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

Thoughts on Ozempic from a body-positive doctor

The popular weight loss drug Ozempic makes shedding pounds seem like magic. But the reality is more complicated, says family physician Dr. Mara Gordon. She explains why it's hard to talk about Ozempic without addressing weight stigma and diet culture. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Feb 27, 202418 minEp. 770

Here's how to take better naps

A good siesta can offer significant mental and physical health benefits. Here's how to take a nap that won't affect your nighttime sleep — and will leave you feeling energized. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Feb 26, 202421 minEp. 769

Improve your chances of learning a new skill

Mastering a new hobby, like bowling or baking, can be a frustrating process. But experts say it doesn't have to be that way. If you set yourself up for success at the start and allow yourself to make mistakes — you can stick with it. This episode originally published October 26, 2021. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Feb 22, 202422 minEp. 768

How to be a 'supercommunicator'

Called 'supercommunicators,' these people have the exceptional ability of creating authentic connections with others — just by listening and talking. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Feb 20, 202422 minEp. 767

Investing for beginners

You don't need to be an expert to grow a nest egg. We'll cover how to build your portfolio, when to sell (or not sell) stocks and how to avoid fees. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Feb 19, 202422 minEp. 766

What to do with your childhood stuff

Do you have boxes filled with photos, artwork and artifacts from when you were a kid? Here's how to decide what to keep and toss — and manage the emotions that come up along the way. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Feb 15, 202421 minEp. 765

How to 'fight right' with your partner

The Gottmans have been studying marriage and relationships for 40 years. In a new book, Fight Right , they explain how successful couples resolve their conflicts. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Feb 13, 202425 minEp. 764

Save money on streaming services

Just about every major streaming service has raised its subscription fees. At the same time, there are more programming bundles, membership deals, ad-supported subscriptions and streaming services overall. NPR TV critic and media analyst Eric Deggans shares a streaming strategy to help you get the most bang for your buck. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Feb 12, 202419 minEp. 763

5 tips for starting a new job

Just starting your career? Elainy Mata, host of the Harvard Business Review podcast New Here , offers advice on how to deal with issues that aren't part of the job description. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Feb 08, 202422 minEp. 762

5 simple ways to minimize stress

Dr. Aditi Nerurkar offers five accessible ways to minimize stress in your daily life — no lavish vacations or big life changes necessary. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Feb 06, 202417 minEp. 761

How to talk to kids about sex, bodies and consent

It's tricky to talk to younger kids about sex. This episode helps parents get past the confusion and embarrassment around sex education so they can raise healthy, responsible kids. This episode originally aired December 17, 2019. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Feb 05, 202424 minEp. 760

Thinking of getting inked? Start with a tiny tattoo

There are many decisions that go into getting a tattoo. You need to choose the right artist, design, style and placement. Veteran tattoo artist Noemi Barajas shares tips for first-timers. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Feb 01, 202423 minEp. 759

Improve your indoor air quality

Want fresher, cleaner air at home? Researchers share practical tips from researchers on how to clean your house (and your air), test your air quality and change your habits to limit indoor air pollution. This episode originally aired on May 9th, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 30, 202416 minEp. 758

How to mind your own business

Do you often find yourself in the center of other people's drama? Intervening when you wish you didn't? These practical tips can help you draw boundaries and stay in your lane. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 29, 202421 minEp. 757

How to have a healthy relationship with caffeine

Worry you're drinking too much coffee, tea, soda or energy drinks? A gastroenterologist and a caffeine researcher share surprising insights about the psychoactive drug — and explain why caffeine may not deserve its bad reputation. This episode originally aired on March 7, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Jan 25, 202423 minEp. 756

The emotional rollercoaster of being a new mom

Becoming a mother is a complicated life transition. That postpartum feeling of being on an emotional rollercoaster, not recognizing your body in the mirror and thinking that you've lost yourself is all part of the process. This episode offers guidance for mothers on how to get their footing, manage expectations, get support and prioritize time for themselves. These insights are also great for people who are in their support network. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/ad...

Jan 23, 202425 minEp. 755

How to prevent stress from escalating into distress

If you've been experiencing negative feelings like panic or anxiety for more than a few days, you might be in distress, says psychiatrist Dr. Kali Cyrus. Here's how to keep those emotions in check. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 22, 202418 minEp. 754

How to save for a big financial goal

When money's tight, it's hard to save for a rainy day or pay off credit card debt. But it's not impossible, says Monique White, a financial expert and the head of community at Self Financial, Inc. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 18, 202417 minEp. 753

Fitness as your body fluctuates

Life happens. Sometimes we get injured or sick — and of course we get older. As we change, so should our exercise routine. Here's how to adapt your fitness plan to meet your body where it is. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 16, 202422 minEp. 752

Soothe stress in minutes

Feeling overwhelmed, panicked or anxious? Clinical psychologist Jenny Taitz offers simple techniques to improve your mood and calm your body and mind in minutes. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 15, 202422 minEp. 751

What happens when you move your body throughout the day

Last fall, NPR's Body Electric challenged listeners to take part in a study with Columbia University. Over 20,000 people signed up to incorporate movement breaks into their day. So ... did it work? Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 13, 202412 minEp. 750

It's not too late to learn a new instrument

Whether you grew up playing music or you never progressed beyond "Hot Cross Buns," it's not too late to pick up a new instrument. Let fun lead the way and lose yourself in the joy of learning. Joel Snape, who picked up piano at age 40, offers tips for beginners. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 11, 202417 minEp. 749

Popular myths about sleep, debunked

Is it OK to exercise before you hit the hay? Sleep for less than 5 hours a night? Sleep scientist Rebecca Robbins sets the record straight to help you get better sleep. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 09, 202417 minEp. 748

Freshen up your resume

For many employers, the resume is still a must-have in the job process, says career coach Cynthia Pong. Here's how to write a CV that's competitive and up-to-date. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 08, 202419 minEp. 747

How to start an exercise habit

You don't have to be a marathoner or a gym rat to get meaningful health benefits from exercise. And that sort of "go big or go home" mentality can actually be a block to getting movement. This episode, we bust common misconceptions about exercise so you can get moving in a way that feels good to you. This episode originally published December 15, 2018. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Jan 04, 202415 minEp. 746

Refresh your budget with these simple finance tips

The new year is a great time to update your budget, say financial experts. Here's what you can do to curb your spending, save for emergencies and keep your investments on track. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 02, 202415 minEp. 745

How to make resolutions you'll keep

Happy New Year! If you want to make a resolution that sticks, the key to success is creating what's known as a SMART goal. This episode outlines how SMART goals work and how they can help you use your time for the things that matter most. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Jan 01, 202418 minEp. 744

Ready to get running? A starter guide

Running is a classic form of exercise for a reason. You don't need equipment or a gym membership and it provides cardiovascular benefits. But many people are told that running is not for them because of their body type. We talk to Martinus Evans, a running coach and the author of "Slow AF Run Club," about how you can start running in the body you have. This episode was originally published June 22, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Dec 28, 202324 minEp. 743

How to slow down and reflect ahead of 2024

The week between Christmas and New Year's Day is a good time to check in with yourself and take stock of the year. Reporter Kyle Norris talks with Buddhist Lama Rod Owens about how to get reflective during this time. Plus, a creative exercise to help you look back from cartoonist Nicole J. Georges. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy...

Dec 26, 202321 minEp. 742

How to find a book you won't want to put down

Traci Thomas, host of the hit book podcast 'The Stacks,' shares 6 surprising tips on how to find your next great read. One tip? Don't be afraid to judge a book by its cover. This episode originally published on July 20, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Dec 25, 202317 minEp. 741