Steph Bryant, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: I live with my husband Eric. Together we are raising our son Calvin, two cats Turbo and Cosmo, and eight backyard chickens, whom we lovingly refer to as “the girls”. They don’t all have names, but we went through a Star Wars phase a while back and named a few of them: Hen Solo, Chew-bach-a, and Princess Lay-a. Very punny.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I’m originally from Massachusetts, just outside of Boston. I’ve lived in Carrboro/Chapel Hill since 2009.
Favorite way to be active: Running and walking are my go-to forms of movement! I also like to hike, swim, and ride my bike when I can. I just got an infant life vest so we can start to take our baby canoeing with us. 🙂
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? My dad was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes before I was born, so all my childhood memories of him include his struggle to be healthy. His diabetes impacted almost every part of his life, and he passed away when I was 18 years old. I am motivated to eat smart and move more so I don’t follow the same path as my dad. Now that I’m a mom, I want to be a good example for my son, and the rest of my family and friends, and to live life to the fullest.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? Small, manageable changes are the key to improving your health! It is so easy to get bogged down by all the ways you can change your lifestyle. Set yourself up for success by working towards one goal at a time, and really master it before moving on to the next.
How would you describe your teaching style? I love to teach with examples and analogies! The more folks can relate to the content, the more the material will stick with them long-term. I’m a visual learner myself, so I try to use a lot of imagery in my lessons. I also believe that some of the best examples and strategies come from the students, so I usually pick on folks to share their own experiences. It helps keep a conversational tone and everyone stays engaged.
Ashley Sponsky, MS, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: Live with my husband Doug, my two boys (Cameron and Alexander), and 3 pets (Cats- Pip and Gracie, Dog- Barkley).
Where are you from originally? Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA; currently live in Clayton NC.
Favorite way to be active: I love being active! I strength train and stroller walk with my boys throughout the week. I love playing softball and tennis for fun, and I am learning how to play pickleball!
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? My kids! I want to remain healthy while they are growing up and set a good example for them, so that I can see their children grow up too!
If you could tell participants one thing about the program? Take it one step at a time! Focus on 1-2 things during each lesson that resonate with you and you’d like to try, and grow from there!
Jenelle Wass, MS, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My family includes my husband, my daughter, a dachshund named Ruby, and a Westie named Penny.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I was born in Michigan, but I grew up in Asheville, NC. I love the mountains and try to get back as often as I can. My family currently lives in Chicagoland.
Favorite way to be active: I love walking, whether it’s a stroll with my family around our neighborhood or a strenuous hike in the woods. Over the past year, I also started weightlifting. I enjoy feeling (and seeing) my body get stronger and able to lift heavier and heavier weights. I round it all out with yoga, which is as much mental as it is physical.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? My family motivates me. Most of my extended family is overweight or obese. Many suffer from related chronic diseases. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated with health, nutrition, and food because I myself struggled with my weight and because I wanted to learn how to help my family members live healthier lives. Now that I have a family of my own, I’m even more driven to be healthy and serve as a positive role model for my daughter.
Why do you do what you do? I like that I’m able to bring evidence-based information to participants and help them use it wherever they are in their individual journeys to better health. I love witnessing that “A-ha” moment when something clicks for them.
How would you describe your teaching style? Approachable. Passionate. A little silly.
Esther Udonsi, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My family includes my husband and almost 1year old son.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I am originally from Nigeria. I moved to Texas in 2013 where I lived for 4 years, then moved to South Carolina for 3 years. There I obtained my bachelors degree at South Carolina state University. In 2020, I moved to North Carolina at the height of the COVID pandemic for graduate school at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, fell in love with the area, and currently live in Chapel Hill NC.
Favorite way to be active: For many years I was an active basketball player. Played all through college. After college, I found a love for long walks and occasional hikes. Since having my son, I try to utilize every opportunity I get to stay active by making minor changes throughout the day. At work, I take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk short distances instead of taking the shuttle, stretch after a long time of sitting, and still enjoy long walks as my schedule permits. I have also started incorporating strength exercises again.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? My desire is to live a long healthy life. I want to enjoy my kid/future kids, hopeful to see multiple generations. At a very young age, I understood the saying “prevention is better than cure” especially in a society where quality healthcare is greatly dependent on financial status.If you could tell participants one thing about the program? Knowledge is power. This program will equip you with the right tools and empower you to take back your health. It might not be easy but think of it as a gold mine; you need patience and determination to get to gold. The reward is always great.
Meredith Fine, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My husband Johnathan and I have two children – William and Madeline. We also have three cats – Billy, Rey, and Snickers.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I was born in California, grew up near Annapolis Maryland, went to college in Blacksburg Virginia at Virginia Tech, then moved to North Carolina in 2003 for grad school at UNC-Chapel Hill. We lived in Durham, North Carolina until August 2019 when we moved out to Colorado, where we live now.
Favorite way to be active: Anything outdoors – love to be outside on the trails where we live, hiking, biking, and swimming. I also stay active chasing two young kids around!
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? It is important to me to live a healthy lifestyle to set a good example for my kids to ensure they grow up in a healthy environment.
Why do you do what you do? I am passionate about motivating and encouraging individuals and families to learn how to make healthy lifestyle changes to improve their health and wellness and feel better overall.
How would you describe your teaching style? I try to have a good balance of humor while also keeping it real. I am honest and direct when teaching the information and will often share my own challenges balancing a healthy lifestyle – in real life. But I am also not afraid to laugh at myself along the way – like when I get out of breath doing a 5 minute move more activity during class – and try to keep the classes funny and encouraging.
Rachel Wasden, MS, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My husband, Nate, and our beagle pup, Walter.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I grew up in Idaho, went to school in Utah, and now live in Greensboro, NC.
Favorite way to be active: Walking! I love to explore local parks and trails while chatting with a friend or tuned into an audiobook.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I believe in the power of our small daily habits to impact how we feel. Making intentional choices around food and activity helps me feel my best physically and mentally.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program? The choices we make most often have the biggest impact on our health. This program will help you take a closer look at your daily habits and make small, consistent changes. Tiny changes that you stick with for the long term can have big rewards!
Suha Najjar, MS, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My husband and four children.
Where are you from originally? I am originally from Brooklyn, New York but Cary, North Carolina is what I call home.
Favorite way to be active: I love me some boot camp classes and have taken a new appreciation of different hiking trails. The scarier, the better. ☺
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I want to be a fun grandma one day! I love being able to keep up and stay active with my boys – kickball is our favorite. Sharing simple pleasures for generations to come helps put in perspective how important making healthy choices are now.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? Participate! Come to each class and share your thoughts. You never know who is learning through your tips for overcoming challenges. That peer-to-peer connection is invaluable.
Bethany Cyrus, MS, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My husband and I have a little girl and a sweet pup!
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I was born and raised (and continue to reside) in West Virginia – Mountain Mama!
Favorite way to be active: I love to do strength training! It makes me feel so strong when I’m lifting heavy weights! I also love to play all kinds of sports, particularly ultimate frisbee! I also love just walking with my family around our neighborhood!
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I feel so much better physically and mentally when I fuel myself well and keep moving! In addition to that, I also eat well to help my own GI issues!
If you could tell participants one thing about the program? Do it! You will learn how to make sustainable life-long choices to better yourself! We are here for you!
Caroline Nelson, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: I live with my husband (Tyler), two rambunctious cats (Shadow and Tipsy), and our lab (Beau).
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I’m originally from Dallas, Texas, but now live in Raleigh, NC.
Favorite way to be active: My favorite activity is walking for the physical and mental health benefits. I also enjoy yoga and hiking, and I play on a kickball team weekly.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I am motivated by my energetic dog who needs multiple walks every day. I also want to stay strong and healthy for my family, and future, and to keep up with my wild nieces.If you could tell participants one thing about the program? Not everything happens at once. Time, patience, and practice can lead to the best long-lasting results.
Elizabeth Strawbridge, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: I live with my husband and my rescue pitbull Griffin.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? Growing up, I lived in 3 countries and 5 states. I was in Durham for most of the last decade, but have recently moved to Gainesville FL due to my husband’s medical training. I miss the triangle area of NC but am learning to love “the swamp” (although you will not find me cheering for the Gators, as a University of Georgia grad!).
Favorite way to be active: I love to walk. In college I got involved with Team in Training and finished 3 half marathons as a proud race walker over the subsequent 5 years. My neighborhood has great trails, and I love early morning walks as a great way to start my day.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? Like many others, it is my health that drives me to make smart behavior choices. With a degree in public health, I’ve learned how important these behaviors are, even those that are seemingly small or insignificant. It all adds up!
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? That your health is worth it. That this class will help give you the tools to make long-lasting change, if you’re ready for it.
Why do you do what you do? I love talking about nutrition and healthy eating with others. I have had weight issues since childhood, and find that nothing helps more than a supportive group environment. I do my best to foster that safe space in my class, so it is a judgment-free place where we can lift each other up and work through any problems that arise.
How would you describe your teaching style? I try my best to be a group facilitator rather than teacher, allowing us to learn from one another rather than listen to a lecture during each lesson.
Cara Jenkins, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: Husband – Burt and 2 daughters – Avery (11), Caroline (8). We also have a mini Labradoodle, Rookie, who keeps us on our toes!
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I am originally from Eden, NC and I currently live in Chapel Hill, NC.
Favorite way to be active: I love to take walks with my girls and be in the water playing with them. But my favorite way to exercise is going to Burn Boot Camp. It is fun, fast-paced, and always a great workout!
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I know that to be my best self, I need to take care of myself, which means making healthy choices about what I put in my body and how I move my body. I can be there for my family in the way that they need me if I am taking care of myself. I also want to set a good example for my daughters to learn what taking care of their bodies looks like.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be?
It works! Give it your best, be honest with yourself about what changes you’d like to make, make YOU a priority…and see what wonderful things can come!
Favorite moment teaching Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less: My favorite lesson is the Reduce Portions lesson because it is so eye-opening! My favorite thing about teaching these classes is when participants share their success stories and we all celebrate with them!
How would you describe your teaching style? I have a laid-back style but I also pack a lot of information into a little amount of time. I love to tell stories and hear stories from participants. And a joke or pun always seems to make it into the lesson. Laughter is good for the soul!
Emma Liu, MPH, RDN, LDN
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I’m originally from the research triangle area and proudly attended UNC Chapel Hill for both my undergraduate and graduate studies – Go Heels!! Now I call Nashville home!
Favorite way to be active: I enjoy hiking and exploring our National Parks. I have a passport that I stamped after visiting each new place! When I’m home, Youtube videos are my go-to. GrowWithJo is one of my favorite Youtube fitness channels!
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? My motivation comes from wanting to feel my best and maintain my health for the long term. Eating nutritious foods and staying active boost my energy and help prevent future health issues, so I focus on making choices today that promote a healthier tomorrow.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? The key is finding what motivates YOU and staying committed to it! Come to class and embrace the journey! Remember that setbacks are normal. We’re all working together to build lasting lifestyle changes, and every day offers a new opportunity to make healthier choices.
Karen Bean, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My husband, Tom. My kids are now ‘adults’. My son has graduated college and is out in the working world. My daughter is in college at NCSU. We have 2 cats (Midnight and Goose) and1 Beta fish (George).
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I was born and raised in Durham, NC where I currently live.
Favorite way to be active: Playing tennis – my son plays; occasionally we can play doubles with my brothers. Walking – great stress reducer. Yard work – I enjoy being outside (even in the summer heat).
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? Being healthy. I learned in school certain diseases are preventable and I want to prevent what diseases I can. I want to enjoy life. I want to be realistic and set a positive example for my family.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be?
Find what works for them and be realistic. Losing weight is ‘hard’ work but has great rewards. Moderation is the key. They need to be mindful of all aspects of life – mental, physical, spiritual, and social.
Why do you do what you do? I enjoy helping others and seeing participants learn how to make changes that enrich their lives beyond the scale.
How would you describe your teaching style? Motivational Interviewing. Hopefully, encourage participants to find their own ‘way’ to make behavior changes.
Archana Revankar, MBBS, MPH, CHES, CHWC
Family, including pets: My husband and I live in Mechanicsburg PA. We have our only child – daughter Anwita who keeps us busy!
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I am originally from Bangalore, India and moved to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2007 where I lived for 17 years. We recently moved to Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania ( May 2024).
Favorite way to be active: I enjoy brisk walking on a treadmill at my home. I also do aerobic workouts and some strength training using resistance bands. I have participated in 5 half marathons so far, and I try to run the turkey trot each year during Thanksgiving. As a family, we enjoy walking in the neighborhood greenway and going on hikes!
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? My motivation is to keep myself healthy for my child. I want to be a role model for my child. I am a health coach as I want to practice what I preach.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? The program is very educational and provides tips and strategies to adopt a healthy lifestyle by helping participants set SMART goals.
Favorite moment teaching Eat Smart, Move More, Prevent Diabetes: My favorite moment is during check in at the beginning of lesson when participants share their past weeks successes with respect to healthy eating and/or physical activity.
How would you describe your teaching style? I like to make my class interactive, allowing participants to share ideas.
Carrie Reid, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My husband, our two wonderful sons, and our lovely daughter. We have three cats and a new puppy, Layla!
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I am from Grand Rapids, Michigan, where I spent all of my childhood. After moving to Illinois, Indiana, Greensboro, NC, and Texas, I finally moved to Raleigh, North Carolina 14 years ago, and enjoyed the lovely climate and perfect location!
Favorite way to be active: I really enjoy my daily walks and jogs, especially when I do them with family or friends. I also have been doing weight-lifting group fitness classes for many years now, and love lifting weights as a stress reliever.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? One of the biggest motivators for me is the goal of maintaining my health for many years to come. I also want to be in good shape to keep up with my children, while being a good role model for them.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? I think it is important to remember that if you have a bad day or days, and you aren’t as successful during that period, you can always get right back into prioritizing eating healthy and being active. It is never too late to start again, and you are worth it!
Favorite moment teaching Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less: The best moments are when a person is achieving their goals, and being able to be a part of their journey, getting to help cheer them on to success.How would you describe your teaching style? I like to stay positive and make participants feel welcome and comfortable.
Julia Nguyen, MS, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My family includes me, my parents, my sister, and our cat, Eli.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky (Go Cats!). I moved to Raleigh in 2020 after I fell in love with the city.
What is your favorite way to be active? Hiking or going on walks with my friends and family. NC has some awesome views!
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I know that I eat smart and move more as a form of self-care to take care of my body and mind. When I do, I notice that I feel happier. I am grateful that I am able to move my body and endure tough workouts or go on hikes to experience incredible views. As a result, I try to take care of my body so that I can continue to feel strong, and powerful and live life to the fullest.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? This program is all about you and improving yourself! You get out of it what you put into it and we want to help you along the way. Not only are we here to provide information and resources to help you, but we are here to support and empower you throughout the journey!
How would you describe your teaching style? I try my best to be supportive, and approachable and create an environment where all participants feel welcome to share their experiences and tips so that we can all encourage each other.
Ellie Lawrence, MS, RDN, LDN, CDE
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I grew up in a tiny town in central IL called Monticello. It’s flat as a pancake and I miss running for miles and never going up a hill. I live in Durham, NC and love it, even though I have to run up hills.
What is your favorite way to be active? Running. I started running at 11 and it just brings me joy, makes me feel alive, and it makes me feel free. It’s a good reminder to keep putting one foot in front of the other. I also enjoy hiking, swimming, and really all things outdoors. I’m bad at any sport that involves hand eye coordination, but I’ll play.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? My friends and family. I think that eating smart is more fun with others (come over for dinner) and I believe strongly that the best conversations happen on a run or walk.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? You Matter!
How would you describe your teaching style? I’m a cheerleader. I want to see you succeed and I want you to know I believe you can do it.
Why did you become a dietitian? I love food, I love people, and I love science. It seemed like the perfect combination. I love that good nutrition is self care. I love that by choosing good food and healthy movement, I’m also helping people choose a future they want.
Michelle Bean, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My family includes my husband and four kids. We also have five pets, four cats (2 tabbies and 2 tuxedos), and 1 big (95-pound) dog!
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I’m originally from Colorado. I grew up in the mountains, and I miss snow! I came to North Carolina for grad school and met my husband. He’s from Durham, and we’ve lived in Durham for a long time. Even without snow, NC is a great place to live, and I still can’t believe that I’m only two hours from a beach!
Favorite way to be active: I try to be active and exercise daily by walking or going to the gym. I also enjoy hiking, and we love the Eno. We’re trying to visit and hike in national and state parks. So far, we’ve enjoyed Yellowstone, the Tetons, and many parks in Utah and Colorado.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? There are so many reasons to eat smart and move more. Participants say that they feel better, have more energy, sleep better, have fewer aches and pains, and much more! I have a good friend who has Rheumatoid Arthritis, and she treats it largely with diet. Watching her journey really drove home the point to me that diet can be so powerful, and even small changes can have profound effects on our health and well-being.
If you could tell participants one thing about this program, what would it be? I like how this program focuses on nutrition and on actionable goals that fit into daily life. A lot of people read about health and nutrition, but then what? How does it fit into a busy schedule? How do you make it work? How do you keep it up for a month, six months, a year? This is an opportunity to set goals, reach them, and fit it all into your life for the long term!
Kerry Lett, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: I live with my husband, border collie (Rory), and two cats (Arya & Izzy).
Where are you from originally? I grew up in Hanover, Pennsylvania, which is best known for being the home of Utz Potato Chips and Snyder’s Pretzels.
Favorite way to be active: I love hiking in North Carolina state parks with my dog and husband along with trying new activities at the gym, including yoga, cycling, and rock climbing.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? We only get one body, so it is so important that we treat it right by moving it regularly and fueling it with healthful foods. Remembering this motivates me to continue to eat smart and move more.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? It is important to remember that this program is not a fad diet. Instead, this program is the start of a lifestyle change to help you eat smart and move more. It will be hard at times, but the results of feeling better in your body and improving your health can be so rewarding.
Why do you do what you do? I teach for the program because I enjoy connecting with people and helping them feel better in their bodies. I also love the community that group programs create.
Elizabeth Barnes, MS, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My partner and I share a home with four cats! Yes, that is a lot of cats but we love them. Suki, Toph, Chicken, and Squeaks are their names.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I grew up in Conyers, GA. I moved to North Carolina about 15 years ago. I loved living in Georgia but I do not miss the summer heat!
Favorite way to be active: My favorite way to be active is roller skating. I love going to the skating rink. The sights, the smells, the sounds remind me of being a kid. It is so freeing to slap on some skates, jam to some music, and go fast!
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I am motivated to eat smart and to move more by a desire to maintain a good quality of life as I age. I want to be able to continue doing the things that I want to do no matter what age I am.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? Components of the program may be challenging at times, but you aren’t doing it alone! You have a whole group of people going through the program with you. The group will be there to support, uplift, and encourage you through your journey.
Alicia Bicksler, MS, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: I have an older brother, sister-in-law and two nieces who live in Atlanta, GA. I have a younger brother, sister-in-law and two fur baby nephews that live in Los Angeles, CA. I’m very fortunate to have my mom living in Raleigh not too far from me.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I’m originally from Baltimore, MD but have lived in North Carolina most of my life (with the exception of living an amazing year in Canada when I was in middle school). I currently live in Raleigh and absolutely love it.
Favorite way to be active: I love going on walks with my friends- it’s a great way to get exercise and catch up with them! I also love doing workouts classes like boot camps and boxing.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I’m motivated to eat smart and move more because of my own personal struggles with obesity. Finding a balance and prioritizing my health has been essential to my own journey. I am also motivated to eat smart and move more because of my two nieces who keep me very busy! I love biking, hiking, and cooking with them.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? To take one step at a time, literally! Making small changes over a long period of time results in lasting change. Like the age old saying, “Slow and steady wins the race.” Along with that, I would say don’t overwhelm yourself!
Jessica Wallis, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: I am blessed with a close-knit family, although we live in many states! I also have furry nieces and nephews.
Where are you from originally? I grew up in a small town in southwestern Ohio called Yellow Springs. I lived in Washington state and Colorado before finding my way to North Carolina.
Favorite way to be active: I enjoy yoga and HIIT classes, but being a new homeowner with a large yard, most of my activity these days comes from gardening (digging holes) and yard work.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I think about eating smart and moving more as the foundation that allows me to live my best life. I know both are essential not only for health and longevity but to engage and enjoy all aspects of life.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? Small steps lead to lasting and meaningful change, and there are no diets! You got this!
Brittany Perrault, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My family includes my husband, Mathieu; our twin boys, Lafayette and Olivier – yes they’re identical and yes we can tell them apart, our daughter, Eloise; and our 5-year-old Dalmatian, Carolina.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? Originally, I am from St. Louis, Missouri; though I moved to Chapel Hill for graduate school and now reside in Boise, Idaho.
Favorite way to be active: Since becoming a retired soccer player, I’d have to say my favorite way to be active is hiking in the rocky mountains but I also enjoy less intense activities such as going on family walks around the neighborhood and playing fetch with my dog at the park.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? Because I have type 1 diabetes, I know from experience that eating smart and moving more is the key to living a long and healthy life for my family. Not only does it make the management of blood sugars easier, but it makes me feel better in general. I know that eating smart and moving more is good for my mind and body and it helps to reduce my risk of developing other chronic diseases.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? This evidence-based program is designed to be user-friendly and gives you the tools and knowledge to meet your health goals. It is a great way to begin your health journey! Come to class knowing that after each lesson you will leave having learned something you can immediately use in real life!
Christina Dyer, MS, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: My husband John and I have been married 23 years – we have two daughters (Layla and Emma) and two rescue beagle mix puppies (Coco and Tahoe) that keep me on the move.
Where are you from originally? I was born and raised on a small farm in Oklahoma where I grew up with a huge garden, sheep and horses. Since then I have lived in 6 different states, Washington D.C. and Spain. I graduated with a B.S. in Nutritional Science from Oklahoma State University and a Master’s of Science in Public Health Nutrition from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Currently I live in the northern part of New Jersey!
Favorite way to be active: My favorite ways to be active are walking, yoga, hiking, gardening and skiing. I love to be outdoors – nature is my way to relieve stress. I am on a mission to visit as many National Parks that I can in the US (I aim for one per year!). My two favorites have been Acadia National Park in Maine and Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. I also love to garden and currently have an obsession with planting bee friendly wildflowers and Zinnias.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I love to cook and try new foods! I still have my first cookbook from age 9: How to Cook Healthy Stir-Fry. Variety and the love of trying new things keeps me going and my goal is to keep my body healthy so I can enjoy life.I also feel better when I am active and being mindful of what I am eating.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? This program is fun and helps you make changes step by step! Having weekly support in class along with all the great resources are great ways to keep you moving towards your goals.
Hayley Gillam, MPH, RDN, LDN
Where are you from originally? I’m originally from California but have been moving around since college. I lived abroad in South Korea and on a cruise ship before coming back to the states and finally settling in Florida.
Favorite way to be active: Boxing! I got into the sport a few years ago and love how it works my mind and my body. I also love that the community is so welcoming and encouraging.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I want to be able to feel good in my body both now and in the years to come. I know like anything else, in order to keep my body working well I have to nurture it and treat it well.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? This program is designed to help you make sustainable changes to your lifestyle through lessons, community, and accountability. It will guide you to make changes that are right for you and support you along the way!
How would you describe your teaching style? I’ve spent a lot of time working with kids, which helps me to be more creative and adaptable. I look forward to thinking outside the box to help you overcome whatever challenges you’re facing that prevent you from eating smart and moving more!
Stephanie Langa, MPH, RDN, LDN
Family including pets: My partner Bryan, our corgi Tilly, and our cat Kona.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I was born and raised in Michigan, and while I’ve traveled to many beautiful places throughout the country, this will always be my home.
What is your favorite way to be active? I love hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, traversing National Parks, and gardening.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? My biggest motivator to eat nourishing foods and move my body is that I want to live a long, healthy life. I want my body to be well and strong enough to take me to do all of the things I dream of doing.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be?
You get out of the program what you put in. This program has the potential to change your quality of life if you give it the chance. Show up for yourself every week and watch your body and life transform!
How would you describe your teaching style? I would describe my teaching style as relaxed, flexible, and fun. I want my students to take what they need from my classes and have fun during the hours we spend together every week!
Neils Barringer, MS, RDN, LDN
Family, including pets: I am so blessed to have my parents, siblings, and grandparents live super close.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I was born and raised in Durham, now I am in Raleigh!
What is your favorite way to be active? I love going on runs while listening to audiobooks, taking walks with friends, and playing golf.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? I love moving in the morning to help clear my mind and prepare for the day. Being outside and enjoying the sunshine always brightens my day. A key part of being able to stay active and feel good is eating healthy foods that fuel my body.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? This program is going to equip you with all the tools you need to fill your toolbelt so you can build not just the foundations of a healthy lifestyle but one that flourishes.
How would you describe your teaching style? We are all in this together! I really believe in a sense of community and coming alongside one another through our classes together. Having strong positive relationships builds trust and helps to develop my support for you!
Cindy Bartlett, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Family, including pets: My husband and I have two daughters, Lia and Claire. We also have a pup named Mollie.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now? I am originally from Indiana (Go Boilermakers) but our family is now happy to call Hillsborough, NC home.
What is your favorite way to be active? Walking! I love popping in my headphones, listening to some music or a podcast, and just being out in nature. This is something that I find realistic for me to do that has a big impact on both my physical and mental health.
What motivates you to eat smart and to move more? Aside from all the health benefits, it just makes me feel good! I feel so much better mentally when I make my health and well-being a priority.
If you could tell participants one thing about the program, what would it be? You deserve to make yourself a priority and by putting in the work with this program, you are doing just that! Behavior change can feel hard at times, but you are not alone. The group and instructors are here to support and encourage you!
How would you describe your teaching style? My goal is to empower and encourage you throughout your journey to achieve your goals. I try my best to create an environment that promotes group support where individuals feel comfortable participating!