Nicole Rodriguez, RDN, NASM-CPT, is an inspiration to the fitness and health industry. She truly practices what she preaches when it comes to exercise and nutrition by helping her clients reach their strength and weight goals. Read on to learn how you can live your dream job by training hard and getting the right education necessary. – Sarah

Website: enjoyfoodenjoylife.com

Social Media:
 – Instagram: @nrodriguezrdn
 – Twitter: @NRodriguezRDN

What attracted you to the field of fitness and exercise? Growing up, I idolized my aunt who owned a boutique fitness studio. She was very much ahead of her time, and I can remember being as young as seven and asking her to buy me workout clothes for Christmas. At 55, she’s still the epitome of “aging goals.”

Company you are with now: Self-employed

Website: enjoyfoodenjoylife.com

A typical (or not so typical) day in the work-life for you: As a Mommy by day and dietitian/trainer by night, I’m often up early to catch up with clients via text and email, check in on social media, and tend to my volunteer duties within the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. My own training is a top priority, and I hit the gym four days a week at a blessedly quiet time. When the sun goes down, the action happens. I get dinner on the table (sometimes as early as 4:30pm) then head out for the evening. I’m lucky to live and work in a small, pedestrian-friendly, beachside city. My commute from client to client often involves a scenic stroll or trike ride on the boardwalk. Before bed, I like to unwind with a very hot shower, some research, and a to-do list.

How did you get your current job in fitness and exercise? I approached my business from the fitness angle, and became certified as a personal trainer as a way to put myself through school as a second-career dietitian. Before earning the RDN credential, I was always SUPER careful not to overstep my bounds as far as advising clients on nutrition. Now, I’m a one-stop shop for training, meal planning, and a wide range of support for individuals looking to enjoy food and enjoy life.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? Though you’ll never catch me with pom-poms, I’m a natural-born cheerleader! Celebrating client milestones within a realistic framework of goals comes naturally and joyfully. Building rapport is a skill I’ve carried with me from my first career (sales and education in the beauty industry) and it’s served me well in relating to a wide variety clients.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? Respect and honor your process. See the value in work experience that might not seem relevant to health and fitness. Whether you’re hustling to wait tables, slinging drinks behind a bar, working retail, or manning a customer service hotline, build on relating to people. You’ll be better for it.

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be? I especially love working with brides. Hearing that a client felt beautiful walking down the aisle is worth its weight in gold!

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist specializing in Weight Management and Sports Nutrition for youth and adults. She writes articles for multiple publications, provides customized nutrition coaching, and is a brand spokesperson. She is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta.Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.