
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

May 19, 2025 • 5min
Clear is kind
The episode emphasizes the importance of clear and direct feedback for personal and professional growth. It highlights how avoiding tough conversations can actually be unkind, particularly for women seeking actionable insights. The discussion also covers strategies for maximizing time and the beauty of simplicity in personal growth routines. Listeners are invited to engage and share their thoughts, reinforcing the theme of efficiency and clarity in everyday life.

May 18, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: Take a hobby-themed vacation
Discover the joy of vacationing with a twist—centered around your hobbies! Explore how tailored getaways, like cooking retreats and creative excursions, can transform your relaxation and personal fulfillment. Embrace leisure and integrate your passions into travel for a truly enriching experience. Listeners are encouraged to share their own hobby-themed vacation stories, creating a vibrant community of shared passions and inspirations.

10 snips
May 17, 2025 • 6min
Second Cup: If you can't work, plan
Discover how to turn low-energy time into productive planning sessions. The host shares a personal strategy of using Fridays for effective weekly planning. Learn to transform unproductive moments into opportunities for organization and inspiration. The value of planning enjoyable activities during downtime is emphasized, viewing it as a way to boost overall well-being. Transform intentions into actions and make the most of your available time!

May 16, 2025 • 5min
Could you finish?
Discover transformative strategies to rethink your to-do list and boost productivity. Learn why it's essential to avoid pushing tasks to tomorrow. By treating your list as a personal commitment, you can tackle tasks right away. This approach reduces unfinished business and helps you feel accomplished. Unlock your potential by reassessing the items on your list!

May 15, 2025 • 4min
Knowing is less than half the battle
Explore the idea that knowing isn't enough for success. Delve into the G.I. Joe fallacy, which reveals how just being aware of what to do falls short. Discover the significance of creating supportive environments and forming good habits. Learn how proactive planning can bridge the gap between what we know and what we achieve.

May 14, 2025 • 25min
How to be emotionally fit, with Dr. Emily Anhalt
Dr. Emily Anhalt, a clinical psychologist and co-founder of COA, shares insights on enhancing emotional fitness. She discusses how higher emotional fitness can elevate authenticity and satisfaction in life. With seven key traits outlined in her book, she emphasizes the importance of emotional health for personal growth and healthier relationships. Anhalt highlights practical techniques for boosting workplace dynamics and resilience, showing how small changes can lead to significant professional development. Her approach makes mental wellness a true superpower.

6 snips
May 13, 2025 • 4min
Notice and embrace one-on-one time
Discover the power of everyday moments for deeper connections with loved ones. Personal anecdotes illustrate how simple activities can turn into meaningful interactions. Learn effective strategies to maximize one-on-one conversations, enhancing relationships and fostering personal growth. These insights highlight how fostering understanding and collaboration can transform both personal and professional lives.

8 snips
May 12, 2025 • 4min
Celebrate with others, and as you wish
Exploring the art of celebration, the discussion emphasizes the balance between shared traditions and personal preferences. Listeners are encouraged to observe holidays on different days to align family practices with individual wishes. Practical examples illustrate how spreading out festivities can enhance joy and connection. It’s a thoughtful guide to making celebrations more meaningful while respecting personal choices!

8 snips
May 11, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: You could just do it now
The discussion kicks off with the idea that there's never a perfect moment to start. It emphasizes the importance of overcoming procrastination by taking action right away. The speaker shares personal anecdotes, illustrating how tackling tasks immediately brings a freeing sense of relief. Listeners are challenged to rethink their approach to delays and are inspired to embrace the satisfaction that comes from getting things done.

May 10, 2025 • 5min
Second Cup: If you do nothing else
Exploring the power of daily rituals, the discussion emphasizes how small, consistent tasks can enhance productivity. Personal stories illustrate the joy of creating a sense of accomplishment, even during downtime. The host advocates for manageable habits that can transform your outlook, proving that even a little structure can lead to greater fulfillment. Tune in for insights on cultivating positivity through everyday routines!