Susan Zogheib, MHS, RD
A compassionate, positive, and patient-focused professional committed to empowering individuals through evidence-based nutrition and meaningful education. Susan Zogheib is a nationally recognized registered dietitian. She was born and raised in Lebanon, which she describes as “a beautiful country where food is at the heart of every gathering.” She often talks about her childhood surrounded by family—parents, aunts, and uncles who cooked with love and care. Watching them prepare meals taught her that food was more than just sustenance—it was connection, tradition, and love. She remembers the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables, the aroma of home-cooked meals, and the way those moments brought everyone together. Those experiences ignited her appreciation for nutrition and planted the seed for her lifelong passion for health and well-being.
Susan has built a remarkable career that blends science, communication, and compassion. She expanded her expertise far beyond traditional nutrition—working in pharmaceuticals, public relations, and public speaking to help improve the lives of others. Through her work, she empowers patients, educates healthcare professionals, and advocates for better understanding of chronic and rare diseases. Her career is not just about teaching people how to eat healthier; it’s about inspiring them to live fuller, stronger, and more hopeful lives.
As she grew older, Susan realized her fascination with food and wellness went beyond the kitchen—it was about healing and helping others thrive. Becoming a dietitian allowed her to blend her scientific curiosity with her compassion for people. Over the past two decades, she has worked in hospitals and clinics, taught university classes, spoken at national conferences, and written several best-selling cookbooks focused on kidney health and the Mediterranean diet. Today, she uses her voice and expertise to raise awareness about chronic illness, teach others about the power of food and medicine, and build relationships between patients, healthcare professionals, and organizations.
Accomplished registered dietitian with more than 20 years of experience in clinical nutrition, training, management, patient education, and professional speaking. Known for building strong, trust-based relationships with patients, healthcare teams, and community partners.
An experienced public speaker and educator, frequently engaged to present on renal health, nutrition therapy, and patient-centered care. Recognized with multiple awards for excellence, leadership, and impact across both clinical and professional settings.
• Registered Dietitian (RD)
• Toronto Metropolitan University – Master of Health Science (MHS), Nutrition Communication
• Rutgers University - Bachelor of Science (BS)
• Recognized with multiple MVP and Pinnacle Awards, honored as Star Dietitian of the Year, and celebrated with several Sales Leadership Awards for excellence, innovation, and high-impact performance.
• National Kidney Foundation
• Commission on Dietetics Registration
What do you attribute your success to?
Coming from a war-torn country and escaping with my family has shaped every part of who I am today. The hardships we faced taught me courage, gratitude, and the importance of never taking stability for granted. Through it all, my faith and positive outlook have been the foundation of my success — guiding me through uncertainty, helping me find strength in moments of fear, and reminding me that hope is always worth holding onto. These experiences have not only strengthened my resilience but also deepened my commitment to building a meaningful life, uplifting those around me, and honoring the sacrifices that brought me to where I am now.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to think outside the box. Early in my career, I learned that real progress rarely comes from doing things the way they’ve always been done. Leaning into creativity pushed me to rethink processes, challenge my own limitations, and take thoughtful risks. This approach has shaped the way I solve problems and has consistently driven meaningful, lasting results — both for the teams I work with and for my own professional growth.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The best advice I can give to women is to be present, no matter what you’re doing or working toward. Showing up wholeheartedly in the moment strengthens you for the next chapter of your journey. And never forget that your path carries purpose. God has placed unique gifts within each of us to help and inspire others — use them with love.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field is staying the course amidst constant change, ensuring consistency, focus, and dedication while navigating a dynamic healthcare landscape.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide my work and personal life are my faith, my husband, and my family. They are the foundation that keeps me grounded, the source of my purpose, and the motivation behind everything I strive to accomplish. My faith shapes my character and decisions, while the love and support of my husband and family remind me why I work hard and who I aspire to become. Together, they inspire me to lead with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to meaningful impact.
Locations
Knoxville, TN 37922