
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

16 snips
Dec 25, 2024 • 22min
Morning routines and more with Amanda Warner
Amanda Warner, a long-time listener and commercial real estate consultant, shares her insights on the power of pre-planning and morning routines. She discusses the benefits of long walks for mental health and creativity, weaving in personal anecdotes from her life. Amanda highlights how midday walks can boost workplace culture and mental clarity. She also reflects on her passion for baking, exploring the balance between creativity and commercial pressure. Listeners gain actionable tips for enhancing their daily routines and well-being.

9 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 4min
The secret to becoming a morning person
Transform your mornings into a joyful experience by adding activities you love. Discover how prioritizing sleep can help make early rising sustainable. Learn to find excitement in your mornings, ensuring you have a reason to greet the day. Embrace the journey to becoming a morning person with effective strategies that make waking up a delight.

7 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 5min
Turn screen time into a party
Transform your screen time into a celebration by watching shows with loved ones. Planning communal viewing experiences adds excitement and connection. Dive into themed gatherings that make any show memorable, from cozy movie nights to festive parties. Discover how sharing these moments enhances enjoyment and creates lasting memories. Embrace intentional media consumption to turn any mundane viewing into a cherished occasion.

7 snips
Dec 22, 2024 • 6min
Second Cup: This is it
Discover the balance between meticulous planning and the joy of shared experiences during celebrations. Hear personal stories that remind us to cherish life's simple pleasures rather than just ticking off achievements. Embrace the importance of living in the moment and maximizing our time. The conversation also explores audience interaction and features a mental health app and a coffee subscription service to enhance daily rituals.

8 snips
Dec 21, 2024 • 6min
Second Cup: Anything is good
Discover a refreshing take on productivity by debunking the myth of productivity debt. Embrace progress over perfection, celebrating small victories instead of stressing over achievements. Learn to value your existence beyond work, and appreciate life's simple joys. Plus, get involved in a vibrant listener community while exploring exciting partnerships, including unique coffee subscriptions and mental health resources.

6 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 4min
Write a note of congratulations
Discover the impact of written notes of appreciation. A simple message of congratulations can significantly enhance relationships and make people feel valued. Learn how acknowledging others' successes fosters connection and boosts morale. This insightful discussion highlights the power of gratitude in our daily interactions.

4 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 5min
Develop a spirit of iteration
Discover how adopting an iterative mindset can transform your habit formation. The discussion reveals that flexibility is key—small adjustments can make a big difference. Dive into the idea that personal growth comes from consistent, minor improvements rather than striving for perfection. Learn to embrace change and experiment with new routines to maximize productivity and achieve lasting success.

11 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 27min
Be happier in the new year, with Gretchen Rubin
Gretchen Rubin, a renowned happiness expert and author of bestselling books like "The Happiness Project," shares her insights on enhancing daily joy and productivity. She discusses the benefits of structured routines and explores innovative strategies like the 'nappuccino' for boosting focus. Rubin emphasizes setting achievable New Year resolutions, accountability, and celebrating personal milestones, like hosting Thanksgiving. Her engaging anecdotes and practical tips make happiness feel attainable for everyone.

5 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 5min
Name your breaks
Discover how naming your breaks can enhance productivity at work. Assigning titles to your downtime transforms it into purposeful rituals. This simple act can boost focus and make your workday more enjoyable. Embrace the power of regular, named breaks and turn ordinary pauses into meaningful moments that rejuvenate your mind.

5 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 5min
Santa's elves need time in the workshop
Holiday preparations require careful time management to avoid chaos. Think of it like Santa's elves—dedicating specific time slots can help you tackle tasks efficiently. The discussion includes practical strategies to ensure nothing is overlooked this festive season. Embrace the spirit of organization to make the most of your holiday planning!