Meet The Founder: Amanda Smyth and Holly Hoskins

That our food choices are linked to our mental wellbeing might seem obvious but it is a link dietitians Amanda Smyth and Holly Hoskins see forgotten regularly. It’s why they’re on a mission to educate people on the effect our food has on our mood. 

Using factual entertainment and storytelling, this dynamic dietician duo have developed an evidence-based program, Mood Food, to empower people and show the positive impact improving your diet has on the prevention and treatment of mental health conditions.  

“Our experiences, both personal and professional, with mental illness and nutrition have given us first-hand insight into the power good food plays for supporting our mental and physical wellbeing,” they said. 

“Education regarding eating to support good mental health should be accessible to all - no matter where you live or who you work for. 

“The culture of convenience means we don’t just lose nutrition and good health when it comes to food, but also family and sense of community around preparing meals and our minds suffer.” 

Amanda and Holly knew they had a good idea in the work they wanted to do at Mood Food but needed help to scale their message. 

Image description: Headshots of Amanda and Holly on the left and text ‘Amanda Smyth and Holly Hoskins, Co-Founders, Mood Food. Using the power of factual entertainment and storytelling to educate people around the world on the effect food has on mood. Learn more at poplabs.com.au’ on the right on a white background.

“Poplabs had been recommended to us and it was like love at first sight.

“We didn’t have the know-how to make sure our idea would make an impact and be seen. Poplabs gave us these skills and showed us how we can create engaging, factual content that can be spread far and wide.” 

While taking part in Poplabs Cohort One has pushed them out of their comfort zones they both agree it has given them a plan and direction to make their idea a reality. 

“As well as amazing contacts to steer us in the right direction, it has opened our eyes to what it takes to start a business and how hard it can be to get the ball rolling.” 

Amanda and Holly want to see Mood Food become a program that is “step zero” in the treatment of depression.

“We want it to be the slip, slop, slap of mental health. Where everyone knows if you are struggling with mental health or going through a particularly stressful period there’s support to help you through.”

“Mood Food is preventative, it’s treatment and it’s life changing.” 

To join the Mood Food journey and to stay up to date please head to moodfoodnutrition.com.au/ and leave your email address.

If you need help please reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au, Beyond Blue  1300 224636 or beyondblue.org.au