
Best of Both Worlds Podcast
Love your career? Love your family? Best of Both Worlds is the show for you! Hosts Laura Vanderkam, author of I Know How She Does It and a mom of five, and Sarah Hart-Unger, a practicing physician and mom of three, discuss work/life balance, career development, parenting, time management, productivity, and making time for fun. Tune in each week for strategies to help you thrive in all spheres of life.
Latest episodes

Jun 10, 2025 • 36min
Fun for the Whole Family (Even with a 13-Year Age Gap!) EP 410
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura chat about the start to their summers, and then dive into the topic of whole-family fun. Laura's kids are 5-18, and Sarah's are 7-13 -- both acknowledge the challenge that "whole family fun" can present especially with decent-sized age gaps, and provide some ideas to help (or in some cases, arguments for throwing in the towel and splitting things up!).In the Q&A, a listener writes in for tips on traveling across time zones (in both directions!).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jun 3, 2025 • 44min
Preserving Family Memories + More with Chatbooks Founder Vanessa Quigley EP 409
Sarah and Laura share their current practices for preserving family memories, and then Vanessa Quigley joins Sarah to share her experiences in building Chatbooks, as well as her take on why printing family memories are so important. She also discusses her entrepreneurial journey and some of the ways in which Chatbooks has become a company known for its family-friendly culture.In the Q&A, a listener writes in looking for advice on how to discuss her prior job-hopping (related to her husband's career journey) with new potential employers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 27, 2025 • 41min
Advancement at Work with Lareina Yee, Author of The Broken Rung EP 408
In this discussion, Lareina Yee, a Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company and co-author of The Broken Rung, sheds light on the barriers women face in achieving leadership roles. She shares insights on the gender gap in promotions and practical strategies to navigate career advancement challenges. Lareina emphasizes the importance of networking, feedback, and the proactive pursuit of opportunities. Listeners will also gain advice on optimizing workplace partnerships, making this a must-listen for anyone seeking to elevate their career in a competitive landscape.

May 20, 2025 • 34min
Thinking Through Summer: Top 5 Edition EP 407
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah discuss all things summer, with the format of:- 5 ways to celebrate the kickoff of summer- 5 summer challenges- 5 things they want to do- 5 summer-themed loves of the week!In the Q&A, they discuss the common dilemma of handling that last week of summer before school starts (when camp options are sparse!)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

13 snips
May 13, 2025 • 42min
Later Phases of Parenting + Midlife Leisure Pursuits with Meagan Francis EP 406
Meagan Francis, author of 'The Last Parenting Book You'll Ever Read' and former co-host of The Mom Hour, shares her insights on navigating the later stages of parenting. She discusses launching kids into adulthood and the emotional complexities of empty nesting. Meagan emphasizes the importance of rediscovering personal interests and self-acceptance during midlife. They also explore essential life skills for young adults and the joys of grandparenting, illustrating how these transitions can lead to new adventures and fulfilling leisure pursuits.

9 snips
May 6, 2025 • 42min
Hybrid Careers and More with Dr. Tiffany Moon (of Real Housewives of Dallas!) EP 405
In this episode, Dr. Tiffany Moon, a talented anesthesiologist, reality TV star from Real Housewives of Dallas, and author, shares her journey of balancing a demanding career with personal life. She discusses the challenges of public scrutiny and the concept of 'weaponized professionalism.' Tiffany also embraces her Asian immigrant background, emphasizing personal growth and setting boundaries. Plus, she offers creative date night ideas that go beyond the usual dinner and movie, advocating for fun and unique experiences to build connections.

7 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 38min
Sarah Armstrong on Divorce and Working Motherhood EP 404
Laura and Sarah open by discussing topics that people seem to be talking about more openly, including divorce. Listeners had requested a divorce expert, and Sarah Armstrong delivers here as the author of The Mom's Guide to a Good Divorce: What to Think Through When Children are Involved. Sarah has spent years thinking about how to best move forward after this major life change, and shares her wisdom with listeners in this conversation. As a global marketing leader with frequent international travel, Sarah also shares some of her best working parent tips from her newest release, The Art of the Juggling Act.In the Q&A, host Sarah asks for summer ideas for that young teen phase (12-14)!Sarah Armstrong's websites:https://thejugglingact.comhttps://www.momsguidetogooddivorce.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

7 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 40min
Organize First and Decorate Second with Whitney English EP 403
Whitney English, an accomplished author and designer, shares her insights on organizing before decorating, rooted in her new book, 'Organize First, Decorate Second.' She emphasizes how thoughtful organization enhances both functionality and aesthetics in living spaces. Whitney and Laura also discuss personal organizing challenges, especially those related to ADHD. The conversation touches on gentle decluttering techniques, the importance of editing, and even includes a fun segment on swimwear recommendations, making organization both practical and engaging.

27 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 35min
Your RTO (Return to Office) Survival Guide EP 402
Dive into the pros and cons of returning to office life after remote work! The hosts share personal experiences and tips to navigate this transition smoothly. Discover effective strategies for balancing work and home life, especially for parents managing childcare challenges. They also explore the evolving dynamics of remote and hybrid work, advocating for a flexible approach. Plus, listen for a fun discussion on beverage choices that adds a lighthearted touch to the serious topic of workplace reintegration!

9 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 38min
"I Thought It Would Be Better Than This": Expectations vs Reality with Jessica Turner EP 401
In this engaging discussion, Jessica Turner, author and influencer, shares her inspiring journey after her husband's unexpected coming out. She dives into the challenges of unmet expectations in marriage and parenting, offering insights into co-parenting and personal growth post-divorce. Jessica emphasizes the importance of self-worth in modern dating and navigating career shifts, reflecting on how her experiences shaped her new book. The conversation is packed with relatable stories that resonate with anyone facing life's disappointments.