A Balanced Career Podcast

Simanto Khandaker
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Careers

Welcome to A Balanced Career Podcast, 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 we dive into the 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. 2h ago

    Season 2 - Identifying the RED Flags

    Summary In this episode, Simanto Khandaker and Ian Schonberg share insights on how to spot red flags during job interviews, including recognizing subtle warning signs and understanding company culture. Learn practical strategies to make informed career decisions and protect your professional well-being. Key topics Recognizing overt and subtle red flags in interviewsThe importance of gut feeling and moral compassQuestions to ask about company culture and team dynamicsHow layoffs and company stability signal red flagsThe role of preparation and research in interview success Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 02:23 Personal story about inappropriate interview questions 04:53 Recognizing flags and gut instincts during interviews 07:37 The significance of asking about failure and support systems 10:10 Understanding the meaning of family in workplace culture 13:44 Questions to ask about team success and company stability 15:06 Dealing with red flags when considering a job offer 18:33 The impact of layoffs and company strategy on job security 22:17 Assessing the interviewer and understanding the role of the person you meet 26:37 The importance of informed decision-making and research Follow us on: IG - https://www.instagram.com/balancedatlast/ FB - https://www.facebook.com/BalancedAtLast/ YT - https://youtube.com/@BalancedAtLast LI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/skhandaker Website - https://balancedatlast.com Keywords job interview, red flags, company culture, career development, hiring tips, interview strategies, workplace warning signs, professional growth

  2. Aug 26

    There is NO Balance

    Summary In this episode, Ian and Sim explore the complex concept of work-life balance, challenging traditional notions and emphasizing the ongoing, fluid nature of achieving stability in life and work. They share insights on recognizing hidden strengths, the importance of reflection, and the role of coaching in personal development. 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. Balanced at last is located in Atlanta, and services Greater Atlanta area, and greater Orlando. Key topics The misconception of work-life balance as a static goalBalance as an ongoing, fluid process like an atomic symbolThe importance of reflection and recognizing hidden strengthsThe role of coaching in personal development and stabilityThe impact of global events and personal challenges on balanceStrategies for recognizing when balance is off and how to adjustThe difference between balance and stability in life and workThe significance of small, consistent improvements in daily routines Chapters 00:00 Introduction and season wrap-up 01:55 The contradiction of the podcast name and the theme of no balance 04:07 The atomic symbol of interconnectedness and balance 07:55 The complexity of balancing multiple life components 12:00 The fluid nature of balance and stability 16:01 The dangers of over-reliance on energy drinks and destructive recovery 19:52 Recognizing hidden strengths and challenges 24:58 The ongoing process of achieving stability and the role of reflection 29:56 The importance of coaching and external perspectives 34:00 Planning for the future through seasonal perspective 37:54 Key takeaways and closing thoughts Keywords work-life balance, stability, reflection, coaching, personal development, energy management, mental health, continuous process

  3. Aug 12

    Analog Thinking for the Win!

    Summary In this episode, Simanto and Ian explore the power of analog thinking versus digital, especially in the context of creativity, communication, and personal connection. They discuss how slowing down and engaging with traditional methods can enhance authenticity and deepen thinking. For more information, please visit https://balancedatlast.com Key topics The benefits of analog thinking over digital methodsHow AI impacts human connection and creativityThe importance of slowing down to think deeplyUsing handwritten notes to foster personal bondsThe risks of outsourcing thinking to technologyStrategies to incorporate analog practices in digital spaces Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest insights 02:05 The advantages of analog thinking for creativity 03:18 The impact of AI on human connection and thought 06:26 Using handwritten notes to build relationships 09:26 The uniqueness of analog note-taking and creativity 12:12 The emotional and psychological value of handwritten communication 15:26 Why slowing down enhances deep thinking 18:29 Implementing analog thinking in a digital world 23:28 Daily practices for slowing down and prioritizing 27:36 The importance of habit and consistency in analog thinking

  4. Jul 29

    How to Set Boundaries That Actually Work

    Summary In this episode, Ian and Simanto explore the complex nature of boundaries in a 24-7 world, emphasizing their fluidity, importance, and how they are often misunderstood. They share personal insights and practical strategies for setting and maintaining boundaries to improve well-being and professional effectiveness. *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. Balanced at last is located in Atlanta, and services Greater Atlanta area, and greater Orlando. Keywords boundaries, work-life balance, burnout, self-care, professional boundaries, time management, mental health, leadership, personal development Key Topics The fluidity and rigidity of boundariesBoundaries are about self-protection, not othersThe impact of boundaries on mental health and burnoutStrategies for setting and reinforcing boundariesThe role of leadership in respecting boundaries Takeaways Boundaries are fluid and should adapt to life’s seasons.Creating boundaries is an act of self-empowerment.Overworking and lack of boundaries lead to burnout.Clear communication of boundaries improves relationships.Leadership should support boundary-setting for team well-being. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Boundaries in a 24-7 World 02:05 Boundaries Are About Self-Protection 03:48 The Fluid Nature of Boundaries 06:06 The Impact of Boundaries on Burnout 08:11 Strategies for Setting Effective Boundaries 09:55 The Role of Leadership in Respecting Boundaries 11:54 Personal Experiences with Boundary Challenges 13:49 The Power of Intrinsic Boundaries 16:00 Balancing Boundaries and Professional Expectations 17:52 The Cost of Overworking and the Value of Self-Care 20:02 Building Resilience Through Boundary Setting 21:57 Practical Tips for Boundary Reinforcement 24:12 Overcoming Challenges in Boundary Maintenance 25:51 The Organizational Role in Boundary Respect 28:02 Creating Effective Email and Work Time Boundaries 30:12 The Importance of Non-Negotiable Boundaries 31:54 Adapting Boundaries to Different Situations 34:03 The Long-Term Benefits of Boundary Discipline 36:07 Final Thoughts on Boundary Mastery

  5. Jul 15

    Mastering Work-Life Balance with the Wellness Wheel

    Summary In this episode, Sim and Ian explore the concept of balancing life and work using the wellness wheel. We discuss practical tools for self-assessment and maintaining well-being across different life components. Sponsor The episode is brought to you by BalancedAtLast. See how a 20-minute call can help you get more out of your career and life, mention you're a podcast listener and receive 20% off our services. Schedule your call today: https://balancedatlast.com/consultation/ Review this blog post and try the interactive wellness wheel to see how balanced your life is currently: https://balancedatlast.com/wellness_wheel/ Takeaways Regular self-assessment using the wellness wheel can improve life balance.Visualizing life as a wheel helps identify areas needing attention.Technology can assist but not replace internal introspection.Small steps, like five-minute reflections, can lead to significant improvements.Professional help is valuable for maintaining overall well-being. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and technical setup 01:29 Introducing the podcast topic: balancing work and life 02:09 The analogy of Frogger for life balance 04:07 The structured vs. unpredictable nature of life 05:10 Using a calendar to see the big picture 06:18 Introduction to the wellness wheel concept 07:27 Components of the wellness wheel: personal, professional, social, emotional, financial 08:42 Assessing satisfaction in each component of the wheel 09:53 Finding substitutes and compromises in life activities 11:37 Reflecting on life balance and over/under-investment 12:26 The car tire analogy for life balance 13:32 The importance of addressing issues before they cause damage 15:06 Using technology to monitor and maintain well-being 18:20 The value of introspection and professional help 19:27 Quick self-assessment exercises for life balance 20:13 Taking small steps to improve life balance 21:43 The importance of regular maintenance and self-care 22:52 Final thoughts and encouragement to use the wellness wheel Keywords wellness wheel, work-life balance, self-assessment, personal development, mental health, professional growth Key Topic The wellness wheel components: personal, professional, social, emotional, financialThe importance of regular self-assessment and reflectionTechnology's role in self-maintenance and introspectionStrategies for balancing work, personal life, and health

  6. Jul 1

    The Power of Friendship in Men's Well-being

    Summary In this episode, Simanto and Ian explore men's mental health, the importance of vulnerability, and how societal norms impact men's ability to form deep connections. They discuss the role of sports, friendships, and social media in shaping men's emotional well-being. Sponsored by BalancedAtLast.com - See how a FREE 20-minute phone call can support your professional and personal development. Listeners receive 20% off packages. Schedule your FREE Consultation today: https://balancedatlast.com/consultation/ Key topics Men's mental health and societal perceptionsThe role of sports and shared activities in friendshipsChallenges in forming emotional connections among menThe impact of social media algorithms on mental health awarenessThe importance of vulnerability and authentic conversationsGenerational differences in expressing emotionsThe loneliness epidemic among menSupport networks and community building for menThe role of partners and family in men's mental healthFuture directions for men's mental health advocacy Chapters 00:00 Men's Mental Health Awareness Month 02:13 The Role of Sports in Emotional Expression 04:49 Friendship Dynamics Among Men 09:17 Vulnerability and Emotional Connection 13:44 The Loneliness Epidemic Among Men 18:29 Creating Psychological Safety in Conversations 21:24 Navigating Social Connections as Men 24:49 The Emotional Burden on Partners 26:55 The Loneliness Epidemic Among Men 28:52 The Challenge of Maintaining Friendships 31:02 The Logistics of Male Friendships 33:46 Breaking the Cycle of Isolation 37:23 The Need for Ongoing Conversations on Men's Mental Health Keywords men's mental health, vulnerability, friendships, social media, men's health awareness, emotional connection, loneliness epidemic, men's support networks

  7. Jun 17

    Who Are You, Really? Identity, Personality & the Workplace

    SummaryWhat does it actually mean to know yourself at work? In this episode, Ian and Sim explore the psychology of professional identity through the lens of two widely-used personality frameworks — Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the Enneagram. The conversation is real, self-aware, and often funny, as both hosts openly examine their own personality types, workplace quirks, and the surprising ways our past experiences shape how we show up professionally. From the introvert-extrovert divide and meeting culture to compassion fatigue and communication breakdowns, this episode offers an honest look at what it takes to build self-awareness that actually works in real teams. Sponsor This episode is sponsored by https://balancedatlast.com; a 20 minutes conversation can save you from headaches of figuring things out yourself, which can be exhausting and time consuming. See how Sim can help you and mention you're a podcast listener and get a 30% discount on coaching packages. 5 Key Takeaways Know Your Type, Own Your Quirks: Whether you lean Myers-Briggs or Enneagram, personality assessments aren't about boxing yourself in — they're a mirror for understanding how you work, communicate, and connect with others. The goal isn't to use your type as an excuse, but as a starting point for growth.Your Past Shows Up at Work: One of the episode's most candid moments reveals how a small, forgotten tech failure years ago quietly shaped an ongoing need for email validation. Our professional habits often have roots we haven't examined — and awareness is the first step to change.Compassion Fatigue Is a Real Career Risk: Research shows that the person on the team who becomes everyone's emotional support often goes unrecognized by management — and when they leave, performance drops across the board. Naming this dynamic is the first step to protecting yourself and valuing others.Introverts and Extroverts Need Each Other: The meeting debate in this episode is genuinely instructive: extroverts get energy from connection, introverts from focus. Neither is wrong. The key is building team norms that make room for both — fewer performative meetings, clearer communication channels, and mutual respect for different working rhythms.Self-Awareness Is a Team Strategy: The episode closes on this: when you know your own personality and genuinely understand the people you work with, conflict decreases, collaboration improves, and the whole team functions better. Personality awareness isn't soft — it's strategic.

  8. 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/

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to A Balanced Career Podcast, 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 we dive into the 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
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Simanto Khandaker