Life Kit

Chef Sohla El-Waylly, author of 'Start Here,' shares expert tips for mastering soups. She explains the importance of a flavorful broth as the backbone of any good soup, exploring different types and storage methods. Sohla demonstrates the magic of sweating aromatics for depth of flavor and shares techniques for achieving the perfect soup texture. Discover how to make creamy soups without dairy, complement flavors with umami boosters like Parmesan rinds, and get inspired with a fall soup recipe. Perfect your soup-making game this season!

Join Jeffrey Selingo, a higher education journalist and author of "Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You," as he explores smarter ways to choose a college. He emphasizes that fit often outweighs prestige in college selection. Selingo shares a student's experience at Columbia, the surge in college applications due to the Common App, and how financial considerations can alter choices. He also stresses the importance of first-year support systems and encourages families to redefine their 'dream school' by prioritizing environments that promote student fulfillment.

Britt Frank, a psychotherapist specializing in somatic experiencing and author of The Science of Stuck, shares insights on redefining anxiety as a crucial signal rather than merely a disorder. She explains how anxiety triggers the fight-or-flight response and offers practical grounding tools to manage overwhelming feelings. Britt also discusses the importance of understanding the roots of anxiety, setting boundaries, and reframing it as a protective 'superpower' that can guide us through life's challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Davon Loeb, a writer and author of the memoir *The In-Betweens*, shares his personal insights on navigating interracial relationships. He emphasizes the importance of openly addressing cultural and power differences to create a harmonious family culture. Listeners will learn how to compromise effectively without losing individual identities. Davon also presents a three-step model for resolving conflicts and supporting each other through external challenges, fostering deeper connections with partners.

Jackie Fortier, a KFF Health News reporter focused on health policy, shares crucial insights on appealing health insurance denials. She breaks down what counts as preventive care and clarifies common billing issues. Listeners learn how to effectively read EOB denials, initiate internal appeals, and gather necessary documentation. If those efforts fail, Jackie discusses options like requesting external reviews and seeking state assistance. This episode equips you with the tools to navigate the often confusing health care system with confidence.

In this enlightening discussion, neuroscientist Tom Bellamy, author of 'Smitten,' shares insights into the neuroscience behind limerence and obsessive love. He draws parallels between romantic obsession and addiction, detailing the emotional highs and lows that come with it. Listeners learn about practical strategies for overcoming these intense feelings, such as limiting contact with the object of infatuation and embracing self-compassion. Tom also offers tips on reframing fantasies and redirecting focus towards healthier interests for personal growth.

Rebecca Robbins, an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard, is a sleep scientist dedicated to unraveling sleep myths. She discusses how common misconceptions about sleep timing and duration can affect well-being, especially for shift workers. Robbins shares how natural sunlight influences melatonin and the importance of finding your ideal sleep duration. She also busts the myth that late-night workouts harm rest and offers practical bedtime strategies to reduce anxiety for a more peaceful night. Get ready to sleep smarter!

Chef Samin Nosrat, acclaimed author of 'Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat,' shares heartfelt insights on the joy of communal dining. She emphasizes how food can deepen connections and offers practical tips for creating memorable gatherings. Samin reveals her ultimate garlic bread recipe and discusses catering to diverse dietary choices. She also chats about the importance of atmosphere and meaningful rituals when hosting, proving that relaxation and genuine connection are key to unforgettable moments with friends.

Join Yaneli Espinal, author of 'Mind Your Money' and host of 'Financially Inclined,' as she shares savvy financial tips for college students. She discusses the importance of budgeting from day one, highlighting strategies for managing student loans and the pursuit of scholarships. Yaneli dives into part-time work options, emphasizes responsible credit card use, and encourages open conversations about financial struggles among peers. Perfect guidance for navigating the complex world of college finances!

Malaka Gharib, a digital editor, shares her chaotic experience of losing her passport before travel. She discusses the psychological effects of stress on searching and how staying calm can improve focus. The conversation includes expert tips, like identifying distinct features of lost items and adjusting your search perspective. Personal stories and innovative strategies, like recreating the scene of loss, add humor and insight. Gharib’s experience and expert advice turn the frustration of misplacing items into a more effective and lighter task.