
About Jody

Specialties
Digestive wellness
IBS/IBD/Celiac disease
Food allergies & intolerance
Healthy cooking / meal planning
Heart health
Diabetes
Weight management
Plant-based nutrition
Sports nutrition
Welcome! I’m Jody.
Thank you for stopping by—I’m so glad you’re here!
I’ve been a registered dietitian for nearly two decades now. I spent the first part of my career working in clinical settings before opening my own private practice. Over those ten years working one-on-one with people, I fell in love with gut health. Digestion is fascinating, and as we learn more about the microbiome, it’s incredible to see how much we can help our bodies rebalance using nature and simple, intentional changes.
My curiosity about the gut eventually led me to go back to school for my doctorate degree in Health Science. I went into that program thinking I’d walk out with a set of distinct, step-by-step protocols to treat digestive issues. But the experience completely changed me. What the research really showed me was that while diet is a huge cornerstone, real health isn't just about what's on your plate. Our stress (both physical and mental), how we move, our environment, and our spiritual grounding all play a massive role in shaping how we feel.
After years of clinical work, I recently stepped into a new role. I’m now teaching at Carlow University and putting much more of my energy into writing. Truthfully, this shift came from a growing desire to focus on creation rather than guiding people through deep health struggles every day.
A big driving factor in this life shift comes down to how my husband and I spend our time outside of work. For a long time, we dreamed of creating an off-grid, self-sustaining life. During the pandemic, we found our dream property in the Laurel Highlands, and we've been building up our homestead ever since. We’re working on fruit orchards, expansive gardens, and a year-round greenhouse so we can grow our own food through every season. Living in rhythm with the land has shown me firsthand how simplifying your routine and spending time outside can do wonders for a sensitive nervous and digestive system.
I created this website to be a welcoming space where I can share the latest evidence-based gut health research alongside practical ideas for natural living. So often, the simplest changes—like cooking whole foods at home, calming your daily stress, and getting outdoors—make the biggest difference.
Whether you’re here to learn about the science behind digestion or just looking for inspiration to slow down and live a bit more intentionally, I’m so happy to share this space with you.
Credentials
Doctor of Health Science, PennWest University (formally California University of PA)
Health Science & Exercise Leadership (Aug 2023)
Master of Science, PennWest University
Exercise Science & Health Promotion (May 2020)
Didactic Program, Kansas State University
Dietetics (May 2008)
Bachelor of Arts, University of Pittsburgh
Economics/Psychology (May 1992)
Commission on Dietetics Registration (RDN)
Dietitian-Nutritionist PA State License (LDN)
Certificate of Training in Integrative & Functional Nutrition (Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics)
ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification (Expires 9/2027)
Member of the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics since 2008
Sylvotherapy Practitioner Certification (Feb 2025)
