

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

6 snips
Jul 29, 2024 • 23min
What happens after someone cheats
Talal Alsaleem, a psychologist and licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in infidelity recovery, dives into the complexities of cheating and its aftermath. He discusses the emotional challenges faced by couples, offering insights on establishing relationship contracts to clarify expectations. Talal also highlights the importance of transparency and cutting ties with affair partners for rebuilding trust. Listeners learn about recognizing red flags and the individualized nature of healing, emphasizing that recovery is a personal journey without a strict timeline.

35 snips
Jul 25, 2024 • 19min
Take your salads from drab to fab
Transform your perception of salads into vibrant, crave-worthy meals! Discover how to elevate your greens with enticing flavors like kimchi and textures such as candied nuts. Explore the art of homemade dressings, ensuring a perfect balance of oil and acid. Get inspired to break away from the boring side dish stereotype, and indulge in creative salad-making with a buddy. With a little experimentation, your salads can become both comforting and satisfying!

67 snips
Jul 23, 2024 • 18min
Unhappy at work? How to plan your next move
Tessa West, a Psychology professor at NYU and author of "Job Therapy: Finding Work That Works for You," shares her expertise on overcoming career dissatisfaction. She emphasizes the importance of self-reflection to identify sources of unhappiness at work. West discusses strategies for managing workplace emotions, building self-esteem beyond job performance, and recognizing personal strengths. She also provides actionable exercises for taking small steps toward a fulfilling career while balancing passion with practical considerations.

19 snips
Jul 22, 2024 • 19min
Scams can happen to anyone — here's how to protect yourself
Join Amy Nofziger, a certified fraud examiner and director of fraud victim support at AARP, as she dives into the world of scams. She highlights how even the most vigilant can fall victim, sharing cautionary tales like one concertgoer’s ticket mishap. Discover the emotional tactics used by scammers and learn essential tips for safeguarding your information in an increasingly digital landscape. With practical advice on recognizing red flags and managing your financial health, Amy emphasizes that anyone can be proactive against fraud.

43 snips
Jul 18, 2024 • 24min
How to babyproof your relationship
Aaron Steinberg, a parent relationship educator and coach, shares valuable insights for couples expecting a baby. He discusses essential strategies to strengthen connections and improve communication before and after the arrival of a newborn. Topics include fairness in dividing parenting tasks, the importance of flexibility, and recognizing each partner's strengths. Steinberg emphasizes the need for mutual support and conflict resolution as couples transition into parenthood, ensuring they thrive together during this transformative stage.

5 snips
Jul 16, 2024 • 21min
How to revamp your rental
Ever feel stuck in a bland rental? Home décor experts dive into creative ways to transform rental spaces into cozy havens. They discuss the rise of 'forever renters' and how to tackle daunting rental costs with DIY flair. Learn how to optimize your living space to boost energy flow and functionality. From clever paint techniques to smart lighting, discover simple adjustments that bring personality to your home. Embrace your creativity and make your rental truly yours!

18 snips
Jul 15, 2024 • 20min
5 strategies to help you cope with a nagging feeling of dread
Saleem Reshamwala, host of the podcast More Than a Feeling and an expert in emotional discussions, shares his insights on coping with the pervasive feeling of dread. He humorously explores the universal nature of this emotion and introduces practices like writing, artistic expression, and even 'worry time' to manage anxiety. Saleem emphasizes embracing mortality as a strategy to improve life quality and highlights the importance of connecting with nature for resilience. These relatable strategies aim to transform dread into a more manageable experience.

15 snips
Jul 11, 2024 • 25min
How to talk to a parent about their past
Discover the untold stories of your parents' pasts, from childhood dreams to heartbreaks, and how these shape your identity. Engaging with immigrant experiences, learn how language barriers can obscure family histories. Explore strategies for approaching sensitive conversations with compassion and understanding. Unearth the emotional intricacies involved in discussing trauma and the importance of empathy. Delve into the complexities of familial relationships, guiding you to foster deeper connections and preserve family legacies.

20 snips
Jul 9, 2024 • 25min
Hiking tips for beginners
Hiking is more accessible than you think; it's not just for the pros! Discover essential tips for beginners, from selecting the right trail to prioritizing safety. Learn about crucial gear like proper footwear and supplies that enhance the experience. Also, get insights on understanding the local environment and weather conditions to ensure a safe adventure. Embrace the outdoors and connect with nature, all while respecting the beautiful land around you!

41 snips
Jul 8, 2024 • 18min
Why you should connect with your kid, not correct them
Becky Kennedy, a clinical psychologist and author of "Good Inside," shares her insights on parenting with a focus on connection rather than correction. She highlights the importance of understanding emotions and building relationships with children before addressing their behavior. Kennedy discusses how childhood experiences shape parental triggers and advises on developing self-trust in kids to foster genuine confidence. By prioritizing connection, she encourages parents to create a nurturing environment that supports growth and resilience.


