
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

Feb 20, 2025 • 4min
Say yes to an open hour
Discover the power of carving out free time to spark creativity and alleviate stress. A memorable trip to Boston illustrates the transformative effects of stepping away from routine tasks. Hear how an unplanned hour at the airport led to an unexpected bookstore adventure, showcasing the magic of seizing spontaneous moments. Embracing the unexpected can inspire new ideas and deepen personal reflections.

7 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 25min
How to stress less and be gentle on yourself, with Courtney Carver
Courtney Carver, a minimalism expert and author, shares her journey toward stress reduction and living simply. She introduces the Project 333 challenge, a minimalist wardrobe strategy, and discusses the spoon theory for energy management, particularly after facing multiple sclerosis. Emphasizing self-gentleness, she offers practical habits, like sustainable morning routines and the benefits of decluttering. Additionally, she opens up about navigating addiction and finding hope through community support, inspiring listeners to transform worry into joy.

12 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 5min
Plan for transition time
Transitioning between activities isn’t as swift as we'd like to think. Effective planning is crucial for productivity, especially in busy family routines. The importance of accounting for transition times is emphasized, encouraging time tracking for better efficiency. Additionally, managing hectic mornings can be simplified with a mental checklist, ensuring a smoother start to the day. Tune in to discover how a little foresight can make all the difference!

7 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 6min
Maybe you already own it
Discover how to save time and money by creatively utilizing what's already at home. Learn the importance of mindful spending and inventory checks to curb unnecessary purchases. Find out how to rethink everyday items, transforming school supplies or clothing into innovative solutions. Embrace a sustainable lifestyle by repairing and repurposing, which not only reduces waste but also boosts personal satisfaction.

8 snips
Feb 16, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: Every square foot, every day
Discover how to make the most of every corner in your home by rethinking traditional room uses. An architect shares insights on turning underused spaces into functional and joyful areas. Follow a renovation journey that emphasizes adapting your environment to fit modern lifestyles. Get practical tips for transforming neglected spaces into personalized havens that enhance daily happiness. Engage with the community for more inspiration!

16 snips
Feb 15, 2025 • 9min
Second Cup: Get to know your benefits
Discover the hidden gems of employee benefits that can boost your financial well-being! The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Learn how to fully leverage these perks to enhance your compensation package. The conversation also stresses the role of effective communication and success stories in promoting these benefits, ultimately fostering a stronger workplace community and improving employee retention.

Feb 14, 2025 • 4min
Take 5 minutes for fun
Discover how brief moments of fun can significantly elevate workplace morale and productivity. The concept of 'five minutes of fun' reveals the power of shared laughter and intentional breaks. Learn creative ways to incorporate playful rituals into daily routines, fostering connection and energy among colleagues. These simple practices not only enhance well-being but also transform the workday into a more engaging experience.

9 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 5min
Ask around
Discover the transformative power of seeking advice from experienced individuals. Gain insights on how tapping into the wisdom of others can enhance your decision-making across different areas of life. Explore strategies for maximizing your comfort and time, ensuring you can connect meaningfully with those around you. Plus, enjoy a sneak peek into some exciting products that could elevate your daily living!

22 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 28min
Getting organized without the stress, with Dana K. White
Dana K. White, a decluttering expert and author renowned for her relatable approach to home organization, dives into the art of stress-free tidying. She shares her personal journey from feeling overwhelmed by clutter to mastering organization. Dana provides practical strategies like tackling trash first and taking quick daily actions for visible results. She emphasizes the importance of starting maintenance early and balancing faith with a clean home, making organizing a joyful rather than daunting task.

9 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 4min
Memorize important information
Explore the vital role of memorization in our daily lives, especially in an era of digital dependence. Discover why relying solely on technology can leave you unprepared in critical moments. Learn practical tips for memorizing essential information, like emergency contacts, to enhance your readiness and peace of mind. This engaging discussion will inspire you to value mental agility and keep your essential knowledge fresh!