We're so excited to introduce you to Mia, the food blogger and recipe developer behind our newest seasonal flavor: Funfetti Chip! Learn more about Mia below.

Tell us a little about you!

Hi! My Name is Mia, and I am Registered Dietitian, Recipe Developer, and Food Blogger! I am 30 years old and based in Chicago, where I was born and raised. I live with my husband, my 1 year old son, and our golden retriever! My family is everything to me! 

What inspired your creation of the Funfetti Chip flavor?

I am obsessed with anything involving sprinkles! I also absolutely love anything flavored with almond extract, and I think it can really give things such a delicious “funfetti” flavor! It really takes this flavor to the next level and makes it SO craveable! One bite of this flavor and I promise you will understand!! Plus, it’s so cute with the naturally-dyed sprinkles! 

What do you do for work? Tell us about your professional journey.

As a Registered Dietitian, Recipe Developer, and Food Blogger, I create simple and nourishing recipes to share on my website, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. When I first finished my Masters program and Dietetic Internship program back in 2017, I was feeling a bit lost in what my calling was. I have always loved to be in the kitchen making simple but delicious recipes using seasonal and wholesome ingredients. What was at first a hobby and something to do while studying for my exams, quickly became my full time job! Sharing recipes on my different platforms to help others feel more comfortable and confident in the kitchen is exactly what I love to do, and I feel so grateful to get to do just that. I love making healthier spins on comfort food classics, and making my everyday content feel cozy, familiar, and approachable for my audience!  

How do you stay motivated? 

I always make sure to create content and recipes that feel authentic to me, rather than focusing on current trends or fads. I find that approaching my work this way keeps me from getting burnt out and allows me to truly find joy in my work each day. Having the opportunity to do what I truly love each day for work is my biggest motivation. Again, I feel so lucky to get to do that and never take that for granted! 

Also, taking proper care of my health is what really gives me the energy to stay focused each day! Eating a balanced diet, cooking at home as much as possible, doing things that fill my cup like reading or yoga, keeping myself active, and getting some good quality time phone-free really helps me keep going each day. 

Do you have any advice for someone who is interested in becoming an entrepreneur?

My biggest piece of advice is to really not worry about what others think and instead follow what your gut and heart are telling you to do! I let my fear of others’ opinions hold me back often in the past, and I have found my business has truly grown and feels more exciting to me by just following my own path and tuning out any negativity. 

What are your favorite ways to #spreadgood in your community?

I love to volunteer at and donate to food banks, especially around the holidays. This is something I want to remain a tradition for my family every holiday season! 

Who is one person who inspires you and why?

My Grandfather (AKA “papa”). He is someone who came from very humble beginnings, losing his father at very young age and being on food stamps to survive. He worked incredibly hard every day to start his own company whole he and my Grandma raised my dad and his 8 siblings with so much love and gave them the best life possible. He worked so hard every day until he was 90 years old. He did everything for his family and never complained- he was just the best and I strive to be like him for my own family! 

How do you work to stay centered and practice self-care in your busy day-to-day reality?

It can be really easy with my job to constantly be on your phone from the minute I wake up, so I really make sure to set some clear boundaries with this. Not letting myself constantly be “plugged in” allows me to reset each day and come into my work day clear headed. I also try to make time most days for some physical activity, even if it’s just a long walk with my baby! 

What do you like to do for fun, when you aren't working?

I really love to read- it’s my favorite way to unplug and relax! My family and I also love to go to the local farmer’s markets, try out different local cafes and bakeries, and spend time in the different parks nearby. Being outside and exploring Chicago brings me so much joy!  

What are some of your favorite recipes with Ground Up? (Specifically, with the delicious flavor you created!)

My favorite way to use the Funfetti Chip flavor is to make cake batter nut butter bites! I love having healthy and easy snacks on hand. Stay tuned for the recipe coming to my page soon ;)