PLAN GOAL PLAN | Goals, Transformation for Women, Mindful Time Management, Balance, Working Moms

Wow, y’all! I can hardly believe it—250 episodes! In this special milestone episode, I’m sharing 20 of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from two and a half years behind the mic. From the magic of repetition and the power of rituals, to the wild ride of finding meaning and embracing imperfection, I’m spilling all the tea on what it really takes to keep showing up, creating, and growing as both a podcaster and as a human. I get real about the ups, the downs, and the in-betweens: how making is generative, why control is overrated, and how every conversation brings more clarity and connection. Plus, I’m talking about the importance of celebrating as you go, choosing delight on purpose, and letting your voice evolve, because, let’s be honest, not every episode is a home run, but every single one is a step forward. Thank you for being part of this journey—whether you’ve been here since episode one or just found me today! I’m so grateful for this community, for every listen, every message, and every moment of shared growth. Here’s to more connection, more clarity, and a whole lot more joy. Let’s keep going, together! Links & resources: Join HerePlanGoalPlan.com

Have you ever noticed that sometimes the biggest breakthroughs in planning don’t come from adding more to your plate, but from slowing down and paying attention? In this episode, I’m diving into the magic of presence, posture, and possibility. I talk about how these three simple shifts can totally transform the way you set goals and move through change. Spoiler: it’s not just mindset work, it’s an embodiment practice. I also get a little personal in this one, sharing some updates about my kids’ health journeys and how planning has been a lifeline through the chaos of appointments, worry, and waiting rooms. The truth is, life is always happening around our plans, and learning to approach it all with presence and a new kind of posture has been a game-changer for me. By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with small, practical practices to try this week—from micro-moments of presence, to experimenting with new postures toward rest or curiosity, to mapping out fresh possibilities. If you’ve been feeling stuck, scattered, or like your goals are slipping away, this conversation will help you reconnect with clarity and discover what’s possible when you bring both awareness and embodiment into your planning. Links & resources: Join HerePlanGoalPlan.com

Ever feel like you should be further along by now? Like no matter how hard you try, you just can’t quite get it together? In this episode I’m tackling the loud self-doubt that always seems to sneak in during Q4. We’re flipping the script so you can move from inner critic to clarity and finish 2025 strong, focused, and proud of yourself. I share a story from my high school track days and we’ll dig into the different ways self-doubt sabotages our Q4 goals. But don’t worry, I’ve got practical strategies, rituals, and a whole lot of encouragement to help you push through. Plus, I’ll let you in on my “stuck states” framework, a tool that helps you figure out exactly how you get stuck and what to do about it. If you’re ready to stop doubting yourself, start trusting yourself, and make these last months of the year really count, this episode is for you. Let’s step into clarity, shake off the doubt, and finish this year feeling bold, balanced, and unstoppable. Links & resources: Join HerePlanGoalPlan.com

What if you could design your week the same way top companies design their best products? That’s the question I dive into with my guest, Howard Steinman. Howard is an executive coach with over 25 years of leadership experience, including time as a technology executive at Amazon, and he brings a treasure trove of wisdom about how the “working backwards” approach can change not just business, but also the way we plan our time and live our lives. In this episode, Howard and I talk about starting with a clear vision for how you want your week to feel—whether that’s light, accomplished, connected, or something else—and then reverse engineering the steps to get there. We get into how this process can bring clarity in both work and home life, why not all decisions deserve the same amount of weight, and how to find purpose even when life feels messy or uncertain. I loved this conversation so much because it’s not just about productivity, it’s about living more intentionally, giving yourself grace when plans shift, and creating space for what really matters. If you’ve ever wanted your days to feel more aligned and joyful, I think you’ll find Howard’s insights both practical and inspiring. Links & resources: https://www.navigatingnextcoaching.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardsteinman/ Connect with Danielle: support@plangoalplan.comJoin HerePlanGoalPlan.com

In this episode, I open up about the real-life challenges I’ve been facing and how I use goal planners and self-reflection to navigate busy, overwhelming seasons. I share stories from my own life around parenting, work, and supporting loved ones while talking about the power of adjusting your goals without losing sight of your bigger vision. You’ll hear my honest take on different types of goal planners, how I use them to create healthy routines, and why reflection is more than just a report. It’s a ritual. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward, this episode is for you. Let’s explore how small adjustments and honest self-check-ins can help us grow, even when life gets unpredictable. Links & resources: Join HerePlanGoalPlan.com

I am absolutely thrilled to bring you this episode with the one and only Lisa Even, a keynote speaker, bestselling author, and the queen of all things joy! If you’ve ever wondered how to sprinkle more joy into your daily grind (yes, even when the laundry is piling up or work feels overwhelming), you’re in for a treat. Lisa and I dive deep into the “Joy Metric”, her brilliant, practical system for making joy a real, trackable part of life at work and at home. We swap hilarious stories (wait until you hear about the whiteboard in the bedroom and the “swimming with roaches” vacation!), and Lisa shares how intentional choices can create a ripple effect that transforms not just your day, but your legacy. Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or just yourself, this episode will leave you smiling, inspired, and ready to make joy your job one ripple at a time. Links & resources: Join HerePlanGoalPlan.com

Have you ever stopped to think about the five core qualities that truly define you? In this episode, I’m taking you on a fun, reflective journey to discover the traits that make you, well… YOU! I’ll walk you through an activity that changed the way I see myself and my goals. I’ll share my own process and the results that surprised even me! We’ll chat about the thought leaders who inspire me and how their unique qualities helped me shape my own “Defining Five.” Grab your favorite notebook and let’s get introspective together. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a fresh perspective on what makes you shine and a toolkit to help you live with more clarity, integrity, and joy. Book mentioned in this episode: I Thought It Was Just Me by Brene Brown: https://amzn.to/3JPOA1A Give and Take by Adam Grant: https://amzn.to/4m8ya1q Grit by Angela Duckworth: https://amzn.to/3VbsjO8 The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday: https://amzn.to/4mgcKQj Moral Ambition by Rutger Bregman: https://amzn.to/4goQIcU Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman: https://amzn.to/47EQkog Slow Productivity by Cal Newport https://amzn.to/41OzCiq Links & resources: Join HerePlanGoalPlan.com

I am SO excited to share this episode with you because I got to sit down with the incredible Clare Duffy and Eric Hanson, the award-winning voices behind Iowa’s beloved Morning Scramble! If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to wake up a whole community with laughter, heart, and a dash of chaos, you’re in for a treat. We dive into everything: how Clare and Eric keep their show fresh and fun every single morning, the magic of teamwork (even at 5am!), and why a little bit of planning can actually fuel the best kind of spontaneity. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories about on-air mishaps, creative brainstorming, and how they turn everyday moments into radio gold. Plus, we get real about leadership, self-growth, and the power of showing up for your audience (even when you haven’t had your coffee yet). There’s so much wisdom, laughter, and genuine connection in this conversation. I promise you’ll walk away smiling and inspired. Links & resources: https://www.kzia.com/the-morning-scramble/Join HerePlanGoalPlan.com

Hey planner pals! I’m so excited to dive into one of my favorite topics. Whether you’re a paper-and-pen enthusiast, a digital devotee, or a hybrid hero like me, this episode is packed with tips to help you find your perfect planning match. In this episode, I share the top three things I always look for in a planner: the perfect layout, space for reflection, and just the right size. I’ll let you in on my own planner journey, the systems that keep my life organized, and why writing things down is my secret weapon for staying present and peaceful. Plus, I give you a sneak peek at my upcoming 2026 planner (get on that waitlist if you’re curious!) and shout out some of my favorite brands and layouts. If you’ve ever struggled to stick with a planner or wondered what features really matter, this episode is for you. Links & resources: Join HerePlanGoalPlan.com

In this episode, we’re diving into the real secrets of building consistency without burning out! If you’ve ever struggled to stick with your goals or wondered how to make habits actually feel good, you’re in the right place. We’ll chat about turning routines into meaningful rituals, why self-care is the key to sustainable success, and how to keep your motivation high (even when life gets wild). Ready to make consistency your new superpower? Let’s do this together! Don’t forget to check out the free Stuck Assessment in the show notes for a personalized ritual to help you get unstuck and reach your goals! Links & resources: ✨ Plan Goal Plan Your Year Retreat — Sept 26, 12–4 pm CT (retreat box delivered!) Join Here PlanGoalPlan.com

This podcast almost didn’t happen because life got lifey—and that’s exactly the point. In this episode, we get real about finding time to plan when your schedule is full, your brain is scattered, and the back-to-school whirlwind (or just…life) won’t slow down. I share eight grounded, research-backed strategies—from micro-planning and pocket rituals to goal subtraction—to help you plan in motion, reclaim stolen moments, and treat planning as identity work, not another chore. If you’ve been overwhelmed, banana-pants busy, or stuck in “I’ll plan when things calm down,” this one’s your gentle reset. You’ll learn: Why planning is the work—a core leadership act that sharpens your saw How to use micro-planning (2-minute Daily Top Three) to create momentum The difference between rituals vs. routines—and why rituals stick Goal subtraction: remove what’s not the goal so you can focus on what is Plan in motion: walk, commute, fold laundry—reflection travels with you How to reclaim liminal “pocket” moments for quick clarity A reframing of time as identity work, not scarcity The courage to leave white space and say a powerful no Perfect for: busy parents, educators, and women leaders who want intentional planning, not hustle-harder hacks—especially during back-to-school and seasonal transitions. Links & resources: ✨ Plan Goal Plan Your Year Retreat — Sept 26, 12–4 pm CT (retreat box delivered!) Join Here PlanGoalPlan.com

What if your money goals weren’t about grinding harder, but about creating freedom, alignment, and legacy? In this episode of Plan Goal Plan, Danielle McGeough, PhD, sits down with wealth strategist Edita Mockute to explore how women can reshape their relationship with money and finally claim financial independence without sacrificing joy. Together, Danielle and Edita dive into: Why traditional money goals leave so many women feeling stuck and unworthy How to rewrite your money story and step into wealth with self-worth at the center The difference between confidence and self-worth — and why that distinction changes everything Practical ways to align your financial goals with your values, purpose, and wellbeing This is not just about numbers on a spreadsheet. It’s about creating wealth that feels expansive, soulful, and sustainable — wealth that supports who you are becoming. If you’re ready to stop grinding through goals and start designing a life rooted in freedom and prosperity, this episode is your invitation. Connect with Edita: https://www.facebook.com/edita.mockute https://editamockute.com/ edita.mockute@gmail.com https://editamockute.com/wealthassessment Shop: Stuck AssessmentSense The Possibilities Planner & Journal Connect with Danielle: danielle@plangoalplan.comJoin HerePlanGoalPlan.com

Ready to supercharge your afternoons and spark more creativity at work? In this episode, I dive into the surprising power of lunch break rituals and why skipping that midday pause might be sabotaging your focus and team energy. We’ll explore the science behind mindful breaks, how movement and gratitude can reset your brain, and why a simple lunch together can fuel innovation and connection. I’ll give you practical ideas from gratitude bites to no-work-talk lunch dates that you can try right away. If you’ve ever felt stuck, burned out, or just plain tired by 3pm, this episode is for you! Tune in for upbeat inspiration and easy micro-rituals to help you (and your team) recharge, reconnect, and crush the rest of your day. Let’s rethink the lunch break together! Shop: Stuck AssessmentSense The Possibilities Planner & Journal Connect with Danielle: danielle@plangoalplan.comJoin HerePlanGoalPlan.com

In this episode, I sit down with Rebecca Olson, international life coach and host of the Ambitious and Balanced Working Mom podcast, to talk all about overwhelm. We dive into experiences of ambitious women and working moms who are juggling careers, families, and their own dreams, and how that often leads to chronic overwhelm. Rebecca shares her own journey through a motherhood identity crisis, and how that experience inspired her to help other women find clarity, confidence, and calm. We break down the “overwhelm equation,” discuss why overwhelm is more than just a busy schedule, and explore the emotional and mindset shifts that can help us move from chaos to clarity. Rebecca walks us through practical tools and daily practices that can help us recognize overwhelm before it takes over. We also talk about the connection between overwhelm, urgency, and people-pleasing, and why learning to process our emotions is the key to breaking the cycle. If you’ve ever felt like you have to choose between your ambition and your well-being, this conversation is for you. Don’t miss Rebecca’s free Daily Kickstart tool, and find out how you can connect with her for more support and inspiration. Connect with Rebecca: https://www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/https://www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/podcast Shop: Plan Goal Plan Your YearSense The Possibilities Planner & Journal Connect with Danielle: danielle@plangoalplan.comJoin HerePlanGoalPlan.com

In this episode, I share how the back-to-school season isn’t just for kids, it’s a powerful reset button for all of us. I open up about my own experience of slipping into autopilot and how I realized my daily rituals had become empty routines. I dive into the science behind rituals, explaining how infusing meaning and presence into our actions can transform not just our productivity, but our sense of fulfillment at work. I walk you through essential rituals that help me stay focused and avoid burnout I talk about how I use these rituals to transition between roles—mom, professor, and planner—and how even small moments of intention, like a deep breath before a tough meeting or a quick check-in with myself before recording, can make a huge difference. If you’re feeling scattered, overwhelmed, or just ready for a fresh start, this episode will help you reimagine your workday and reclaim your focus—without burning out. I hope you’ll join me in making this back-to-school season a “back to you” moment, full of meaningful transitions and new possibilities. Free Back-to-School Workbook Shop: Plan Goal Plan Your YearSense The Possibilities Planner & Journal Connect with Danielle: danielle@plangoalplan.comJoin HerePlanGoalPlan.com

Ready to turn your chaotic school mornings into a smooth, joyful start? In this episode, I’m sharing my favorite tips, tricks, and real-life routines that help my family (and hopefully yours!) get out the door on time—without the stress. From checklists to delightful morning rituals, I’ve got you covered! We’ll chat about how to set priorities, delegate tasks, and even add a little fun to your mornings (yes, it’s possible!). I’ll also spill the beans on our after-school strategies to keep the good vibes going all day long. If you’re craving more calm and connection in your family’s routine, you’re in the right place. Grab your coffee, hit play, and let’s make school mornings something to smile about! Free Back-to-School Workbook Shop: Plan Goal Plan Your YearSense The Possibilities Planner & Journal Connect with Danielle: danielle@plangoalplan.comJoin HerePlanGoalPlan.com

In this episode, I’m sharing all my favorite family traditions and the secrets to making school shopping a fun, memorable adventure (yes, even if you forget to register your kiddo like I did!). From hiking trips and pool days to organizing those endless supply lists, I’ve got you covered with tips that will make your transition from summer to school a breeze. I’ll walk you through how my family tackles clothing and supply shopping, plus how we create special rituals that bring us closer together. Whether you’re a fan of online shopping, love a good in-store spree, or just want to make the most of these moments with your kids, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and laughs along the way. So tune in, and let’s make this back to school season the best one yet! Don’t forget to check out the free workbook to help you plan your own family traditions. Free Back-to-School Workbook Shop: Plan Goal Plan Your YearSense The Possibilities Planner & Journal Connect with Danielle: danielle@plangoalplan.comJoin HerePlanGoalPlan.com

As we dive into day four of my Back to School series, I’m sharing my favorite strategies for getting our homes organized and ready for the new school year. I know how overwhelming it can feel to try to keep every room spotless, so I focus on the three areas that make the biggest difference: the drop-off zone, the kids’ closets, and the kitchen. In this episode, I walk you through how I set up these spaces to be functional, easy to maintain, and stress-free for the whole family. Whether you’re looking to streamline your morning routine, create a snack zone your kids can access themselves, or just want to feel more prepared for the back-to-school rush, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement. Don’t forget to grab the free downloadable workbook below to help you stay on track all season long! Free Back-to-School Workbook Shop: Plan Goal Plan Your YearSense The Possibilities Planner & Journal Connect with Danielle: danielle@plangoalplan.comJoin HerePlanGoalPlan.com

Free Back-to-School Workbook If you’ve ever felt like your calendar is running your life instead of the other way around, this episode is for you. In this part of the Back to School series, I walk you through how I set up my calendars and systems to keep our family organized—without losing my mind. From syncing personal and family calendars to building a simple but powerful command center, I’m sharing the tools that help keep our household running (mostly) smoothly. I’ll show you how to plan around your events—like early outs and appointments—so you’re not scrambling last minute. And we’ll talk about how planning can actually feel peaceful and even a little fun. Yes, I said fun. Grab your planner and let’s build systems that support your real life—not just your to-do list. Free Back-to-School Workbook Shop: Plan Goal Plan Your YearSense The Possibilities Planner & Journal Connect with Danielle: danielle@plangoalplan.comJoin HerePlanGoalPlan.com

Free Back-To-School Workbook Back-to-school season is here and if your brain feels as scattered as your kitchen counter, this episode is for you. I sat down with Jenny Layton, organization expert and host of The Life Organized Podcast, to talk about how we can manage the transition with more peace, more order, and a whole lot less chaos. Jenny shares her journey from overwhelmed mom to mindset coach and professional organizer, and she brings incredibly practical tools to help us navigate this busy season. We talk about the difference between tangible and intangible clutter, how to do a productive “mind dump,” and why setting up smart systems now can save your future self major stress. From folder tricks for school papers to routines that actually stick, Jenny’s advice helped me feel more grounded, and I think it’ll do the same for you. Whether you’re excited for structure or already bracing for the overwhelm, this episode will help you reset and move forward with intention. Back-To-School Workbook Shop: Plan Goal Plan Your YearSense The Possibilities Planner & Journal Connect with Danielle: danielle@plangoalplan.comJoin HerePlanGoalPlan.com