Rika Mansingh, RD
How did you become a dietitian, and what inspired you to pursue a career in nutrition?
My journey into dietetics was sparked by a deep fascination with the powerful connection between food and overall well-being. Early on, I realized that food has the ability to heal, transform health, reduce reliance on medication, and enhance energy and vitality. When we fuel our bodies with the right nutrients, we sleep more soundly, move with greater ease, and live a vibrant life. With 23 years in this field, not a day goes by that I am not profoundly grateful to be in a profession that I am deeply passionate about—one that allows me to change lives through the power of nutrition.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?
My most rewarding moments are when I witness people break free from old habits and step into a version of themselves, they never thought was possible. Whether it’s a patient or client finally feeling in control of their eating habits, a listener having an ‘aha’ moment or powerful insight from my podcast, or a viewer applying a practical tip from my TV segments and seeing improvement—the most rewarding moments come from witnessing real transformation. Knowing that my work has helped people break free from old habits, feel better, and live with more vitality and joy brings me immense fulfillment.
How do you stay motivated in your career, and what drives you to keep learning and growing as a professional?
I am fueled by curiosity, impact, and the belief that knowledge is limitless. There is always more to learn, explore, and share. Nutrition is an ever-evolving field, and I’m inspired by the endless ways food influences not just physical health, but also cognitive function, emotional resilience, and overall well-being. My drive comes from knowing that every new insight I gain can be turned into a tool that helps someone live a fuller, healthier life. For me, personal growth isn’t just about my own development—it’s about creating a ripple effect, empowering others, and transforming lives.
What does the theme "Nourish to Flourish" mean to you in your work as a dietitian?
"Nourish to Flourish" extends beyond food—it’s about feeding every part of ourselves. Physically, it means fueling the body with the right nutrients for energy, clarity, and longevity. Mentally, it means consuming thoughts and words that uplift and empower, cultivating a mindset that supports growth, resilience, and confidence. Emotionally, it’s about surrounding ourselves with positivity, purpose, and meaningful connections. When we nourish ourselves in a holistic way, we don’t just survive—we thrive!
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the nutrition field?
Stay open, stay curious, and be adaptable. Never underestimate the power of mindset and human connection. Nutrition isn’t just about numbers and facts—it’s deeply intertwined with psychology, behavior, and personal narratives. Find your voice, embrace lifelong learning, and focus on impact. When you help shift the way people think about food, you transform their lives. The more lives you touch, the more fulfilling this journey becomes.
How do you balance your personal well-being with the demands of your work?
I believe that balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention and alignment. By prioritizing my well-being and making intentional choices, I can fully show up for those I serve. I nourish myself with healthy food, stay active with activities like Zumba and salsa dancing, and make time for things that bring me joy—whether it’s deep conversations, creative writing, listening to audiobooks or indulging in self-care at a spa. With awareness, I’ve learned to press pause, meditate, reflect through journaling, and pivot when needed. True balance is about honoring what fuels my energy and passion so I can continue to uplift and inspire others.
Check out Rika on LinkedIn and Instagram.