

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

Feb 28, 2025 • 5min
Have fun with freebies
Discover the joys of seeking out freebies and discounts to spark fun adventures. Learn how a simple trip for a free Slurpee can become a memorable outing with friends. The conversation encourages embracing opportunities for creating lasting memories, all while being budget-friendly. Tips on maximizing free offers and involving others in your experiences make it an engaging listen, inviting listeners to share their own stories.

6 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 4min
Done is good enough
Discover the power of choosing 'done' over 'perfect' to boost productivity. Learn how high achievers streamline their tasks for better results without wasting time. Plus, dive into the world of Hill House Home, highlighting their stylish and versatile nap dress, perfect for any occasion. Uncover how this brand evolved from bedding to chic loungewear, complete with a special discount for listeners!

9 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 25min
Enjoying your morning routine, with Deirdre Fitzpatrick
Deirdre Fitzpatrick, a weekday morning news anchor and host of the Dying to Ask podcast, shares her journey of balancing a demanding career with personal interests. She discusses the complexities of morning routines, especially with teenagers, and emphasizes the joy of flexibility in family life. Deirdre opens up about her early starts at 4 a.m., the collaborative spirit of broadcast journalism, and her 25-year coverage of the Olympics, celebrating the resilience of athletes. She also shares tips on maximizing morning productivity and embracing spontaneity.

7 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 5min
What's on the horizon?
Discover how planning special events can elevate your mood and break daily monotony. Learn the joy of anticipation and how looking forward to activities enhances emotional well-being. The discussion encourages listeners to intentionally cultivate joy by recognizing what makes them happy. With a touch of gratitude for audience engagement and valuable offers, this exploration highlights the importance of being proactive in creating joyful experiences.

Feb 24, 2025 • 6min
Think about what you'd take
Discover the importance of mental readiness for emergencies and what essentials to pack for a swift evacuation. Learn about vital items like cash, bottled water, and crucial documents that can ease chaos. Reflect on the value of sentimental treasures and the importance of digital backups for irreplaceable items. Plus, dive into the trendy world of comfortable nap dresses and innovative mental health apps designed to help those struggling with depression. It's a blend of preparedness and modern lifestyle insights!

8 snips
Feb 23, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: Schedule yourself first
Discover the art of personal scheduling as a vital tool for life management. Learn how treating personal time like your finances can lead to enhanced productivity and fulfillment. The podcast emphasizes the importance of small, consistent efforts toward personal projects for long-term success. Gain insights on how prioritizing your time can ignite creativity and invite more engagement in your daily life. Elevate your routine by learning to 'pay yourself first' in your schedule!

Feb 22, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: You can always quit tomorrow
Feeling overwhelmed by new commitments? Stick with it just one more day! This discussion highlights the power of perseverance in developing lasting habits. Personal stories shed light on the journey through adversity and the importance of gradual progress. Embrace daily routines without the pressure for instant success. Community support is emphasized as a vital element in maintaining commitment. It’s a motivational reminder to take things one step at a time.

8 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 5min
Do unto others as they have done unto you
Discover the art of kindness in relationships, where understanding others' actions helps tailor your generosity. Explore how reciprocating kindness can lead to more meaningful connections. Learn about thoughtful gestures that resonate with individual preferences, transforming everyday interactions into heartfelt exchanges.

Feb 20, 2025 • 4min
Say yes to an open hour
Discover the power of carving out free time to spark creativity and alleviate stress. A memorable trip to Boston illustrates the transformative effects of stepping away from routine tasks. Hear how an unplanned hour at the airport led to an unexpected bookstore adventure, showcasing the magic of seizing spontaneous moments. Embracing the unexpected can inspire new ideas and deepen personal reflections.

7 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 25min
How to stress less and be gentle on yourself, with Courtney Carver
Courtney Carver, a minimalism expert and author, shares her journey toward stress reduction and living simply. She introduces the Project 333 challenge, a minimalist wardrobe strategy, and discusses the spoon theory for energy management, particularly after facing multiple sclerosis. Emphasizing self-gentleness, she offers practical habits, like sustainable morning routines and the benefits of decluttering. Additionally, she opens up about navigating addiction and finding hope through community support, inspiring listeners to transform worry into joy.


