The early 1990s is when I first realized that food is more than just "something that comes from the kitchen." I didn’t think much about eating plenty of vegetables or where a steak came from—I simply ate what my mom made.

But at 12 years old, I watched a movie called City Slickers, and it changed my life. The comedy follows three city guys on a cattle drive in the Southwest. Spoiler Alert-the cattle were brought to a slaughterhouse at the end, an unexpected twist that broke my heart. From that day on, I decided I didn’t want to eat meat; it didn’t feel right to kill animals when there were so many other foods I could eat instead. That was over 30 years ago.

As I got older, I learned more about nutrition and how food impacts both physical and mental health. Although I was vegetarian, I still didn’t feel as healthy as I should have. I was taking midday naps, always bloated, my face was puffy, I looked older than I was, and I was getting cystic acne.

At 34, I decided to remove all animal products from my diet, and that’s when I noticed the biggest difference. For the past 10 years, I’ve been eating a whole-food, plant-based diet. I finally feel rested, and comfortable in my skin. I’m more confident, my complexion is glowing, and my clothes fit better without the constant bloat. I truly (and finally) love how I look and feel.

After teaching middle school science for 15 years and plant-based cooking for 3 years, I transitioned into nutrition to help clients facing similar challenges: fatigue, weight gain, digestive issues & accelerated aging. I want to show them that looking & feeling your best is simpler than it seems.

Originally from New York, I now live in Redondo Beach, CA with my fiance, where I enjoy daily walks, coffee, trying new plant-based recipes, weightlifting & creating social media content.