The Future is Bright!

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Sunnie DeLano, a trailblazing leader in dietetics and the director of my dietetic internship program. With years of experience shaping the future of nutrition professionals, Sunnie offers invaluable insights into how the field has evolved—and where it’s headed next. We talk through her personal career journey, explore the changing landscape of dietetics education, and dive into the skills that matter most for today’s nutrition students. Whether you're an aspiring RD, a current intern, or a seasoned preceptor, this conversation is packed with practical advice and meaningful reflection.

Dr. Sunnie DeLano is an associate professor of teaching in nutritional science at Pepperdine University. In addition to teaching in the undergraduate department she oversees the Master’s degree in Nutrition and Health Science and the internship program for students studying to become registered dietitians.

She holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Pepperdine University and completed her Master’s degree in Nutrition, as well as her dietetic internship at California State University Northridge. She holds a Doctorate degree in Health Professions Education from Logan University, with research interests in the areas of weight management and intuitive eating, child feeding practices and best practices in the area of education for future health professionals.

She began her career in the areas of childhood weight management, eating disorders and sports nutrition before moving into academia at her alma mater, Pepperdine. Academia is where she found her home and has remained so for over 25 years.Dr. DeLano teaches undergraduate courses in sports nutrition and nutrition through the lifecycle and graduate courses in weight management, counseling and education, as well as leadership and communication. She serves on the coalition for homelessness in her community and has a passion for everyone going to bed with food in their stomachs, regardless of circumstances.  Her free time is spent at the beach, treasure hunting at antique stores or traveling!

Looking to break into the field with confidence! Check out my 1:1 mentoring services! www.sportsrdsnippets.com 

This episode is sponsored by 2before Performance Nutrition. Use code RDSNIPPETS30 at checkout for 30% off product online at www.2before.com