Kevin Manbeck, MS, RD, LDN

How would you describe your approach to nutrition counseling?

My approach to nutrition counseling is similar to how I approach any relationship in my life. I enjoy fostering a space without judgment that encourages openness, honesty, and understanding. In practice, I use humor and positivity to keep conversations fun and engaging while remaining empathetic and affirming for topics that are more difficult to discuss. I aim to help clients separate self-image and self-worth from food and eating habits by using compassion, science, and active listening. "Food is life" is my mantra and I believe food can be an outlet for creativity and enjoyment in addition to refueling your body, rather than an emotional burden.

Which avenues of dietetics do you feel most passionate about pursuing?

Because of mixed messaging from the various media we all engage with, I feel a strong pull to helping others discern their minds regarding nutrition, food, and eating. Also, the intersectionality between food systems, social inadequacies, and policy-making is an area of great interest to me as society becomes more complex. I want to be a part of helping the world have a more comprehensive view of food and nutrition, or at the very least influencing those with the most control to have a more vested interest in the health and livelihood of those they serve.

If you were to have any other profession other than Registered Dietitian, what would it be and why?

It's hard to choose something else because I've never really pictured a specific job I wanted to do at any point in my life but rather gravitated toward certain aspects I like about jobs I've had - helping and engaging with others and incorporating my love of science and learning. If I had to choose, though, it would probably be a writer. I don't think I could ever become one realistically, but one of my greatest enjoyments in life (besides the grandeur of nature) is getting lost in a good character-driven story. I love letting my imagination take me to new places.

Where can we find you when you're not in client sessions?

Hosting or hanging out with friends; hiking, camping, kayaking, or other outdoorsy activities with my spouse and our dog, Scout, especially during the Fall and Spring seasons; reading, playing video games, or otherwise losing myself to some form of media; or finding a new recipe or restaurant to enjoy. My spouse and I also are trying to visit all the MLB stadiums in North America, so I may also be traveling to a random city during baseball season.

Education & Certifications:

B.S. of Science from Kansas State University; M.S. of Nutrition from Meredith College

Special Interests:

General Wellness, Chronic Health Concerns, Eating Disorders & Disordered Eating Patterns, Chronic Dieting, Weight Concerns, Body Image, Weight Neutral & Non-diet Approach, Diabetes Type I, Diabetes Type II, Mindful & Intuitive Eating, Adolescent & Teen Nutrition, Adult Nutrition, Older Adult Nutrition

Contact Kevin: Kevin@Nutritious-Thoughts.com