
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

10 snips
May 29, 2025 • 7min
Split your shifts
Discover the innovative concept of split shifts to balance work and family life. The discussion highlights how parents can manage lengthy work hours while still enjoying precious moments with their children. The benefits of remote work and evening shifts are explored, showcasing strategies for effective time management. Plus, get tips on achieving effortless beauty routines and utilizing breaks for personal growth. This blend of productivity and family connection offers a refreshing perspective on modern work-life balance.

7 snips
May 28, 2025 • 26min
How to be happier, with Cassie Holmes
Cassie Holmes, a UCLA professor and author of Happier Hour, shares insightful strategies for cultivating happiness. She discusses the transformative power of treating weekends like vacations. By being present and practicing altruism, we can reshape our perception of time. Holmes emphasizes the importance of recognizing everyday joys and dedicating time to personal activities. Her research highlights how giving and exercise not only boost happiness but also enhance our effectiveness, making life richer and more fulfilling.

6 snips
May 27, 2025 • 6min
Focus your leisure time
Engaging in leisure activities can lead to a more fulfilling life. By dedicating time to hobbies like writing or quilting, individuals can achieve deeper satisfaction and personal growth. Transforming your leisure time into structured, meaningful pursuits, as illustrated by personal anecdotes, enhances both enjoyment and skill. This approach challenges the busy narrative, proving that intentional engagement in personal passions can enrich our lives significantly.

8 snips
May 26, 2025 • 6min
Know what you do best
Discover how to boost your productivity by focusing on what you do best. Learn the importance of identifying your unique strengths and core competencies through self-reflection and feedback. Explore strategies to manage your time effectively and prioritize activities that truly resonate with your passions. The conversation encourages intentional living, highlighting that embracing your strengths can lead to a more fulfilling life.

May 25, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: Keep track of others' big days
Discover how remembering important dates can significantly enhance your relationships. Learn practical tips for tracking milestones and supporting friends during crucial moments in their lives. Small gestures can make a big impact when it comes to celebrating achievements or navigating challenges. Foster deeper connections by being intentionally present in the lives of those you care about.

4 snips
May 24, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: Make a good day (almost) perfect
Discover how to elevate a good day into a great one by planning joyful activities and focusing on what makes you happy. Learn the importance of prioritizing personal agency and cutting out less enjoyable tasks. Explore enriching options for your lunch breaks, including engaging podcasts and effortless beauty routines, to boost both personal and professional growth. It's all about maximizing joy and making the most of every moment!

5 snips
May 23, 2025 • 6min
What if we cheered first?
Exploring the power of enthusiasm, this discussion emphasizes cheering for success before it materializes. It shines a light on how positive energy in environments like sports can build confidence. The conversation also stresses the importance of celebrating small victories, not just for oneself but for uplifting others too. This focus on collective success fosters a supportive atmosphere where personal achievements are acknowledged, encouraging a vibrant, positive mindset.

May 22, 2025 • 5min
Keep the old
Discover the irreplaceable joy of old friendships and how they contribute to our happiness. Learn practical tips for rekindling connections, even after years apart. Explore the modern ways to bridge distances through technology and travel. Embrace the emotional rewards that come from nurturing those long-standing relationships!

9 snips
May 21, 2025 • 26min
How to be courageous, with Jenny Wood
Career expert Jenny Wood, author of Wild Courage and former executive at Google, shares her journey of embracing courage. She recounts a transformative subway experience that led her to value risk-taking and authenticity. Listeners learn a practical goal-setting framework, 'rock, chalk, talk, walk,' designed to empower personal achievement. Jenny also emphasizes maximizing productivity through small time investments, balancing perfection with contentment, and the importance of effective leadership in everyday life.

May 20, 2025 • 4min
Sweat it out to get it out
Dive into the transformative power of sweat! Discover how exercise can lift your mood and alleviate stress through personal stories. Learn the mantra 'sweat it out to get it out' to reset a bad day and enhance your emotional well-being. It's a refreshing reminder that movement can be your best therapy!