In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Dietitian Connection podcast, we sit down with father-daughter dietitian duo Dave and Madison Grotto to explore the personal journeys that led them both into the field of nutrition. Dave reflects on his unlikely start at just 14 years old, when a part-time job in a health food store ignited what would become a lifelong career in nutrition, communications, and education. Madison shares what it was like to grow up with a dietitian dad, and how his passion influenced her own path into the field. From intergenerational insights to dinner table dynamics, this episode is a great reminder of how shared values can strengthen our personal and professional lives.
Hosted by Kristin Houts
Biography
David Grotto, MS, RDN, LDN, FAND entered the world of food and nutrition when he was 14 years old working in the natural foods business and eventually owning and operating his own business. After experiencing a life lesson in the dangers of sharing nutrition misinformation, he attended the University of Illinois at Chicago, earning a degree in medical dietetics and nutrition. As an entrepreneur, Dave desired to share the importance of business acumen with other aspiring dietitians which led him to pursuing a master’s degree in nutrition and wellness entrepreneurship and a teaching position at Benedictine University. Early on, Dave discovered he had a knack for storytelling and hosted the radio show, Let’s Talk Health, Chicago, and television show, Health & Lifestyles, Weekly. He used his communication abilities to serve his profession and the public by becoming a national media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and generated millions of media impressions. As an acclaimed author, Dave wrote, 101 Foods That Could Save Your Life, which has been published in nineteen languages; 101 Optimal Life Foods; and The Best Things You Can Eat, a compendium of top foods for everything from Aches to Zzzzz. Having worked in the K-12 nutrition space for more than 10 years as a Sr. Manager of Wellbeing and Regulatory at Kellanova, Dave’s passion for inspiring children to be brave and adventurous eaters has led him to writing his first children’s book and Amazon “Hot New Release”, The Girls Who Lived in the Refrigerator!
Madison Grotto, MBA, RDN, LDN is a Registered Dietitian and Technical Product Manager at Xenon Arc where she brings her expertise in nutrition and business strategy to the forefront. She holds a Bachelor’s in Human Nutrition & Food Science from the University of Illinois and received her MBA from Dominican University. Madison completed her Dietetic internship through rotations at Fitness Formula Clubs, FoodMinds, Stroger Hospital, and Nutrition Health Services. Growing up with a father who is also a Registered Dietitian, her passion for health and wellness was cultivated early. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, discovering new restaurants in Chicago, and spending time with friends and family.
In this episode, we discuss:
- What it’s really like growing up with a dietitian dad
- Generational differences in the profession — and what they’ve learned from each other
- How dietitians today are embracing professional growth with endless possibilities
The content, products and/or services referred to in this podcast are intended for Health Care Professionals only and are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances. The content is for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgement before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. The reference to particular products and/or services in this episode does not constitute any form of endorsement. Please see here for terms and conditions.