Life Kit

Shazek Sonoda, founder of No More Under, shares her expertise in preventing childhood drownings. She emphasizes that drowning is the leading cause of death for young children in the U.S. Shazek provides essential water safety tips, including the need for vigilant adult supervision and proper life jacket use. She discusses the importance of swim lessons and creating safe environments around water. By highlighting practical strategies and sharing alarming statistics, she aims to raise awareness and empower parents to protect their children this summer.

Charan Ranganath, director of the Dynamic Memory Lab at UC Davis and author of the bestseller 'Why We Remember,' shares insights into the fascinating world of memory. He discusses common misconceptions about memory and offers practical strategies to boost recall, like sensory immersion and the power of chunking information. Ranganath explains how attention and emotional context play critical roles in memory formation. Listeners learn to leverage modern tools and creative techniques to enhance their cognitive performance and combat everyday forgetfulness.

Maria Godoy, NPR health correspondent and fiber enthusiast, dives deep into the benefits of dietary fiber. She reveals how fiber lowers cholesterol, regulates blood sugar, and aids in weight management. Listeners learn about different fiber types and their roles in gut health. Maria shares practical tips for boosting fiber intake, including incorporating chia seeds and berries into meals. Plus, she explains how to adapt your diet gradually to avoid discomfort while reaping these health benefits.

Discover how to enjoy summer without emptying your wallet! Explore budget-friendly outdoor activities like kite flying and picnics. Learn creative ways to host gatherings, from movie marathons to themed nights. Get tips on house-swapping with friends for a fun twist. Dive into imaginative play and DIY projects that spark joy and connection. With a sprinkle of creativity, you can make your sunny days memorable and affordable.

Ruth Tam, a talented journalist, joins to decode the complexities of staying friends with exes after breakups. She discusses the emotional turmoil of letting go while exploring how connections can evolve instead of fading away. The conversation covers essential questions to contemplate before diving into friendship—examining readiness and compatibility. Personal anecdotes illuminate the challenges and societal expectations of these relationships. Tam emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and boundaries, reminding listeners that not all past loves can transition to platonic ties.

Andy Tegel, a reporter for Life Kit, and Han Ren, a licensed psychologist and social media content creator, dive into the complex world of guilt and shame. They discuss how understanding guilt can foster stronger connections while harmful guilt leads to worthlessness. Insights include the importance of making amends and self-compassion, as well as strategies for transforming guilt into a motivational force. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their values, ultimately guiding them to navigate guilt healthily and improve personal relationships.

Leah Plunkett, a Harvard Law School faculty member and author of "Sharenthood," dives into the complex world of sharenting—where parents share their children's lives online. She highlights the privacy risks involved, urging parents to think carefully before posting. Plunkett discusses the long-term impacts on kids' futures and offers practical advice for balancing social media sharing with safety. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and engaging in open discussions about digital privacy to protect children's personal data.

Dr. Rachel Bervell, co-founder of The Black OBGYN Project, dives into how to make gynecological visits more empowering. She emphasizes the importance of open conversations about topics like birth control and menstrual pain. Bervell also addresses the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups in accessing reproductive health care. Listeners learn practical tips for preparing for appointments and the significance of developing strong patient-gynecologist relationships. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to take charge of their health!

Jade Wu, a behavioral sleep medicine psychologist from Duke University, dives deep into the science of jet lag and its impact on our body clocks. She debunks the myth that jet lag is merely a choice, highlighting its real physiological effects on cognitive function and mood. Wu shares practical tips for mitigating jet lag, emphasizing the importance of aligning travel with your sleep patterns. She also discusses how socio-economic factors can influence one’s ability to manage the challenges of jet lag. Tune in for valuable insights to improve your travel experience!

Jenny T. Wang, a psychologist and author of "Permission to Come Home," shares her expertise on Asian American mental health. She highlights the challenges of discussing mental health within families, influenced by cultural stigma. The complexities of breaking free from traditional career paths and expectations are explored, emphasizing the balance between personal passions and familial pressures. Wang also delves into the nuanced concept of home, stressing the importance of community and self-identity as vital components in one’s mental well-being.