Meet Laurie Dunham | Registered Dietitian & Eating Disorder Specialist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Laurie Dunham and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Laurie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I decided to start my own business, I was seeking options that provided greater flexibility. I initially began my nutrition counseling business ~15 years ago on a VERY part-time basis while also working part-time at my hospital job. My kids were much younger and I wanted a better work-life balance. For the past 2 years, I’ve been 100% self-employed. The flexibility this offers helps me show up better for all of the amazing clients and families I work with.

What should our readers know about your business?
I work primarily with adults and adolescents who have eating disorders or any form of disordered eating. Dieting and “wellness” culture negatively impacts many individuals. I strive to dispel nutrition & health myths so that the people I work with can live full and happy lives. The focus of my work with adults is on behavior change. No numbers, no weighing or measuring, just getting back to basics and re-learning to be in tune with the body’s natural appetite cues. For adolescents, I partner with their parents/caregivers to create an eating plan that will bring the teen back to a healthy physical state so the body and brain can fully function. Anyone I work with receives nutrition education and skills to combat irrational thoughts about food and their body. This frees up time and energy to dedicate to the more important areas of life!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are so many amazing things to do and see in the Cincinnati area! I will mention a few. Findlay Market is a must see! I love the Farmer’s Market there and can’t go without buying bread from Blue Oven Bakery. Brunch at Goose & Elder across the street is always delicious. Next, I’d go to Smale Riverfront Park to swing on the huge swings, take in the sights of the river, walk across the Purple People Bridge, and finish at the labyrinth. Washington Park is another favorite, especially when City Flea, a winter market, or a peaceful protest is happening. After getting a bite to eat at Bakersfield or Abigail Street we’d head to The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The Cincinnati zoo has been a long-time favorite of mine ever since my now adult kids were young! Dinner at Cactus Pear never disappoints. Other spots, I’d want to stop would be Ludlow Wines, Alcove, Mad Tree, and Incline Public House! After exploring downtown, I’d head up North to Sharon Woods for a hike around the lake and east to the Loveland Bike trail. Ideally, we’d bike and stop for a drink and food at any of the amazing restaurants and breweries up that way.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
So many people have shaped my career as an eating disorder dietitian and business owner. Patients, clients, and their families never fail to inspire me with their courage & dedication. My family’s support has been my backbone. Friends have provided encouragement & laughs, and the clinicians and staff at Cincinnati Children’s Division of Adolescent Medicine were invaluable mentors, fostering a rich learning environment that laid the foundation for my growth in the field.

Website: www.lauriedunhamnutrition.com

Facebook: Laurie Dunham Nutrition, LLC