

Best Laid Plans
Sarah Hart-Unger
Welcome to Best Laid Plans -- a podcast all about planning and the planning tools we love. From planning techniques and organizing philosophies to planners and notebooks, we cover it all. Host Sarah Hart-Unger is a mother of 3, physician, podcasting pro, and a lover of lists and all things paper! Listen in weekly for conversations about planning and productivity as well as product reviews and interviews with planning experts!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 29, 2025 • 22min
Course News + The Case For Planning In Fun (and tips for how to do it!) EP 270
Discover the importance of intentionally planning fun in your life. Explore how to identify what brings you joy, from childhood memories to social activities. Learn to categorize different types of fun and tackle logistical obstacles with practical tips. Sarah shares how to infuse daily joy, design weekly habits, and create monthly and seasonal fun plans. Finally, she emphasizes the value of annual planning for larger adventures, ensuring that fun is a priority, not an afterthought.

Sep 22, 2025 • 24min
10 Things To Consider If You’re Feeling Scattered EP 269
Feeling scattered? This episode offers ten practical tips to regain focus. Discover the power of morning routines and the importance of movement and sleep. Learn to simplify your life by delegating tasks and embracing 'good enough' standards. It’s all about reducing mental load for a clearer mind. Tune in for insightful strategies to help you feel more grounded and organized!

5 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 23min
Planner Peace & Accessibility + Discussing Wirecutter's 2026 Planner Picks EP 268
A listener shares their journey toward planner peace while navigating vision challenges, emphasizing the need for more accessible designs. The conversation shifts to Wirecutter's top planner picks for 2026, featuring everything from minimalist options like Muji to stylishly decorated selections from Erin Condren. The hosts explore the highlights of various brands, including Filofax's durability and the modular flexibility of Traveler's Notebook. They invite listeners to share their thoughts and suggestions for bold, accessible planner designs!

Sep 8, 2025 • 25min
September Q&A: Planner News, Planner Peace from a SAHM, Work/Life Separation, and More EP 267
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!

Sep 1, 2025 • 23min
Sarah's Systems Update: What's Working, What's Not, and What's In Store for 2026! EP 266
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!

9 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 26min
August Q&A: Hobonichi, Taylor Swift, and More EP 265
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.

Aug 18, 2025 • 41min
Planning to Travel for Less with Kathleen Paley EP 264
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.

9 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 22min
5 Things (Other Than Planners) To Consider Carefully Heading Into Back-to-School EP 263
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.

7 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 27min
ADHD or Neurodivergent? Two Planner Mini-Reviews For You! EP 262
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.

13 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 37min
Planner Peace + Efficiency Hacks from Seasoned Professor Sarah McConnell EP 261
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.