Best Laid Plans

Discover the latest planner trends with insights on Hobonichi's price changes and a new minimalist option. Learn effective planning strategies for busy parents, including tips on using Todoist for task reminders. Hear about a stay-at-home mom's digital planner peace and how to adapt planning routines during life changes. Plus, explore suggestions for compact planners perfect for short-term use. It's a treasure trove of practical advice for anyone navigating a busy life!

Exploring the Japanese practice of Techo Kaigi, the host reviews personal planning tools and shares what worked and what didn’t in 2025. Triumphs in family education and a new book release are highlighted. The challenges of health management intertwine with daily routines, emphasizing strategic planning. Various organizational tools are discussed, alongside calls for future engagement with the audience. Plus, insights on planner pricing amid exchange rate shifts and excitement for upcoming events add a dynamic flair!

Discover insights on using Apple Notes efficiently, including its features and some handy alternatives like Notion. Explore strategies for managing big projects, debating shorter daily tasks versus longer sessions for productivity. Delve into the balancing act of parenthood and planning during the newborn phase, with tips for flexibility in schedules. The episode also weaves in personal anecdotes, including reflections on a tough week and the anticipation of new planner releases.

Kathleen Paley, a litigator, mother of two, and host of The Reframe, shares her expertise on saving money while traveling. She reveals her top five strategies for maximizing credit card points, emphasizing practical tips for families. Listeners will learn how to convert daily expenses into travel rewards and the importance of paying off credit card balances in full. Kathleen also discusses leveraging cash-back platforms and the benefits of flexibility in booking, ensuring travel planning is both enjoyable and budget-friendly.

As the back-to-school season approaches, discover five crucial elements to consider beyond just planners. Delve into the importance of solid routines, sleep quality, and effective communication strategies. Learn how mood management can impact your family dynamics. Plus, find out ways to infuse fun into the busy back-to-school chaos. Each topic offers valuable insights to ensure a smoother transition and a more enjoyable experience for both parents and kids.

Delve into the world of specialized planners designed for ADHD and neurodivergent minds. Discover the Order Out of Chaos Planner, created for students, offering clever features to enhance focus and organization. Explore the Fast Brain Friend Daily Productivity Planner with its innovative layouts ideal for adults seeking structure. The hosts share personal experiences and discuss the benefits and practicality of these unique tools, making planning feel more accessible and tailored to individual needs.

In this engaging discussion, Sarah McConnell, an Associate Professor of Neuroscience at the University of Rochester, shares her academic planning secrets. She reveals her personal planner system and emphasizes the importance of templates and efficient time management strategies. Listeners will learn how to utilize tools like bullet journaling and the ProAction Planner to enhance productivity. McConnell also introduces her innovative 'breadcrumbs' note-taking approach, showcasing how past experiences can streamline future planning for both educators and students.

Allison Daminger, a sociology professor and author on mental load, discusses the intricacies of household management and planning. She tackles listener questions about partners with different planning styles, including those with ADHD and unpredictable jobs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of effective communication and adaptability in sharing responsibilities. Allison also highlights strategies to navigate varying approaches to task division, making everyday routines more manageable while reducing stress in family dynamics.

Sarah dives into the journey of creating her podcast, sparked by the challenges of 2020. She shares her criteria for selecting guests and sponsors, emphasizing authenticity and personal connections. Listeners get a glimpse of her unique recording setup in a closet and the bliss of cozy conversations with familiar faces. The discussion also touches on her experiences with Marathon Nutrition and how it reshaped her course design, highlighting the importance of community and flexibility in learning.

In July's Q&A, listeners discover alternatives to overwhelming planning systems like Laurel Denise and Full Focus. There’s a deep dive into mastering task management and the Alistair Method for tackling unpredictable schedules. Sarah shares tips for structuring lighter work periods and emphasizes the importance of intentional planning during free time. Finally, strategies for balancing leisure and work are discussed, inviting listeners to reflect on their own planning methods.