Life Kit

Maria Godoy, an NPR science correspondent, shares insights on creating a sustainable exercise habit. She emphasizes that you don't need to be extreme to reap health benefits. Common myths about exercise are debunked, promoting enjoyable, incremental movement instead. Godoy discusses practical strategies for rebuilding fitness routines after the holidays, highlighting the importance of small activities like walking. With a focus on self-empowerment, she encourages listeners to appreciate the immediate joys of physical activity rather than fixating on long-term goals.

Rita Soledad Fernandez Paulino, CEO of Wealth Para Todos and a money and self-care coach, joins to share expert budgeting insights. She emphasizes reevaluating spending habits to reflect personal values in the new year. The discussion highlights the interplay between self-care and financial health, introducing the DIVERSE framework for well-being. Listeners learn practical strategies for balancing short-term desires with long-term goals and refreshing their budgets to navigate life changes while maintaining financial stability.

Alison Aubrey, an NPR correspondent with two decades of health reporting experience, shares insights on New Year's resolutions. She emphasizes the power of SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound—for setting realistic and actionable objectives. Listeners learn how to break down their goals into manageable steps and reflect on personal motivations. Aubrey also discusses the importance of community support in achieving resolutions, encouraging people to create meaningful connections while pursuing their aspirations.

Martinus Evans, a running coach and author of "Slow AF Run Club," shares his empowering insights on starting a running journey at any body type. He debunks myths about running, emphasizing its accessibility and health benefits. Martinus provides practical tips on pacing, breathing, and choosing the right gear, stressing the importance of a positive mindset to combat inner critics. He also encourages listeners to tune into their bodies and explore the joy of running, making it a fulfilling part of their lifestyle.

Lama Rod Owens, a Buddhist teacher, shares valuable tools for self-reflection as we approach the new year. He discusses the importance of embracing solitude amidst the holiday rush to assess our past achievements and experiences. Listeners are encouraged to engage in creative exercises like journaling and visualization to set meaningful intentions for 2024. The conversation also highlights the need to acknowledge both gratitude and grief, reminding us to embrace stillness as we transition into new beginnings.

Join Traci Thomas, the creator and host of 'The Stacks,' a podcast dedicated to book recommendations. In this enlightening discussion, she shares six surprising tips for selecting your next great read. Learn why you should judge a book by its cover and how to personalize your reading experience. Traci emphasizes trusting your preferences over popular trends and explores captivating adventure novels like 'Lucky Red.' It's all about finding books that truly resonate with you!

Kavitha Cardoza, a seasoned reporter, dives into the often-overlooked seasonal affective disorder (SAD). She describes its telltale symptoms and offers insights on how widely it affects individuals during the colder months. Light therapy emerges as a key tool for managing symptoms, along with practical self-care strategies like diet and exercise. Kavitha also highlights the importance of finding joy in everyday moments and suggests focusing on small, achievable goals to combat feelings of hopelessness and low energy.

Lee Gaines, an investigative education reporter at WFYI, dives into the urgent issue of rising overdose deaths among teens, particularly involving fentanyl. She discusses how harm reduction strategies can foster honest conversations between parents and kids about drug use. Gaines emphasizes the importance of active listening and introducing resources like the 'Safety First' curriculum. She also shares a heartbreaking story of loss, highlighting the critical need for awareness and preparedness to combat the ongoing opioid crisis among teenagers.

Daniel Blevins, founder of Stand In Pride, sheds light on the importance of chosen families for LGBTQI individuals who face rejection. He shares heartfelt stories about building supportive relationships with nonbiological kin. Blevins discusses how to navigate feelings of loss while deepening bonds with friends and highlights the role of mentorship in fostering connections. His insights emphasize the necessity of community, encouraging listeners to embrace love and support outside traditional family structures.

John Kim, a licensed therapist and life coach, dives into the holiday season's emotional minefield. He shares invaluable advice on navigating parental guilt, managing holiday expectations, and setting boundaries with relatives. Kim explores the complexities of gift-giving among friends and encourages honest communication to strengthen relationships. He emphasizes the importance of self-care, urging listeners to put their emotional well-being first amid family pressures. Transforming challenging atmospheres into positive experiences is key this season.