Headlines & Deadlines: Toby Amidor is Write On Target

PROLOGUE:
I met Toby at a recent nutrition conference and was immediately struck by how down to earth and easygoing she is. I was familiar with her work and her brand, but eager to talk with her and get to know her better. I hope you enjoy reading this interview as much as I did conducting it!

MELISSA: How did you become interested in a career in nutrition?

TOBY: When I was in college I wasn’t sure what I wanted to be. I really enjoyed studying biology and science but becoming a doctor was something I really didn’t want to do. At this time, my mom had also gone back to school. After having 5 kids and struggling with her weight for many years she decided to pursue a degree in food and nutrition. She was so in love with the field, it inspired me to take a few classes. That was all the push I needed to pursue my master’s degree in clinical nutrition and dietetics and become a registered dietitian. You can read about this on my blog here.

MELISSA: How cool is that?! What fun! There aren’t very many mother-daughter dietitians out there and I’m always fascinated when I meet one. Tell me a little bit about your nutrition philosophy and what are you known for?

TOBY: My philosophy is this: “Nutritious and delicious food make healthy living effortless.” In today’s world everyone is in a rush but that doesn’t give us the green light to neglect our health. There are quick and simple ways to eat healthy – even while living a hectic lifestyle.  My goal as a dietitian is to provide education, simple tips and recipes to help folks lead a happier and healthier life.

MELISSA: Such an accessible approach that Iím sure many people relate to well. What prompted you to start your business Toby Amidor Nutrition?

TOBY: There is so much misinformation spread about nutrition, my goal is to present science-based information to allow folks to make educated decisions about the food they buy and choose to eat. As such, I decided to start my own consulting firm where I take on clients on a project-by-project basis to spread the message of healthy eating and nutrition by way of public speaking or being a spokesperson, writing (blogging, article writing), and creating/demonstrating healthy recipes.

MELISSA: What do you enjoy most about owning your own business?

TOBY: I love taking on new, exciting and challenging projects. I also very much enjoy public speaking, especially in a roomful of food and nutrition enthusiasts.

MELISSA: Wow – most people find it at least a bit daunting to speak to their peers. But not you! What types of nutrition media/communications do you specialize in and what do you enjoy most about it?

TOBY: I am currently working on my first cookbook titled The Greek Yogurt Kitchen which is on pre-order on Amazon.com. That was a very exciting project and hopefully will be the first of many cookbooks. I also blog regularly for FoodNetwork.com’s Healthy Eats, Sears FitStudio, Sears Grilling is Happiness  and U.S. World and News Report’s Eat + Run blog. I also have a regular Ask the Expert column in Today’s Dietitian Magazine  and am a consultant on Bobby Deen’s Not My Mama’s Meals.

Social media is another form of communication I have become an expert in. I am active on facebook, twitter, Pinterest and Google+, and also am well versed on moderating twitter chats.

MELISSA: So, lots of writing! And for some very impressive outlets, too. I saw your article in Today’s Dietitian Magazine on blogging basics….Great stuff!  You also recently started a RD group board on Pinterest (thank you for the invitation)! What inspired you to start this and what is your vision for the group board?

TOBY: I always love reading what other RDs write but it’s tough to find links on Pinterest. The “RD Friends” Pinterest board was a way to link RDs so they can post their work in one location. It is open to RDs and RDs-to-be. To join, RDs should follow the board then email me to send an invite to join the group board.

MELISSA: Great idea and I’m sure it will be a hit among RDs! What skills or experiences do RDs need to cultivate if they want to engage in nutrition communications?

TOBY: In order to be successful in nutrition communications, it requires dedication, hard work and a love for food and nutrition!  In addition, really taking the time to understand the various communications mediums out there and not being afraid to try new avenues.

MELISSA: What comes naturally for you and what do you have to work hard on when it comes to nutrition communications?

TOBY: It took many years of practice to be able to create the perfect blog. In addition, the blog content and “feel” changes depending on your audience. So really understanding your audience and the message you want to convey is important. I love communicating on social media, but it can also become a time sucking boobie trap. Although I want to learn as much as I can, keeping an eye on my time is essential.

MELISSA: What are your top 3 tips for other RDs who want to improve their nutrition communications skills?

TOBY:

1) Gain experience: I run an internship program for current and future RDs where I help them fine tune their blogging skills. There is a minimum 6-month commitment unless there is a time constraint due to a school requirement. Other dietitians in communications take on interns and it is a great place to learn the skills needed and used in the field.

2)  Link up: connect with RDs in the field during conferences via social media outlets (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn). I enjoy following and supporting fellow RDs (and future RDs) and love to see new blogs or work they showcase.

3) Go for it: Don’t be afraid to reach out to your favorite nutrition magazine or start your own blog. The only way to succeed is to start knocking on doors. One will eventually open…though you may have to knock on more than a few doors.

MELISSA: Please share one story or experience that either taught you a lot or you think would help other RDs.

TOBY: Last year during FNCE, I received a tweet from a fellow RD. She attended the “30 and under” RD group meeting where they encouraged each other to reach out to other RDs in the field who inspire them. After receiving a flattering tweet, I tweeted her back with a place to meet. We have been in touch ever since and are planning on meeting for coffee this year at FNCE Houston. I really enjoy meeting dietetic professionals who share a passion for nutrition like I do – so never be afraid to reach out!

MELISSA: It seems your personality and focus on relationships really has been an asset for you. In addition to your very full career life, you also have three kids, speak fluent Hebrew, are scuba certified and are the co-captain of your town’s tennis team (which came in 2nd place this year)! I’m not sure where you find the time for it all, but it looks like you’re truly enjoying yourself. Thank you for carving out the time for this blog interview and sharing your expert insights with other RDs!!

Cooking with my kids

My family at Martha’s Vineyard

My daughter Micah picking string beans on a recent veggie picking trip to the local farm

EPILOGUE:
Thanks again to Toby for sharing her story and her expert advice.  It’s exciting to see all the possibilities out there for RDs.  So what are you waiting for?  Get your voice and your personality out there and start doing what you love and making a difference today!  Oh, and let us know what you thought about this interview or if you have any questions for me or Toby!

Like what you read here? Hear what other nutrition experts have to say about careers, communication and chasing their dreams. Visit the Directory of Dietitian Interviews and be inspired!