What can today’s dietitians learn from the pioneers who built the profession?

In this special episode of The Orange Blossom Trailblazers, we highlight four influential dietitians whose work transformed clinical nutrition, education, healthcare and school nutrition. From the front lines of wartime care to the classrooms and institutions that built dietetics education, these trailblazers advanced nutrition science, elevated patient care, and expanded opportunities for future generations.

Through their stories, we explore the resilience, innovation, and impact that continue to define dietetics—and reflect on how their legacy lives on in today’s practice.

Join us as we look back to move forward.

Peggy O’Neill has spent more than two decades shaping the future of dietetics in Florida, from her early days as a gerontological dietitian to leading public policy battles, guiding FAND through major organizational shifts, and helping the next generation succeed. In this inspiring conversation, Peggy shares her journey from FIU student to FAND President, reflects on defending Florida’s licensure law during pivotal legal challenges, and explains her passion for student support through Dietitians4Dietitians. She also opens up about navigating the “Reset and Regrow” era, stepping into the Executive Director role, and her hope for the profession’s future.

This episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to understand the power of advocacy, leadership, and perseverance in dietetics, especially in Florida.

In this powerful episode of The Orange Blossom Trailblazers, we sit down with Dr. Judith Rodriguez, a nationally recognized dietitian, author, diversity champion, and former President of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

From designing nutrition education for families in Harlem and Spanish Harlem, to contributing to the CDC’s landmark Hispanic Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, to building decades of academic excellence at the University of North Florida, Dr. Rodriguez has shaped the profession from every angle: clinical, community, research, teaching, and national leadership.

She shares how cultural understanding became central to her work, what servant leadership means in a “serving profession,” and why diversity, equity, and representation remain critical for the future of dietetics.

🎧 Tune in and hear how Dr. Rodriguez continues to inspire current and future dietitians to lead with service, courage, and heart.