

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

4 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 6min
Just one idea gets you started
Discover how one well-executed idea can ignite new adventures in life. The host shares insights on using a single concept as a catalyst for creativity and exploration. A personal project, called the September Reset, inspires planning both big and small weekly adventures. Struggling for ideas? Brainstorming lists can help ease decision-making. With concrete examples for families and adults, listeners are encouraged to pick one manageable adventure this week and see where it leads!

Nov 9, 2025 • 4min
Second Cup: Think savory for the holidays
Discover the art of choosing savory over sweet this holiday season. Explore creative gift ideas like spiced nuts, Chex Mix, and even deviled eggs that can make your contributions truly memorable. Learn how to balance cookie-laden spreads with fresh fruit options, adding a vibrant touch to your gatherings. This approach not only stands out but also offers a refreshing twist to traditional holiday treats. Maximize your time and holiday cheer with these practical tips!

15 snips
Nov 8, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: Choose a gift of the year
Simplify holiday gifting with a 'gift of the year' strategy. Choose one versatile item and customize it for each recipient's preferences. Think practical gifts like bags or water bottles that appeal to many. By narrowing down choices, you can save time while still being thoughtful. Try this approach and share your experiences to make gift-giving even easier!

6 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 6min
When you look back on this year
Reflect on your desired memories for the upcoming New Year. Plan holiday activities and gifts early to minimize stress. Take proactive steps toward your career goals and tackle overdue projects. Build small, positive habits that contribute to bigger achievements. Use a time perspective to prioritize effectively and visualize your goals for the year ahead. Start now to shape a fulfilling year that aligns with what truly matters to you.

4 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 5min
Prep for weekend downtime
Discover how to transform your weekends into pockets of delight by preparing low-key activities! Learn the art of tracking your time to identify those elusive breaks between chores. Replace mindless scrolling with captivating books and ongoing puzzles that keep your mind engaged. Simple steps like library visits or preparing a puzzle queue can vastly improve your downtime. Embrace the idea of planning your leisure to enhance enjoyment and add joy to your weekends!

Nov 5, 2025 • 27min
Making the most of our time, with Lewis Hatchett
Lewis Hatchett, a former professional cricketer turned mindset coach and host of the MindStrong podcast, shares his inspiring journey from overcoming Poland syndrome to achieving athletic success. He emphasizes the power of storytelling for building self-belief and explains how mental resilience differentiates top performers. Lewis offers practical strategies for effective time management, including tackling daunting tasks head-on and creating routines that prioritize physical training. He also discusses his plans to expand his coaching platform and support athletes in their transitions.

4 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 5min
Here's what I'm excited about
Explore the power of excitement in presentations! Discover how starting with what excites you can engage your audience from the get-go. Learn the origins of this impactful tip from the book 'Broken Rung.' Hear a fascinating story about an associate brand manager who captivates listeners by sharing her enthusiasm. Get practical advice on planning and rehearsing your excitement statement to align with your message. Finally, uncover how genuine excitement can energize your delivery and create meaningful connections.

4 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 5min
What to do with a time windfall
Discover how to effectively harness unexpected free time as a precious windfall. By prioritizing meaningful activities, you can transform casual moments into memorable experiences. Learn to create a strategic plan for larger stretches of free time, allowing you to make the most of it. Suggestions for hour- and half-day plans ensure you're prepared when those golden opportunities arise. Forget about adding stress; it's all about enjoying your newfound free moments!

5 snips
Nov 2, 2025 • 4min
Second Cup: Often, rather than always
Explore the idea that 'often' can be more achievable than 'always' in your daily routines. Discover how to balance family pickups and work commitments without sacrificing connection. Understand that when people say they have family dinners or skip work events, they often mean 'occasionally' rather than 'every time.' Laura shares personal insights on selecting priorities that fit into a flexible lifestyle, encouraging listeners to embrace a more realistic approach to their commitments.

Nov 1, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: Switch up your exercise routine
Switching up your exercise routine can keep motivation high. Explore the benefits of variety, from running streaks to mixing strength training, biking, and hiking. Adapt workouts to seasonal changes and discover new activities like spinning or swimming. Try different types of runs within the same sport to maintain freshness. Planning workouts in advance and making them social can enhance the experience. Remember, it's all about finding what you enjoy, ensuring you stick with it long-term!


