We had the good fortune of connecting with Jules Peláez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jules, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
Most people assume that “plant-based” means vegan—but that’s not how I define it.

To me, plant-based simply means that the foundation of your diet is built around whole, vibrant plant foods: fruits and vegetables, dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, sprouts, and healthy fats. But it can also include some eggs, wild fish, and high-quality, organic meat if that’s what works for your body.

The term plant-based has become confusing because it’s often used interchangeably with veganism or vegetarianism, both of which get a bad rap—in part because they tend to be heavy in grains, beans, and legumes, all of which can be hard to digest and inflammatory for some.

That’s why I prefer the term plant-forward. It’s a more flexible, inclusive approach that prioritizes colorful plants without rigid rules or food dogma. I work with a lot of women who have gut issues, and what I’ve found over and over is that there’s no one-size-fits-all diet. The most important thing is to tune into your body and create a way of eating that truly supports your individual needs.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I know I am incredibly blessed to be able to say that my career has been formed by following my passion.

Right out of college, I landed a job at a creative agency as a sales and account manager. I loved the people, the energy, and the creativity—but inside, I was dying. I wasn’t in alignment, and deep down, I knew it. Still, I didn’t know what I was searching for—only that something was missing.

Then one day, I stumbled upon the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, the world’s largest online nutrition school. The moment I read about it, I knew: this was my next step. I enrolled, and even before finishing the program, I launched my first company—The Conscious Cleanse.

That program went on to help over 40,000 people worldwide learn how food affects the body and how clean eating can be a path to healing. I became a published author and cookbook author, partnered with a local restaurant, hosted seasonal community dinners, and more. We didn’t just build a program—we created a movement. And I’m incredibly proud of that chapter.

Eventually, we automated the Conscious Cleanse, and I felt a new stirring in my soul. It was time to spread my wings again. I launched Just Jules Nutrition to work more intimately with clients in a therapeutic setting, helping people get to the root cause of their challenges with food and health.

I’ve since trained in coaching the unconscious mind, weaving in tools from neuroscience to help clients create real, sustainable change. My passion is helping people shift from being “on a diet” to living in true alignment with their values—mind, body, and soul.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned? Follow your heart. Trust the whisper. It’s your soul nudging you forward in the direction of your dreams. The path won’t always be easy—you may need to be brave, you may upset some people along the way—but do it anyway.

Living in alignment with your truth is everything.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m lucky to live in one of the most beautiful and health-conscious cities in the world—Boulder, Colorado. When friends come to visit, I love showing them my version of the perfect Boulder experience.

We’ll kick off the day with a yoga class at Yoga Pod, followed by a stop at Wonder Press for a fresh-pressed green juice and a coffee with house-made coconut milk. Their chia pudding and avocado toast are also delicious—and not to be missed.

Next up: a stroll down Pearl Street, Boulder’s iconic pedestrian mall. We’ll pop into Bohemi for locally made jewelry, browse the aisles at the beloved Boulder Bookstore, and if it’s a Wednesday afternoon or Saturday morning, we’ll head straight to the Boulder Farmers Market for fresh organic produce, flowers, and local treats.

For a little retail therapy, Cedar & Hyde Mercantile is a beautifully curated boutique with stylish, thoughtfully chosen pieces.

When it’s time to unwind, we’ll grab a table on the patio at Oak at Fourteenth—a local favorite—for a glass of wine and their signature kale salad.

And of course, no trip to Boulder is complete without time in nature. My favorite hikes are Shanahan Ridge Trail in South Boulder for a more local vibe, or the classic Chautauqua Trail, which offers stunning views of the Flatirons.

From nourishing food and movement to time outdoors and a touch of soulful shopping, Boulder has a way of refilling your cup—and sharing it with friends makes it all the sweeter.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There’s a very special group of people in my inner circle who have been by my side through it all. My parents, sister, husband, and closest friends have cheered me on every step of the way—listening, encouraging, and believing in me, even during the times I struggled to believe in myself. I’m deeply grateful for their unwavering love and support. I wouldn’t be where I am without them.

Website: https://justjulesnutrition.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliepelaez/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieepelaez/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julie.pelaez

Image Credits
Ashlee Burke

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.