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Bayleigh Wessel-Burress, M.S., RDN, LDN, CPT, IFNCP Lambda Beta - University of Southern Indiana
Registered Dietitian, Balance Blue Collective LLC
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Empowerment
Can you share a brief 5-7 sentence biography about yourself, highlight key moments in your career that have shaped who you are today?
From a young age, I knew I wanted to become an integrative and functional dietitian nutritionist, a passion that was ignited through my own health journey as a patient at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine. After struggling with undiagnosed illness, I became determined to help others avoid the same challenges, leading me to earn my Master of Science in Nutrition and become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). I further specialized by obtaining my integrative and functional nutrition certified practitioner (IFNCP) credential, making me one of only three dietitians in Indiana with this distinction. I also became a certified personal trainer (CPT), integrating strength and conditioning, DNA-based fitness and exercise recovery into my approach. As the founder of Balance Blue Collective, LLC, I focus on gut health, metabolism, hormones, adrenal function, nervous system resilience and detoxification to help clients achieve optimal wellness. In addition to my clinical work, I serve as an instructor and office manager for MyRDguide, LLC, mentoring future dietitians and helping them pass their RD exam. My journey has been shaped by personal experience, education and a deep commitment to empowering others to take charge of their health and well-being.
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from this friendship?
One of the most invaluable mentors in my professional career has been my time as a patient at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine. While not a single person, this experience shaped my entire approach to healthcare, teaching me the power of root-cause medicine, personalized nutrition and the importance of truly listening to patients. Through this journey, I learned firsthand what it feels like to struggle with unexplained health issues and the frustration of not being heard —an experience that fuels my deep empathy and commitment to patient-centered care.
Additionally, through my work with MyRDguide, LLC, Ingrid Soto has been an incredible mentor, guiding me in education, leadership, and professional development. She has taught me the importance of building confidence in future dietitians, fostering a supportive learning environment and empowering others to succeed. Through her mentorship, I have strengthened my ability to educate, inspire and uplift aspiring dietitians, ensuring they have the tools to pass the RD exam and thrive in their careers. This friendship and mentorship have reinforced my dedication to paying it forward by mentoring others just as I have been guided throughout my own journey.
How did you discover your passion and what opportunities have helped shape your curiosity for what you do?
My passion for integrative and functional nutrition was ignited through my own health journey. As a patient at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, I struggled with chronic health issues that no one could explain. That experience made me realize how many people are searching for answers and how deeply impactful personalized nutrition and root-cause medicine can be. I knew then that I wanted to become the kind of practitioner who truly listens, investigates deeply and empowers others to heal.
Opportunities like pursuing my Master of Science in Nutrition, earning my Registered Dietitian Nutritionist credential, and becoming an integrative and functional nutrition certified practitioner and certified personal trainer have shaped my expertise and deepened my curiosity. Founding Balance Blue Collective, LLC has allowed me to apply science-driven, holistic strategies to help others optimize their gut health, hormones, metabolism and overall well-being. Additionally, working with MyRDguide, LLC under the mentorship of Ingrid Soto has expanded my role as an educator, helping me inspire and support the next generation of dietitians. Every challenge, patient success story and mentorship opportunity continues to fuel my curiosity and commitment to this field.
Looking ahead in your career, how do you envision continuing to incorporate generosity into your leadership style and professional endeavors?
Looking ahead, I envision continuing to incorporate generosity into my leadership and professional endeavors by mentoring, educating and giving back to both the dietetics profession and the individuals I serve. Through my work with MyRDguide, LLC, I will continue to help aspiring dietitians navigate the challenges of the RD exam, ensuring they feel supported and empowered to succeed.
In my clinical practice, Balance Blue Collective, LLC, I strive to be generous with my time, knowledge and empathy, ensuring that every client feels truly heard and equipped with the tools they need to achieve optimal health. I also plan to expand my volunteer work with organizations like Dietitians4Dietitians, providing financial support, guidance and resources to future dietitians who may not have access to them otherwise.
Beyond mentorship and patient care, I aim to contribute to the advancement of integrative and functional nutrition by sharing my knowledge through public speaking, writing and professional collaborations. Whether through one-on-one mentorship, community outreach or industry leadership, I will continue to lead with generosity, helping others grow, thrive and reach their full potential.
How has your community helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
My community has been incredibly supportive in shaping my professional journey. From my peers in the dietetics profession to the students I mentor, I’ve been surrounded by individuals who share a commitment to wellness and education. MyRDguide, LLC, for example, has provided me with a supportive network of dietitians, educators and students, fostering an environment of collaboration and growth. The sense of camaraderie has allowed me to expand my knowledge and share it in meaningful ways, enhancing my role as both a clinician and educator.
In particular, my Delta Zeta sisters, including Hannah Daniels, Kaelyn Wessel, Jena Wessel, Emmalie LaMee and Meghan McCrary, have been an unwavering source of support throughout my career. They’ve cheered me on through every milestone and challenge, offering advice, encouragement and love. Their friendship has been a constant reminder of the strength of community and the importance of having a solid support system as I continue to pursue my passion for tntegrative and functional nutrition and education.
What does empowerment mean to you, and how have you worked to empower others in your career or personal life?
To me, empowerment means giving others the tools, support and confidence to take control of their own journey, whether it’s in their health, education or personal growth. It’s about helping people discover their own strength and capabilities, and guiding them to make informed decisions that align with their goals and values.
In my career, I’ve worked to empower others by mentoring aspiring dietitians through MyRDguide, LLC, offering support and guidance to help them pass the RD exam and embark on successful careers in dietetics. I focus on creating a safe, encouraging environment where students feel empowered to ask questions, take risks and believe in their abilities.
In my clinical practice, I empower my clients by providing them with personalized nutrition plans that align with their unique needs and goals, helping them understand the power of their choices and how those choices impact their health. Whether it’s through nutrition education, exercise guidance or holistic health strategies, my goal is to make each person feel capable of taking charge of their well-being and living a life aligned with their optimal health. Empowerment is at the heart of everything I do, whether it’s guiding someone through their health journey or helping future dietitians succeed in their careers.
What does it mean to you to create an environment of belonging for others, and how do you carry that lesson into your personal and professional life?
Creating an environment of belonging means fostering a space where people feel valued, accepted and supported for who they truly are. It’s about embracing diversity, inclusivity and empathy, and ensuring that everyone feels they have a seat at the table and can contribute without fear of judgment or exclusion. In a world where people often face challenges related to identity, health or career, creating a space where others can be authentic and feel seen is essential.
In my personal and professional life, I carry this lesson by ensuring that everyone I work with, whether they’re a client, student or colleague, feels supported and understood. In my work with MyRDguide, LLC, I strive to create an inclusive environment where aspiring dietitians feel encouraged and confident, knowing they are part of a community of like-minded individuals who share the same goal of success. I make it a priority to listen to others’ experiences and offer guidance that aligns with their individual needs, so they feel empowered to reach their potential.
In my practice at Balance Blue Collective LLC, I work to create a non-judgmental space for clients, where they can share their health challenges openly and feel supported in their journey toward wellness. Whether it’s through personalized nutrition guidance, exercise plans or holistic health strategies, my goal is to make everyone feel like they belong, have a voice and are worthy of investing in their health. Belonging is about creating connection, trust and mutual respect, and that’s what I aim to cultivate in every aspect of my life.