Alex Shink
March 4, 2024

Amanda Wagner, M.Ed, RDN, LDN.

1. What's your practice focus and what kind of clients knock on your door ?

I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) that specializes in plant-based eating, sports nutrition, & the intersection of the two. I am also a UESCA Certified Running Coach. My clients are typically gen Z and millenials, but also some older folks. My clients are typically vegetarian or vegan and some sort of athlete. Clients typically seek me out because they want to thrive as a plant-based person and/or athlete and have a better relationship with food and their bodies.

2. Tell us about yourself. 

I am a former high school science teacher who changed careers to become a dietitian in December 2022. I am also an avid runner and former division 1 cross country/ track athlete, who is enthusiastic about and fueled by a vegan diet. I became a UESCA Certified Running Coach in December 2023. I am on a mission to show others that you can be successful in athletics and life fueled by plants! I opened my private practice in September 2023 and it was the best decision I've made!

3. Tell us the story of a patient who you are most proud of helping.

I am most proud of a high performing athlete client that went from under fueled to energized and proactive with their fueling as a plant-based athlete after working with me. Their energy levels and performance improved! They felt better inside and outside of their sport on a daily basis.  I am so excited to see what their athlete future holds because I know it's very bright!

4. What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a practitioner in private practice?

All the hats of have to wear! I am the the owner, lead dietitian, marketer, accountant, etc. And if I don't know the answer to something than there is no one to ask in my busienss since it is just me. Thankfully I have many dietitian, running coach, and business owner colleagues + friends and they have been invaluable at helping me navigate business owner life and helping me with whatever comes my way.

5. What are the top 3 tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a private practice today?\

These would be my pieces of advice:


  1. There will never be a "perfect" time to start a private practice, so why not now?
  2. Owning a private practice can be lonely (especially if you are virtual ), so find colleagues who are also business owners. Learn from them, refer clients to them, market/support them, etc. They are your support, not your competition.
  3. No one knows what they are doing 100% of the time. Don't be afraid to tell a client, I don't know, but will find out for you. Clients appreciate transparency.

6. Where can people find you?

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