We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nicole Fennell. Check out our conversation below.
Nicole, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Having worked intimately with people for over a decade, I can safely say that most people are struggling with stress, overwhelm, decision fatigue, and burnout. And, trust me, I am not immune to it either. Many fall on the spectrum of either knowing that stress is a problem, but feeling stuck as to what to do about it or, on the other end of the spectrum, they don’t realize how much stress is influencing how they show up, feel, and function each day. My motto: It isn’t about having “no” stress in your life, rather it is about knowing your stress load and doing what you can to create as much balance as possible.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Nicole Fennell. I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, mom of three, adjunct professor of nutrition at the University of Texas at Tyler, and founder of Chews Food Wisely Functional Nutrition. I help women who are tired of feeling brushed off or told everything looks “fine” on labs, even though they don’t feel fine.
Most of the women I work with are dealing with thyroid issues, hormone imbalances, bloating, fatigue, and that stuck feeling that no diet, supplement, or Google rabbit hole has been able to fix. My approach is rooted in science, but it’s also deeply personal. We look at symptoms, labs, and each client’s story to create a plan that’s actually doable in real life.
When I’m not working with clients or teaching, you’ll find me in the kitchen, outside on a walk, or soaking up the chaos and sweetness of life with three kids. I love good food, fresh air, and a good cup of coffee.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think that vulnerability is the key to any lasting, deep, and meaningful relationships. Whether it is a work relationship, practitioner relationship, or even a personal relationship, each benefit from a degree of vulnerability that allows for true connection. While the level of vulnerability will be different in different types of relationships, allowing people to experience the real “you” is what I believe allows for the most solid bonds.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Gosh, if I could go back and meet myself in my early 20’s when I was feeling discouraged and disheartened having just been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, I would tell young Nicole that one day the lowest point in her life would turn into her true passion and career path. That is, helping other women who feel stuck in a diagnosis, like Hashimoto’s, that can feel really isolating, confusing, and overwhelming. I’d tell her that her experience learning, advocating, and repairing her relationship with food and her body would ultimately create a deep empathy and expertise that radiates to those she serves.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
Working in the women’s health space, particularly the nutrition realm, there is so much emphasis on doing more to look and feel your best: more exercise, more restriction. There is this idea of “no pain, no gain” sometimes. The opposite couldn’t be more true though. The human body functions way better in a nourished state, not a deprived state.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I believe that being a Dietitian is my vocation. In my role as a Dietitian, I actually serve as an educator– that is, teaching clients how to properly nourish their bodies, not just telling them exactly what to eat and what not to eat. I am also an adjunct professor at a local University where I literally am a teacher which feels like a natural extension of the work I do in my private practice as a Dietitian. Being an educator, whether in the classroom or in clinic, feels like a natural gift and true vocation.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chewsfoodwisely.com
- Instagram: @chewsfoodwisely
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolefennellmsrdld/
