

Before Breakfast
iHeartPodcasts
In each bite-sized, daily episode of Before Breakfast, host Laura Vanderkam shares a time management strategy or an answer to a listener’s schedule question. How can listeners make the most of their time, both at work and at home? The mission is to give listeners practical tools to feel less busy and get more done.
Episodes
Mentioned books

11 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 4min
Say less
Explore the art of concise communication and learn how brevity can enhance clarity and engagement. Discover practical tips from a communications coach on conveying messages effectively. Also, dive into the juggling act of balancing education with work and family life, featuring a flexible online degree program designed for busy schedules, along with a light-hearted promotion for an affordable wireless service.

4 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 24min
Make big projects doable, with Jin Zheng Shi
Jin Zheng Shi, an ordained Buddhist nun and graduate student, shares her unique journey of balancing monastic life with academic pursuits. She delves into the challenges of maintaining a rigorous schedule, including early mornings and intensive study. The conversation touches on her transformation from a tea sales career to embracing a deeper spiritual path. Jin emphasizes the importance of realistic goal-setting, time management, and the joy of writing, all while integrating Buddhist themes into her creative endeavors.

Aug 26, 2025 • 5min
Red pants or blue pants?
Explore the art of decision-making by limiting options, which can enhance collaboration and help maintain boundaries. Discover how this strategy parallels guiding toddlers and emphasizes clear communication in professional settings. Learn the importance of effective time management and how making informed choices daily can lead to greater productivity. The discussion also highlights community engagement and offers valuable insights on budget-friendly services for everyday needs.

4 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 5min
You don't have to pick up the ball
Explore the fine line between personal responsibilities and those of others. Discover when to step in and when to embrace the power of letting go. Learn how maintaining boundaries can enhance your efficiency and effectiveness in both work and personal life. Gain insights on the importance of encouraging others to take initiative while you focus on your own commitments.

4 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 7min
Second Cup: Celebrate your golden hours
Discover the art of transforming weekday evenings into golden hours filled with joy and fulfillment. Learn actionable strategies to enhance your leisure activities and create a satisfying bedtime routine. The conversation also explores listener engagement through social media, highlighting exciting educational opportunities at National University. Plus, get a sneak peek into the thrilling Big Three Playoffs in basketball!

10 snips
Aug 23, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: Look at next year's schedule
Planning ahead can turn fun into a more enjoyable experience. Discover how reviewing next year's schedules opens up options for trips and family activities. Personal stories highlight the importance of preparation to avoid conflicts. The discussion also emphasizes how awareness of upcoming events can streamline both personal and professional transitions. Plus, learn about valuable resources for achieving your educational goals!

Aug 22, 2025 • 4min
What do you do when you're not here?
Discover how to foster deeper connections through thought-provoking questions. Learn the art of turning acquaintances into friends by exploring shared interests. The key question of 'What do you do when you’re not here?' encourages openness and invites meaningful conversations. Dive into techniques that enhance your relationships and help you connect on a more personal level.

Aug 21, 2025 • 5min
Make jealousy your teacher
Dive into the emotional experience of jealousy and discover how to transform it into a motivational tool for personal growth. Learn how to view comparison not as harmful, but as an opportunity for self-improvement. The discussion emphasizes analyzing feelings of envy to uncover your true desires and potential. Turn jealousy into a teacher for constructive action, inspiring you to seek growth and achieve your goals.

7 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 27min
Make better to-do lists, with Charlie Gilkey
Charlie Gilkey, owner of Productive Flourishing and author, dives into maximizing productivity through effective to-do lists. He shares insightful strategies for crafting impactful lists, highlighting the importance of verb-noun clarity and structured routines. The conversation explores the need for balance in productivity, encouraging rejuvenation through breaks and movement. Gilkey also introduces the 'five projects rule' to prioritize meaningful tasks, fostering a healthier approach to daily life and reducing anxiety over unrealistic expectations.

Aug 19, 2025 • 4min
Specific times get remembered
The discussion highlights the impact of specific times on our perception of credibility. Precise numbers not only enhance communication but also build trust. Learn how using exact timings can improve time management strategies in everyday life. The speaker emphasizes that being specific fosters reliability, influencing how we’re perceived in both personal and professional contexts.