentialed and contracted with insurance companies. Jennifer and Amy chat about the ups and downs of starting something new, why meeting clients where they’re at really matters, and how group practices are shifting and growing.

Whether you're a seasoned dietitian or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration to help you grow your business. 

1. New Insurance Credentialing Service: Amy discusses her decision to add a new service to her business, focusing on credentialing and contracting dietitians with insurance companies.
2. Business Strategy and Operations: The conversation highlights the importance of efficient systems, leveraging team capacity, and experimenting with new business offerings.
3. Challenges and Lessons in Business: Amy shares insights on overcoming internal struggles, the importance of teaching team members, and the realities of group practice ownership.
4. Team Dynamics and Leadership: The discussion emphasizes the significance of having the right people in the right positions, providing growth opportunities, and stepping up to be the leader of your team.
5. Advice for Group Practice Owners: Amy offers advice on hiring, managing a team, and exploring different business models for dietitians.

It’s an honest and insightful look at what it really takes to build, lead, and evolve a successful group practice as a dietitian.

Timestamps: 

• 01:36 New Service: Amy shares her decision to help dietitians get credentialed and contracted with insurance companies, with plans for future service expansion.
• 02:28 Business Evolution and Vision: Amy talks about her evolving business model, her reputation in the dietetics community, and the importance of meeting clients where they are at.
• 06:57 Challenges and Internal Struggles: Amy reflects on the internal struggle of offering done-for-you services versus teaching dietitians to be self-sufficient.
• 10:09 Team Dynamics and Operations: Amy discusses how her team adapted to the new service offering and the importance of efficient systems in managing a practice.
• 20:17 Business Offers and Client Needs: The conversation shifts to the importance of aligning business offers with client needs and avoiding shiny objects that may not serve clients effectively.
• 27:02 Hiring and Team Management: Amy shares insights on hiring practices, maximizing team capacity, and the significance of having the right people in your business.
• 33:10 Leadership and Growth: The discussion touches on leadership, the importance of team growth, and the evolving nature of business boundaries.
• 38:08 Advice for Group Practice Owners: Amy offers advice to group practice owners, emphasizing the importance of internal reflection and the challenges of managing a team.

Amy and Jennifer get real about the highs, lows, and lessons of running a group practice, and what it takes to keep growing without losing sight of what really matters.

Amy Plano, The Reimbursement Dietitian, RD, MS, CDE, CDN, is a successful private practice dietitian passionate about helping dietitians create profitable nutrition private practices using an insured-based model. Together with her husband, Marc Plano, she runs the profitable The Plano Program, a health and wellness-based center in Orange, CT. She teaches dietitians how to use health insurance to make money in their nutrition practices through her coaching programs, online resources, and seminars. 

Want more from Amy? 

Follow her on Instagram @reimbursement_dietitian

Visit her website. 

Want more from Pursuing Private Practice? 

🗓️ Looking to start your private practice in just 30 days? Do it with our Open For Business toolkit: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/open-for-business/

📈 Want to get 3 new clients in just 3 days? Join the Get More Clients Challenge: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessplan/

🌟 Looking for the ultimate support system to build the private practice you’ve always dreamed of? Check out Business School: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessschool/

🌍 Are you ready to lead with confidence and expand your impact? EXPAND is your path to stepping into the role of CEO: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/business-coaching/

Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice

Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!

Join Jennifer McGurk, the CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, and Sumner Brooks, the founder of EDRDPro, co-author of How to Raise an Intuitive Eater, mom of two, and dog-loving RDN. Sumner shares her advice on raising children to become intuitive eaters, drawing from her personal journey in motherhood and her professional expertise. We discuss her three keys framework for fostering a healthy relationship with food and body image in children, and explore the challenges and triumphs of “balancing” motherhood as a business owner. 

Whether you're a parent, a dietitian, or someone interested in Intuitive Eating, this episode is packed with wisdom, tips, and resources to inspire and support you on your journey. 

1. Writing "How to Raise an Intuitive Eater": Sumner shares her collaboration with Amee Severson and the process of writing their book, expressing gratitude to her mentor, Elyse Resch.
2. The Three Keys Model in the Book: The book's framework includes three keys, unconditional love, flexible feeding routine, and intuitive eating voice, that interconnect to support intuitive eating.
3. Advice for Dietitians Working with Families: Sumner advises dietitians to understand intuitive eating with adults first and emphasizes the importance of listening skills and checking biases.
4. Balancing Motherhood and Business Ownership: Sumner discusses her personal experience with prioritizing and managing time to balance work and family life.

Sumner’s insights offer a powerful reminder that supporting intuitive eating in families starts with understanding, compassion, and balance - both at home and in business.

Timestamps: 

• 01:11 Discussion on Intuitive Eating and Parenting: Sumner shares her framework from the book and offers practical tips and resources for parents.
• 03:25 Sumner's Professional Journey and New Podcast: Discussion of Sumner’s new podcast, "What the Fuss? Parenting for Food and Body Image," aimed at addressing parents' questions.
• 05:16 EDRD Pro and Professional Development: Sumner talks about EDRD Pro, an online platform for continuing education in eating disorder care, and its supportive community.
• 08:15 Writing "How to Raise an Intuitive Eater": Sumner shares the journey of writing the book with co-author Amee Severson and the influence of mentor Elyse Resch.
• 16:20 The Three Keys Framework Explained: Discussion of the three keys framework, emphasizing the importance of each component in raising intuitive eaters.
• 22:43 Advice for Dietitians Working with Families: Tips for dietitians interested in working with families on intuitive eating, highlighting the importance of listening skills.
• 32:35 Balancing Motherhood and Business: Reflection on the challenges of integrating motherhood with business ownership, sharing personal insights and strategies.

Raising intuitive eaters and running a business both require flexibility, self-awareness, and a strong foundation of support, whether at home or in your professional community.

Sumner is a mom to 2 amazing kids, an avid reader, and a dog-loving registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) based outside of Portland, Oregon. She has been working in the eating disorder treatment space since 2009.

As the founder of EDRDPro, Sumner’s professional focus is on bringing innovative eating disorder training to fellow dietitians and students through weight-inclusive and diversity-affirming models of care. By marrying her passion for helping people heal with her entrepreneurial drive, Sumner’s goal in building EDRD Pro is to ensure accessible, top-quality training is available to dietitians in the eating disorder space. She is also the co-author of How to Raise an Intuitive Eater: Raising the Next Generation with Food and Body Confidence.

Want more from Sumner? 

Follow her on Instagram @intuitiveeatingrd 

Visit EDRDPro’s website. 

Purchase her book: How to Raise an Intuitive Eater: Raising the Next Generation with Food and Body Confidence.

Want more from Pursuing Private Practice? 

🗓️ Looking to start your private practice in just 30 days? Do it with our Open For Business toolkit: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/open-for-business/

📈 Want to get 3 new clients in just 3 days? Join the Get More Clients Challenge: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessplan/

🌟 Looking for the ultimate support system to build the private practice you’ve always dreamed of? Check out Business School: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessschool/

🌍 Are you ready to lead with confidence and expand your impact? EXPAND is your path to stepping into the role of CEO: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/business-coaching/

Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice

Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!

Join Jennifer McGurk, the CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, and Deanna Belleny Lewis, a registered dietitian and co-founder of Diversified Dietetics. Deanna opens up about the first year of postpartum life, navigating the tricky balance of motherhood and meaningful work. In this episode, she shares what it really looked like to “balance” the many hats she wears.

Deanna shares her journey through pregnancy, postpartum, and the challenges of balancing her professional roles with motherhood

Whether you’re a parent, a dietitian business owner, or both, this honest conversation will remind you that growth often happens in transitions and that you don’t have to do it all alone.

1. Integration Over Balance: Deanna emphasizes the importance of integrating work and life rather than striving for a perfect balance. By focusing on what truly matters and setting realistic goals, we can create a fulfilling life that accommodates both our personal and professional aspirations.
2. Building a Supportive Community: Surrounding ourselves with a strong support network is crucial. Whether it's family, friends, or colleagues, having people who understand and support our journey can make all the difference.
3. Embracing Change and Flexibility: Motherhood teaches us to be adaptable and open to change. Deanna highlights the importance of being flexible and embracing the evolving nature of both motherhood and business.
4. Pursuing Passion with Purpose: Deanna's dedication to her work showcases the impact of pursuing a career full of passion. By aligning work with values, we can all create meaningful change.

Timestamps: 

• [03:41] Career Impact of Motherhood: How Deanna's career was affected by motherhood, highlighting the significant changes and adjustments she had to make.
• [05:16] Maternity Leave Planning: Deanna talks about her approach to maternity leave, including the support from her team and the guilt she felt about stepping away from work.
• [08:43] Team Support and Guilt: Deanna reflects on the support she received from her team and the guilt associated with not being able to contribute fully during her maternity leave.
• [11:01] Balancing Roles: The conversation explores the concept of work-life integration versus balance, with Deanna sharing her strategies for managing multiple roles.
• [16:38] Future Vision: Deanna discusses her vision for a more easeful life, focusing on setting herself up for a balanced future while managing current responsibilities.
• [20:02] Support Systems: The importance of support systems in both career and motherhood is emphasized, with Deanna acknowledging the role of her team and community.
• [23:07] Identity Shifts: Deanna shares her evolving identity as a mother and professional, highlighting the unexpected joys and challenges of motherhood.
• [31:37] Vision for Motherhood: Deanna outlines her vision for motherhood and what that means for her and her family.

Deanna’s journey highlights how staying rooted in your values can guide both personal growth and professional evolution, especially during life’s biggest transitions.

Deanna Belleny Lewis is a Weight-Inclusive Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Public Health practitioner currently living in the Bay Area. She is the co-founder of Diversify Dietetics, a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the racial and ethnic diversity in the field of nutrition by empowering nutrition leaders of color. 

Deanna is passionate about creating system-level changes that advance equity, especially for Black and Brown communities. Before living in the Bay she worked for Harvard Medical School's Center for Primary Care as the Assistant Director of Systems Transformation. She has trained numerous allied health teams in leadership and professional skill development with an equity, diversity, and inclusion lens. 

She is the co-author of Embracing Diversity & Embodying Inclusive Leadership in Nutrition and Dietetics, a chapter in the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' Effective Leadership and Management textbook. In her free time, she’s either exploring the outdoors with her husband, Mikal, and daughter, Ella, or sipping a latte and savoring pastries while listening to a Tiny Desk concert.

Want more from Deanna? 

Visit her website.

Follow her on Instagram @deanna.rdn

Want more from Pursuing Private Practice? 

🗓️ Looking to start your private practice in just 30 days? Do it with our Open For Business toolkit: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/open-for-business/

📈 Want to get 3 new clients in just 3 days? Join the Get More Clients Challenge: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessplan/

🌟 Looking for the ultimate support system to build the private practice you’ve always dreamed of? Check out Business School: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessschool/

🌍 Are you ready to lead with confidence and expand your impact? EXPAND is your path to stepping into the role of CEO: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/business-coaching/

Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice

Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!

Join Jennifer McGurk, the CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, and Nicole Groman, MS, RDN, as Nicole shares her journey from starting a private practice to launching a line of anti-diet merchandise that resonates with both clients and professionals. You’ll hear about the ups and downs of selling merchandise, the creative process behind Nicole’s designs, and how a product line supports her business mission.  

Whether you're just starting out or growing your brand, this episode is full of inspiration for turning your passion into creative offers that make an impact. Get ready to be inspired by Nicole’s story to grow your business in a meaningful way.

1. Journey to Becoming a Dietitian: Nicole shares her background in psychology, her lived experience with healing from disordered eating, and her transition into private practice.
2. Development of Private Practice and Merchandise Line: Nicole outlines her journey from starting a private practice to launching a merchandise line.
3. Success at Conferences and Expos: Nicole shares her experiences and successes at FNCE and what she would have done differently.
4. Marketing Challenges: Nicole talks about how marketing merchandise can be challenging, but integrating a product line into other business offers and promotions has worked well.

Timestamps: 

• 03:23  Nicole's Journey: Nicole shares her transition from psychology major to dietetics, highlighting her personal struggles with food.
• 05:15 Starting a Merchandise Line: Nicole explains the initial idea for her merchandise, starting with a simple design that gained traction on social media.
• 06:51 Initial Challenges: Nicole discusses the logistical challenges of handling production herself, leading to a temporary pause of the merchandise line.
• 10:06 Revamp and Success: Nicole talks about revamping her merchandise line, leading to success at FNCE in 2022 and 2023.
• 16:17 Marketing Challenges: The hardest part of selling merchandise is marketing, as Nicole balances multiple business offers and different ideal clients.
• 20:10 Future Plans: Nicole shares excitement for new designs and products, discussing strategies to engage her audience for feedback on colors and styles.
• 25:20 Creative Process: Nicole talks about her creative process and hopes for the merchandise line to grow and reach more people.

Nicole’s journey shows how blending creativity with purpose can turn an idea into a meaningful and successful extension of your brand.

Nicole is a Registered Dietitian with close to 10 years of experience helping individuals heal their relationships with food and their bodies. Her own history working towards intuitive eating has shaped her compassionate, non-diet approach to nutrition. 

Nicole believes that all foods can fit into a balanced and fulfilling life, and she empowers her clients to let go of dieting and find peace with food through one to one counseling and group programs. She shares her intuitive eating philosophy and practical tips for a sustainable relationship with food with her community on Instagram @thehungryclementine and has created an apparel line of merchandise that celebrates and encourages breaking free from dieting for good.

Want more from Nicole? 

View her merchandise! 

Visit her website 

Check out her Eat, Chat, Love Community 

Want more from Pursuing Private Practice? 

🗓️ Looking to start your private practice in just 30 days? Do it with our Open For Business toolkit: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/open-for-business/

📈 Want to get 3 new clients in just 3 days? Join the Get More Clients Challenge: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessplan/

🌟 Looking for the ultimate support system to build the private practice you’ve always dreamed of? Check out Business School: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessschool/

🌍 Are you ready to lead with confidence and expand your impact? EXPAND is your path to stepping into the role of CEO: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/business-coaching/

Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice

Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!

Join Jennifer McGurk with guests Courtney Vickery, Whitney Bateson, and Morgan Sinclair as they share their unique journeys and expertise in creating impactful websites for healthcare professionals. Discover the importance of a well-designed website as an extension of your business, learn about the different platforms and tools available, and gain insights into the technical aspects of website maintenance. 

Whether you're a dietitian looking to enhance your online presence or simply curious about the intersection of nutrition and design, this episode is packed with valuable advice and inspiration. 

1. Transition from Dietitian to Designer: The guests discuss their journeys from working as dietitians to becoming website designers, highlighting pivotal moments and motivations.
2. Importance of Having a Good Website: The discussion focuses on how a website acts as a business extension and a crucial sales tool, compared to social media.
3. Google Analytics and Tracking: An overview of basic tracking metrics, their importance, and the impact of AI and ChatGPT on search and analytics.
4. Favorite Aspects and Challenges of Being a Website Business Owner: The guests share what they love about their work, the challenges they face, and the importance of outsourcing.

Timestamps: 

• 03:29 Guest Introductions: Meet our guests as they share who they are and their unique takes on designing websites for dietitians.
• 03:51 Wellness Pro Website System: Whitney talks about her Wellness Pro website system and how it helps dietitians get online with ease.
• 04:50 Branding and Web Design Studio: Morgan talks about her studio that supports weight-inclusive clinicians with branding and website design.
• 05:58 WordPress, Support, and SEO: Courtney shares how she helps dietitians build solid WordPress sites with ongoing support and a focus on local SEO.
• 07:14 Journey from Dietitian to Designer: Hear how each guest made the leap from being a dietitian to becoming a website pro.
• 19:05 Importance of a Website: Speakers dive into why a website isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a key part of your business that works like a 24/7 salesperson.
• 26:56 Website Components and Planning: From domains to plugins, they break down the essentials of planning and setting up a professional site.
• 32:45 Maintenance and Technical Aspects: Discussion on website upkeep, especially what it takes to keep a WordPress site running smoothly.
• 42:13 Google Analytics and Tracking: They explore how to track what’s working (and what’s not) on your site using Google Analytics.
• 46:23 Impact of AI on Websites: A quick chat about how tools like ChatGPT and AI are shifting the digital landscape, especially around analytics and traffic.
• 51:56 Favorite Aspects and Challenges: Our guests reflect on what they love most about their work and the real challenges that come with running a website business.

This episode is your reminder that building an intentional, effective website is totally doable and a powerful way to grow your business.

About Whitney: 

Whitney Bateson, MPH, RD, is a website strategist and marketing expert who has helped over 130 wellness professionals create high-converting websites that attract clients and grow their reach. As the creator of the Wellness Pro Website System, she has developed a proven, step-by-step framework that empowers business owners to launch beautiful, strategic websites - without the tech overwhelm.

Whitney is also the host of The Growth Show podcast, where she shares practical marketing strategies and website tips to help health and wellness entrepreneurs build profitable, sustainable businesses.

Find Whitney on Instagram: @whitneybateson

About Morgan: 

Morgan Sinclair (she/her) is a multipassionate entrepreneur in Houston, Texas. She designs brands and websites for clinicians through Morgan Sinclair Designs, hosts trips through The Eating Expedition, and co-hosts the Weight Inclusive Innovators podcast. When not working, Morgan can most likely be found grabbing drinks with friends, signing up for a new hobby, or on her way to the airport for a weekend getaway.

Morgan is an extroverted Enneagram Type 7, feel-your-feelings, dessert-before-dinner kinda gal. When not working, Morgan can most likely be found grabbing drinks with friends, signing up for a new hobby (like getting her level 2 wine educator certification!), or on her way to the airport for a weekend getaway.

Find Morgan on Instagram: @morgansinclair

About Courtney: 

Courtney is an anti-diet dietitian turned designer who swapped MyPlate for WordPress and now spends more time crafting websites than meal plans. These days, she’s the CEO of Declet Designs, where she helps weight-inclusive businesses shine online with websites, SEO, strategy, and branding that reflect their unique approach to health.

Before launching Declet Designs, Courtney was deep in the world of dietetics, running her own practice, Vickery Wellness, as an anti-diet dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. When she's not designing websites or teaching future dietitians, she's at home with her high school sweetheart-turned-husband of 15 years, their two kids, a dog named Oliver, and two cats, Finn and Callie. It’s a full house, but she wouldn’t have it any other way!

Find Courtney on Instagram: @decletdesigns

Want more from Pursuing Private Practice? 

🗓️ Looking to start your private practice in just 30 days? Do it with our Open For Business toolkit: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/open-for-business/

📈 Want to get 3 new clients in just 3 days? Join the Get More Clients Challenge: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessplan/

🌟 Looking for the ultimate support system to build the private practice you’ve always dreamed of? Check out Business School: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/businessschool/

🌍 Are you ready to lead with confidence and expand your impact? EXPAND is your path to stepping into the role of CEO: https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/business-coaching/

Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice