We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jessica Lee Reader a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jessica Lee, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear a story from back when you were an intern or apprentice. What’s a memorable story you can share with us?
During my internship at the Nutrition Therapy Institute, I had the chance to intern with several very different practices. Each taught me valuable lessons that have shaped my approach to my nutrition practice.
One experience was with a Nutritionist who also practiced Colon Hydrotherapy. She ran a successful practice but used a one-size-fits-all cleanse, handing clients a 20-page protocol without conducting proper intakes or offering personalized support. I remember feeling bad for a client who was given this plan without guidance. She wanted to lose a hundred pounds but had no support or real direction on how to create a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. This experience taught me the importance of truly understanding each client’s unique needs—especially when it comes to gut health and metabolism—and providing tailored care for long-term success. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to ensure my clients feel supported and heard every step of the way.
In another internship, I worked with a Nutritionist at a health food store who focused heavily on supplements but didn’t emphasize whole foods or meal planning. This reinforced my belief that whole foods should always be the foundation of any nutrition plan. While supplements can be helpful, they’re most effective when paired with a solid nutrition foundation.
I also shadowed various Functional Medicine Doctors, where I learned the importance of offering a compassionate, individualized approach. While testing, supplements, and protocols are valuable, they can’t replace the power of truly connecting with a client and understanding their unique story. Compassion and personalized care are what truly make a difference in helping clients improve digestion, metabolism, and overall wellness.
These diverse internships helped shape my holistic approach to nutrition, where compassion, personalization, and education are at the heart of everything I do.
Jessica Lee, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m a Master Nutrition Therapist, Health Coach, Yoga Teacher, and founder of Vitalized Body. With over 15 years of experience, I help individuals improve gut health, boost metabolism, and enhance mind-body wellness through nutrition, mindfulness, and yoga, guiding them toward lasting and sustainable well-being.
My journey into health and wellness began with my own struggles with digestive issues and chronic fatigue. For years, I was frustrated by the lack of real solutions, and traditional methods weren’t helping me feel better. It wasn’t until I discovered holistic nutrition, yoga, and mindfulness that I began to heal. This transformation inspired me to help others find the same relief. In 2007, I began my professional training at the Nutrition Therapy Institute to become a Master Nutrition Therapist, and I later taught there for over six years. I expanded my expertise in functional medicine, yoga therapy, and stress management, earning certifications as a Nationally Board-Certified Health Coach and Yoga Teacher. I’m now writing a book that compiles everything I’ve learned to help others on their healing journeys.
I’m passionate about empowering people to feel their best, both in body and mind. Through one-on-one nutrition programs, group coaching, yoga events, and wellness retreats, I help clients optimize digestion, boost energy, and find balance. My Gut Health Reset Program offers a comprehensive approach that combines nutrition, yoga, mindfulness, and lifestyle changes to address the root causes of digestive challenges and promote overall wellness.
What sets me apart is my holistic approach. Unlike many Nutritionists, Health Coaches, or Functional Medicine Doctors, I don’t focus solely on diet or supplements. I take a whole-person approach—considering lifestyle, mental well-being, and stress levels—when creating a plan. I believe true health comes from nourishing the body with whole foods, managing stress through mindfulness and yoga, and providing compassionate, individualized care.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
My life has always been a journey of change and growth. By the time I was 17, I had lived in eight different states, eventually settling in Colorado during my senior year of high school. After a couple of years in college, I realized my passion was leading me in a different direction, and I felt drawn to something more creative. So, I pivoted and enrolled in cosmetology school, launching my own hair business at just 22 years old.
I loved doing hair and helping my clients feel good, but something deeper was calling me. At that time, I was immersed in my own healing journey, learning everything I could about feeling better from the inside out. I found myself sharing this knowledge with my clients during our sessions, and I began to realize that my true purpose was to help people achieve wellness beyond the surface level.
After six years of running a business I loved, I began attending the Nutrition Therapy Institute while continuing to work with my clients. It was a life-changing experience that marked the start of my transition from focusing on outer beauty to supporting inner health. This shift was gradual, but one that my clients wholeheartedly embraced. They understood that caring for yourself from the inside out not only enhances your appearance but also transforms how you feel.
Looking back, I see how this pivotal moment shaped everything I do today. It was the best decision I could have made, and it allowed me to align my work with my passion for helping others achieve lasting wellness.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Word-of-mouth referrals have been my best source of new clients. My existing clients are my greatest advocates; when they experience significant improvements in their digestion, energy, and overall well-being, they naturally share their success stories with friends and family. These authentic recommendations are truly invaluable.
In addition, I’ve dedicated time to creating educational content online, such as blog posts and social media updates. These efforts help potential clients connect with my approach and philosophy. Offering free resources, like my Gut Health and Metabolism Masterclass, has also played a key role in introducing people to my work and building trust.
Finally, collaborating with other wellness professionals and hosting community events—like yoga workshops and retreats—has allowed me to engage with individuals actively seeking holistic health solutions. This multifaceted strategy helps me connect with people aligned with my services and ready to take the next step in their health journey.
I’m deeply grateful for the trust my clients place in me, and I’m excited to continue helping others improve their health through a holistic approach that nurtures both the body and mind.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vitalizedbody.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitalizedbody/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vitalizedbodyllc
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaleereader/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCELPNtAuFiVkXJUfJxYi-mA
- Other: The Health Gut Nutritionist Podcast – https://open.spotify.com/show/51EILowrmMqtkQFbwNb3VG?si=cb02fc26bf4d49c9
