In her new book, Syme's Letter Writer , Rachel Syme of The New Yorker explains how to write a delightful letter to a loved one. Unlike texting and email, old-fashioned letters, hand-addressed and sent in the mail, are "read intentionally," she says. Syme offers advice on what to write about, how to find the perfect stationery, and how to find a pen pal. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Apr 15, 2025•22 min
Need a break? Dr. Aditi Nerurkar, author of The 5 Resets , offers quick, easy ways to minimize stress in your daily life — no lavish vacations or big life changes necessary. This episode originally aired Feb. 6, 2024. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Apr 14, 2025•17 min
That uncertainty you might feel in romantic relationships is common — and not always a bad thing, say Haley Nahman, writer of the Maybe Baby newsletter and Danny Nelson, co-host of the Dear Danny podcast series . In this episode of Life Kit, they weigh in on pet jealousy, whether it's OK to make a move on a friend, and questionable future in-laws. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Apr 10, 2025•21 min
Haven't pooped in days? Gastroenterologists explain what to do in this SOS moment — and share tips on how to avoid chronic constipation. This episode was originally published July 10, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Apr 08, 2025•16 min
As climate emergencies like wildfires and hurricanes become more prevalent, it's important to have essentials like food and medicine on hand and ready to go in case you need to evacuate. On today's episode, emergency preparedness expert Alyssa Provencio explains what you do and don't need in your go bag, how to create a household emergency plan and why now is a good time to prepare for disasters. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Apr 07, 2025•24 min
If you're exploring your sexuality or gender identity for the first time, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. You might be processing mixed emotions, grieving the loss of people in your life or struggling with imposter syndrome. But on the other side is a supportive community that will celebrate you, not just tolerate you. In this episode, Life Kit producer Margaret Cirino talks with queer community organizers about the affirming power of queer spaces and how to find your own community. Learn more...
Apr 03, 2025•23 min
Bartering can help you mind your budget and build relationships with your community. In this episode, we cover how to suggest bartering as an option and make the exchange feel fair. We'll also share stories of successful trades. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Apr 01, 2025•21 min
Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin — there are many over-the-counter pain medications available, but are they all the same? And how much should you really take? In this episode, a doctor and pharmacists cover your drug options, including side effects, dosage and what to reach for the next time you have a headache or fever. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Mar 31, 2025•22 min
There are a lot of benefits to raising a child speaking two or more languages: a better understanding of their culture and their relatives, cognitive benefits and expanded job opportunities. But raising a kid is hard enough in one language. How can a parent be expected to do it in two or more? Reporter Julia Furlan explains that raising a kid in a multilingual household isn't a burden — it's a gift. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Mar 27, 2025•22 min
There are things we're supposed to do routinely for our health: brush our teeth, shower and exercise. There's a version of that for financial health too. We'll talk about those tasks — and go beyond the number-crunching to explore how our mental health affects our finances. This episode originally published August 15, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Mar 25, 2025•16 min
You might know the basics of car safety, like buckling your seatbelt or using your turn signal. But what do you do in car emergencies? This episode, Hector Carias, an officer with the California Highway Patrol, breaks down how to handle emergency situations. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Mar 24, 2025•21 min
It's important to exercise as we age. Regular movement can help not just with cardiovascular health and maintaining muscle mass — it can also foster community. Juana Summers, co-host of NPR's All Things Considered, speaks with older exercisers about what motivates them to stay active. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Mar 20, 2025•17 min
About 60% of Americans have some money in the stock market — and the markets are not doing great. Your knee-jerk reaction might be to sell. But experts explain why that's not a good idea. This episode originally published October 3, 2022. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Mar 18, 2025•15 min
It's easy to get overwhelmed by long ingredient lists when it comes to personal care products like shampoo, makeup and lotion. Which substances could be potentially harmful? Which are safe to use? In this episode, we cover current ingredients of concern, alternatives and how to decide which products you actually need in your life. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Mar 17, 2025•25 min
Time is precious and we never seem to have enough of it. We have to work, feed ourselves, clean our homes, take care of kids or family members, catch up with friends, sleep ... and on top of that, there are endless hobbies or pursuits we'd want to do if only we had more hours in the week. Is it any wonder we feel like we're constantly scrambling? This episode, how to carve out time for that passion project. Life Kit experts share tips on how we can be intentional about our attention. Learn more ...
Mar 13, 2025•18 min
Cringing at the time you gave a speech with spinach in your teeth, or accidentally liked an ex's picture on social media? Still reliving that incident in the fourth grade when you called your teacher "mommy"? Awkward moments have a tendency to haunt us – even ones from decades ago. This episode, Life Kit reporter Andee Tagle breaks down why we get so embarrassed about the things we do and how we can experience those feelings a little less. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices...
Mar 11, 2025•23 min
Jealous of your friends' spring break plans? This year, get your summer trip out of the group chat. Condé Nast Traveler's articles director Lale Arikoglu shares tips for planning the big trip of your dreams: where to start your search, what logistical questions you should ask yourself, and how to actually relax and enjoy yourself once you're there. This episode previously aired April 22, 2024. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Mar 10, 2025•22 min
What is happiness? How do you define it? Maybe it's feeling good, having a sunny disposition or being fulfilled, even if you don't feel pleasant all the time. Gretchen Rubin, host of the Happier podcast and author of The Happiness Project , says happiness is less about attaining joy than it is about growing in the right direction. In this episode, she explains how to make small changes that can move you toward happiness, and why knowing yourself helps contribute to this emotion. Learn more about...
Mar 06, 2025•21 min
Do's, don'ts and current best practices for resume-writing from career coach Cynthia Pong. One tip? Keep the format simple and make it easy to read. This episode originally aired on Jan. 8, 2024. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Mar 04, 2025•19 min
When it comes to friendship, how honest is too honest? Friendship experts, and real-life friends, Danielle Bayard Jackson and Marisa G. Franco weigh in on your thorny dilemmas around platonic relationships to help you create closer, lasting friendships. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Mar 03, 2025•20 min
Are you looking to connect to something greater than yourself, but aren't sure how? In this episode, a spiritual psychiatrist and a professor of theology share ways to personalize your path, whether that's seeking inspiration from the faiths and religions you grew up with or trying something new. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Feb 27, 2025•24 min
Tax attorneys Hana Boruchov and Leo Gabovich answer questions from our audience about the 2025 tax season. They explain whether or not to get an accountant, what to do if you can't pay your tax bill, and how to handle taxes when you work remotely. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Feb 25, 2025•18 min
Have you been thinking about going back to school, starting your own business or moving to a new country? How do you know it's time to make the leap? Or a good idea? In this episode, journalist Adwoa Gyimah-Brempong, who's no stranger to big changes herself, shares exercises to help you make these life-changing decisions. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Feb 24, 2025•20 min
Klarna, Afterpay, Affirm — maybe you've noticed these platforms when shopping online. They allow you to break up large payments into smaller installments that you can pay over time, and are a popular alternative to credit cards. In this episode, we'll cover the pros and cons of these loans and how to use them responsibly. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Feb 20, 2025•18 min
What's for dinner? It's a question that can lead to overspending on delivery, unhealthy meals and dread. FitMenCook founder Kevin Curry shares meal prep techniques that can alleviate stress and save money. This episode originally published January 31, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Feb 18, 2025•15 min
According to AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, 1 in 5 Americans are acting as unpaid caregivers. The work can be meaningful but also stressful. Caregivers give advice about how to approach the job, find support and make time for self-care. This episode originally published Feb. 20, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Feb 17, 2025•19 min
How financially compatible are you with your partner? Is your partner a spender while you're a saver? Are you on the same page about saving for retirement? Financial therapist Shay Harris-Pierre explains how couples can examine their spending habits, work through money conflicts and align their financial goals. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Feb 13, 2025•21 min
A recent study found that one key to gut health is eating a wide variety of plants. In this episode, we talk about the research with NPR's Maria Godoy and offer tips to help you mix up your diet. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy
Feb 11, 2025•12 min
The next time you rip a sweater, don't throw it out. Extend its life with "visible mending," a creative sewing technique that uses stitches, fabric and embellishments to artfully show off the repair. In this episode, we explain how anyone with basic sewing skills can try this method at home. This episode was originally published in May 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Feb 10, 2025•21 min
You have more power over your emotions than you think, says psychologist and neuroscientist Ethan Kross. In his new book, Shift: Managing Your Emotions — So They Don't Manage You , he says there are specific tools you can use to "skillfully push" your feelings around in a way that's useful, whether that's confronting them in the moment or avoiding them until you're ready to process them. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...
Feb 06, 2025•22 min
