

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

8 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!

13 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!

6 snips
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.

17 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.

4 snips
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.

Aug 18, 2025 • 5min
Clear the decks later
Explore the art of prioritizing deep work over minor tasks. Discover why tackling significant projects first can boost productivity. Learn about the pitfalls of chasing easy wins and how it distracts from what truly matters. Uncover effective time management strategies that help in clearing the decks for your most important work. This insightful discussion helps you reshape your approach to work and conquer procrastination!

Aug 17, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: Reimagine happy hour
Discover fresh perspectives on unwinding after work by reimagining happy hour beyond the usual bar scene. Engaging activities like swimming and biking are just the tip of the iceberg! Learn how intentional socializing can enhance your relaxation. Plus, the hosts share insights on building community and empowering growth through listener engagement and educational opportunities. Dive into innovative strategies to elevate both personal happiness and business success!

Aug 16, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: Be a hungry listener
Discover the art of 'hungry listening' to enhance your conversations and presentations. Learn how genuine engagement can unlock deeper connections. The discussion encourages audience participation, inviting listeners to share their insights and questions. Plus, explore exciting opportunities for growth through sponsored education options and business solutions.

Aug 15, 2025 • 4min
Seize the moment
Discover how to seize unexpected opportunities in everyday life, from power outages to seasonal changes. Learn practical tips for turning ordinary moments into chances for productivity and connection. Embrace the art of leveraging mundane situations to enhance your personal and professional engagements. Transform clutter into clarity and find joy in the small moments that can lead to significant growth.


