One of the main reasons I got my MES40. I usually do get up to check on it after a few hours to make sure everything is running according to plan, put in temp probes, make sure AMPS is still running, etc. But do that on a semi-regular basis, we tend to do lunches for family gatherings. So no real efficient way to start things like PP or brisket in the morning and have them ready for lunch, other than cook ahead and re-heat. I've done the re-heat thing before on PP and it works fine, but just like having it cooked and pulled for that meal, just me.