Life Kit - podcast cover

Life Kit

Everyone needs a little help being a human. From sleep to saving money to parenting and more, host Marielle Segarra talks to experts to get the best advice out there. Life Kit is here to help you get it together.

Want another life hack? Try Life Kit+. You'll support the show and unlock exclusive curated playlists and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org/lifekit

Episodes

How to bring the house down at karaoke

Karaoke isn't just a crowd-pleasing pastime. When well-executed, it can unite a room of strangers and help you build your internal power. Zak Rosen, reporter and host of The Best Advice Show, offers tips on mastering the art of karaoke. And no, you don't need to be a good (or even average) singer. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

May 08, 202527 min

How to maintain your friendships after kids

It can be tough to navigate adult friendships when kids come into the picture. Parents assume their child-free buds don't want to hang out with them, and vice versa. To overcome this divide, reporter Emily Siner speaks with three experts about what makes friendships work across parenting stages. So whether you have kids, want kids, have friends with kids, or know anyone who could have kids someday, we've got you covered. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR ...

May 06, 202520 min

Often ignored spring cleaning tips

Spring is a great excuse to tackle those hard-to-clean appliances and furniture. In this episode, Kyshawn Lane of the Weekly Home Check walks through a surprising mix of deep cleaning tasks, from cleaning your oven to washing your walls. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

May 05, 202518 min

Here's why your feet hurt — and what you can do about it

If you're struggling with foot pain from bunions, Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis, it might be time to reevaluate your foot care routine. In this episode, foot experts share advice on picking the right running shoes, strengthening your feet muscles and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

May 01, 202526 min

What to eat for better sleep

Your diet affects your sleep. What foods can help you be your most rested self? Nutrition scientist and researcher Marie-Pierre St-Onge has research-backed tips on which foods to eat — and, spoilers, a lot of them are foods you either have in your fridge already or can work into nearly any recipe. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Apr 29, 202516 min

How to handle your money during tariff uncertainty

With stock market volatility and fears of price increases driven by the new tariffs, you may be worried about your finances. In this episode, certified financial planner Lauryn Williams explains how to handle your spending, savings and retirement accounts in times of economic instability. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Apr 28, 202519 min

Improve your sense of direction

Do you feel like you always need to use GPS to get around? Never quite sure if it's a left or a right turn — even though you just looked at a map? It can be anxiety-inducing to get around when you don't have a great sense of direction. This episode, experts explain how to gain more confidence while navigating. This episode originally aired May 6, 2024. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Apr 24, 202518 min

Why spending time in the woods makes you feel calm

Decades of research have shown that "forest bathing" is good for your health. It can boost your immune system, lower blood pressure and help with depression. Here's how to reap these benefits on your next walk in the woods. This episode originally published August 24, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Apr 22, 202516 min

The etiquette of texting

In this episode, tips on how to manage your text messages, from dealing with chaotic group chats to getting an unresponsive friend to message you back. Erica Dhawan, author of Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection No Matter the Distance , explains how to apply the basic rules of etiquette to everyday texting conundrums. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Apr 21, 202522 min

Can I afford to buy a house?

Buying a home can feel out of reach for many. But if you're an aspiring homeowner, there are ways to make it a reality. In this episode, mortgage reporter Molly Grace explains how to know if you're financially ready, what costs to budget for and how to find a home that works for you. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Apr 17, 202519 min

The art and pleasure of writing a letter

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, 202522 min

5 simple ways to minimize stress

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, 202517 min

DLK: In our relationship, her dog comes first. Now I'm having doubts about us

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, 202521 min

How to relieve constipation

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, 202516 min

How to pack a go bag for emergencies

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, 202524 min

How to find a supportive queer community

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, 202523 min

A beginner's guide to bartering

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, 202521 min

Over-the-counter pain medications 101

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, 202522 min

How to raise kids in a multilingual home

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, 202522 min

Start your financial self-care routine

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, 202516 min

Car safety 101: Crashes, road rage, weather and more

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, 202521 min

How to maintain an exercise routine as you age

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, 202517 min

Don't panic when the markets are down

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, 202515 min

What's in your lotion? A guide to personal care product safety

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, 202525 min

Too many goals and too little time? How to focus your attention

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, 202518 min

OMG how embarrassing! How to stop feeling so awkward

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, 202523 min

It's time to make your dream vacation a reality

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, 202522 min

The key to happiness? Know thyself, says Gretchen Rubin

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, 202521 min

Freshen up your resume

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, 202519 min

Dear Life Kit: Can I tell my friend she texts me too much?

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, 202520 min
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