+8 years as an Embedded, Civilian DietitianI have had the unique opportunity to work as a full-time, embedded civilian dietitian for large public safety departments since 2017. I broke into the first responder space with Montgomery County (MD) Fire and Police from 2017-2021, then spent 2021-2025 with Fairfax County (VA) Fire and Police. I have completed thousands of 1:1 nutrition coaching sessions, hundreds of station visits, and tons of academy classes.
Nutrition is often overlooked in the first responder space, which is why RescueRD LLC was born in October 2020. I jumped into RescueRD full-time at the end of 2025 to provide departments nationwide with customized nutrition programs based on my experience. |
|
|
I Am Willing to Get My Hands DirtyI am a tactile learner. I learn best by getting my hands dirty and taking every opportunity I can get to understand the job. I have trained for and passed CPAT (it took me 3 attempts). I have done 24-hour ride-alongs at busy and slow stations. I can often be found at a station or academy teaching nutrition, fitness, mobility, or asking questions.
<<< Yep, that's me! I've been lucky enough to sit in on several training burns, and Fairfax even gave me a set of gear. Do I have any idea what I am doing? Absolutely not. But it did help me better understand the physical and mental demands! This isnt to pretend or "play" firefighter...I do not have the stomach for that! I believe it is essential to understand and feel the job BEFORE giving nutrition advice. The language and practicality of advice are what make first responders willing to change. |
Credibility You Can Count OnNutrition is my wheelhouse, but I also have experience as a personal trainer and strength coach. I started personal training in college and love weight training to improve performance! I understand the importance of fitness and the need to adjust programming around an unpredictable schedule.
In 2025, I was honored with the ASPDA Trailblazer Award for advancing dietetics in the first-responder space. First responders are often overlooked and underserved in terms of practical nutrition support, and I have dedicated my career to changing this oversight.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What is the Difference Between a Dietitian and Nutritionist?A Registered Dietitian (RD or RDN) is a legally regulated credential. Dietitians complete an accredited bachelor's and master's degree, a supervised internship, pass a national board exam, and maintain licensure through annual continuing education. RDs are qualified to provide medical nutrition therapy and can help first responders address nutrition targeting cholesterol, blood pressure, cancer recovery, and more! A dietitian provides consistent, evidence-based advice that can counteract the fads on social media.
The term nutritionist is broader and not consistently regulated. Training can range from short online certificates to advanced credentials. One example is the Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS), which requires a graduate degree, supervised practice, and a national exam, allowing CNS professionals in many states to provide nutrition care similar in scope to dietitians. “Dietitian” clearly defines training and regulation. “Nutritionist” varies widely, so the type of credentials or letters behind the name matter. |
The Fun Stuff!Get to know me on a personal level:
|
|
Quick Bites
|
Speaking
|
Wellness
|