
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

Oct 20, 2024 • 5min
Second Cup: Prepare for a grief anniversary
Learn how to navigate the emotional landscape of grief anniversaries with proactive planning. Discover personal anecdotes that highlight the significance of these dates and the power of creating meaningful memories. Gain practical strategies that prioritize your well-being while respecting the past. This insightful discussion is all about turning challenging days into opportunities for healing and connection.

Oct 19, 2024 • 6min
Second Cup: Feed your mind
Explore how nourishing your mind fuels creative growth, just like feeding your body. Discover the importance of diverse reading and experiences for enhancing productivity. Engage with listeners through social media feedback and support meaningful initiatives like the Purple Leash Project, which aids domestic abuse survivors with pet-friendly shelters. Plus, learn how seasonal scents can create a welcoming home atmosphere!

5 snips
Oct 18, 2024 • 5min
Start the wait
Discover the quirky side of growing up in a marketing household while learning about managing tasks effectively. Find out how starting early can cut down on stress and delays. Explore multitasking tips that transform everyday waiting moments into productive ones, whether you're boiling water or tackling household chores. Embrace the art of waiting smartly and maximize your efficiency by making the most out of every moment!

Oct 17, 2024 • 5min
The known is less scary than the unknown
Explore how planning can tame overwhelming feelings by breaking tasks into manageable pieces. With a fun analogy of a T-Rex fearing the dark, listeners will learn to embrace the known. Discover practical tips for preparing ahead of Election Day and the importance of crafting a voting plan. Plus, there's a special feature on a kids' podcast that inspires the younger generation to explore various career paths and dreams.

36 snips
Oct 16, 2024 • 28min
Build the deep work habit, with Cal Newport
Productivity expert Cal Newport, a Georgetown professor and author known for his influential works like Deep Work, shares his insights on focus and efficiency. He emphasizes the importance of structured life to balance commitments, introduces time-blocking strategies, and highlights the value of planning weekly schedules to reduce stress. Newport dives into the concept of 'deep work,' advocating for minimizing distractions, and discusses the benefits of a shutdown routine to enhance mental well-being and boost productivity.

Oct 15, 2024 • 6min
Don't buy time to do low paid work
Discover how outsourcing low-paid tasks can free up time for more meaningful pursuits. Learn to evaluate your time allocation and avoid filling hours with low-value work. Instead, focus on engaging in fulfilling activities that enhance your personal life. By prioritizing joy over drudgery, you can cultivate a richer, more rewarding existence.

Oct 14, 2024 • 6min
Make it worth the commute
Discover how to enhance your in-office days by focusing on meaningful interactions that boost teamwork and collaboration. Explore the downsides of commuting, especially for remote-capable roles, and reconsider whether the daily grind is worth it. Learn strategies to maximize productivity by matching tasks to the right environments. It's all about making your work life more efficient and fulfilling!

Oct 13, 2024 • 6min
Second Cup: Have a no re-heat morning
Discover the secret to starting your day with tranquility by dedicating five uninterrupted minutes to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee. Learn practical tips for carving out calm in your morning chaos. Embrace the art of savoring hot beverages on-the-go with a thermos, ensuring warmth and comfort. Plus, engage with community initiatives that support domestic abuse survivors and contribute to meaningful change.

Oct 12, 2024 • 5min
Second Cup: This is when you get stronger
Discover how embracing struggles can fuel personal growth. The discussion highlights the significance of viewing challenges as opportunities for development. Learn practical tips to stay motivated during tough times, and understand how overcoming adversity can enhance your strength and skills. Tune in for insights that inspire resilience!

Oct 11, 2024 • 5min
Know when you won't get much done
Learn to recognize those inevitable low productivity stretches, especially during holidays or personal commitments. Embrace the idea of adjusting your expectations to find balance in work and life. Discover strategies for managing these downtime moments with a positive mindset. Acknowledge that productivity ebbs and flows, and find satisfaction in both the busy and quiet periods of your day.