In The Know with Nina

Live and Learn: Dietitian Real Talk on the GLP-1 Life

Show Notes

Episode Summary

In this episode of In the Know with Nina, Dr. Nina Crowley welcomes Summer Kessel, RD, CSOWM, LDN—known to many as @SummertheDietitian—for an honest and deeply personal conversation on living with obesity, navigating stigma, and using GLP-1 medications to quiet food noise and reconnect with body and health.

With lived experience as both a dietitian and a GLP-1 patient, Summer brings a unique, empathetic voice to the conversation—discussing why muscle preservation matters, how intuitive eating can coexist with medication, and what it really means to help patients follow through on their best intentions.

If you’re supporting patients on GLP-1s or exploring your own relationship with food, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical insights that meet people where they are.

Key Takeaways

  • Food noise, explained – How GLP-1s reduce the mental chatter and decision fatigue around food

  • Intuitive eating meets science – Medications can make space for mindful, values-aligned nutrition

  • Bias in the profession – Dietitians in larger bodies face judgment that impacts credibility and care

  • It’s not just about weight – Prioritizing muscle mass, strength, and daily function is the real win

  • Basics that work – Fiber, protein, hydration, and consistency still matter—maybe more than ever

  • The big picture – Supporting long-term health means focusing on who people want to become

About Summer Kessel

Summer Kessel, RD, CSOWM, LDN, is a registered dietitian, Certified Specialist in Obesity & Weight Management, and co-founder of JoinVineyard.com—a virtual telehealth clinic providing GLP-1 access and comprehensive support. She’s also the author of the upcoming book Living Your Healthiest Semaglutide Life, combining her professional expertise and personal experience as a GLP-1 user. Summer is passionate about breaking stigma, promoting sustainable nutrition, and supporting people on their journey to feeling stronger, more confident, and in control.

Connect with Summer

📚 Pre-order her book
🌐 JoinVineyard.com
📧 summerthedietitian@gmail.com
📸 Instagram: @summerthedietitian
💼 LinkedIn

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