

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

9 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 21min
Sharing 2025 Goals! EP 231
In this insightful discussion, the host reveals ambitious goals for 2025 across personal, work, relationships, and household domains. Fitness and health aspirations take center stage, alongside efforts to boost reading habits and media awareness. There's a spotlight on balancing personal wellness with aesthetics, such as getting Invisalign. Intentionality in planning is emphasized, encouraging mindfulness in settings that matter. The episode wraps up with reflections on goal adjustment and gratitude for listener engagement!

26 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 27min
Setting Up My 2025 Planner Sidekick + December Q&A EP 230
Get ready for a planner transformation! The host unveils her setup for a Hobonichi Weeks Mega planner for 2025, perfect for tracking goals, health, and reading. Discover digital tools like Apple Notes for continuing education data and a creative Taylor Swift-inspired planner recommendation from a listener. Plus, learn about seasonal planning adjustments and a variety of suggested small daily planners. Exciting insights await for those seeking effective organization and inspiration!

Dec 16, 2024 • 34min
Mindful Social Media Use and More with Shunta Grant EP 229
Shunta Grant, the creator of the Best Today Guide, is passionate about helping people embrace each day fully. In this conversation, she shares her 'Best Today' philosophy, emphasizing present-focused living and the importance of daily planning. Shunta also opens up about her social media journey, discussing how she navigates its challenges and uses it intentionally for business while prioritizing mental health. She highlights her practice of taking breaks, promoting deeper connections and personal integrity.

18 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 28min
Revealed: 2025 Planner Stack! EP 228
Dive into a streamlined approach to planning for 2025 with insights on the latest planner stacks. Discover favorite tools like the Hobonichi Cousin A5 and the compact Hobonichi Weeks for tracking essential life metrics. Learn about the importance of blending physical and digital planning methods, including Apple Notes for project management. Plus, explore seasonal workbooks that enhance organizational strategies. Engage with the community as listeners share their own planning choices for the upcoming year!

4 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 36min
Planning Your Spending with Jen Smith EP 227
Jen Smith, co-host of the Frugal Friends podcast and author of 'Buy What You Love Without Going Broke,' shares her expertise on intentional spending and budgeting. She discusses the transformative shift from traditional budgeting to values-based spending plans that reduce guilt. Learn how couples can enhance financial communication using tools like Google Sheets. Jen emphasizes aligning financial goals with personal values and offers strategies to manage life events, combat impulse buying, and create a fulfilling financial future.

21 snips
Nov 25, 2024 • 21min
Your Mini-Guide to 2025 Annual Planning EP 226
Discover an insightful framework for annual planning that encompasses reflection, visioning, and goal setting. The podcast highlights the importance of organizing goals into key areas to ensure success. Listeners are guided through the process of crafting a structured planning document that maps out vital dates for the upcoming year. Effective strategies for maintaining accountability and an organized approach to planning life events are also discussed, making it easier to achieve personal aspirations.

Nov 18, 2024 • 24min
10 Reasons to Take a Break from Social Media EP 225
In a candid exploration of social media habits, the podcast delves into the necessity of taking breaks from the endless scroll. The host shares personal anecdotes highlighting the mental health benefits of stepping back, including reduced negative self-comparisons and fostering real-life connections. Listeners are encouraged to reassess their online experiences, reflecting on how a hiatus could lead to more meaningful interactions and even better sleep. It's an eye-opening take on living intentionally in a digital world.

4 snips
Nov 11, 2024 • 25min
Planning Changes for Next Year, Just Scribbles Planner Mini-Review, and Nested Goals Example EP 224
Discover effective planning strategies for the upcoming year, featuring a review of the versatile Just Scribble Plans Vertical Weekly Planner. Hear insights on setting personal goals and streamlining family planning by breaking down larger objectives into actionable tasks. A listener's question sparks a creative discussion about organizing a neighborhood holiday party, showcasing the Nested Goals system. Plus, get a glimpse of luxurious gifts that could inspire your planning journey!

18 snips
Nov 4, 2024 • 24min
Welcome to Q5: Reflection Season! EP 223
Explore the unique spirit of the last two months of the year as the hosts delve into reflection and celebration. They emphasize proactive planning to navigate holiday chaos smoothly. Discover strategies for goal setting and personal organization while enjoying the festive season. Hear tips on balancing holiday tasks with well-deserved enjoyment, and learn the importance of budgeting for gift purchases. The reflective period between years serves as a perfect time to recharge and prepare for the upcoming year.

Oct 28, 2024 • 30min
Planner Mini-Reviews: Full Focus Wellness, Ashley Shelly Daily, and Organize 365 EP 222
Dive into a review of the Full Focus Wellness Planner, focusing on its design and usability for goal setting. Explore Ashley Shelly's compact daily planner, perfect for varied organizing needs. Discover the colorful rainbow planning products from Organize 365 and how they serve different tasks and meal planning. Plus, learn when to involve your partner in the planning process. Don't miss early pricing updates for 2025 planning courses—space is limited!