Beyond the 9-to-5: A Balanced Career

Simanto Khandaker
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Careers

Welcome to Beyond the 9-to-5: A Balanced Career, the podcast for the modern professional who wants more than just a paycheck. Join hosts Simanto Khandaker, a seasoned career coach with a mental health background, and Ian Schonberg, an expert in higher education and social work, as they dive into the complex psychology behind career development. Each episode, we explore the emotional and mental challenges that come with building a career—from imposter syndrome and burnout to navigating difficult bosses and finding your purpose. We challenge the notion that a successful career must come at the expense of your well-being. Tune in to discover how to find true fulfillment, set compassionate boundaries, and build a career that truly supports your whole life.

  1. Jun 3

    Understanding Burnout: From Stress to Severe Exhaustion

    Summary This episode explores the psychology of burnout, its stages, and strategies for recovery. Hosts Simanto and Ian share insights on recognizing burnout, its impact on mental health, and practical ways to prevent and address it. Sponsor Visit https://balancedatlast.com to book a free 20-minute consultation! Plus, mention this podcast to get 20% off any of our career or executive coaching services. Keywords burnout, mental health, stress management, work-life balance, psychological health, recovery strategies Key topics Stages of burnout from acute to severeImpact of burnout on mental health and relationshipsStrategies for recognizing and preventing burnoutThe importance of boundaries and community support Chapters 00:00 Understanding Burnout: A Common Experience 00:04 Recognizing Triggers of Burnout 23:26 Distinguishing Between Stress and Burnout 25:15 The Importance of Taking Breaks 26:55 Job Creep and Its Impact on Recovery 29:06 The Role of Boundaries in Preventing Burnout 30:24 The Need for Community and Support 33:03 Denial and Acknowledgment of Burnout 34:24 The Statistics of Burnout 38:06 Burnout Beyond the Workplace Resources https://balancedatlast.com https://balancedatlast.com/managing-workplace-burnout/

    42 min

  2. May 20

    Navigating Professional Trauma: Strategies for Recovery After Layoffs

    Summary This episode explores the psychological impact of layoffs on professionals, including trauma, grief, and recovery strategies. Experts discuss how layoffs affect self-identity, social connections, and emotional well-being, offering insights for individuals and organizations to navigate these challenging times. SPONSOR Sponsored by Balanced At Last, receive 20% off coaching services when you mention you're a podcast listener. Key topics Psychological impact of layoffs Trauma and grief management Self-identity and social connection during layoffs Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Professional Trauma 00:07 Understanding Layoffs and Their Impact 04:29 The Psychological Effects of Layoffs 08:12 Survivor's Guilt and Workplace Culture 11:20 The Concept of Trauma in Layoffs 15:10 The Identity Crisis Post-Layoff 19:06 Self-Reflection and Career Opportunities 24:16 The Importance of Networking 28:23 Supporting Colleagues Through Layoffs 39:15 Finding Positivity in Layoffs 42:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources Professional Trauma: Guide to helping a friend after layoff Professional Trauma: Layoff and How to Heal Navigating the job search in a high-layoff job market 7 Strategies for easy career pivot after layoff Enhancing your resume after a layoff for better job search Building better resilience with children after a layoff Keywords layoffs, professional trauma, grief, recovery, self-identity, emotional well-being, career transition, organizational culture, Professional Development, Career

    44 min

  3. May 6

    The Psychology of Anger and Stress in the Workplace

    Summary This episode explores the psychology of stress and anger management in the workplace, featuring insights from Simanto Khandaker and Ian Schonberg. They discuss recognizing stress signals, differentiating between eustress and distress, and practical strategies for managing stress effectively. Sponsor Schedule a FREE consultation to learn how to manage your workplace stress and anger with a career counselor and coach. Mention you're a podcast listener and receive a 20% discount: https://balancedatlast.com Key topics Stress signals and physical indicatorsDifference between eustress and distressStrategies for recognizing stress earlyThe importance of support and coachingSystemic vs. situational stress factors Chapters 00:00 Understanding Workplace Stress 01:38 Eustress vs. Distress 03:57 Personal Experiences with Stress 07:34 Recognizing Stress Indicators 11:36 Reactions vs. Responses to Stress 15:36 Addressing Stress Triggers 19:27 Coping Mechanisms and Patterns 21:01 Identifying Stressors and Seeking Help 24:02 The Cumulative Effect of Stress 25:44 Showing vs. Hiding Stress 29:39 Understanding Stress in High-Pressure Environments 31:53 Cultural Change and Systemic Solutions 35:06 Managing Stress Effectively Keywords stress management, workplace stress, anger management, emotional intelligence, mental health, professional development, Career Coaching, Career Counseling

    39 min

  4. Apr 22

    Spring Cleaning your Resume

    Summary This episode explores the importance of spring cleaning your professional profile, especially your resume and LinkedIn, to stay relevant and prepared for career opportunities. Hosts Simanto Khandaker and Ian Schonberg share insights on timing, research, AI tools, and maintaining authenticity in your professional branding. Keywords resume, LinkedIn, spring cleaning, career development, professional branding, AI resume tools, job search, career coaching Chapters 00:00 Spring Cleaning for Professional Development 02:38 The Importance of Regular Resume Updates 05:04 Four Seasons of Professional Development 07:26 Overcoming Resume Hesitations 09:53 LinkedIn vs. Resume: What Comes First? 12:24 The Role of AI in Resume Writing 23:13 Building Trust Through Authenticity 25:30 The Importance of Your Voice in Resumes 26:38 Crafting Impactful Resumes 29:42 Intentional Research for Job Applications 33:02 Balancing Research Time and Job Applications 34:28 Understanding Your Career Goals 37:56 The Psychology of Professional Development 41:11 Investing Time for Future Success 45:27 Feedback and Continuous Improvement resources LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/simantokhandaker/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschonberg/

    49 min

  5. Apr 8

    Interview with Scott Doyne (Author of The Quarterlife Career Crisis)

    Summary In this engaging interview, Scott Doyne shares his transformative journey from sports media executive to certified career coach, and author. Discover insights on midlife transitions, the importance of mentorship, and practical strategies like meditation and questioning to navigate career and life changes. Key topics Midlife career transition Mentorship and building a personal board of advisors The role of meditation and mindfulness in personal growth Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Professional Development Psychology 03:04 Recognizing Signs of Change 06:33 Niche and Mission in Coaching 11:11 The Concept of Gap Years 14:23 Meditation and Mindfulness Practices 15:53 Writing Process and Creativity 18:51 Upcoming Book: Quarter Life Crisis 19:11 The Trilogy of Life Stages 19:55 Understanding Gen Z Stressors 21:25 Key Resources for Gen Z 22:43 The Importance of Mentorship 24:36 Coaching and Mental Health 25:22 Career and Financial Stressors 26:36 The Rise of Coaching Accessibility 27:51 Breaking the Stigma of Seeking Help 29:05 Reflections on Career and Coaching 32:36 The Power of Asking Questions 33:52 Exploration in Career Development 34:50 Evolution of Self as a Coach 37:20 Passion for Sports and Community Resources Scott Doyne Linkedin Ian Schonberg Simanto Khandaker Get a copy of The Quarterlife Career Crisis Keywords career transition, midlife crisis, mentorship, coaching, meditation, personal growth, Gen Z, leadership, self-exploration, work-life balance

    42 min

  6. Mar 25

    Luck is NOT a Strategy: Networking

    Summary In this episode, Ian and Sim explore the psychology of networking, debunk myths, and share practical strategies for building meaningful professional relationships without the transactional stigma. They discuss how to approach networking as a relationship-building activity rather than a gamble, emphasizing authenticity, niche focus, and leveraging professional organizations. Sponsored by https://balancedatlast.com Takeaways Networking should be approached as relationship-building, not a transactional game.Authentic connections are more valuable than superficial interactions.Focus on niche interests and professional organizations to build meaningful networks.Rejection in networking is normal and should be disassociated from self-worth.Online and asynchronous networking offers flexibility and reduces stress. Chapters00:00 The Psychology of Networking vs. Gambling 02:26 Transforming Networking from Transactional to Relational 04:58 The Evolution of Networking: From General to Niche 07:26 The Importance of Intent in Networking 09:54 Building Trust and Meaningful Connections 12:22 Navigating Job Searches and Networking Dynamics 14:48 The Art of Outreach: Making Connections Count 19:55 Navigating Work-Life Balance 22:28 The Importance of Professional Organizations 23:33 Exploring Personal Interests Beyond Work 25:43 Art as a Therapeutic Tool 27:01 Networking: A Thoughtful Gamble 29:41 The Challenges of Networking for Introverts 33:07 Emotional Disconnect in Networking 36:12 The Reality of Networking Outcomes Guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/ianschonberg LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/skhandaker/ Keywords Networking, Professional Development, Relationship Building, Career Growth, Social Skills, Mentorship, Professional Organizations, Job Search Strategies

    40 min

  7. Mar 18 ·  Bonus

    Interview with Jeremie Mani (co-founder of Podcaston)

    Summary In this episode, Simanto Khandaker and Ian Schonberg welcome Jeremie Mani, an entrepreneur turned philanthropist, to discuss his journey from the early days of the internet to his current work in nonprofit podcasting. Jeremie shares insights on the evolution of email marketing, the power of storytelling in podcasts, and the importance of creating awareness for charitable causes. The conversation also highlights the impact of Burt's Big Adventure, a nonprofit that supports families with children facing health challenges, and offers advice on how listeners can contribute to meaningful change in their communities. Visit Podcasthon.org to learn more about the initiative and support podcasters and their non-profit. Visit our non-profit, https://bertsbigadventure.org/, to donate, volunteer, and support this cause. Takeaways Jeremy's journey began in the early days of the internet.He co-founded an email marketing company in 2000.The importance of storytelling in podcasting for nonprofits.Podcasts create intimate connections with listeners.Awareness is key for nonprofits to grow and thrive.Burt's Big Adventure supports families with children facing health challenges.The role of community in supporting charitable causes.Podcasting can amplify emotional connections to causes.Future growth for Podcast On requires more structure and resources.Generosity can start with small, daily actions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 01:55 Jeremy's Entrepreneurial Journey 10:12 Transition to Podcasting and Social Impact 17:09 The Power of Podcasting for Charities 19:33 Burt's Big Adventure: A Heartwarming Initiative 25:07 The Emotional Impact of Charitable Work 31:15 Future Challenges and Growth for Podcast On 38:11 Building Your Own Luck: Insights and Advice Keywords entrepreneurship, podcasting, nonprofit, professional development, email marketing, social impact, community support, personal growth, storytelling, charity

    42 min

  8. Mar 11

    Join us next week

    This is our placeholder episode. We're participating in Podcasthon initiative to promote a non-profit during the week of March 14-20th. Next week, we'll have the co-founder of Podcasthon sharing their professional development journey to starting this initiative.

    1 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to Beyond the 9-to-5: A Balanced Career, the podcast for the modern professional who wants more than just a paycheck. Join hosts Simanto Khandaker, a seasoned career coach with a mental health background, and Ian Schonberg, an expert in higher education and social work, as they dive into the complex psychology behind career development. Each episode, we explore the emotional and mental challenges that come with building a career—from imposter syndrome and burnout to navigating difficult bosses and finding your purpose. We challenge the notion that a successful career must come at the expense of your well-being. Tune in to discover how to find true fulfillment, set compassionate boundaries, and build a career that truly supports your whole life.

Information

  • Creator
    Simanto Khandaker
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Simanto Khandaker