An Inspired Chat with Liz Illg

Liz Illg shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Liz, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
🌅 My First 90 Minutes

Coffee & Connection ☕🐾

Start the morning with a warm cup of coffee.

Enjoy quiet time with my pups, grounding myself before the day begins.

Planning & Intention ✍️

Review my to-do list.

Set clear priorities so I know exactly what needs focus today.

Gentle Movement 🤸‍♀️

Light stretching or mobility work to wake up my body.

Tune into how I’m feeling physically before diving into more activity.

Morning Walk 🚶‍♀️🎽

Head out for a 1-hour walk with my weighted vest.

Use this time for reflection, fresh air, and getting energized.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
’m Liz, the creator of 5050 Gal — a brand dedicated to making a whole food, plant-based lifestyle simple, approachable, and sustainable. 🌱

My journey started with the Starch Solution, and what hooked me was how powerful it felt to finally have clarity around food. No guessing, no extremes — just filling my plate with nourishing starches and vegetables in a way that left me full, satisfied, and able to reach my goals, losing over 50 + pounds. Over time, I built out resources, classes, and tools to help others do the same — because I know how overwhelming it can feel to want change but not know where to begin.

What makes 5050 Gal unique is that it’s not about chasing diets or “perfection.” It’s about real-life systems that work: meal plans with grocery lists, batch cooking classes, masterclasses on everything from calorie density to mindset, and community support that keeps you consistent. My brand is about showing up for yourself daily — in the kitchen, in your health, and in your habits — so you can feel confident, energized, and free in your own skin.

Right now, I’m working on expanding our programs — from seasonal batch cooking classes to deeper coaching containers — all with the goal of helping people create a lifestyle they love and can stick with. At its heart, 5050 Gal is about balance, clarity, and freedom — and I’m grateful to be able to share this journey with so many people ready to change their lives through food.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that really shaped how I see the world was when I became an entrepreneur. Stepping into that role opened my eyes to how much I could learn, create, and impact others. It was empowering to realize that I could build businesses around my passions — and each one has deepened my belief that with vision, persistence, and creativity, you can shape your own path and help others along the way.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: “When you say you’re going to do something — for others or for yourself — follow through. Keep your word. It builds trust, confidence, and the kind of self-respect that will carry you far.”

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies my industry tells itself is that it’s only about the food. The truth is, while food matters, lasting change also comes from your mindset and your relationship with food. You can have the perfect meal plan, but if you don’t work on your habits, beliefs, and the way you show up for yourself, the results won’t stick.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
When I’m at the ocean, I feel most at peace. The sound of the waves, the salt air, and the wide horizon help everything slow down — my mind quiets, my breath deepens, and I remember what really matters.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Fully Alive Photography

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