

Life Kit
NPR
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
Mentioned books

64 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 26min
Hidden ways technology can influence your parenting decisions
Amanda Hess, a critic at large for the New York Times and author of *Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age*, dives into the complex relationship between technology and parenting. She discusses the overwhelming influence of pregnancy apps and smart baby monitors, and how these tools can both help and hinder parent-child connections. Hess highlights the importance of mindful tech use, encouraging parents to critically assess online information while maintaining authentic relationships with their children.

142 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 20min
How journaling can help you through hard times
Suleika Jaouad, a writer and the author of 'The Book of Alchemy', opens up about the profound role journaling has played in her life. She shares how it acts as a refuge during tough times and helps process painful experiences. Jaouad emphasizes the importance of creativity without fear of judgment and provides insightful writing prompts to inspire expression. Listeners will learn practical tips to overcome writer's block and embrace the liberating nature of journaling as a tool for emotional healing and self-discovery.

55 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 19min
How to embrace the mess and teach your kids to cook
David Nayfeld, a professional chef and author of 'Dad, What's for Dinner?', shares insights on the joys of cooking with kids. He emphasizes that, while cooking can get messy, it's an invaluable way to forge family bonds and create memorable experiences. Nayfeld offers easy weeknight recipes and cooking tasks suitable for children of all ages. He encourages parents to let go of perfectionism and embrace a playful approach, making the kitchen a space for creativity and connection.

11 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 18min
Dear Life Kit: I'm jealous of my partner's weight loss
Ronald Young Jr., host of Weight For It, and Katie Sturino, author and body-acceptance advocate, engage in a heartfelt conversation about body image and the complexities of self-acceptance. They tackle the emotions tied to jealousy when one partner experiences weight loss, emphasizing the need for open communication and mutual support. The discussion also covers overcoming negative body talk in friendships and prioritizing joyful moments over societal pressures, all while advocating for a healthy approach to body positivity.

86 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 16min
Don't make these financial mistakes
Yanely Espinal, a dedicated financial educator and author, shares her expertise on avoiding common financial pitfalls. She stresses the dangers of co-signing loans and hype-driven investments. Espinal emphasizes the importance of understanding borrowing dynamics and cautions against high-interest debt. Listeners will discover strategies for financial empowerment, including managing budgets and leveraging high-yield savings accounts. Plus, she discusses the significance of financial literacy for making informed investment choices and building long-term wealth.

6 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 2min
Congress has voted to eliminate government funding for public media
Congress has proposed cuts to federal funding for public media, raising concerns about its impact on local news and community engagement. The CEO of NPR underscores the vital role that public media plays in keeping underserved regions connected. The discussion emphasizes the urgent need for listener donations to ensure the accessibility and independence of these essential services. Without support, the future of quality public media hangs in the balance.

102 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 18min
Should I buy it? A framework to help you decide
Explore how retail advertising shapes our buying choices and learn to differentiate between genuine needs and fleeting wants. Discover the emotional motivations behind our purchases and how to budget wisely. Get smart buying strategies, including the value of reviews and negotiation tactics. Lastly, gain a thoughtful approach to decision-making that emphasizes research and lifestyle fit, helping you avoid regretful spending.

141 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 22min
Why it's so hard to accept compliments
In this insightful discussion, Andy Tegel, a dedicated reporter at Life Kit, teams up with Xuan Zhao, a behavioral scientist from Stanford and CEO of Flourish Science. They dive into why many people feel uneasy accepting compliments, exploring societal pressures and gender expectations. The conversation highlights the science behind the emotional benefits of giving and receiving praise. They also emphasize the importance of sincerity and specificity in compliments, showcasing how these interactions can boost self-esteem and strengthen relationships.

82 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 21min
Grow your dating confidence and ask someone out IRL
In this engaging discussion, confidence coach Regina Bonds shares her expertise on navigating the dating landscape. She emphasizes the art of asking someone out in person, blending innovative techniques with self-confidence strategies. Regina highlights the importance of authenticity and self-awareness in romantic interactions. With practical tips on body language, genuine compliments, and overcoming rejection, she inspires listeners to embrace self-love while enjoying the journey of connection. Her insights pave the way for a more confident approach to in-person dating.

149 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 20min
How to crave movement more than screen time
Join clinical psychologist Diana Hill, co-author of 'I Know I Should Exercise, But', and biomechanist Katy Bowman, a movement teacher, as they unravel ways to shift our focus from screens to movement. They explore psychological flexibility techniques like 'urge surfing' to combat screen cravings, promoting physical activity as a form of self-compassion. Highlighting the joy of movement, they provide strategies for incorporating variety and mindfulness into workouts, making exercise not just beneficial but also genuinely enjoyable.