Life Kit

Richard Schwartz, the founder of Internal Family Systems therapy, explores the innovative concept of 'parts' therapy. He emphasizes how listening to and understanding different facets of ourselves can lead to stress management and personal growth. Schwartz shares his own journey of healing from anxiety after a challenging divorce, highlighting the importance of acknowledging emotional pain. Practical techniques, including the 'U-turn' exercise, demonstrate how embracing our internal parts can help us reconnect with our true selves for a more authentic life.

There comes a time when it's the kid's turn to take care of mom and dad. Here's how to broach this sensitive subject with your parents.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Michael Copley, NPR climate correspondent, dives into the critical topic of flood safety and preparedness. He explains that water is the biggest threat during hurricanes, urging listeners to prioritize safety after flooding events. Copley highlights essential recovery steps, including assessing home damage and managing moisture. He also addresses challenges faced by renters, emphasizing the need for timely insurance claims. With practical tips for navigating floodwaters and recovery, he equips listeners with the knowledge to stay safe and prepared.

Allison Aubrey, an NPR health correspondent, discusses coping mechanisms for climate anxiety inspired by a University of California course. She shares practical exercises aimed at fostering resilience and emotional regulation. The conversation highlights the power of community and positive narratives in overcoming feelings of dread. Listeners learn about reflective activities like writing letters to their future selves, designed to clarify intentions and inspire environmental stewardship. It's a hopeful exploration of finding purpose amidst challenges.

Laurel Walmsley, an NPR personal finance correspondent, shares her insights on the recent drop in mortgage rates and the benefits of refinancing. She discusses how homeowners can save hundreds by securing new loans at lower rates. The conversation also covers the refinancing process, tips for evaluating potential savings versus costs, and the significance of comparing lenders. Laurel highlights innovative options like cash-out refinancing and emphasizes the importance of education in making informed financial decisions.

Sophie Strauss, a stylist specializing in personal style during life changes, chats with reporter Andy Tegel about navigating fashion amidst bodily transformations. They discuss the emotional impact of clothing choices and how to reclaim confidence. Sophie shares practical strategies for building a flexible and comfortable wardrobe that fits one’s identity, emphasizing personal expression over fleeting trends. Their conversation encourages listeners to embrace their unique style journeys and to prioritize feeling good in what they wear.

Allison Aubrey, an NPR health correspondent, teams up with Judith Moskowitz, a research psychologist at Northwestern University, to tackle the challenge of stress management. They share practical, research-backed techniques to enhance emotional well-being, emphasizing the power of gratitude, mindfulness, and cultivating joy in daily life. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing positive moments and practicing self-compassion. With personal anecdotes sprinkled throughout, listeners are inspired to reclaim their calm and build resilience.

In this engaging discussion, Claire Murashima, an NPR producer, shares insights from her week-long experiment ditching single-use plastics. She highlights the surprising challenges of avoiding plastic, from personal triumphs to social pressures. Claire emphasizes the health risks posed by microplastics and offers practical tips for reducing plastic use, like opting for bamboo and glass. Her reflections urge listeners to embrace small, actionable steps towards sustainability and raise awareness about plastic consumption.

Discover effective strategies to help your loved ones navigate the murky waters of misinformation. Learn the importance of empathy and building trust when discussing sensitive topics. Uncover practical tips for engaging in constructive dialogues, especially during election season. Explore how shared beliefs can create a foundation for meaningful conversations. Gain insights into addressing misinformation with patience while maintaining strong relationships, all aimed at empowering your community in the fight against false information.

Celina Benavides, a developmental psychologist and professor at Oxnard College, joins journalist Emily Siner to tackle the tricky issue of public tantrums. They share effective strategies for parents to manage their child's outbursts calmly, including techniques like 'butterfly hugs' for emotional regulation. They also discuss preparation for outings, the importance of teaching emotional awareness, and how to foster resilience through post-meltdown debriefs. Together, they explore navigating public parenting dynamics with empathy and communication.