We recently connected with Andrea Mathis and have shared our conversation below.

Andrea, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

When I first had the idea to start *Beautiful Eats & Things*, I was honestly terrified. I was excited about creating something of my own, but there was a part of me that kept wondering what people would think. Would they take me seriously? Would they laugh at the idea of a dietitian leaving her traditional job to blog about food, body positivity, and self-love? But even in the middle of that fear, I couldn’t ignore the pull to build something meaningful. I knew I had a message to share, and even if it didn’t make sense to everyone else, it made sense to me. So I took a deep breath, silenced that inner critic, and went for it. Starting my business was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and it taught me that the most beautiful things often come from choosing courage over comfort.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Andrea Mathis, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and founder of *Beautiful Eats & Things*. I started my business during a time when blogging and social media weren’t taken seriously in the nutrition space, but I saw an opportunity to share something meaningful. I wanted to create a place that celebrated food, body positivity, and joyful living. What began as a way to post recipes has evolved into a full-blown lifestyle brand and business, complete with an inspiring blog, a thriving online store, and a signature social media and branding course for health professionals. I help brands connect with diverse audiences, support dietitians in finding their voice online, and provide products and content that empower people to embrace nourishment and self-love. What sets me apart is my focus on authenticity, accessibility, and inclusivity. I’m most proud of building this brand from scratch and watching it become a space that uplifts and educates.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

When I first stepped into the nutrition and wellness space, I quickly realized that there was an unspoken expectation of what a dietitian was “supposed” to look like…thin, rigid, and often defined by appearance rather than compassion, education, or lived experience. As a Black woman in a larger body, I didn’t see myself represented. I saw a narrow version of health being praised and promoted, and it didn’t sit right with me.

Instead of trying to fit into the mold, I made the decision to break it. Starting Beautiful Eats & Things wasn’t just about recipes and food, it was a form of resistance. I knew my body didn’t define my worth or credibility as a registered dietitian, and I was determined to prove that health doesn’t come in one shape or size. Through my content, courses, and products, I’ve worked to create a space where people feel seen, respected, and reminded that nourishment is about so much more than restriction or aesthetics.

It took courage to show up authentically in an industry that often values thinness over inclusivity, but I’ve learned that the very thing I was told to hide, my body, my voice, my perspective is what has allowed me to connect with so many people and create real change. I’m proud to be one of many voices rewriting the narrative and making room for everyone at the table.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

When I first launched Beautiful Eats & Things, I was scared of what others would think and scared that I didn’t fit the mold of what a “typical” dietitian looked like. I thought I had to constantly prove myself by working harder, doing more, and staying polished.

But over time, I realized that my worth isn’t tied to how productive or perfect I am. I had to unlearn the idea that success comes from burnout and instead embrace showing up as my full, authentic self. Letting go of those pressures gave me space to create from joy, not fear, and that’s when everything started to flourish.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.beautifuleatsandthings.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautifuleatsandthings/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beautifuleatsandthings/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-mathis-b68730164/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/BeautifulEandT
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@beautifuleatsthings