Today we’d like to introduce you to Camilla Johnson.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Camilla. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
To my friends and family, my love of food has never been a secret. Early in my childhood to the present as an adult, my mother still describes me as someone who “thinks with her stomach”. I started @bossgirlbites in 2012 to share that love and my passion for nutrition. When I started this account, I was working on my undergraduate degree, Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with an emphasis in Dietetics. Since then, I’ve attained my Master of Science in Nutrition, and I’m currently studying for the Registered Dietitian exam. I used to suffer from disordered eating and I think it’s important to show people that it is possible to have a happy and healthy relationship with food. That food is something meant to be enjoyed. All food items fit, whether it’s for nourishment or pleasure. Although the “nutrition” part has taken somewhat of a backseat on my account, for now, it’s still really important to me. For example, when I start incorporating more recipes from home, I’ll include little basic tidbits about the nutrition content of the meal and discuss healthy behaviors to incorporate for those who may find it difficult when eating away from home. These days my account focuses on food featured from local restaurants and businesses, craft beer (because I’m a huge craft beer nerd), and easy recipes from home. I also started a new job at Panther Island Brewing located in Fort Worth. I work with awesome people who make great beer and I like to share what’s going on with the brewery as well.
Food gives people the opportunity to come together, create new memories, and explore new cultures. People who were once online friends became real-life friends and I enjoy having the opportunity to share my passions with others who have similar interests.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Social media has been smooth sailing, because it’s something I do for fun, and because I love being able to interact with other people about food and share new things they may have missed or not known about. I don’t put an emphasis on trying to grow my account because I think incorporating more quality posts and sharing what I love is more important and more aligned with me and what I enjoy. I always want this to be something fun, so I try not to put any pressure on myself about it. My advice for other women wanting to start any social media not being used for personal reasons is finding something you are passionate about. Knowing what to post and what to say will come along much easier and the quality of your content is more likely to be better because it’s something you love and enjoy. Your passion will show!
On the nutrition and dietetics side, the road has definitely been a little bumpy, but I would do it all over again if I had to. Choosing dietetics as my major gave me a feeling I had never experienced with my past studies – passion. I haven’t looked back since. It definitely wasn’t easy, but I worked really hard and busted my butt because I knew how much I wanted to become a Registered Dietitian (RD). Now, I have to study and pass the exam to get my credentials. To become an RD, you have to complete an undergraduate didactic program, get accepted into and complete a dietetic internship program, then pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam. In 2020, all individuals entering didactic programs will be required to have a Master’s degree before sitting for the exam. I’m currently studying for the exam I will take this month. If you’re in dietetics or contemplating becoming a Registered Dietitian, I recommend making connections with RDs and your professors, getting a variety of experiences in the field by either working or volunteering, and getting involved in your school, local, or state dietetic organizations!
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I’m a nutrition science, food, and beer nerd, and I can’t wait to get my credentials to become an RD to do what I love. I’m also about to be an RD that works at a brewery, which is pretty cool in my book. I’m passionate about debunking nutrition and food myths, sharing positive behaviors to incorporate into a happy and healthy lifestyle, and breaking down the science to give my future patients and clients the tools they need to make positive eating habits. I love food and I genuinely care about the health of the public. I’m very grateful to have found a path that is so rewarding and makes me happy to be a part of. I have a lot of plans for myself once I get my credentials, so stay tuned.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
My mom, hands down. Probably a generic answer, but she is the hardest working woman I know. Everything I have to where I am now is because of her. I never forget how lucky I am. She has worked incredibly hard to build what she has now. She’s a fiercely independent woman business owner and I’m very proud to have her as a mother. I’m also very lucky to be surrounded by so many inspiring women from family, to friends, to coworkers, to mentors. I wouldn’t be anything without their support and guidance.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @bossgirlbites
- Email: bossgirlbites@gmail.com
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