We sat down with Lisa Marley, celebrated plant-based chef, nutrition coach, and television presenter, to talk all things food, flavor, and wellness. With a career that fuses her pastry chef training from Westminster Kingsway College and Level 4 Nutrition Coach accreditation, Lisa has made it her mission to create plant-based recipes that are as nourishing as they are irresistible. From starring in Channel 5 and ITV features to leading virtual masterclasses for Cosmopolitan, and collaborating with brands like KitchenAid, Morphy Richards, and Tesco Real Food, Lisa’s work is a testament to her passion, creativity, and the power of food to inspire. In this conversation, she shares her journey, her love for plant-based cooking, and the stories behind the recipes that have captivated audiences worldwide.
Morning Rituals: How do you usually start your mornings, and what role does coffee or your favorite fuel play in setting the tone for your day?
I'm a morning person through and through. I start with a big glass of water with lemon to rehydrate, then I move my body—whether that's a workout, yoga, or just a walk. Movement before anything else sets my energy and mindset for the day. I've also been taking NAD+. by Viaon.
Vaion produces NAD+ in the UK and they don't add anything to it so it's pure.
I also have a Dirtea Matcha, but I wait until after I've moved and had something nourishing.
Balancing Energy & Demands: Women often juggle so many roles—career, family, self-care. How do you personally manage your energy levels to keep up with the demands of your lifestyle?
I protect my energy fiercely. I've learned that saying no to things that drain me is saying yes to myself. I schedule my non-negotiables first—my workouts, my meal prep time, my rest, my family—and everything else fits around that.
I also prioritize sleep like it's my job. Seven to eight hours minimum. When I'm well-rested, I can handle everything life throws at me. A Balanced, whole-food meal keeps my energy stable so I'm not riding the blood sugar rollercoaster.
Lastly, I don't try to do everything perfectly. Some days are better than others, and that's okay. Progress over perfection, always.
Mindset & Motivation: When you hit those days where motivation feels low, what's your go-to ritual, mindset shift, or daily practice that helps you power through?
I remind myself that I've never regretted a workout, but I've definitely regretted skipping one. On low-motivation days, I tell myself I only have to do 10 minutes. Usually, once I start, I keep going, but even if I don't, I've still honoured the commitment to myself.
I also journal when I'm feeling off. Getting my thoughts out helps me identify what's really going on—am I tired? Stressed? Do I need rest instead of pushing? Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is rest.
And I lean into my community—my clients, my friends, other coaches. We all have off days, and there's power in sharing that rather than pretending everything is perfect.
Fuel Beyond the Cup: Outside of coffee, what other habits, foods, or wellness practices do you swear by to stay energized and grounded throughout the day?
Plant-based whole foods are my foundation. I load up on vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. The fiber and nutrients keep my energy stable and my gut happy, which directly impacts my mood and vitality.
I'm also religious about staying hydrated—I aim for 2-3 liters of water daily. Dehydration tanks your energy faster than anything.
For wellness practices, I prioritize breathwork and meditation. Even five minutes of intentional breathing can completely shift my state. And I get outside every single day, even if it's just 10 minutes. Nature is grounding in a way nothing else is.
Advice for Women Everywhere: If you could share one piece of advice with women about how to fuel not just their bodies but also their ambition and spirit, what would it be?
Stop waiting for permission to prioritize yourself. Your health, your energy, your dreams—they're not selfish pursuits. They're essential.
When you nourish your body properly, move with intention, and protect your energy, you show up as the best version of yourself in every area of life. You can't pour from an empty cup, and you can't chase your ambitions if you're running on fumes.
Fuel your body like it's your most important asset—because it is. And remember, taking care of yourself isn't something you do after you've taken care of everyone else. It's what enables you to take care of everyone else. Your wellbeing is the foundation everything else is built on. Protect it fiercely.