691. A Real-World Doctor of Nutrition and Wellness

Dr. Ann Kulze

“I didn’t turn over a new leaf. I grew a new leaf. And this was like an overnight decision. I said, ‘Okay, I’ve never applied myself academically my entire life. I’m not exactly sure how to do it, but I think this is going to be how I’ll do it….’”

Dr. Ann Kulze has distinguished herself as a one-of-a-kind real-world nutrition and wellness expert. She received her undergraduate degree in food science and human nutrition from Clemson University, and her medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), where she graduated as valedictorian. She is the founder and CEO of the wellness and education firm, Just Wellness, LLC. She is also the author of six books, including her best-selling “Eat Right for Life” series. She has been featured in many national media outlets including the Dr. Oz Show, Oprah, Time Magazine and many others. When she is not writing, Dr. Ann lives her wellness message by swimming, running, cooking, and gardening, and spending time with her family in her native Charleston, South Carolina.

How Did You Start Using Your Talents?

“I knew as far back as I can remember that I wanted to be a physician. Science just lit my fire. My father saw that passion in me and cultivated it. He was a highly esteemed, accomplished, gifted general surgeon. He had an enormous impact on my career path. His recognizing my passion and his role-modeling had an enormous impact on me. What I’ve done with my career is extremely out-of-the-box in terms of the typical path of others who go into medicine and become a medical doctor.”

The Most Impactful Turning Point?

On the intensely competitive track to become a dermatologist, Ann’s path took a dramatic turn when her husband, also a physician, was called to fulfill his obligation to the military. “Imagine the setback! I was devastated. After about two days I thought, ‘Ann, what is more important, your marriage or your career?’ And I knew that my marriage was. And I thought, ‘We might as well make the best of it.’ What opened up for me in Germany was better than anything I could have imagined!”

The Most Powerful Lessons Learned?

“Learn to be bold. Do whatever it takes to cultivate courage. With courage you can develop the self-confidence to act boldly, with unwavering belief in what you can accomplish. Without that belief, there is little you can accomplish.”