
Before Breakfast
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.
Latest episodes

Jun 28, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: Make mid-year resolutions
Mid-year resolutions can be a powerful tool for personal growth, allowing flexibility in setting goals beyond January. Listeners are encouraged to embrace this time for reflection and assessment of their progress. With motivational examples and actionable steps, it's all about reigniting motivation and establishing new objectives. Explore how to effectively reassess your goals and make meaningful changes halfway through the year!

Jun 27, 2025 • 5min
Morning time can be family time
Discover how to turn mornings into precious family moments. The discussion emphasizes the value of using early hours to connect, as evenings often fill up with activities. Simple practices like shared breakfasts and morning walks can significantly strengthen family bonds. Embrace the tranquility of the morning to nurture relationships before the day takes over.

4 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 6min
How to let go of the guilt
Learn how to alleviate guilt by becoming more aware of where your time goes. Discover strategies for balancing work, family, and self-care through effective time management. Tracking your activities can help you reassess feelings of guilt about productivity, encouraging a healthier mindset. Recognizing even small accomplishments can significantly impact your daily routines and overall well-being.

6 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 27min
Give time themes, with Mike Vardy
In this discussion, productivity expert Mike Vardy, author of 'The Productivity Diet', shares insights on 'time crafting'—a refreshing alternative to traditional time management. He emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to productivity, advocating for daily themes to streamline tasks and bolster focus. Mike dives into maximizing breaks for personal growth and the power of transformative morning routines, illustrating how intentional time management can enhance creativity and effectiveness. Get ready to rethink your relationship with time!

Jun 24, 2025 • 5min
Rethink what's family friendly
The discussion dives into redefining family-friendly work environments, emphasizing how women can balance high-powered careers with family life. Real-life experiences from women in finance and medicine reveal that demanding professions can still accommodate family needs. Insightful strategies are shared, encouraging a fresh perspective on work-life balance and inspiring listeners to seek out more flexibility in their careers.

Jun 23, 2025 • 4min
Life is stressful and life is wonderful
Life is a rollercoaster of stress and wonder. The discussion encourages listeners to embrace both the highs and lows. Personal stories highlight how to find joy even in tough times. It's all about maintaining perspective and appreciating the dualities of life. Discover how to let the wonderful moments shine through the challenges!

Jun 22, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: Until we meet again
Discover practical tips for enhancing accountability in meetings by focusing on clear action steps. Learn how to keep everyone on track and ensure progress between gatherings. Additionally, explore ways to optimize your time and beauty routines, encouraging listeners to share their personal growth journeys. Plus, enjoy a recommendation for a podcast that delves deeper into both professional and personal development.

4 snips
Jun 21, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: Focus on process, not outcome
Prioritizing the process over the outcome is key to achieving your goals. By focusing on manageable habits, you can foster personal growth and a sense of control. Embracing small steps can lead to significant changes over time. The discussion invites listeners to think about actionable steps in various areas of life, encouraging feedback and participation. Plus, there's a nod to a beauty brand and another podcast that aligns with growth and development.

Jun 20, 2025 • 5min
People did that
Explore the incredible capabilities of humanity and how they can inspire personal growth. Discover the importance of recognizing our limitations as stepping stones toward greater achievements. The discussion encourages focusing on meaningful goals, emphasizing dedication and collaboration in everyday efforts. Listeners are invited to engage with feedback, transforming aspirations into reality.

4 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 5min
Have your answers ready
Learn how to transform mundane small talk into meaningful conversations with smart responses. Discover the 'throwaway question strategy' to spark deeper connections in both social and professional settings. Mastering the art of engaging dialogue can enrich your interactions and elevate your social experiences. Prepare to enhance your conversational skills and break the ice like a pro!