
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

Aug 13, 2024 • 5min
Mediocre ideas can lead to good ones
Explore the power of mediocre ideas in fueling creativity. Learn how embracing every thought can spark innovative solutions. Discover the freedom in brainstorming without judgment. See how connecting seemingly simple concepts can lead to exceptional breakthroughs.

Aug 12, 2024 • 5min
Make the rest fair
This discussion emphasizes the importance of equitable rest among partners. It highlights the shift from competition over household tasks to collaboration for well-being. The focus is on protecting each other's relaxation time and sharing responsibilities. Ensuring that both partners have autonomy in their downtime is key to fostering a healthier relationship.

5 snips
Aug 11, 2024 • 5min
Second Cup: Write your own operating manual
Discover the power of crafting a personal operating manual to boost workplace relationships. It highlights how sharing your preferred working style can lead to better communication and collaboration. By understanding each other's preferences, teams can reduce conflicts and enhance productivity, making work more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Aug 10, 2024 • 4min
Second Cup: In praise of book reports
Discover how summarizing can boost your memory retention. Learn why recounting information is more effective than mere rereading. Dive into research that underscores the value of closed book summaries for effective learning. Enhance your study techniques with insights that could change how you approach information.

Aug 9, 2024 • 4min
Buy a box of birthday cards
Discover the joy of celebrating birthdays with ease! Keeping a box of birthday cards at home can turn a simple act into a heartfelt gesture. Handwritten notes add a personal touch that e-cards just can't match. Learn how small preparations can enhance your loved ones' special days and make your wishes more meaningful.

Aug 8, 2024 • 4min
Time solves many problems
Patience is a powerful ally in our daily struggles. The podcast dives into how time can heal and resolve personal challenges, from parenting dilemmas to workplace stress. Real-life anecdotes illustrate the soothing effect of waiting things out. It's a reminder that many problems can naturally find their resolution if we give them the space to evolve.

Aug 7, 2024 • 4min
Be flexible on the details
Explore the art of flexibility in both personal and professional relationships. Learn how being adaptable can enhance family dynamics and boost workplace productivity. Discover the importance of autonomy over rigid expectations, making interactions more enjoyable for everyone involved. Uncover practical tips for cultivating a more relaxed approach to expectations.

Aug 6, 2024 • 6min
Waste time better
Everyone has downtime, but how you use it can make all the difference. Explore ways to make wasted time fun and meaningful, instead of just scrolling. Discover practical tips like diving into coffee table books or joining niche online communities. Learn to curate a list of enjoyable tasks to tackle during those brief moments in your day, turning idle time into opportunities for satisfaction and engagement.

Aug 5, 2024 • 4min
Give plants as gifts
Discover why gifting plants can be a more thoughtful alternative to flowers or wine. Learn about the lasting benefits of choosing low-maintenance options that brighten up a space. This discussion encourages a mindset shift toward giving greenery as meaningful presents for any occasion. Delight in the idea that plants not only enhance decor but also symbolize growth and care.

Aug 4, 2024 • 4min
Second Cup: It might not take that long
Discover how small changes can lead to significant improvements in your daily routine. The discussion challenges common beliefs about time, particularly in everyday tasks like makeup application. By reassessing our perceptions of time, you can overcome procrastination and make your life more efficient. It's a fresh take on how a little adjustment in mindset can save both time and stress.