Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Conyers.
Hi Emily, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, but spent most of my life in Oviedo, Florida with my parents and younger brother, Mike. From as early as I can remember, I was drawn to the natural world. I adored animals, was fascinated by geology, and spent hours exploring herbs and their healing properties. At the age of seven, I started a “Nature Club” in our backyard, dedicating myself to caring for the wildlife that visited our half-acre home and curating a small herb garden where I’d learn about plant medicine from books borrowed from the local library.
When my family moved from Wisconsin to Florida, that love for nature stayed with me—but it began to evolve. I became curious about food and the human body, often scribbling notes about what I ate in a little notebook, doing my best to follow the food pyramid. I was an active kid, always playing neighborhood games like capture the flag and kickball, and joining organized sports like softball and lacrosse. Yet, the move wasn’t easy. I was ten years old, adjusting to a new environment and facing bullying over my accent, clothes, and weight. These experiences, while painful, shaped my compassion and fueled a desire to understand people and their struggles on a deeper level.
This desire led me to pursue a degree in psychology at the University of Central Florida (UCF). I worked as a sampling specialist and deli team member at Super Target while attending school, trying to piece together what my future could look like. Although I found psychology fascinating, I struggled to find a path that truly lit me up.
Everything changed during my junior year. I began reflecting on a moment from my freshman year when I was diagnosed with pre-cancerous cells. I was told that adopting a nutritious diet and exercising regularly could prevent further complications. I took that advice seriously, overhauled my lifestyle, and within a year, the cells were gone. That experience was my turning point. I thought, “What if I could help others transform their lives through nutrition the way I had?”
I remembered the spark I felt as a child learning about health and herbs, and how even back then, I was fascinated by the healing power of food. I also saw how my psychology background could support people through the behavioral and emotional challenges that often accompany health changes. The connection felt clear.
I decided to pursue a career as a registered dietitian/nutritionist. After graduating with my psychology degree from UCF, I moved to Jacksonville to pursue a second bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics at the University of North Florida (UNF). I completed the program in 16 months, then was accepted into UNF’s highly competitive master’s and dietetic internship program. During this time, I trained across a variety of settings—from clinical rotations at Baptist Downtown Jacksonville to community outreach through WIC and Jacksonville Senior Centers, and even specialized experiences with the NFL Jacksonville Jaguars, Mayo Clinic, and pediatric diabetes camps.
My first role as a registered dietitian was in an inpatient hospital, where I covered a wide range of units, including the ICU, neurology, labor and delivery, and post-surgical floors. I’m incredibly grateful for the experience, but I began to feel the limits of the acute care setting. There wasn’t enough time for deep, lasting change—just moments of brief intervention before patients were discharged. I knew I wanted more: to build relationships, support long-term change, and help people feel truly empowered in their health journey.
That’s why I started my private practice, NuSparkle Nutrition.
I saw firsthand how disjointed the healthcare system could be, especially for people managing chronic conditions. Too often, they received conflicting advice from different providers and lacked consistent support to make real changes. In outpatient settings, the focus was on volume, not impact. I wanted to change that.
Through NuSparkle Nutrition, I focus on personalized, preventative care—especially for people living with weight management concerns or chronic kidney disease. My mission is to help clients stay off dialysis, improve their quality of life, and feel supported every step of the way. I blend science with compassion, drawing from both my clinical training and my lifelong connection to nature and healing.
Looking back, it’s clear that this path began long before I earned any degrees. It started with a little girl who loved herbs and animals, who jotted down what she ate in a notebook, and who believed that healing could happen when we treat the body—and the person—as a whole.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Getting my private practice off the ground hasn’t been a smooth or linear journey. Like many entrepreneurs, I faced unexpected hurdles that tested both my patience and resilience. One of the first major setbacks came with something as seemingly simple as choosing a name. I originally launched my practice under the name NewLeaf Nutrition, inspired by the idea of helping people turn over a new leaf in their health journey. But shortly after, I received notice that the name couldn’t be used due to an existing trademark. It was a frustrating and disheartening moment—I had already built a vision, branding, and momentum around the name. But rather than let it stop me, I took it as an opportunity to reimagine what I wanted my business to represent. That’s when NuSparkle Nutrition was born—a name that not only reflects transformation but also captures the joy, light, and empowerment I aim to bring into each client’s life.
Beyond branding and logistics, I quickly discovered that structural barriers within the healthcare system made it even harder to grow a private practice as a registered dietitian in Florida. One of the most difficult and ongoing challenges has been trying to gain in-network status with major health insurance companies. Despite meeting all the credentialing and licensure requirements, I’ve encountered red tape, indefinite waitlists, and vague denials with no clear path forward. The process is riddled with gatekeeping, with dietitians often being told that panels are “closed” indefinitely—while other providers are granted access easily. This is only an issue in Florida. It’s a deeply frustrating reality that not only limits our professional growth, but also creates unnecessary obstacles for patients seeking affordable, evidence-based care.
Because of these barriers and the time it takes to build a financially sustainable private practice, I still work full time for another company to support myself while growing NuSparkle Nutrition. Balancing both roles is demanding, but it’s also a reflection of my commitment. I know this work matters, and I’m determined to build a practice that offers the kind of consistent, compassionate, and preventative care that’s too often missing in our current system.
Behind every polished logo and service package was a series of late nights, financial uncertainties, tech mishaps, and trial-and-error marketing attempts. There were moments I questioned whether I had what it took to build something on my own. But each obstacle became part of the foundation. Every pivot, rebrand, and system I’ve built has been fueled by a fierce commitment to making nutrition care more accessible, personalized, and empowering—despite the system’s resistance.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
NuSparkle Nutrition is a private nutrition practice rooted in empowerment, preventative care, and personalized healing. As a registered dietitian and founder, I created NuSparkle to be more than just a nutrition service—it’s a space where science meets compassion, and where clients feel truly seen, heard, and supported. I specialize in chronic kidney disease and weight management (loss or gain), with a focus on helping clients regain control of their health before reaching a crisis point. My goal is always to help people avoid dialysis, reduce reliance on medications when possible, and build sustainable habits that feel realistic—not restrictive.
What sets NuSparkle Nutrition apart is the way I blend clinical expertise with emotional insight. I have degrees in both psychology and nutrition, and I’ve worked in everything from ICUs to outpatient clinics to community health outreach. This dual background allows me to meet clients where they are—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. I understand that nutrition is not just about food—it’s about behaviors, mindset, and support systems.
My empathy for clients also comes from my own lived experience. As a child, I struggled with my weight and was often bullied. That experience left a lasting imprint on me. I know what it feels like to be judged before you’re understood, and I carry that sensitivity into every client interaction. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where people feel empowered—not shamed—to make lasting changes.
NuSparkle offers several flexible coaching options to meet different needs and lifestyles, including weekly and biweekly 1:1 coaching programs. Each program includes personalized meal planning, ongoing education, motivation, and accountability to help clients truly implement the changes we discuss. I also offer omega-3 fatty acid testing, which is a powerful but often overlooked tool. Omega-3s play a critical role in reducing inflammation, supporting brain and heart health, and even improving mood and energy levels. Many people are unknowingly deficient, and this test provides clear, personalized data to help us tailor recommendations that actually move the needle on your health.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the emotional resonance NuSparkle Nutrition has with my clients. The name was born after a rebranding setback when my original business name had to be changed due to trademark restrictions—but what emerged was something even more aligned. “NuSparkle” represents the light clients reclaim when they take charge of their health. My brand is soft, sparkly, and grounded in nature—a reflection of who I’ve been since childhood, when I ran a nature club in my backyard and studied herbs and healing from library books. I carry that same curiosity and care into the way I support each client today.
What I want readers to know is this: you don’t have to wait until your health breaks down to take action. Preventative nutrition care can be life-changing, especially for those managing chronic conditions like kidney disease. My practice is here for people who are ready to take back their power, learn what works for their body, and feel supported every step of the way. Whether you’re looking to prevent illness, reverse a diagnosis, or simply feel like yourself again, NuSparkle Nutrition is here to help you shine from the inside out.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Jacksonville has truly become home in a way I never expected. One of the things I love most is how easy it is to build a sense of community here. I’ve met some of my closest friends through local community sports leagues such as Club WAKA, Jax Sports, and Jax Fray—whether on the kickball field or at post-game meetups, there’s a warmth and camaraderie that makes a big city feel personal. The accessibility of the beach is another gift I don’t take for granted. From a practical standpoint, I also appreciate that Jacksonville doesn’t rely on toll roads like other major cities in Florida, and driving here feels significantly less stressful than the traffic maze of Orlando. And perhaps most special of all, I found my dream home here with my husband—a place that brings me peace, inspiration, and a sense of rootedness as I build my business.
As a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, I also love that Jacksonville has an NFL team—because when the Packers come to town to play the Jaguars, I get to experience the thrill of seeing my team live without hopping on a plane. It’s a small joy, but one that adds to the magic of calling this city home.
At the same time, like any city, Jacksonville isn’t without its challenges. As a registered dietitian trying to grow a private practice, one of the most frustrating aspects has nothing to do with the city itself—but with the red tape surrounding Florida’s health insurance system. The barriers to becoming in-network are discouraging and unjust, not just for me but for countless other dietitians trying to offer preventative, life-changing care. It’s a system that makes it harder to help the very people who need support the most.
I also wish Jacksonville’s downtown had more vibrancy and engagement—a bit more cultural spark, nightlife, and easily accessible bike trails would go a long way in making the city feel more connected and active. I’ve often found myself missing the simple joy of going out dancing without having to travel far or plan a whole night around it.
Still, Jacksonville holds something special. It’s a place where I’ve grown, healed, and built meaningful relationships. And despite its imperfections, it continues to be the backdrop for my personal and professional evolution—and for that, I’m deeply grateful.
Pricing:
- 1 month of weekly nutrition coaching (4 sessions per month) = $375
- 1 month of biweekly nutrition coaching (2 sessions per month) = $250
- 6 months of weekly nutrition coaching paid in full, with 1 month free! = $1875
- Omega-3 Fatty Acid Testing Basic or Plus $55-85
- Omega-3 Fatty Acid Complete Testing $100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nusparklenutrition.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nusparkle_nutrition/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nusparklenutrition/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyroserdn/
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1032579427287227/
