From Dietitian to Healer: Dawn Ritter’s Path to Wellness Leadership

On this episode of Healing Steps to Wellness, Dr. J and Mei invite Dawn Ritter, a seasoned nurse practitioner and former registered dietitian, to share her remarkable path from clinical nutrition at the Mayo Clinic to leading in the field of lifestyle medicine. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Dawn’s perspective on healing is both scientific and deeply compassionate. She recalls how, over time, she realized that true wellness cannot be measured only by lab results or medication lists. It begins with understanding each person as a whole — body, mind, and spirit. Her transition from traditional clinical settings to lifestyle-based care allowed her to see how small, consistent habits can profoundly change lives. Whether it’s choosing nourishing foods, moving mindfully, or cultivating gratitude, Dawn emphasizes that every choice is a step toward self-healing. Throughout the conversation, Dr. J and Mei explore how compassion, community, and science intersect in the healing process. They discuss the importance of meeting patients where they are — listening without judgment and guiding them toward sustainable change. Listeners will be inspired by Dawn’s humility and passion for helping others find joy and balance in their wellness journey. Her story reminds us that healing is not just about curing disease but nurturing the conditions that allow us to thrive. If you’ve ever wondered how lifestyle medicine can transform your health — or what it truly means to live with purpose and compassion — this episode is a must-listen.