

Franklin Planner Podcast
John Harding & George Wright III
Are you ready to discover the keys to greater productivity and lead your life and team with principles that stand the test of time? Welcome to The Franklin Planner Podcast, your weekly guide to achieving your best life through proven strategies, timeless values, and expert insights. Whether you're looking for ways to boost your personal productivity, lead your team to new heights, or find lasting success, this podcast is your trusted companion on the path to intentional living.For more than 40 years, Franklin Planner has helped millions infuse their lives with meaning and clarity. Inspired by the principles of Dr. Stephen R. Covey and his groundbreaking work, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, this podcast builds on that enduring legacy. Hosted by Franklin Planner Board Member and Owner John Harding, alongside industry expert George Wright III, each episode dives deep into the essential habits, disciplines, and leadership principles that transform both individuals and teams.Together, John and George bring decades of experience, combined with interviews from accomplished business leaders, productivity experts, and success coaches, offering valuable lessons you can apply today. From overcoming roadblocks and staying focused on the "Big Rocks" in your life to fostering collaboration and trust in your team, the discussions are rich with actionable takeaways and practical wisdom.The Franklin Planner Podcast is more than a tool for learning; it’s an invitation to a community committed to growth, purpose, and intentional living. If you're ready to take charge of your time, lead with integrity, and craft a legacy of success, this is the podcast for you. Tune in weekly, and let's unlock your full potential—one timeless principle at a time.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 18, 2025 • 54min
Finding Your Voice: The Journey of Jon Schmidt
Finding Your Voice: The Journey of Jon SchmidtIn this episode of the Franklin Planner podcast, co-hosts George Wright III and John Harding welcome special guest John Schmidt, an accomplished pianist and composer known for his work with The Piano Guys. John shares his journey from a musically inclined family to global recognition, emphasizing the importance of passion, hard work, and love in achieving success. He offers profound insights on finding one's mission, the power of discipline, and the impact of music. The episode culminates with John reading an influential poem that guided him through anxiety and uncertainty, advocating for a mission-driven life with God as a partner. The co-hosts challenge listeners to craft their personal mission and use music as a tool for inspiration and planning.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:56 Meet John Schmidt: A Musical Journey02:48 Early Influences and Family Support03:55 Finding Joy in Music06:01 The Power of Sharing Your Gift08:15 Talent, Hard Work, and Passion13:01 The Birth of The Piano Guys19:34 Overcoming Struggles and Finding Inspiration21:46 The Role of Miracles and Perspective26:11 A Poem That Changed Everything27:21 Discovering a Life-Changing Book28:07 The Power of Personal Gifts28:58 Finding Your Divine Destiny31:08 The Importance of Persistence32:41 Overcoming Anxiety Through Faith34:11 The Role of Mission and North Star36:57 Collaborating with God on Your Mission43:28 The Power of Music in Life46:49 Final Thoughts and ChallengesThank you for joining us on this Journey to create your best life and to lead your Life and Teams. Please share this show, and we look forward to the journey we will take together. The Franklin Planner TeamAbout John SchmidtJon Schmidt is a world-renowned pianist, composer, and founding member of The Piano Guys, known for blending classical and pop music into powerful, cinematic performances. With billions of views and sold-out shows worldwide, his work has inspired audiences of all ages. Now, Jon is returning to his roots with intimate solo acoustic concerts that focus on connection, emotion, and authenticity. He continues to use music as a tool for healing and inspiration.Check out Spotify Playlist:https://open.spotify.com/artist/2YQ4MY2VwOMv43C0GemUY5 || https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jon-schmidt/5118375 ResourcesWebsite: https://thepianoguys.com/pages/jon-schmidt2 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepianoguysjonschmidt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JonSchmidtPiano/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC41Po6yLBco1WoGQZpJ4ySg

Jun 24, 2025 • 42min
Overcoming Adversity: The Power of Personal Mission with David Anderson.
Defying Odds: Harnessing a Personal Mission for Success with David AndersonIn this episode of the Franklin Planner Podcast, co-host George Wright III and John Harding sit down with David Anderson to discuss the essence of personal mission and its transformative power. David, a globally successful entrepreneur and speaker, shares his inspiring journey from a challenging upbringing in Chicago to becoming a prominent figure in various spheres. The conversation explores the impact of creating a personal mission statement, grounding one's life in intentional goals, and the importance of education and mentorship. David recounts overcoming significant obstacles, such as family mental health issues and career challenges, and emphasizes the value of daily personal commitments. The episode concludes with a challenge for listeners to create an audacious goal to stretch their potential and drive positive change.00:44 Introducing David Anderson02:28 David's Inspirational Background05:45 The Power of a Personal Mission07:56 Creating a Personal Pledge10:22 Overcoming Adversity with Mission18:07 Global Examples of Mission-Driven Success20:05 Implementing Personal Pledges in Daily Life20:43 A Personal Story of Overcoming Educational Challenges21:34 The Importance of Personal Commitment and Support22:03 Mental Health Struggles and Triumphs22:50 Creating a Personal Constitution23:07 The Power of a Mission Statement24:56 Thriving vs. Surviving27:24 The Journey to Goldman Sachs34:23 The Importance of Anchoring Yourself38:54 Challenge to the AudienceThank you for joining us on this Journey to create your best life and to lead your Life and Teams. Please share this show, and we look forward to the journey we will take together. The Franklin Planner TeamAbout David Anderson:David Anderson is the Vice President of Global Development at AAR CORP. AAR Corp is a $2 Billion Aviation services firm with 20 locations worldwide listed as a Fortune 1,000. David works with Prime Ministers, global executives, and wealthy individuals to develop the aviation sector in the Americas, Africa and emerging markets. David was the International President of Kelikaien (Keep Global) a Chinese "Green" environmental products manufacturing and services firm with 6,000 employees and 16 locations worldwide. He was selected as a Global Shaper by The World Economic Forum and is a Senior Advisor to the Honorary Consul to the country of Moldova. David worked in investment banking at Goldman Sachs in New York and investment management at JP Morgan in Chicago of a $5.6 Billion portfolio. Previously, he was a successful tech founder at School Loan 411 and he was also an aide in the Executive Office of the President at the White House. He was the keynote speaker for TEDx Talks "Disruption" conference in Austria, along with an Amazon Category Top 100 & Bestselling Author of "The Delusion of Passion - Why Millennials Struggle to Find Success". His non-profit activities include the World Future Society, iGlow Mentoring and the James R Jordan Foundation (formally the Michael Jordan Foundation). He is a proud graduate of Chicago State University with Honors and a participant in Harvard University’s Explorations Program. His proudest accomplishment is taking his grandfather (Korean War Veteran) to the White House West Wing and making him proud. Connect with David...Official Website: https://www.officialdavidanderson.comDavid's TedX Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaECsnWJAWA&t=8s

May 13, 2025 • 28min
Creating a Vision for Your Life: Vision, Mission, Values
In this episode, co-hosts George Wright III and Franklin Planner Board Member John Harding delve into the significance of defining one's mission, vision, and values. They discuss how these elements can help individuals find purpose and direction in their lives, referencing concepts from Stephen Covey and the Productivity Pyramid. The conversation covers practical steps for self-reflection, crafting personal vision and mission statements, identifying core values, and understanding life roles. The episode also highlights the inspiring story of David Anderson, who credits his personal mission with transforming his life. Listeners are encouraged to take time for self-reflection and to write down their mission, vision, and values to live a more meaningful and proactive life.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:32 The Importance of Mission, Vision, and Values01:16 Stephen Covey's Influence and Key Concepts03:29 The Productivity Pyramid Explained07:31 Steps to Establishing Your Foundation19:06 Defining Your Core Values21:44 Understanding and Prioritizing Life RolesThank you for joining us on this journey to create your best life and to lead your Life and Teams. Please share this show, and we look forward to the journey we will take together.The Franklin Planner Team

Apr 16, 2025 • 55min
Balancing Digital & Paper Planning with Carl Pullein
Carl Pullein, a time management expert and productivity coach, shares insights on blending digital tools with traditional paper planning. He recounts his journey from a time management enthusiast in school to creating the COD Task Management System. Carl highlights the importance of writing things down and reveals how returning to the Franklin Planner improved his focus and fulfillment. The conversation emphasizes the need for balance in planning methods, advocating for a hybrid approach that fosters mindfulness and intentionality in daily life.

Mar 12, 2025 • 30min
The Transformative Power of Goal Setting: Achieve 10x Success
In this episode of the Franklin Planner Podcast, host George Wright III and co-host John Harding delve into the immense benefits of goal setting. They reveal that individuals who set goals are 10 times more likely to succeed, emphasizing the crucial role of writing goals down to increase productivity and focus. They explore the science behind goal writing, share practical tips on setting challenging yet achievable goals, and discuss the impact of goal setting on both personal and organizational success. The episode underscores the importance of clarity, accountability, and the Franklin Planner system in turning aspirations into actionable steps, leading to a more organized and productive life.00:32 The Power of Goal Setting02:31 The Science Behind Writing Goals03:55 The Franklin Planner System05:44 The Importance of Specific and Challenging Goals14:26 Accountability and Social Support17:17 Overcoming Obstacles in Goal Setting21:52 Goal Setting for OrganizationsThank you for joining us on this Journey to create your best life and to lead your Life and Teams. Please share this show, and we look forward to the journey we will take together. The Franklin Planner Team

Feb 20, 2025 • 27min
Strategies to Conquer Overwhelm
In this episode of the Franklin Planner podcast, host George Wright III and guest John Harding, Franklin Planner expert, address the growing issue of overwhelm in today's fast-paced world. They explore the underlying causes, such as lack of clarity, overcommitment, and digital distractions, and offer actionable solutions to tackle this pervasive problem. Key strategies discussed include defining priorities, using daily and weekly planning effectively, and the benefits of handwriting over digital tools. The conversation also delves into principles from Stephen Covey's 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,' emphasizing the importance of proactivity, goal setting, and focusing on what truly matters. This episode aims to equip listeners with the tools and insights needed to take control of their lives and lead their teams more effectively.01:03 Understanding Overwhelm: Causes and Effects06:07 Addressing Overwhelm: Strategies and Solutions06:45 The Power of the Franklin Planner19:39 The Importance of Handwriting and Paper PlanningThank you for joining us on this Journey to create your best life and to lead your Life and Teams. Please share this show, and we look forward to the journey we will take together. The Franklin Planner Team

Feb 18, 2025 • 39min
Welcome to the Franklin Planner Podcast
In the inaugural episode of the Franklin Planner podcast, hosts George Wright III and John Harding introduce themselves and set the stage for the series, emphasizing the importance of helping people solve big problems and seize opportunities. They delve into their backgrounds, outlining their expertise and roles. The episode covers the history of the Franklin Planner system, highlighting its impact on over 15 million users for the past 40 years. George and John discuss the foundational principles of productivity from the Franklin Planner system, focusing on the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey and contributions from Hyrum Smith. They stress the significance of timeless principles, strategic vision, mission, values, and the practical application of these through a weekly and daily Franklin Planner system. The discussion underscores the importance of personal leadership, collaboration, and balance in achieving success. Finally, the hosts invite listeners to actively engage and share their experiences, aiming to create a productive and impactful community.00:26 Meet Your Hosts: George Wright III and John Harding00:45 The Mission of the Podcast02:15 Background of Franklin Planners02:56 The Legacy of Hyrum Smith and Stephen Covey08:41 The Relevance of Timeless Principles Today12:36 Overview of the Seven Habits18:13 Crafting Your Perfect Day18:45 The Private Victory: Habits 1, 2, and 319:34 Think Win-Win: Habit 423:10 Seek First to Understand: Habit 524:40 Synergize: Habit 626:39 Sharpen the Saw: Habit 728:03 The Franklin Planner System36:34 Invitation to Reflect and EngageThank you for joining us on this Journey to create your best life and to lead your Life and Teams. Please share this show, and we look forward to the journey we will take together.The Franklin Planner Team