

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

5 snips
May 23, 2025 • 6min
What if we cheered first?
Exploring the power of enthusiasm, this discussion emphasizes cheering for success before it materializes. It shines a light on how positive energy in environments like sports can build confidence. The conversation also stresses the importance of celebrating small victories, not just for oneself but for uplifting others too. This focus on collective success fosters a supportive atmosphere where personal achievements are acknowledged, encouraging a vibrant, positive mindset.

May 22, 2025 • 5min
Keep the old
Discover the irreplaceable joy of old friendships and how they contribute to our happiness. Learn practical tips for rekindling connections, even after years apart. Explore the modern ways to bridge distances through technology and travel. Embrace the emotional rewards that come from nurturing those long-standing relationships!

9 snips
May 21, 2025 • 26min
How to be courageous, with Jenny Wood
Career expert Jenny Wood, author of Wild Courage and former executive at Google, shares her journey of embracing courage. She recounts a transformative subway experience that led her to value risk-taking and authenticity. Listeners learn a practical goal-setting framework, 'rock, chalk, talk, walk,' designed to empower personal achievement. Jenny also emphasizes maximizing productivity through small time investments, balancing perfection with contentment, and the importance of effective leadership in everyday life.

May 20, 2025 • 4min
Sweat it out to get it out
Dive into the transformative power of sweat! Discover how exercise can lift your mood and alleviate stress through personal stories. Learn the mantra 'sweat it out to get it out' to reset a bad day and enhance your emotional well-being. It's a refreshing reminder that movement can be your best therapy!

5 snips
May 19, 2025 • 5min
Clear is kind
The episode emphasizes the importance of clear and direct feedback for personal and professional growth. It highlights how avoiding tough conversations can actually be unkind, particularly for women seeking actionable insights. The discussion also covers strategies for maximizing time and the beauty of simplicity in personal growth routines. Listeners are invited to engage and share their thoughts, reinforcing the theme of efficiency and clarity in everyday life.

May 18, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: Take a hobby-themed vacation
Discover the joy of vacationing with a twist—centered around your hobbies! Explore how tailored getaways, like cooking retreats and creative excursions, can transform your relaxation and personal fulfillment. Embrace leisure and integrate your passions into travel for a truly enriching experience. Listeners are encouraged to share their own hobby-themed vacation stories, creating a vibrant community of shared passions and inspirations.

10 snips
May 17, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: If you can't work, plan
Discover how to turn low-energy time into productive planning sessions. The host shares a personal strategy of using Fridays for effective weekly planning. Learn to transform unproductive moments into opportunities for organization and inspiration. The value of planning enjoyable activities during downtime is emphasized, viewing it as a way to boost overall well-being. Transform intentions into actions and make the most of your available time!

May 16, 2025 • 5min
Could you finish?
Discover transformative strategies to rethink your to-do list and boost productivity. Learn why it's essential to avoid pushing tasks to tomorrow. By treating your list as a personal commitment, you can tackle tasks right away. This approach reduces unfinished business and helps you feel accomplished. Unlock your potential by reassessing the items on your list!

May 15, 2025 • 4min
Knowing is less than half the battle
Explore the idea that knowing isn't enough for success. Delve into the G.I. Joe fallacy, which reveals how just being aware of what to do falls short. Discover the significance of creating supportive environments and forming good habits. Learn how proactive planning can bridge the gap between what we know and what we achieve.

May 14, 2025 • 25min
How to be emotionally fit, with Dr. Emily Anhalt
Dr. Emily Anhalt, a clinical psychologist and co-founder of COA, shares insights on enhancing emotional fitness. She discusses how higher emotional fitness can elevate authenticity and satisfaction in life. With seven key traits outlined in her book, she emphasizes the importance of emotional health for personal growth and healthier relationships. Anhalt highlights practical techniques for boosting workplace dynamics and resilience, showing how small changes can lead to significant professional development. Her approach makes mental wellness a true superpower.