I think it is always valuable to show personal work, but as you mention balance and content is important. I once had a student who was an awesome Manga artist, but i advised against showing the work that had more Skin then clothing (he didn’t listen and i got a call from the hiring manager as i knew her, and asked for me to explain how it made many people uncomfortable)
I always like to understand what peoples passions are out side of work and the things they do. A standard question is always “do you have any hobbies” mine is yes - outdoors and personal design projects - it is always an interesting conversation when i explain to them that i view my 2 sons as organic concept development projects 