

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

Dec 28, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: Plan your check in times
Discover the power of seasonal check-ins to track your annual goals. Explore creative ways to divide the year into manageable segments for effective planning. Learn actionable steps for each check-in, from reviewing and pivoting goals to setting new ones. Hear tips on scheduling these check-ins into your calendar to ensure you stay on track. Plus, find out how time off or retreats can boost your commitment. Stay focused and keep your intentions alive with regular check-ins!

4 snips
Dec 27, 2025 • 4min
Second Cup: Do your processes reflect your past or your present?
Rituals should evolve with your life. Outdated processes can lead to unnecessary waste, as highlighted by a TED Talk reference. Examples like cumbersome paper workflows show how old routines can hinder productivity. Household rituals, such as laundry, may also need reevaluation as life changes. Regular meetings and savings habits deserve reconsideration too. By periodically reviewing these processes, you can free up time for what truly matters.

Dec 26, 2025 • 6min
Budget time for transitions
Transitions in life demand both time and money, and recognizing this can ease the stress they bring. Common changes like moving, adjusting to new babies, or job shifts require significant time investments often overlooked. Efficient planning is key; for example, preparing for college moves involves coordinating orientations and schedules. Laura highlights that job changes require restructuring, and maintaining efficiency can be challenging. By adjusting commitments, listeners can better navigate these shifts without sacrificing sleep.

Dec 25, 2025 • 4min
Light up your winter
Brighten those long winter nights by keeping your holiday lights up into spring! Learn how these cheerful displays comfort us in the dark and can even provide a sense of homecoming. Discover practical tips for adding light indoors with string lights and lamps, and consider professional installation for convenience. Embrace warmth and joy by lighting candles and building fires. Let the glow of lights be a beacon of positivity beyond the holidays!

6 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 24min
Boosting endurance, with Dr. James Hewitt
Dr. James Hewitt, a human performance scientist and author of 'Regenerative Performance', shares his journey from cycling to sports science. He emphasizes the importance of balancing effort and recovery, drawing parallels between athletic burnout and workplace overtraining. James outlines three dimensions of effective recovery: physical, emotional, and cognitive, and offers solutions to tackle productivity theatre and enhance focus. He also advocates for leaders to model recovery and promote quality off-work time for better performance.

4 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 5min
Try the analog version
Explore how to recreate your favorite digital activities in the real world! Discover the joy of flipping through magazines instead of scrolling through Instagram. Learn how libraries can provide access to stunning coffee-table books without the expense. Swap digital news feeds for the tactile experience of print newspapers. Understand how scrolling can eat into your leisure time and find easy analog substitutes to enjoy hobbies offline. Embrace the art of disconnecting for a richer leisure experience!

Dec 22, 2025 • 6min
How to sleep in on a weekday
Discover how to recreate the slow, cozy wake-ups of weekend mornings during the hectic weekdays. Learn to identify your sleep set point and avoid sleep debt for a refreshing start. Work backward from your wake time to set ideal bedtimes, and don't forget a bedtime reminder for consistency. By going to bed slightly early, you can drift awake naturally before the alarm. Prioritize night habits over late-night scrolling for a more pleasant morning routine.

Dec 21, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: Don't waste the daylight
Winter is the perfect time to adjust your schedule and soak up some sunlight. Prioritizing outdoor activities can significantly enhance your mood and energy. Consider the opportunity cost of indoor work versus enjoying daylight. Instead of passively wasting evenings, opt for outdoor plans. Schedule outdoor time on weekends to make the most of limited daylight. Setting a reminder to step outside before sunset can help you realize the value of those precious moments. Small breaks outdoors can lead to better choices and improved well-being.

Dec 20, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: You have time to be human
Explore the power of small humane acts that can transform your day. Learn how making time for breakfast can enhance your morning routine. Discover the importance of stepping away for lunch to maintain connections with coworkers. Understand the value of simply listening when someone asks how you are, as it strengthens relationships. Plus, find out why short breaks for snacks and hydration are crucial for focus. Remember, taking a few extra minutes can make all the difference in your well-being.

Dec 19, 2025 • 5min
Know what you're good at
Discover the power of recognizing your strengths to boost your confidence in job hunting. Learn to gather feedback from colleagues and listen closely to compliments as valuable data. By recording these strengths with real examples, you can effectively showcase your abilities in performance reviews. Plus, find out how to match your strengths with job postings to nail those interview questions. Embrace the insight from others to enhance your career journey!


