Charles Rosenberg, MS ('97)
Los Angeles, CA
Interviewed by Erica Hockley, Summer 2002
How is natural medicine (nutrition) accepted in your region?
There is no certification for nutritionists here in California so anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. So, when I advertise, I always say "Charles Rosenberg, MS, a REAL Nutritionist."
What do you find to be the most interesting aspect of practicing?
What we are not prepared for is that the general public thinks of nutritionists as weight loss facilitators. It can depend on how you market yourself. So I only emphasize that as a small part of my practice in advertising.
What I find interesting is making interesting food discoveries. I write restaurant reviews and have had an article published in the nutrition science magazine about Natto, a Japanese fermented soy food.
What are your overall marketing strategies?
I am in the yellow pages. I have an ad in the Natural Resource Directory, what I call the local natural yellow pages. I also obtain clients from working at a pharmacy a few days a week.
Los Angeles is a very social town that encourages networking. So when I meet someone I always get his or her e-mail address. And then every 6-8 weeks I send out an e-mail newsletter, sometimes with a restaurant review.
What keeps you motivated to practice?
I'm sure that everyone says this, but the patients. At the same time it is difficult because it's a challenge to change the lifestyles of patients. When you are effective, it's very motivating.
What's next for you? Where would you like to place your energies?
I'm not exactly sure; I am at a turning point right now. I am considering retail because I like the direct contact with customers. Total Remedy and Prescription Center, the pharmacy that I work for, has asked me to develop a natural medicine section in one of their branches.
What would you like to see from Bastyr University?
Most important things are job placement and referrals. Let the industry know that we've got all of these great grads out there.
What types of CEU topics would you be interested in seeing Bastyr host?
I would be interested in learning more about Bastyr's research efforts. Marketing seminars are always nice. I would also be interested in knowing what the other practitioners are charging.
What would it take for you to get totally excited about returning to campus (or attend NE) reunion?
A seminar - not just a social event. Free visits to the Bastyr University clinic while we're there.
What are some of your interests/hobbies outside of healing?
Another reason I came to Los Angeles after graduation, other than the sunny weather, was that you can do many outdoor things. The sunny weather creates an environment with friendly people. I enjoy the cultural diversity here and enjoy exploring ethnic restaurants.
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