Life Kit: Money

Explore the importance of a financial self-care routine, setting meaningful financial goals, evaluating investments, optimizing financial health, and engaging further with the podcast for valuable financial insights.

Tipping requests are on the rise. Businesses that never seemed to ask for a tip, like fast food joints, are now asking for one. Here's how to deal with unexpected requests and more.A previous version of this story incorrectly said the company Square takes a "chunk of your tip." A representative from Square says while they charge a fee based on the whole transaction, including tip, the worker still gets the full amount of their tip.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Credit scores determine whether you can get a mortgage, credit card, auto loan and more. So if your score is subprime, how do you bump it up to above a 700? In this episode, find out how to read your credit report, navigate collections and negotiate payments.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Learn how to navigate the world of investments with basic principles. Discover insights on creating a diversified portfolio and the importance of passive investing. Find out why balance and reblancing are crucial in investment portfolios for long-term wealth accumulation.

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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Monique White, a credit counselor and financial expert at Self, shares valuable insights on saving for big purchases like laptops, cars, or houses. She addresses the emotional connection to financial goals and the hurdles posed by rising prices. Monique emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, budgeting, and managing expenses. She also highlights how turning setbacks, like a denied loan, into educational moments can empower individuals. With practical tips for building an emergency fund and effective saving strategies, she inspires listeners to navigate financial challenges confidently.

Learn how to refresh your budget by analyzing your spending habits, practicing self-care, and decreasing fixed expenses. Discover the concept of nettle or money self-care and explore strategies for negotiating costs and becoming debt-free. Recap the steps to refresh your budget and find out about other episodes on protecting against scams and choosing a bank.

Learn how to set and achieve resolutions that stick by creating SMART goals. Explore strategies for setting realistic, achievable, and meaningful goals while understanding their relevance and setting specific timelines for success.

Learn how to donate to a charity with intention and choose causes that matter to you. Explore the importance of strategic donating and effective altruism. Find and evaluate nonprofits using platforms like Charity Navigator and GiveWell. Debate on whether the size of a charity and its impact should be considered when donating.

Learn how to protect yourself from scams, including red flags to watch out for, verifying information, and being proactive in financial security. Encouraging fraud victims to share their stories and report their crimes is also important.