As a professional organizer, I’m always looking for simple ways to maximize time, especially during routine tasks. Whether I’m simmering a soup on the stove or working on my latest knitting project, I’ve found an amazing way to stay productive, entertained, and informed: listening to audiobooks and podcasts. That’s why I want to help you learn to multitask with audiobooks and podcasts.
I know this has been a thing for years. However, as I have gotten busier and my kids have gotten older and stay up later, I have found that my free time for entertainment is near none. It is harder to sit a physically read a book without interruption. But my curiosity to learn, my love of history, a good beach read, a compelling documentary or the desire for self-improvement never stops. When I learned to multitask with audiobooks and podcasts I gave myself more time for me.
Maximize Your Time with EarPods and Audio Tools
We all have those long to-do lists—meal prepping, cleaning, crafting, organizing. But thanks to EarPods, multitasking has never been easier. That’s why I have found that audiobooks and podcasts have been a great way to feed my curiosity and multi-task while I am working on bookkeeping projects, cook, working out, driving or trying to fit in my favorite hobby, knitting.
I gave up months ago trying to physically read my books in time for book club. Now I take the audible version of the book from the local library or Audible.com. Reading is more fun for me. I’ve turned countless hours of hands-on chores into rich opportunities for learning and self-growth by tuning in to:
- Audiobooks on Audible
- Books on tape from the library via the Libby App
- Free podcasts available on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more
These tools allow me to check off books from my reading list while staying productive around the house and working. It’s a brilliant strategy for anyone trying to find balance between daily responsibilities and lifelong learning. You can listen to them on your Kindle, your phone or iPad.
Organizing Tip: Curate Your Listening Queue
Just like we organize our pantry or bookshelf, curating an intentional listening queue can help reduce mental clutter. Try creating a simple list of what you want to listen to each week—whether it’s a mix of fiction and non-fiction audiobooks, or episodes from your favorite podcasts.
Here’s a look at what I’ve been listening to lately:
Some of My Favorite Podcasts:
- This American Life – Fascinating stories from everyday people with a journalistic twist.
- Revisionist History by Malcolm Gladwell – A smart reexamination of past events.
- Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard – Insightful, funny interviews with big thinkers and celebrities.
- Smartless – A hilarious and thoughtful series hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett.
- The Mel Robbins Podcast – Motivational episodes that help reset your mindset and routines.
Each of these podcasts brings something unique, whether I’m learning about behavioral science, laughing at celebrity anecdotes, or exploring compelling human stories. And best of all—they’re free!
Turn Everyday Routines Into Mini Learning Sessions
Whether I’m chopping veggies for dinner or finishing up a scarf, I use that time to catch up on books I’ve been meaning to read or discover new podcast episodes. With my book list organized digitally, I can match titles with available audio versions and chip away at my goals even when I’m not “reading” traditionally.
If you like to keel lists by hand or in a planner I have created two printables that help you log reading goals and entertainment goals:
The Bucket List Bundle: This printable helps you organize your dreams and goals. It also has sections for books to read, music lists, movies to watch, restaurants to try, podcasts to listen to and more.
The Book Club Organizer: The Life’s Lists Ultimate Book Club Organizer is all you need to indulge in your passion for reading! This all-in-one printable set is designed specifically to help you organize and properly document your ongoing book club journey. Track books read, write your own reviews, keep a list of books you want to read and more.
How You Can Start Multitasking Mindfully
- Invest in quality EarPods – Wireless EarPods give you the freedom to move while staying tuned in.
- Download the Libby app – It connects to your local library for free access to thousands of audiobooks.
- Subscribe to 2–3 favorite podcasts – Rotate through your favorites to keep things interesting.
- Create a listening calendar – Use a planner or digital app to block out times to listen during chores, walks, or crafting time.
Final Thoughts
Multitasking doesn’t have to mean chaos. With a little planning and the right tools, you can stay organized and turn everyday routines into learning opportunities. Whether you’re whipping up dinner or knitting your next masterpiece, let audio content keep you inspired and engaged. When you multitask with audiobooks and podcasts you will be amazed at how much more you engage in fun and learning.
Looking for more time-saving tips and organizing hacks? Visit us at www.livablesolutions.com/blog for more inspiration! Check out our printable store at Life’s Lists for even more organizing templates to help you stay productive and organized.
Happy Organizing!
Kristin
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