Fuel Your Finish with Lisa Nelson

Stop Waiting For The Perfect Time!: Why It's Okay To Start Over , But You Need to START!

Most people think they need the “perfect time” to finally get consistent with their nutrition and fitness. In this episode of Fuel Your Finish, Registered Dietitian and 4x Boston Marathoner Lisa Nelson breaks down why that mindset is exactly what’s holding you back—and what to do instead. Lisa shares personal insight on how even she caught herself waiting for the “right time” to restart her podcast, and how that same pattern shows up in nutrition, training, and everyday life. She dives into why perfection isn’t required for progress, how small setbacks can spiral into lost time, and why shortening your “comeback time” is the real key to success. If you’ve ever told yourself “I’ll start Monday” or “I’ll wait until things calm down,” this episode will challenge that thinking and give you a practical way to move forward—right now. You’ll learn: *  Why waiting for the “perfect time” is keeping you stuck  *  How all-or-nothing thinking slows your progress  *  The concept of “shortening your comeback time” (and why it matters)  *  How to navigate real life—parties, stress, travel—without falling off track  *  Why your goals need to be realistic, flexible, and built for your life  *  Simple ways to plan ahead so you stay consistent (even when life is busy)  Key Moments / Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview  00:30 – Why the “Perfect Time” Doesn’t Exist  01:30 – Personal Story: Waiting to Restart the Podcast  02:30 – Real Life Always Gets in the Way (and That’s Normal)  04:00 – The Problem with Rigid, All-or-Nothing Goals  06:00 – Real Example: Falling Off Track & Bouncing Back  08:00 – Why Starting Immediately Matters More Than Starting Perfectly  10:00 – The Cost of Waiting (and Losing Progress Over Time)  12:00 – Shortening Your Comeback Time  14:00 – How to Set Realistic, Actionable Goals  16:00 – Planning Ahead for Busy Seasons & Staying Consistent Resources & Links: 🌐 Transform Nutrition: https://transformnutrition.fit/ [https://transformnutrition.fit/] 💬 Book a FREE Strategy Session: https://l.bttr.to/f57AT [https://l.bttr.to/f57AT] 🏃‍♀️ Fueling for Runners: Free Runner Fueling Guide [https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Flisa-nelson-d78f.mykajabi.com%2F15min-2%3Futm_source%3Dig%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_content%3Dlink_in_bio%26fbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnlZHFrUZChv92hrhNvpKeRjO30-ukpWByq6BXAUvhINIznIlABATPP45wJcE_aem_dAkRf3n96vUY9-rrENAfow%26utm_id%3D97760_v0_s00_e0_tv3_a1denngxrcvwdo&e=AT7IvI7g_cazzzWSS5b6TnX5uETq3KFAU_vQANY_V-DKkabrLyLvrMYOKkfUygWhEn8aa55uFFo0tdKgjqOzj0ZOCSIX7-U1_9UV7BMTqg] Nutrition Programs: Work With Me [https://lisa-nelson-d78f.mykajabi.com/runner-focused-course-coaching-page-courtney-s-edits-1?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnqwbRiYG6PX-tsXuxtxDpiw5HLMlC7m1LsN5AHJrmr79F_ALKBgmcWI2cDuI_aem_aWqSB5dLN1JnGtem_X5KWA&utm_id=97760_v0_s00_e0_tv3_a1denngxrcvwdo] Keywords / Tags: consistency, nutrition habits, fitness mindset, all-or-nothing thinking, habit building, time management, runner nutrition, fueling for performance, sustainable weight loss, healthy lifestyle, goal setting, Fuel Your Finish, Lisa Nelson, Boston Marathoner, nutrition coaching

Break the Cycle: How to Build Habits That Actually Stick

Many of us struggle with creating lasting habits—even when we know what works. In this episode of Fuel Your Finish, Registered Dietitian and 4x Boston Marathoner Lisa Nelson shares a personal story about why she struggled to stay consistent with strength training—and how she finally broke the cycle. Lisa dives into why routines that worked in the past might not work now, how life changes can impact habit formation, and practical strategies for creating new, sustainable habits that fit your current lifestyle. Whether you’re working on fitness, nutrition, or any other goal, this episode will help you think outside the box and take action when old habits aren’t delivering results. You’ll learn: * Why repeating the “same old routine” can stall your progress * How to evaluate what’s really holding you back from your goals * The power of small tweaks and thinking outside the box * How to “trick” yourself into building new habits that stick * Why committing to a dedicated space, schedule, or accountability system can help Key Moments / Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Story Introduction 00:29 – The Struggle: Starting Over Every Monday 00:58 – Life Changes & Fitness Routines 01:24 – The Importance of Strength Training for Health & Performance 02:18 – 15-Minute Strength Plan & General Exercise Recommendations 04:00 – Recognizing When Your Old Routine Isn’t Working 06:08 – Why It’s Important to Ask “Why Am I Not Reaching My Goals?” 06:36 – Thinking Outside the Box: How Lisa Finally Broke the Cycle 08:31 – Applying This Strategy to Your Life & Goals Resources & Links: 🌐 Transform Nutrition: https://transformnutrition.fit/ [https://transformnutrition.fit/] 💬 Book a FREE Strategy Session: https://l.bttr.to/f57AT [https://l.bttr.to/f57AT] 📄 15-Minute Strength Training Plan: 15min workout [https://lisa-nelson-d78f.mykajabi.com/15min-2-49043020-f7c9-4272-8450-afced2c4101f] Keywords / Tags: habit change, strength training, consistency, fitness mindset, sustainable habits, routine building, workout tips, dietitian advice, personal growth, Fuel Your Finish, Lisa Nelson, Boston Marathoner, nutrition for runners, healthy habits

Staying Consistent When Life Gets Busy (How to Reset When Motivation Slips)

Many people start the new year with big goals—only to feel burned out, overwhelmed, or off track a few weeks later. In this episode, Lisa Nelson breaks down why motivation fades, why extreme resolutions don’t last, and how to reset without starting over. Lisa walks you through how to refocus on what actually moves the needle, identify the habits that matter most, and stay consistent even when life gets busy—whether that’s work, family, travel, or social events (hello, Mardi Gras). This episode is all about strategy over effort, progress over perfection, and building momentum that lasts. Whether your goal is improving your nutrition, running stronger, building consistency with workouts, or simply having more energy in daily life, this episode will help you trust the process and keep going—even when things aren’t perfect. This episode covers: * Why motivation fades around weeks 3–4 of the year * Why consistency matters more than willpower or extremes * How to identify the 1–3 habits that make the biggest impact * Giving yourself grace instead of falling into all-or-nothing thinking * How to stay on track during busy seasons and social events * Strategy vs. effort—and why trying harder isn’t the answer What You Will Learn: * Why extreme goals often lead to burnout * How small, consistent habits drive long-term results * How to reset when you fall off track * How to stay consistent—even when motivation is low ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Welcome & Resetting Motivation  01:15 – New Year Goals vs Sustainable Habits  03:00 – Why Motivation Fades After a Few Weeks  05:00 – Progress Over Perfection  06:45 – Identifying the Habits That Matter Most  08:30 – Real-Life Barriers: Time, Energy & Busy Seasons  10:30 – Strategy Over Effort  12:30 – Trusting the Process  14:15 – Final Encouragement & Next Steps 🔗 Resources & Links 🌐 Learn more: https://transformnutrition.fit/ [https://transformnutrition.fit/] 💬 Want help dialing in your nutrition, energy, or performance?  Book a FREE strategy session here: 👉 https://l.bttr.to/f57AT [https://l.bttr.to/f57AT] 📄 Grab your free resources:  • 15-Minute Workout Plan 👉15min workout [https://lisa-nelson-d78f.mykajabi.com/15min-2-49043020-f7c9-4272-8450-afced2c4101f]  • Fueling Tip Sheet for Runners  👉 Run Fueling tip sheet [https://lisa-nelson-d78f.mykajabi.com/15min-2] Keywords / Tags nutrition for runners, sports nutrition, healthy habits, consistency, motivation, performance nutrition, fitness mindset, fueling for performance, marathon training, strength training nutrition, dietitian tips, wellness podcast, Fuel Your Finish, Lisa Nelson, health coach, habit building, sustainable fitness, training strategy

The Habit Shift: How to Make This Your Healthiest Year Yet

Many people start the new year with big goals—only to feel burned out or discouraged a few weeks later. In this episode, Lisa Nelson breaks down why extreme resolutions often fail and how small, consistent habits lead to lasting results. Lisa walks you through how to envision your goals, identify the habits that actually move the needle, and remove the barriers that keep you stuck. This episode is all about sustainability, self-awareness, and creating momentum—without perfection or restriction. Whether your goal is improving your nutrition, running stronger, sleeping better, or building healthier routines overall, this episode will help you approach the new year with clarity, balance, and confidence. This conversation covers: * Why consistency beats motivation and extremes * How to set goals and celebrate progress * Identifying 1–3 habits that make the biggest difference * Overcoming common barriers like time, scrolling, and burnout * Replacing unhelpful habits with realistic alternatives What You Will Learn: * Why extreme goals lead to burnout * How small habits drive lasting results * How to remove barriers to consistency * Simple strategies to stay motivated—even when you don’t feel like it ⏱️ Chapters  00:00 – Welcome & New Year Mindset 01:00 – Resolutions vs. Sustainable Habits 02:30 – Visualizing Your Health & Life Goals 04:15 – Celebrating Progress (Not Just the Finish Line) 05:30 – Identifying 1–3 Key Habits 06:45 – Why We Avoid the Habits We Need Most 08:15 – Time, Sleep, Food Prep & Real-Life Barriers 10:00 – Scrolling, Distraction & Energy Drain 11:30 – Replacing Habits Without Restriction 13:00 – Motivation vs. Action 14:15 – Setting Realistic, Sustainable Goals 15:00 – Final Encouragement & Next Steps https://transformnutrition.fit/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqazBtMnNqbk5fSTVHbUZpeGV2YUZHbndMU0VSUXxBQ3Jtc0trNkRfR2xTUHVzM0Q5bWgySHZneEtqM1dKckg1RmFSYTN0UWhxN1N1c0REVlpTay1kOGdodFJwQ2F4UTlKNXd5UHBaUDdWY2llYkJsSkRlRHNKM3pSSU1xUVhiNzVxZFZUaFZzeEd6QTNfLWR0UGRsNA&q=https%3A%2F%2Ftransformnutrition.fit%2F&v=4925TRwOaSo] Are you looking to get your nutrition fine-tuned to finally see results or just feel healthier or improve your overall health? Book a FREE strategy session HERE: https://transformnutrition.fit/contac.. [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0Z2QlZ4c0UyaUlhUG9PME9mRjB3RzdlSVFKd3xBQ3Jtc0ttOFZ6X3JRNENEWkJFaEdTaDkwOTBkLU0wd1RBazN4ZlpxdEdoRlFrWlc1dGxLdE4yc2dmZWJ4eGJkd294c2FsTGpSaVUyUkJuajk5RlRJcnRpU0RVdjJOa1AzWmM3T2Z1MHFrRTJlV3QzWE5yWTBlRQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Ftransformnutrition.fit%2Fcontac..&v=4925TRwOaSo]. Get the free meal guide here: https://lisa-nelson-d78f.mykajabi.com... [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVFlYXR2ZHVoVnRMLUkzRXlHbkRhTFRvSW96Z3xBQ3Jtc0trOWhwam40V0pqNW85WEdsSU9aODVFUFVRdVJwa3RMNDYtYnJMd216YnFzMno0c0ZIYlZXeHVQamtCdTFuX2NUUzZEbzIzLUNjWGMta0dpcDFqSjJQdzVTUTdsTnZTTHQyMzJ0V2JWR1NxTi1nemZ1bw&q=https%3A%2F%2Flisa-nelson-d78f.mykajabi.com%2Fmeal-prep-guide&v=4925TRwOaSo] nutrition for runners, sports nutrition, macronutrients explained, meal planning for fitness, healthy eating habits, pre-workout meals, post-workout recovery, hydration tips, fitness performance, wellness podcast, Lisa Nelson, Fuel Your Finish, performance nutrition, balanced meals, dietitian tips, running nutrition, workout fuel, strength training nutrition, gym nutrition, habits, consistency, health coach, dietitian

Under-Fueling, Night Snacking, and Low Energy—What Runners Get Wrong

Many runners and fitness-minded people unintentionally under-fuel—especially when trying to “eat clean” or lose weight. In this episode, Lisa Nelson explains why eating too little during the day often leads to overeating at night, low energy, and stalled progress. This conversation covers: * The signs of under-fueling * Why cutting calories and carbs hurts performance * How metabolism adapts to chronic under-eating * The role of decision fatigue in food choices * Planning meals and snacks to stay consistent * Protein, calories, sleep, and energy basics If you’re struggling with fatigue, nighttime overeating, or feeling stuck despite your efforts, this episode will help you rethink how much—and how often—you should be eating. What You Will Learn (Short Version) * Signs you’re under-fueling and why it backfires * Why skipping meals leads to nighttime overeating * How under-eating affects energy, metabolism, and performance * Easy tips for balanced meals, snacks, and pre-planning * Nighttime fueling strategies that support your goals ⏱️ Chapters (Short Version) 00:00 – Intro – Why under-fueling matters 01:00 – What Under-Fueling Looks Like – Cutting calories & carbs can backfire 03:00 – Nighttime Overeating – Why hunger hits after a “clean” day 05:00 – Balanced Meals & Snacks – Fuel for energy and performance 08:00 – Planning Ahead – Pre-decide meals to avoid mindless eating 10:00 – Nighttime Fueling Tips – Smart snacks without guilt 12:00 – Energy, Sleep & Recovery – How fueling affects overall health 14:00 – How Much Is Enough? – Simple calorie & protein guidance 16:00 – Final Encouragement – Key takeaways & next steps https://transformnutrition.fit/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqazBtMnNqbk5fSTVHbUZpeGV2YUZHbndMU0VSUXxBQ3Jtc0trNkRfR2xTUHVzM0Q5bWgySHZneEtqM1dKckg1RmFSYTN0UWhxN1N1c0REVlpTay1kOGdodFJwQ2F4UTlKNXd5UHBaUDdWY2llYkJsSkRlRHNKM3pSSU1xUVhiNzVxZFZUaFZzeEd6QTNfLWR0UGRsNA&q=https%3A%2F%2Ftransformnutrition.fit%2F&v=4925TRwOaSo] Are you looking to get your nutrition fine-tuned to finally see results or just feel healthier or improve your overall health? Book a FREE strategy session HERE: https://transformnutrition.fit/contac.. [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0Z2QlZ4c0UyaUlhUG9PME9mRjB3RzdlSVFKd3xBQ3Jtc0ttOFZ6X3JRNENEWkJFaEdTaDkwOTBkLU0wd1RBazN4ZlpxdEdoRlFrWlc1dGxLdE4yc2dmZWJ4eGJkd294c2FsTGpSaVUyUkJuajk5RlRJcnRpU0RVdjJOa1AzWmM3T2Z1MHFrRTJlV3QzWE5yWTBlRQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Ftransformnutrition.fit%2Fcontac..&v=4925TRwOaSo]. Get the free meal guide here: https://lisa-nelson-d78f.mykajabi.com... [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVFlYXR2ZHVoVnRMLUkzRXlHbkRhTFRvSW96Z3xBQ3Jtc0trOWhwam40V0pqNW85WEdsSU9aODVFUFVRdVJwa3RMNDYtYnJMd216YnFzMno0c0ZIYlZXeHVQamtCdTFuX2NUUzZEbzIzLUNjWGMta0dpcDFqSjJQdzVTUTdsTnZTTHQyMzJ0V2JWR1NxTi1nemZ1bw&q=https%3A%2F%2Flisa-nelson-d78f.mykajabi.com%2Fmeal-prep-guide&v=4925TRwOaSo] nutrition for runners, sports nutrition, macronutrients explained, meal planning for fitness, healthy eating habits, pre-workout meals, post-workout recovery, hydration tips, fitness performance, wellness podcast, Lisa Nelson, Fuel Your Finish, performance nutrition, balanced meals, dietitian tips, running nutrition, workout fuel, strength training nutrition, gym nutrition