Best of Both Worlds Podcast
Best of Both Worlds Podcast, hosted by Laura Vanderkam and Sarah Hart-Unger, explores work/life balance, career development, parenting, time management, productivity, and making time for fun. Each week, the hosts share strategies to help listeners thrive in both their professional and personal lives. The podcast is produced by iHeartPodcasts.
Episodes
Calendar Magic! EP 480
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura talk about all things calendar related, from planners of the past to the way they display calendars both in the home and in their personal systems. They tackle longer-range calendaring, weekly logistics, and daily practices.In the Q&A, they address a common question: what are favorite planners for kids?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Behavioral Advice and Navigating a New Autism Diagnosis with Behavioral Analyst Stephanie Mueller EP 479
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura open by discussing their go-to sources for parenting advice, and then Sarah is joined by certified behavioral analyst and autism expert Stephenie Mueller for a discussion of effective behavioral tactics (for all kids!) and navigating a new autism spectrum diagnosis. Stephanie is informed by her years of experience working with kids with different needs and chall
An Exploration of Easy Child Privilege EP 478
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah take on a concept Laura heard about recently known as "easy child privilege" -- the phenomenon where parents might experience an unearned advantage with kids who are naturally compliant, neurotypical, healthy, or easy to sooth, and then attribute these features to superior parenting. They discuss how this might apply in various realms from eating to sleep to aca
Sandwich Generation Living with Dr. Anita Chandra EP 477
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah discuss their own current situations with respect to parental health and independence, and then board-certified geriatrician Dr. Anita Chandra joins Sarah to discuss the challenges of living in the 'sandwich generation' -- a scenario where you have both older and younger relatives or relations that require help or caregiving. An important topic that impacts so m
Fall Favorites EP 476
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura (hanging out together in Philadelphia) share some life updates and then focus on the positive with a list of current favorites.Some are fall themed, and some are just of the moment!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Deprivation-Free Frugality: Ways to Treat Yourself While Staying Within Budget EP 475
First a disclaimer: everyone's idea of frugality is relative! And many people have real struggles making ends meet from day to day. This episode unfortunately doesn't solve this issue, but instead provides interesting perspective on ways one might choose to spend strategically, saving money without any real sacrifice on your part.Ideas include grocery store shopping vs restaurants, the joy of chea
Meal Planning: The Perennial Challenge EP 474
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah chat about all things meal planning! They open with takes on recent food trends (protein + fiber, anyone?) and then move to a detailed discussion of their current meal planning practices, struggles, and victories. They cover shopping, non-dinner meals, school lunches and more.In the Q&A, a listener asks for tips getting tiny humans (think toddlers and below!
Around the World with Kids: A Semester-Long Travel Adventure with Elisabeth Frost EP 473
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura share their thoughts on whether they'd ever be up for long-haul travel with kids, and share memories of longer trips in the past.Then, Elisabeth Frost joins Sarah to provide her fascinating perspective on a months-long European adventure she recently completed with her 2 school-aged children, including an entire semester out of 'regular' school and visiting over
10th Annual Back to School Bonanza! EP 472
Is it possible that there have been NINE previous back to school episodes? 2017's version may have featured preschoolers (and multiple children not yet born!) -- back to school has definitely been a journey, and the adventure looks different every time!This year, Laura and Sarah have kids ranging from 1st grade to college sophomore. They share notes on re-entry, from anticipated morning schedules
Things Mentally Strong People DON'T Do with Amy Morin EP 471
In the intro, Laura and Sarah open with a discussion of resilience. Then, psychotherapist and resilience expert Amy Morin joins Laura to share all about the top things (13 in her book!) that mentally strong people DON'T do.In the Q&A, a listener asks for ideas to support a friend going through an especially tough time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can We Eliminate "Mom Guilt"? A Conversation with Dr. Jennifer Reid EP 470
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah chat about their own feelings around Mom Guilt (should it even . . . BE a thing?) and then Sarah interviews psychologist Dr. Jennifer Reid on the topic.Dr. Reid is a clinical psychologist with expertise in the areas of guilt and shame, and her book, Guilt Free: Reclaiming Your Life from Unreasonable Expectations, is out now.In the Q&A, a listener wonders exa
The Decluttering Episode: Comparing Styles, Progress Updates & More! EP 469
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura chat all things decluttering! Sarah has made home decluttering a goal for many years running, and has learned a lot from a slew of different methods but has struggled to implement these techniques in her home. This year, though, she added some support. She shares her progress and Laura discusses her own prior adventures in organization.They also discuss the meri
Take Back the Day: Beyond Sunday Resets with Jordyn Koveleski Gorman EP 468
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah open with a discussion of 15 minute meals, and then Laura interviews Jordyn Koveleski Gorman, a speech language pathologist and founder of Eat Play Say, a resource for parents of babies and toddlers and a treasure trove of practical advice for working mothers.In the Q&A, a listener asks for details on Laura and Sarah's skincare routines.See omnystudio.com/li
Calendar Mastery with Kelly Nolan EP 467
Kelly Nolan is a time management expert known for her Bright Method of calendar and life management. Sarah and Laura talk about their own current tactics, and then Kelly joins Sarah to chat all about her methods.Find out more from Kelly at kellynolan.com or @_kellynolan_ on IGSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have Fun Hosting + Making the Most of Car Time. EP 466
Today's episode is a two topic combo!First up is a discussion of getting out the door, followed by the host's thoughts on getting the most out of time in the car (both spend plenty of time driving!).Then, they discuss hosting, and hope to empower listeners to just Host the Thing, from a causal book club hang to a big dinner fete.In the Q&A, a listener asks thoughts on rewarding kids for good b
Halfway Point: Our 2026 Midyear Check-In! EP 465
It's the traditional mid-year review! Sarah and Laura revisit their 2026 goals, and share progress as well as any revisions, since both believe it's certainly okay to leave a goal behind if it's a purposeful choice!Categories included personal (hobbies + beyond), relationships, work, family/home, and fun.In the Q&A a listener wonders whether Laura and Sarah listen to their own episodes!See omn
Academic Summer with Professor Sarah Jedd EP 464
Today's episode opens with Sarah and Laura discussing frozen treats (yum!) and then Sarah interviews Sarah Jedd about all things academic summer. Sarah Jedd is a rhetoric professor with 5 kids (ages 5-college!) who also has an old-school blog called harrytimes.com.In the Q&A, a listener wonders how to get the family to agree on a movie. (Or not!)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informat
Summer Chat: Reading + Father's Day EP 463
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah open with a discussion of Father's Day, including past memories and current plans. Then, they delve into summer reading, from juicy new releases to non-fiction on trilobites.Book Sarah mentions: The One Day You Were My Husband by Rosie WalshIn the Q&A, a listener writes in asking for tips on helping kids manage summer work - how to prevent overwhelm without
Productivity Hacks (with an AI Discussion!) EP 462
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah share some of their favorite tactics for productivity, from avoiding distractions to strategic multitasking.Then, they discuss their current use cases for AI. Was this episode, in fact, AI-drafted or generated? (NO!)In the Q&A, a listener writes in asking for tips for implementing TOAD time - Laura's acronym for Time Outside After Dinner! How do you beat the
Puberty, Perimenopause, GLP-1s and more with Dr. Gillian Goddard EP 461
In today’s episode, Sarah and Laura open by discussing where they think they are in the reproductive phases, and then Sarah interviews Dr. Gillian Goddard, endocrinologist and author of The Hormone Loop — about all things perimenopause in addition to other hormonal issues! Finally, the hosts answer a listener question about music lesson practice.See omnystudio.com/listener for p
All Things Summer! EP 460
It's the annual Summer Planning episode! Sarah and Laura open with a decluttering discussion/progress report, and then discuss all things related to the upcoming season, from summer fun lists, to kid-related plans to summer pain points and travel and beyond. In the Q&A, a listener writes in with advice on putting in a pool! Do Sarah and Laura think it will be worth it?See omnystudio.com/listen
Date Night Updates, Atlas of Obscure Facts, and More EP 459
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah share their progress with date nights this year. Sarah wanted to go more regularly, and Laura had some fun adventurous ideas.Then, both hosts share 5 of their favorite Obscure Facts! Sarah's skew towards health and human biology, whereas Laura may have snuck in some Paleolithic trivia plus some facts that center around time!Finally, a listener writes in asking f
Motivation to Take That Walk Break with Manoush Zomorodi EP 458
Laura and Sarah open with a discussion of their own movement patterns - do they track steps? Then author and NPR podcast host Manoush Zomorodi joins Sarah for a fascinating discussion of how incorporating small movement breaks into the day can have an outsized impact on health and well-being. Her new book is called Body Electric (she’s Laura’s book twin, with the same release date) and
Time is Big Enough for That! EP 457
Laura and Sarah open today's show with some updates on how they have spent their time lately (lots of travel!) and then Sarah interviews Laura all about her new book, Big Time: A Simple Path to Time Abundance, out TODAY!They chat hot topics from the book, from golden hours to "dreaming big and planning small". And THEN Sarah gives Laura a pop quiz: can she match quotes from her books to the right
Homeschooling AND Full-time Work: Solving the Time Puzzle with Anandi Raman Creath EP 456
In today's intro, Laura discussed how she's been fascinated for a long time by families who manage to have both parents work full time while also managing homeschool. Then, Anandi Raman Creath joins her to chat about how she did just that when her kids were in the elementary years (even before COVID made it a more common thing!).In the Q&A, a listener wonders how to handle it when one child ne
Time Stories People Tell Themselves EP 455
Sometimes we tell ourselves stories about our time that are not backed by actual data. In today's episode, Laura delves into several of these, with some interesting ways to combat common time-centered myths -- from the idea that working parents never see their children to current rates of sleep deprivation.In the Q&A, a listener who has just hired a nanny wonders whether to transition out of d
Restaurant Adventures: Dining Out Through the Ages (with Kids + Beyond!) EP 454
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura discuss going out to eat -- in multiple contexts! They discuss their favorite most memorable restaurant meals, and some of the most memorable for opposite reasons (think: kid tantrums under the table within minutes of sitting down).They provide tips and ideas for enjoying family meals with more selective eaters, and insight into the exact age when eating out wit
Where Does the Time Go with Professor Christine Tulley EP 453
Professor Christine Tulley is professor of rhetoric and writing and founder and director of the Master of Arts in Rhetoric and Writing Program at the University of Findlay, and she has a special interest in understanding how women in academics-- especially those with kids -- spend their time. She and Laura get into the data in this interview, and then Sarah and Laura answer a listener question aro
Q1 Report + Now and Then -- How Have You Changed? EP 452
In today's reflective episode, Laura and Sarah record live from their South FL recording retreat once again, sharing notes (victories, works in progress, etc) from Quarter (or Quintile) 1. Then, inspired by Sarah's unearthing of her own personal 1990s memorabilia, the two of them discuss how things have changed (or not!) over the past 30 years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Secret Language of Work with Erin McGoff EP 451
Erin McGoff has built a career around helping people (especially women!) learn the secret language of work -- the ways to give yourself the best shot of moving in the career direction you desire with the right choice of words, actions, and body language. Sarah and Laura open by discussing their own specialized work languages - medicine and writing - and then Sarah interviews Erin, focusing on ways
Whimsy and Spring Delights EP 450
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah discuss the concept of whimsy and how small touches of it might be applied to make life more fun. Then, they share a variety of spring delights -- from changes in the natural world to the rhythms of the school calendar.In the Q&A segment, a listener wonders how to approach things with a child who is hesitant or uninterested in almost any activity.See omnystu
Understanding the Mattering Instinct with Philosopher Rebecca Goldstein EP 449
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura chat non-fiction reading, and then interviews Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, a philosopher, writer, and expert on what it means to matter, and why humans instinctually feel pulled to feel like they matter - even to themselves!They talk mattering projects from parenting and relationships to the pursuit of excellence. Rebecca's book is called The Mattering Instinct:
Cultivating Friendships: 6 Insights and a (Friend) Cameo! EP 448
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah share their insights on cultivating and maintaining friendships -- even during the busy parenting years! Tactics include multitasking friend dates, accepting the "Friendriarch" role, finding activities to do together WITH kids, and more.Then, towards the end of the episode, Kathleen Paley, a friend of both Laura and Sarah joins in to share her thoughts! You can
Building a Big Career and Family of 8 with Andrea Canning EP 447
Andrea Canning has a lot going on! In addition to her role as a Dateline NBC correspondent, she's a mother of 6, Marine Corps wife, and host of the Dateline True Crime weekly podcast. She shares her career and family building journey with Laura in this episode.Sarah and Laura open chatting about short family visits and answer a Q&A about bday celebration ideas for teens and tweens.See omnystud
Is it spring yet? Ways to get yourself out of a funk, seasonal or otherwise EP 446
February doldrums can be real -- or maybe you struggle with mood swings at other times. In this episode, Laura and Sarah share lots of ideas to help you get out of a funk, from focusing on your golden hours to treats, as well as a list of 5-minute uplifters.Episode Note: The strategies in this episode certainly would not be enough on their own for anyone going through a real depressive episode or
Love Stories + Reflections Ep 445
In today's Valentine's Day-inspired episode, Sarah and Laura share their current traditions for celebrating this February holiday, and then they chat about the early days of their relationships, as well as the ways they've celebrated love over the years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Work + Life: Then and Now with Corinne Hammons EP 444
In today’s episode, Sarah and Laura open by sharing about their favorite and least favorite (and least favorite) things about the little kids years vs bigger kids years! Then, Sarah interviews Corinne Hammonds, CEO of a NYC charity and mother of 2 — one senior, and one college student all about how life has changed over her past decade of working motherhood.In the Q&A, a listener w
Life Updates + Life Skills (for kids!) Ep 443
In today's episodes, Laura and Sarah discuss their own life updates -- Sarah is working one day a week at a different office, and Laura just got back from her big family trip to the Galapagos Islands -- she shares what her favorite moments were in addition to the biggest challenges.Following this, they delve into a discussion of various life skills -- from cooking to laundry to understanding finan
Tiny Habits to Embrace and Avoid in 2026 EP 442
In today's episode, both hosts share thoughts on Laura's recent Vanderhakcs post on her favorite habits to embrace for the new years, and add a twist -- the very best habits to AVOID!in the Q&A, a listener wonders about skiing as an adult - how hard is it to learn? Can one still have fun on a family ski vacation if they did not grow up skiing?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information
Real Talk with Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi: Career Pivots, Entrepreneurship, and Working Motherhood Ep 441
Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi made her name in reality television. More than a decade later she's still filming while building a business that includes multiple locations of The Snooki Shop, the Messy Mawma wine brand, and maybe pickles in 2026! She talks career reinvention, working motherhood, and laundry.In the intro, Laura and Sarah discuss their favorite Jersey shore towns.In the Q&A, a listener
Thriving with Unconventional Work Week Rhythms: Lauren Kuratko, Episcopal Priest EP440
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah open up with some discussion of ringing in the 2026 New Year, and then Lauren Kurakto, an Episcopal Priest, joins Laura for a fascinating discussion about how she leads a meaningful and fun life while thriving in a career that is (by definition!) variable, unconventional, and often demanding.In the Q&A, a listener writes in asking for Laura and Sarah's take
2026 Goals Extravaganza EP 439
It's the annual goals episode! Sarah and Laura share what they hope to accomplish and achieve in 2026, in the following categories: Personal, Relationships, Family/Home, Work, and Fun!In the Q&A, a listener wonders about the hosts' feelings on streaks!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Annual Year In Review: 2025 Edition! Hits, Misses, and Works-in-Progress EP 438
In today's traditional 'end of year review' episode, Laura and Sarah chat about all aspects of 2025! From highlights (there were many) to lowlights (definitely some of those too), they reflect back and discuss their progress on goals set one year prior in multiple domains.For the Q&A, a listener ponders how to steer extended family away from large or "million plastic pieces" types of gifts for
2026 Patreon Curriculum + Launching Sarah's Book, Best Laid Plans! EP 437
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah introduce their Patreon curriculum for 2026, and then Sarah shares all about her new book, out TODAY!!! -- Best Laid Plans, a Simple System for Planning A Life That You Love. Learn about the book's origin story and what Sarah feels it adds to the productivity canon!In the Q&A, a listener asks for ideas on how to track her reading.See omnystudio.com/listener
Get Festive: Holiday Planning & Fun, 2025 Edition EP 436
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah discuss all things holiday! First, Laura reminder listeners of Sarah's book, coming out next week as this airs (12/16) -- for preorder bonuses, check out theshubox.com/preorders!Then, they delve into several aspects of the holiday season, from Holiday Fun lists to gifting strategies to dealing with looooong winter breaks and beyond.In the Q&A, a listener ask
One Journey to Motherhood with Rebecca Thompson EP 435
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura reflect on their own paths to motherhood, and then Dr. Rebecca Thompson joins Laura to share about her own complicated journey.Please note: this episode contains discussion of fertility issues and loss, so please skip this one if this kind of content is not for you.In the Q&A, Laura and Sarah answer a listener question on how a book goes from idea to finishe
Dreaming Big: Lessons from BLP Live EP 434
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah share upcoming Thanksgiving plans and then discuss the various way they love to dream about the future, from 100 Dreams lists to Long Term Visioning and beyond.Then, they recap BLP Live -- their 3rd annual planning conference held live in South Friday. They share highlights from the experience and provide lots of suggestions for listeners interested in creating
7 Daily Practices to Enhance Your Life with Xtend Barre's Andrea Leigh Rogers EP 433
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura open with a discussion of their own favorite daily rituals.Then, Sarah interviews Andrea Leigh Rogers, creator of Xtend Barre (currently on BODi) who is a dance who built her own exercise brand and has navigated some personal challenges in recent years. In her recent book, Small Moves Big Life, she explores 7 daily practices that add up to 30 minutes per day (to
Keep it Hot: WORK Edition! EP 432
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura discuss ways to rekindle the flame . . . with your job! While hot fiery passion may not actually be feasible (or even the goal!), there are some ways that might help you enjoy your hours spent at work more. Lots of ideas are discussed in this episode, from increased engagement to professional development and PTO use strategies and more.In the Q&A, a listener
Finding Your Life's Purpose with Suzy Welch EP 431
In today's episode, Laura interviews Suzy Welch, a New York Times best-selling author, business journalist, and television commentator, and also an NYU professor. She and Laura talk career advice and she provides thoughts and advice on finding your purpose -- a topic she talks about in her new book, Becoming You, as well as her popular course at NYU.You can learn more and find Suzy Welch at suzywe
How to Fall in Love with Your Weekends EP 430
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah share a 5-part formula for crafting a weekend that you truly enjoy -- or that at least contains some elements you enjoy! They acknowledge the struggle (it's real!) of weekends feeling like a lot of work during the infant/toddler years and provide suggestions that might help in that era, plus plenty of discussion of how you might built more enjoyment into your we
Things Making Us Happy Now: Fall Edition EP 429
In this chatty (and positive) episode, Sarah and Laura trade off naming things making them happy now, in this fall season. Categories run the gamut from Laura's new planner to fresh-caught fish!In the Q&A, they share carpool dos and don'ts for a listener frustrated by a carpool that seems to be taking away more time than it is giving due to logistical challenges and frequent changes.See omnyst
The Busy Woman's Guide to Reading More EP 428
Sarah and Laura kick off this episode with 5 of their most recent reads -- an interesting variety to say the least! Then, they share tips to fit more reading into your life, as well as specifics on how they choose to do it -- including a discussion of paper vs electronic, morning or evening, and how they pick their books.In the Q&A, a listener writes in asking for advice on creating an affirma
Avoiding the Comparison Trap & More with Kate Strickler EP 427
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura talk about their own tendencies to compare + despair at times, as well as what helps them to avoid this! Then, Sarah interviews Kate Strickler, creator of Naptime Kitchen and author of I Just Wish I Had a Bigger Kitchen: And Other Lies I Think Will Make Me Happy. Kate shares the areas in which she struggles the most as well as what has worked to overcome this mi
Time Tracking Manifesto! EP 246
In today's episode, Laura discusses the merits of time tracking, while Sarah shares how her own time tracking has evolved over time. Laura shares some of the most common findings from the (many) others who have shared their time logs with her, and she also talks about why she's kept put the habit for more than TEN years running now!In the Q&A, a listener writes in asking for advice for when on
Sharing Truth with Jen Hatmaker EP 425
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura open by remembering the spring of 2020, the last time Jen was on the show and a time frame just a bit before the opening of her new memoir, Awake. Jen shares how she's evolved her career with time and what it was like to share her raw experiences in her recent work, which chronicles the dissolution of her marriage after she woke up to hear her husband dictating
Big Kids & Big Feelings with Alyssa Black Campbell EP 424
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura open talking about the upcoming elementary school year, and then Laura interviews Alyssa Blask Campbell, head of Seed and Sew, an organization devoted to raising emotionally intelligent children.Alyssa can be found at seedandsew.org and @tinyhumansbigemotions on IG.In the Q&A, a listener writes in asking for advice as a beginning runner.See omnystudio.com/li
Surprising Things About Our 40s: Laura and Sarah Share What They've Learned So Far EP 423
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura share things they've learned in their 40s -- a decade people don't necessarily look forward to, but one that they are both definitely enjoying!They also give a round-up of quotes they've found themselves spouting on numerous occasions, from "People are a good use of time" (by Laura!) and several more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
So Many Lists! From 100 Dreams to Someday/Maybe and Beyond EP 422
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah share their favorite lists to make and to keep! Examples include a 100 Dreams Lists, a Someday Maybe list, Seasonal Fun Lists, various Gift Lists, and more.In the Q&A, a listener writes in wondering how to encourage a reluctant child to attend overnight camp.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Annual Back to School Extravaganza: From Kindergarten to College! EP 421
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah share their thoughts, plans, and ideas around back to school -- possibly round 9 of this discussion, but it changes every year!They chat about routines, new challenges, college (!), homework, bedtime, and more.In the Q&A, they discuss: packed or school lunch?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Family Table: Dinner + Beyond with Dr. Reshma Shah EP 420
Dr. Reshma Shah is a board-certified pediatrician and expert on feeding families and plant-based nutrition. In today's episode, Sarah and Laura open by talking about how their families are doing dinner these days, and then Sarah interviews Reshma who provides insights on her Family Table approach, including her recommendations for selective eaters and cultivating a welcoming dinner atmosphere even
Trips with Friends: How + Why to Make it Happen EP 419
In today's episode, Sarah and Laura discuss maintaining adult friendships, and then Sarah delves into her recent 'friends trip' -- the planning, the execution, and the fun!In the Q&A, Sarah and Laura provide strategies for fitting in work over vacation or while traveling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wellness Trends (from GLP-1s to Digital Detoxes!) + Ideas to Help You Reset EP 418
In this fun episode, Sarah and Laura share their own takes on popular wellness trends that seem to be taking the world by storm. Topics discussed range from cold plunges to GLP-1 medications and beyond, and there are hot takes galore.Then, both hosts share various strategies that help them reset when facing their own habit challenges or just to get out of a rut.In the Q&A, a listener expecting
Disability Advocate Heather Avis on Shifting Narratives and Promoting Inclusivity EP 417
Heather Avis is a parent of two children with Down Syndrome. She shares her powerful adoption story and her mission to shift the narratives around special needs. She also has great perspective on helping kids develop resilience and embrace what makes them different.Her new children's book, I Like You So Much, is available wherever books are sold.In the Q&A, a listener writes in wondering how s
Family Matters: Navigating Extended Family Relationships EP 416
Extended family relationships: they can be wonderful, and they can be hard!In today's episode, Sarah and Laura talk through some common challenges in this arena -- from conflict over traveling for the holidays to family members as babysitters -- and provide ideas that might help make things a little bit easier.Plus, family text chains and a thought-provoking question: what kind of role do you see
Pregnancy in the Spotlight with CNN Correspondent Kristen Holmes EP 415
In today’s episode, Laura interviews Kristen Holmes, a senior White House correspondant for CNN who just had her second child in Janaury (meaning she spent most of the presidential campaign last year pregnant!). She shares her strategies for combining pregnancy, early parenthood, and work while on a big public-facing career track.In the Q&A, a listener asks about age spacing - is there a
Dressing for Self-Respect: Work Wardrobe Secrets with Fashion Expert Marcy Syms EP 414
In today’s episode, Sarah interviews Marcy Syms, former CEO of an apparel corporation and current founding trustee and president of the Sy Syms Foundation. Marcy believes that clothing is a form of self-respect, and a powerful PR tool. She discusses why it makes sense to invest time and money into our wardrobes, and how to do so effectively, with some surprisiing suggestions about where and
2025 Mid-Year Review: Ups, Downs, and Surprises EP 413
In today’s episode, Laura and Sarah share their traditional mid-year review! They revisit 2025 goals in several categories, including personal, career, relationships, and household, and reflect on their chosen words of the year.In the Q&A, a listener asks for tips about when to fit in more summer reading.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Skip the Misery: From Ice Baths to Spa Showers EP 412
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah discuss ways to add more joy into every day, as opposed to seeking out opportunities for suffering (ice baths being one trendy example of this)! They discuss elevating daily routines, finding high points in the work day (including good breaks), and making the most of those golden evening hours.In the Q&A, a listener writes in asking for cost-saving tips that
Kids + Tech from Silicon Valley Insider Rachel Fuld Cohen EP 411
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah share the apps they wouldn't want to go without, and then Rachel Fuld Cohen joins Laura to discuss kids and tech from an insider's perspective; Rachel is co-founder and COO of Silicon Society, an EdTech company focused on creating scalable, personalized, & cutting edge learning experiences in the AI Age, and is passionate about bringing best practices from t
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
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 lis
Advancement at Work with Lareina Yee, Author of The Broken Rung EP 408
In today's episode, senior consulting partner Lareina Yee comes on to discuss career advancement, with a discussion of what is behind fewer women n top leadership positions. She shares the current challenges, but also practical tips to help avoid missing out on important career opportunities.Lareina Yee is an author of The Broken Rung: When the Career Ladder Breaks for Women--and How They Can Succ
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.
Later Phases of Parenting + Midlife Leisure Pursuits with Meagan Francis EP 406
In today's episode, Meagan chats with Laura about launching kids into the real world (timely!), and they also pivot to talking all things fun and leisure.Meagan's book, The Last Parenting Book You'll Ever Read: How to Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What's Next is out this month and available wherever books are sold. Find lots more from Meagan at meaganfrancis.com .In the Q&A, Laura and Sarah disc
Hybrid Careers and More with Dr. Tiffany Moon (of Real Housewives of Dallas!) EP 405
In today’s episode, Sarah interviews Dr. Tiffany Moon, anesthesiologist and reality TV start (Real Housewives of Dallas)! They chat about Tiffany’s unique life and career journey, Tiffany’s hybrid career, handling negativity as a public figure, and weaponized professionalism.Dr. Tiffany Moon’s new book, Joy Prescriptions: How I Learned to Stop Chasing Perfection and Embrace
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 wisd
Organize First and Decorate Second with Whitney English EP 403
Author and designer Whitney English chats with Laura in this episode about organizing and decorating, which she recommends always doing in that order! First, Sarah and Laura chat about Whitney's planner creations, and delve into their own organizing projects. In the Q&A segment, a listener writes in asking for bathing suit recommendations!Whitney's book Organize First, Decorate Second: How to
Your RTO (Return to Office) Survival Guide EP 402
This episode begins with a great soapbox discussion about RTO mandates, and then Sarah and Laura delve into ways to try to help if you are in this situation. Sarah lists some positive aspects she's found about working in an office (in her case, a clinical setting) and then both share tips to help moving forward.In the Q&A, a listener writes in asking for advice as to whether to look at schools
"I Thought It Would Be Better Than This": Expectations vs Reality with Jessica Turner EP 401
In today's episode, Laura and Sarah open with a discussion of things that seemed like they would be . . .well, better than they actually turned out to be. Then, author Jessica Turner joins Laura to discuss this topic, also covered in her new book called I Thought It Would Be Better Than This: Rise from Disappointment, Regain Control, and Rebuild a Life You Love".Jessica experienced disappointment
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