

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

10 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 5min
It's not my favorite
Discover how to communicate negative opinions without hurt feelings. Learn the art of tactful expression, especially in teaching kids to share their preferences respectfully. The emphasis is on fostering healthy dialogue and embracing diverse opinions within families, proving that even unfavorites can spark meaningful conversations.

5 snips
Aug 3, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: Help comes through other people
Discover the transformative power of accepting help from others during tough times. Engaging stories highlight how support from friends and family can provide effective solutions. Learn the importance of openness and community involvement, encouraging connections through social media. The discussion also touches on investing opportunities and leisure activities, showcasing how to harness both financial growth and enjoyment in life.

4 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: Stay a while
Take a moment to savor the good times instead of diving straight back into tasks. Explore the joy of lingering and fully embracing delightful experiences. The discussion draws fascinating parallels to Odysseus's temptations, highlighting the importance of consciously prioritizing the present. It's a refreshing reminder to appreciate life's small pleasures!

4 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 5min
Get a reading pen pal
Discover the joy of connecting through literature without the need for a book club. The idea of a reading pen pal offers a fresh approach to discussing books. Engage in meaningful conversations through texts or emails, enhancing your reading experience. It's not just about the books—it's about fostering accountability and deepening your literary appreciation with a friend.

8 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 5min
Connect before you disconnect
Discover the impact of personal connections in the workplace. Learn how taking a moment for meaningful interactions at the end of meetings can boost productivity. Celebrate achievements and foster genuine conversations to create a supportive environment. Building professional relationships contributes to a more collaborative and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.

Jul 30, 2025 • 29min
Building the best team ever, with David Burkus
David Burkus, a bestselling author and leadership expert, shares invaluable insights on building effective teams. He emphasizes the importance of company culture and psychological safety over individual talents. Listeners will learn practical strategies, such as creating a 'manual of me' to enhance collaboration. Burkus also discusses the value of nurturing dormant relationships for networking and personal growth while addressing the fears of reaching out for authentic connections. His advice on balancing professional and family life adds a relatable touch.

Jul 29, 2025 • 6min
What to do with a small windfall
Discover savvy strategies for managing a small financial windfall. Learn the importance of intentional spending and how to make your money work for you. Explore options like paying off high-interest debt, boosting your emergency fund, and investing in experiences that matter. Plus, find out how charitable giving can make a positive impact on your community. Make your extra cash count!

Jul 28, 2025 • 5min
Decide when you'll decide
Discover practical techniques for making decisions by setting specific future times for when to choose. Learn how to reduce uncertainty and prioritize your commitments effectively. Explore the importance of timing in decision-making and strategies to manage uncertainty. Find out how postponing decisions can alleviate stress and allow you to focus on other pressing tasks. This approach can lead to more informed choices and a clearer mind.

Jul 27, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: Skip the optional arguments
Discover the art of embracing peace by skipping unnecessary arguments in daily life. The discussion offers insightful advice on distinguishing between essential talks and optional conflicts, especially in parenting. Personal anecdotes illustrate the importance of choosing your battles, emphasizing that letting go of minor disagreements can lead to greater harmony and well-being. Prioritizing major issues over trivial ones is key to a more pleasant and fulfilling life.

5 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: Today is a good day for getting started
Struggling to get started on your goals? This discussion highlights the importance of taking that initial step, with insights from a psychology expert on how small actions can lead to big changes. By embracing manageable tasks, listeners can combat feelings of overwhelm and make progress toward their aspirations. Celebrating these small victories transforms the journey into a more attainable path, encouraging everyone to seize the moment and start today.


