
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

8 snips
Oct 30, 2024 • 23min
Make the minutes count, with Tracy Davidson
Tracy Davidson, Emmy award-winning co-anchor and consumer reporter, shares her insights on maximizing time efficiency in the fast-paced world of journalism. She reflects on her 40-year career and the critical importance of time management. Tips include meticulous daily planning and embracing physical activity for resilience. Davidson also discusses navigating life’s transitions with a positive mindset, tackling the 'Sunday scaries,' and the value of self-compassion amidst change.

6 snips
Oct 29, 2024 • 7min
Map out your time line
The discussion emphasizes the importance of planning through project timelines for better outcomes. The hosts share insights on how structured planning, much like composing music, can make daunting tasks more manageable. They advocate for setting daily goals, such as writing 2,500 words, to enhance preparation and success. This approach not only clarifies the path ahead but also increases productivity and confidence in tackling significant projects.

6 snips
Oct 28, 2024 • 6min
Try a limited engagement
Discover the power of 'limited engagements' to strengthen friendships without the pressure of long-term commitments. Explore fun activities like temporary book clubs that allow for deeper connections in a relaxed atmosphere. Learn how structured yet flexible routines can enhance relationships, helping you see friends more regularly while keeping it low-stress. Embrace new experiences and enjoy meaningful interactions without the burden of lasting obligations.

4 snips
Oct 27, 2024 • 6min
Second Cup: You chose this
Discover how to manage job stress effectively while balancing the challenges of career and personal life. The discussion highlights the importance of personal choice in shaping your path and encourages reevaluating motivations for career satisfaction. Gain insights on reconnecting with your passions during tough times and embracing the complexities of work. Learn how to transform dissatisfaction into empowerment by pursuing meaningful change and rediscovering joy.

7 snips
Oct 26, 2024 • 5min
Second Cup: Keep your Legos
Discover the importance of preserving your creative work, even if it feels useless now. A writer shares how keeping drafts and reusable text can inspire future projects. Engage with the community through social media and find comfort in autumn vibes. Plus, learn about Vralar, a medication designed to enhance the effects of antidepressants. It’s a blend of creativity, community, and mental health insights.

Oct 25, 2024 • 5min
If you want to run more, sign up for a race
Setting specific goals with deadlines can be a game changer for motivation, especially in running. Committing to a race not only brings focus but also enhances the regularity of your exercise routine. The podcast shares personal experiences that showcase how accountability and clear objectives elevate physical activity. Discover how the combination of enthusiasm and structured challenges can keep you on track to achieving your fitness ambitions!

4 snips
Oct 24, 2024 • 5min
Make hay while the sun shines
The discussion centers on the value of seizing fleeting opportunities. It emphasizes the need for balance between being flexible and making wise choices. The analogy of 'making hay while the sun shines' captures the urgency of acting when the moment is right. There's a particular focus on the unique dynamics of advertising during election years, showcasing how timing can make all the difference.

6 snips
Oct 23, 2024 • 26min
How to calm the chaos, with Lisa Woodruff
Lisa Woodruff, owner of Organize 365 and creator of the popular Sunday Basket method, shares her expertise on achieving a more organized life. She discusses the Sunday Basket technique for batching tasks and managing weekly chores effectively. Lisa also emphasizes the importance of structured routines and time management strategies to enhance productivity. Plus, she touches on integrating leisure within busy schedules, advocating for maintaining personal time alongside responsibilities. Discover organizational systems that balance work and family life!

7 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 5min
The work brings inspiration
Discover the power of setting aside dedicated time for creative activities. Regular practice is highlighted as the key to unlocking inspiration and boosting creativity. The discussion emphasizes how this commitment can lead to greater idea generation and personal empowerment. Dive into techniques that transform routine work into a wellspring of innovative thoughts.

Oct 21, 2024 • 6min
Something might be more relaxing than nothing
Discover why doing nothing might not be the ultimate way to relax. Engaging in enjoyable activities can invigorate your spirit and help you rejuvenate, especially during stressful times. The discussion encourages listeners to embrace purposeful experiences that enhance memory and give you a sense of control. Plus, learn how to make your downtime intentional with cozy scents for a more comforting atmosphere.