It’s official: Unbound Wellness is celebrating its one-year anniversary! What an incredible journey it has been since I first launched this blog. More than just a website, Unbound Wellness represents the culmination of years of dedicated mental, academic, and emotional preparation. It has become the heartfelt platform where I’ve been privileged to share my personal health story, countless nourishing recipes, and connect with an amazing community of like-minded individuals online.
This past year, Unbound Wellness has been my driving passion, the foundational launchpad for my nutrition counseling practice, and the realization of a dream I’ve nurtured for many years. As I reflect on this significant milestone, I’m filled with immense gratitude and excitement for what the future holds, both for this blog and for my ongoing mission to empower others on their wellness journeys.
To mark this special blog birthday, I wanted to open up and share a more personal glimpse into my life. Here are 10 things you might not know about me, offering a deeper understanding of the person behind Unbound Wellness and the experiences that have shaped my approach to health and wellness.
1. My Childhood Struggle with Meat Aversion and Its Health Impact
Growing up, my diet was anything but conventional, largely due to an intense aversion to meat. This wasn’t a principled vegetarian choice born from empathy for animals, nor was I a child who enthusiastically consumed vegetables by the pound. Instead, my digestive system was so compromised that the mere thought or smell of meat would induce gagging. Cheeseburgers were repulsive, and even bacon, a universally beloved food, was completely off-limits to me.
This severe dietary restriction inevitably led to significant health challenges. I was severely anemic, a chronic carb addict, and by middle school, I was already experiencing debilitating signs of hypoglycemia and adrenal fatigue. My body was so mineral deficient that I genuinely believed I had no sense of smell, dismissing it as a normal part of life. This deeply ingrained dislike for certain foods made me incredibly stubborn about changing my eating habits. My first attempts at gut healing protocols, undertaken years later, unfortunately failed—a setback I now attribute primarily to a critical lack of essential nutrition from a fear of incorporating meat and healthy fats.
It wasn’t until I was 23, facing a desperate need for profound health changes, that I committed to yet another healing diet. This time, I was determined to succeed. The transformation was slow and intentional. I began by cautiously introducing small amounts of beef, initially in the form of meatballs and nutrient-rich broths, about once a week. Over time, my palate and digestive system adapted, allowing me to gradually graduate to foods I once abhorred, like bacon, and eventually even nutrient-dense organ meats such as liver. This arduous journey taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, the body’s remarkable capacity for healing, and the critical importance of a nutrient-dense diet, even when challenging long-held aversions.
2. Embracing a Non-Athletic Identity: Finding My Movement Joy
If there’s one label that never fit me growing up, it was “athletic.” I tried nearly every sport imaginable: soccer, tennis, basketball, volleyball, golf. My mom even, for some inexplicable reason, signed me up for a boys’ baseball team, which was as awkward as it sounds. The reality was, I was terrible at all of them – truly, remarkably uncoordinated. For years, I carried a significant amount of shame surrounding my lack of athletic prowess, feeling like I constantly fell short in physical education classes.
However, as I matured, I had a liberating realization: the world offers an infinite array of talents and passions beyond sports. This understanding allowed me to finally shed that burden of shame and embrace my unique strengths. So, apologies to my frustrated PE coaches; your attempts to turn me into a star athlete didn’t break me.
This isn’t to say I’m not an active person. I value movement and staying healthy. Interestingly, even hiking, a seemingly straightforward activity, sometimes proves to be a bit of a challenge for me. Yet, I’ve discovered a genuine knack for weightlifting and yoga, which consistently keep me engaged and off the couch. These activities provide the physical and mental benefits I seek without the pressure of competitive sports. Plus, I can (mostly) walk in a straight line, so good old-fashioned walking remains a reliable and enjoyable form of exercise. My journey taught me the importance of finding movement that brings joy and aligns with my natural capabilities, rather than forcing myself into a mold that doesn’t fit.
3. My Lifelong Passion for Online Writing and Digital Storytelling
My love affair with writing on the internet began in elementary school and has been a constant thread throughout my life. It all started innocently enough with poetry forums, where I’d share my early creative musings. From there, I “graduated” to platforms like Xanga – a true throwback for anyone who remembers early 2000s blogging – then Blogspot, and eventually, the robust world of WordPress, where Unbound Wellness now thrives.
Beyond these public platforms, my creative drive often manifested in writing entire “books” on my mom’s desktop computer, which I would then squirrel away in my room. Yes, I am the proud (and slightly embarrassed) author of imaginary Smithtown, NY Time Best Selling Titles such as “Area 51: 911” and “The Return of the Mermaids.” For some reason, many of my early works were infused with quirky sci-fi themes, showcasing my vivid imagination.
Looking back, these early forays into digital writing, however silly or borderline cute they may seem, were incredibly foundational. They provided a consistent creative outlet and allowed me to explore storytelling and connect with others in new ways. Having this blog, Unbound Wellness, where I can now reach thousands of readers with a purpose-driven message, has only amplified my gratitude for that childhood obsession. It’s a testament to how early passions can evolve into meaningful careers and platforms for positive impact, underscoring the power of authentic digital storytelling.
4. Stinky: The Unexpected Love Story of My Feline Companion
Confession time: I might be a less-than-stellar cat parent, at least when it comes to naming. Our beloved cat, Stinky, came into our lives completely unannounced and under dramatic circumstances. It was during a fierce ice storm when my mom was leaving work, and this poor, shivering stray cat practically burst through the door seeking refuge from the cold. My mom, unable to leave him out there, brought him home, and I offered to take him in for just one night. One night turned into many, and for a while, he remained nameless.
It wasn’t until my husband, Daniel, playfully dubbed him “Stinky” that the name surprisingly stuck. And yes, it stuck because I’m a “bad parent” who couldn’t come up with anything better! Initially, we weren’t sure we were ready for a cat, and we even tried to rehome Stinky. He hopped between a few families, but we quickly realized the void he left was too great. Who were we kidding? He was already a part of our family.
Stinky is, without exaggeration, the most loving and needy cat I’ve ever encountered. He even has a little heart-shaped patch of fur on his side, which perfectly reflects his affectionate nature. He constantly seeks attention, purring contentedly as he curls up beside us. His unexpected arrival and the unconditional love he brings have truly enriched our lives, proving that sometimes the best things come into our lives when we least expect them, and with the most unconventional names! ❤
5. My Dual Career: Digital Marketing Consultant & Nutritional Therapy Practitioner
While many know me as a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP) through Unbound Wellness, my full-time professional life, which often feels like a side hustle to my passion, is deeply rooted in digital marketing. My obsession with writing on the internet, which began in elementary school, seamlessly transitioned into a professional career path. I initially pursued a degree in Dietetics in college, but after realizing that the conventional Registered Dietitian (RD) route didn’t align with my holistic vision of health, I pivoted. I switched my degree to Emerging Media and Communication, a decision that proved instrumental in shaping my current career.
In the digital marketing realm, I specialize in content creation, developing robust marketing strategies, and implementing growth marketing tactics. My primary full-time role is in advertising, where I leverage these skills to help businesses connect with their audiences. Beyond that, I also dedicate time to working with other health professionals, empowering them to effectively build their online presence and reach a wider audience. If you’re a nutritionist or health professional looking for expert assistance with your digital marketing strategy, I invite you to reach out to me. My dual expertise allows me to bridge the gap between effective online communication and authentic health messaging, helping mission-driven businesses thrive in the digital space. ☺
6. Unconventional Internships: From Disney Magic to Reality TV Mechanics
My career path has taken some delightfully unexpected turns, evidenced by two rather unconventional internships during my college years. Despite having no initial intentions of working in the entertainment industry, opportunities arose that were too unique to pass up. One summer, I participated in the Disney World College Program, immersing myself in the magical world of theme park operations and guest experience. It was a fascinating glimpse into a massive entertainment machine, teaching me valuable lessons in customer service and operational efficiency.
Later, I found myself in a completely different environment: Gas Monkey Garage. For those unfamiliar, Gas Monkey is a famous Dallas-based automotive shop featured on the Discovery Channel show “Fast N’ Loud.” They were in need of social media assistance, and I eagerly jumped at the chance. My role involved managing their social media accounts, primarily Twitter, and helping craft their online persona. In fact, I even had my brief moment of fame, appearing in the background of one of their episodes—a fleeting .05 seconds of television glory! These diverse experiences, from the meticulously planned magic of Disney to the raw, fast-paced world of reality TV mechanics, provided invaluable insights into various industries and honed my adaptability and communication skills in unique ways.
7. Two Weddings, One Husband: Our Journey to Say “I Do”
My husband and I loved each other so much and were so eager to start our life together that we couldn’t wait for a traditional wedding. We decided to elope, and it was truly a beautiful, intimate, and entirely stress-free experience. Surrounded only by our parents and siblings, I wore a charming ModCloth dress, and the focus was purely on our commitment to one another. It was a deeply personal and meaningful ceremony that I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world.
But don’t worry, we didn’t miss out on the larger celebration. Nine months later, we made up for the lack of a grand affair and a killer dress with a more formal wedding that was bursting with joy. Our second celebration was brunch-themed, a delightful choice that perfectly suited our style. A highlight of the reception was the special dessert I made: my mini Paleo crepe cake, which was a huge hit! These two distinct celebrations, each perfect in its own way, marked the beginning of our life together. ❤
Interestingly, even the actual, non-Paleo wedding cake proved quite a challenge to cut, adding a humorous moment to our big day.
8. My Journey from Paleo Skeptic to Enthusiastic Advocate
It’s somewhat ironic, given my current focus on ancestral health, but there was a time when I scoffed at the Paleo diet. My initial introduction to Paleo came through CrossFit when I was around 18-19 years old, and my immediate reaction was pure skepticism. My go-to argument? “Cavemen didn’t buy bacon at Costco!” I genuinely couldn’t fathom cutting out staples like black beans and oatmeal, which I considered healthy and integral to my diet.
My perception at the time was narrow, focusing on a literal interpretation of “caveman” eating rather than the underlying principles. What I failed to understand was that the Paleo diet, and ancestral eating in general, isn’t simply about mimicking our ancient ancestors. Instead, it’s about returning to a foundation of nutrient-dense, traditionally prepared whole foods while strategically removing modern, processed ingredients that contribute to inflammation and chronic disease. It’s less about historical reenactment and more about optimizing human health through diet.
Over time, my perspective completely transformed. While I identify more closely with the broader principles advocated by the Weston A. Price Foundation, which emphasizes nutrient-dense, whole, properly prepared traditional foods, I am now a proud and active member of the Paleo community. This journey from skepticism to advocacy taught me the importance of open-mindedness, continuous learning, and understanding the deeper science and rationale behind dietary approaches, ultimately leading me to a more vibrant and healthier life.
9. Self-Discovery of AIP Principles Before Knowing the Protocol Existed
My journey into the world of dietary healing took a fascinating turn before I even knew about the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP). As I mentioned, I initially scoffed at the Paleo diet, yet God has a funny way of surprising us and guiding us toward what we need. When I was 20, I received a diagnosis of leaky gut syndrome, a condition that finally provided an explanation for many of my long-standing digestive and health issues. Before formally discovering AIP, I intuitively began experimenting with my diet, gradually eliminating most grains, nuts, and nightshades from my meals because I noticed how poorly my body responded to them.
It was through searching for recipes online, particularly on Pinterest, that I stumbled upon the term “AIP.” I noticed that many of the recipes I could tolerate and enjoyed were consistently labeled with “AIP.” Intrigued, I delved deeper into what the Autoimmune Protocol truly entailed. I learned that it was a comprehensive dietary and lifestyle framework designed to reduce inflammation and heal the gut for individuals with autoimmune conditions. Committing fully to AIP meant cutting out additional foods like seeds, legumes, and the remaining grains I still consumed, along with other common inflammatory triggers.
The results were nothing short of shocking. The improvements in my energy, digestion, and overall well-being were profound. While I have since successfully reintroduced several foods, allowing for a more varied diet, I continue to follow the general template and principles of AIP. This experience was a powerful testament to listening to my body and the incredible healing potential of targeted dietary changes, even before I had a formal name for the protocol I was instinctively adopting.
10. The Unwavering Pursuit of My Nutrition Passion and Becoming an NTP
A little over a year ago, I experienced a profound “aha!” moment. I woke up with an undeniable clarity and conviction: I simply *had* to pursue my passion for working in nutrition. When you know, you know, and in that moment, I knew with every fiber of my being that this was my calling.
As I shared earlier, I initially studied to be a Registered Dietitian in college, but I quickly realized that the conventional RD path, often steeped in outdated food pyramid junk, didn’t align with my holistic and root-cause approach to health. Despite veering off that path, the desire to return to nutrition always lingered in my heart. This renewed determination led me to conduct extensive research into alternative nutrition education programs. That’s when I discovered the Nutritional Therapy Association (NTA), and I immediately knew their philosophy and curriculum were the perfect fit for me. Their focus on foundational health, bio-individuality, and empowering clients resonated deeply with my vision.
I was fiercely determined to start my studies with the NTA as soon as possible, but there was a significant hurdle: I didn’t have the tuition savings readily available. So, during the summer leading up to my wedding, I took on a demanding digital marketing project, working tirelessly to earn enough money for my tuition. And I did it. While I wouldn’t recommend my strategy of pushing myself to such extremes—it admittedly worked me into a Hashimoto’s flare—it ultimately allowed me to achieve my goal. This period was a powerful demonstration of my commitment and resilience.
Today, I am overjoyed, blessed, and incredibly excited to proudly say that I am a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner. This achievement not only fulfills my long-held dream of working one-on-one with individuals, helping them get to the root cause of their health struggles through personalized nutrition, but it also enriches my work as a digital marketing consultant. My deep understanding of the health and wellness space makes me that much more well-rounded and effective when working with clients in this field. I am profoundly grateful every day for this journey and for the path that has led me to where I am now. God is truly good, and I am thankful for His guidance in leading me to this fulfilling purpose.
So, there you have it – a deeper look into the person behind Unbound Wellness and the experiences that have shaped my journey. Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart, for your incredible support over the past year! Every single email, every thoughtful comment, and every engaging social media conversation has been absolutely invaluable to me. You truly have no idea how much your encouragement, friendship, and belief in my mission have meant. I can’t wait to see what the next year, and the years beyond, hold for Unbound Wellness and our growing community. Here’s to many more years of health, healing, and connection! ❤