Optimizing Performance Through Nutrition with Cheryl Zonkowski
Mon Jan 05 2026
In this episode, Robert “Bob” Pizzini is joined by Cheryl Zonkowski, founder and owner of Catalyzt Nutrition, LLC. Cheryl shares her extensive experience ranging from her role as a performance dietician for Naval Special Warfare to her tenure as the Director of Sports Nutrition at the University of Florida. The discussion focuses on how proper nutrition can optimize cognition, energy levels, and longevity. Cheryl explains her methods, including evaluating biomarkers, developing personalized meal plans, and the importance of reestablishing a healthy relationship with food. Additionally, they discuss Catalyzt Nutrition’s offerings, including custom meal preparation and delivery, and how these services can benefit not only elite athletes and military personnel but also executives seeking high performance in their professional lives.
Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Performance nutrition is highly individualized; there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Tracking biomarkers and personal health metrics over time is essential for optimizing performance and longevity.
Hydration and timing of fueling (meals/snacks) are foundational for mental clarity and sustained energy.
Supplements should only fill gaps; focus on whole foods first.
Meeting clients where they are and customizing plans leads to better outcomes.
Team culture and leadership are shaped by modeling behavior and supporting each other.
QUOTES
“No human is one size fits all.”
“If you can measure it, you can manage it.”
“Supplements are meant to supplement the diet, not replace it.”
“Teams, just like children, are always watching—they’re always a sponge.”
“You always want to be helpful, not hurtful.”
“Hydration is a huge one… fatigue, irritability, and lethargy are the first signs of dehydration.”
“The beauty of fueling is that no human’s life is the same every single day.”
Connect and learn more from Cheryl Zonkowski.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-zonkowski-ms-rd-cssd-a7378520/
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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In this episode, Robert “Bob” Pizzini is joined by Cheryl Zonkowski, founder and owner of Catalyzt Nutrition, LLC. Cheryl shares her extensive experience ranging from her role as a performance dietician for Naval Special Warfare to her tenure as the Director of Sports Nutrition at the University of Florida. The discussion focuses on how proper nutrition can optimize cognition, energy levels, and longevity. Cheryl explains her methods, including evaluating biomarkers, developing personalized meal plans, and the importance of reestablishing a healthy relationship with food. Additionally, they discuss Catalyzt Nutrition’s offerings, including custom meal preparation and delivery, and how these services can benefit not only elite athletes and military personnel but also executives seeking high performance in their professional lives. Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast. KEY TAKEAWAYS Performance nutrition is highly individualized; there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Tracking biomarkers and personal health metrics over time is essential for optimizing performance and longevity. Hydration and timing of fueling (meals/snacks) are foundational for mental clarity and sustained energy. Supplements should only fill gaps; focus on whole foods first. Meeting clients where they are and customizing plans leads to better outcomes. Team culture and leadership are shaped by modeling behavior and supporting each other. QUOTES “No human is one size fits all.” “If you can measure it, you can manage it.” “Supplements are meant to supplement the diet, not replace it.” “Teams, just like children, are always watching—they’re always a sponge.” “You always want to be helpful, not hurtful.” “Hydration is a huge one… fatigue, irritability, and lethargy are the first signs of dehydration.” “The beauty of fueling is that no human’s life is the same every single day.” Connect and learn more from Cheryl Zonkowski.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-zonkowski-ms-rd-cssd-a7378520/ About Robert: Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone. Where to find Robert: Website - https://robertpizzini.com/ Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices