Reflections from the 2025 FNCE® Closing Session
By Maree Ferguson
Staying Authentic and Playing the Long Game: Joy Bauer in Conversation with Andy Cohen
At FNCE, Joy Bauer sat down with Andy Cohen for a candid conversation about building a career that blends passion, authenticity, and balance.
There was some controversy with Andy being chosen as the keynote speaker. Not knowing too much about him, as an Australian who doesn’t watch The Real Housewives, I went in with an open mind..
Andy shared that while his “day job” has always remained his main focus, but side projects keep things interesting. His mantra? Lean into the mess. Be yourself, stay relaxed, and go with what you know. Audiences can sense when you’re genuine, and authenticity always wins.
He encouraged dietitians to see today’s media landscape and digital world as full of opportunity. Start small, focus on doing one thing really well, then build from there. “This is a great time for content creators,” Andy said. “There are so many platforms; use them strategically to expand your footprint.”
To stay visible and relevant, Andy suggested focusing on what people already recognize you for, then using that as the foundation to pivot into new areas. A podcast, blog, or social media can help new audiences discover you.
Andy also stressed the importance of discipline and consistency, from meeting every deadline to keeping a clear perspective on what really matters. He shared that writing daily for years helped him reflect, stay grounded and be intentional about life choices. When it comes to balance, family keeps Andy’s career in perspective. He makes time for what matters most, even if that means saying no to opportunities that don’t align.
Despite his success, Andy reminded everyone that “nobody is immune to haters.” His advice: focus on your community, stay true to what you do best, and put your phone down when things feel overwhelming. Reconnect with real people, and remember that what feels big online often isn’t.
Ultimately, Andy’s message was about playing the long game: prioritize what fuels you, protect your time, and keep showing up with passion and purpose.
And a big shoutout to Joy Bauer who nailed the interview! Joy led a dynamic, engaging conversation blending career insights with personal stories, and kept the energy high from start to finish. A truly gifted interviewer!
To see more of Joy in conversation with dietitians – check out our Dietitian to Dietitian webseries.
