

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

89 snips
Jan 5, 2023 • 14min
How to make a better to-do list
Discover how to transform your to-do list into a powerful tool for achieving your goals. Experts share tips on prioritizing meaningful tasks, and the debate between paper versus digital methods. Flexibility is key, allowing enjoyment in daily life while managing responsibilities. Learn actionable techniques like the two-minute rule and task breakdown. The concept of productivity debt is introduced, highlighting the balance needed in our quest for efficiency. Plus, get practical memory tips to remember details about new acquaintances!

49 snips
Jan 3, 2023 • 20min
Clear out your clutter
In a lively discussion, Star Hansen, a certified professional organizer known as the 'clutter whisperer,' shares her insights on decluttering. She emphasizes the importance of progress over perfection, suggesting breaking tasks into manageable pieces. Star delves into the emotional aspects of clutter, explaining how it often reflects deeper personal struggles. She also explores different clutter personalities and offers practical tips to create personalized organizing systems. Listeners will leave inspired to tackle their clutter with intention and creativity!

34 snips
Jan 2, 2023 • 18min
New Year's resolutions from Life Kit
Kick off the new year with practical tips for setting resolutions! Discover how to nurture creativity and harness its therapeutic benefits to boost joy and reduce stress. Learn about the importance of intentional goals and how reflecting on past regrets can shape personal growth. Embrace flexibility in your resolutions while communicating openly about household responsibilities. This podcast inspires you to turn regret into motivation and approach your goals with a sense of freedom and creativity.

30 snips
Dec 29, 2022 • 15min
How to start an exercise routine that works for you
Discover how to overcome common hurdles to starting an exercise routine with practical strategies that inspire enjoyment in movement. Learn that even small activities can lead to significant health benefits. Climb your fitness ladder by beginning with manageable steps and gradually increasing intensity. Gain motivation by focusing on immediate rewards and redefining exercise as a joyful part of life. Explore various forms of movement to enhance well-being and make fitness a fun and sustainable journey.

72 snips
Dec 27, 2022 • 20min
Ready to make a change for New Year's? Behavioral science can help
Katy Milkman, a behavioral scientist and author of 'How to Change,' shares her expertise on habit formation and behavior change. She discusses the optimal times to start new habits and why some stick better than others. Katy emphasizes the importance of flexibility in forming sustainable habits and reveals strategies to overcome procrastination. The conversation highlights the Fresh Start Effect, the power of social accountability, and approaches to view change as a continual journey rather than a quick fix.

7 snips
Dec 26, 2022 • 20min
This acronym will help you give the perfect toast
Toasts can make or break any event, and mastering this art is key. Discover the vital components of a memorable toast, including the power of storytelling and optimism. Learn how to connect authentically with your audience while steering clear of sensitive topics. Get inspired by the journey of a Toastmasters Champion and gain practical tips for delivery, timing, and managing nerves. Prepare for any occasion with essential advice that emphasizes sobriety and personal anecdotes, ensuring your toast will resonate and shine.

11 snips
Dec 22, 2022 • 20min
How to help someone at risk of suicide
Explore the rising rates of suicide and the crucial need for open conversations around mental health. Learn how to spot warning signs, such as mood changes and social withdrawal. Discover effective strategies to support someone in crisis, including the power of compassionate dialogue. Caregivers are essential, and the podcast offers tips to help them prevent burnout while assisting loved ones. Access resources like the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to ensure no one feels alone during tough times.

10 snips
Dec 20, 2022 • 21min
How to be a better movie watcher, according to film critics
Discover how to become a more intentional movie watcher. The hosts share nostalgic experiences and tips for exploring diverse films, especially during Oscar season. Learn to balance enjoyment with critique while navigating long runtimes. Hear about unique film recommendations that spotlight cultural insights, and delve into personal favorites like 'There Will Be Blood.' Plus, practical strategies for enhancing your viewing experience and the joy of sharing movies with others are highlighted throughout.

10 snips
Dec 19, 2022 • 22min
How to cut down your alcohol intake
Join Alison Aubrey, NPR health correspondent, and Aaron White, NIH researcher, as they dive into the complexities of alcohol consumption, especially during the holidays. They discuss strategies to manage drinking in social settings and share personal stories of transformation from cutting back. The conversation reveals how many use alcohol to escape emotional discomfort, while emphasizing the long-term benefits of moderation for mental health. Tune in for practical tips on embracing a healthier relationship with alcohol and alternatives to drinking.

15 snips
Dec 17, 2022 • 39min
Can therapy save their friendship?
Esther Perel, a renowned psychotherapist known for her insight into relationships, leads a poignant discussion on the innovative concept of 'friend therapy'. She helps two best friends navigate their drifting bond, revealing how vulnerabilities and societal pressures can strain connections. The conversation explores cultural differences in friendships, the impact of jealousy, and the necessity of open communication. Through live therapy sessions, listeners witness the transformative power of dialogue, highlighting the importance of reconnection amid life's changes.


