Life Kit: Money

Learn about the importance of developing a financial self-care routine, setting financial goals and staying on top of annual financial tasks, analyzing rate of return and adjusting portfolios, minimizing expense ratios and managing finances, and prioritizing self-care for financial success.

You don't need to spend a lot of money to have fun. Have you done a chocolate bar taste test? Hosted a themed hangout? Gone to a surprise movie night? Here are some ideas to help you save money and maximize entertainment.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and hear case studies of founders who have faced the challenges of starting a business. Explore success stories and mistakes made by entrepreneurs, including the story of Frederick Hudson, a convicted felon who created an app to send photos to inmates. Discover the journey of two sisters who started a crab delivery business during the pandemic and eventually opened a restaurant. Understand the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and the different funding options available to them.

Learn how to avoid pitfalls when buying a car, such as dealership manipulation and long-term loans. Get pre-approved for a loan, test drive the car, and negotiate the best deal. Consider buying used or electric vehicles and avoid add-ons from the dealership.

Learn about different types of financial institutions for checking/savings accounts: big banks, credit unions, community banks, and FinTech apps. Explore the benefits of choosing a big bank for ease of use and global presence. Compare major banks to credit unions and learn about advantages of community banks. Discover how FinTech apps offer competitive fees and better user experience on mobile/computer.

The Supreme Court has decided to strike down the Biden administration's plan to discharge some or all federal student loan debt. The decision impacts tens of millions of Americans – so what can student loan borrowers do to prepare now that the plan is over? NPR's education correspondent Cory Turner gives context and advice for borrowers.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Does your landlord have to fix that? Should you be worried about that clause in your lease? If you're one of the 35% of Americans renting your home, there's a lot you should know to protect yourself best. We'll discuss rental red flags, learn how to speak the language of landlords and how to decode a lease.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Groceries aren't cheap but there are ways beyond just looking for sales to make budget meals. To help cut down your grocery bill, we have practical tips for saving money on the food you cook at home.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A strong credit score can make major purchases and financial transactions much easier. Here's how to make yours better and keep it high. (This episode originally ran in November 2020.)Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Longing to quit your job and follow your passion? Or perhaps take a break to travel? Or move to a new place? First, you'll need to look at your finances. In this episode, Jill Schlesinger, a certified financial planner and business analyst for CBS News, walks through her five steps for assessing your financial situation before a possible life change.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy