

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

8 snips
Oct 3, 2022 • 15min
The markets are down. Here's how to handle your investments
Bola Shokunbi, author and founder of Clever Girl Finance, shares expert insights on navigating turbulent markets. She discusses why selling during downturns isn't a smart knee-jerk reaction. Shokunbi emphasizes the importance of a long-term investment perspective and avoiding emotional decision-making. She also offers strategies for managing debt and prioritizing savings over impulsive investments. By focusing on emotional health and diversification, listeners can better withstand market fluctuations and seize future opportunities.

13 snips
Oct 1, 2022 • 11min
Dear LK: My dad's wife died and he won't leave the house
David Defoe, a licensed professional counselor and grief recovery specialist, shares valuable insights on navigating grief in personal relationships. He discusses the intricacies of mourning and the impact of loss on a father's emotional state after his wife's passing. Defoe emphasizes the importance of storytelling, communication, and community support for both the grieving and their loved ones. Additionally, he highlights the delicate balance of joy and sorrow that coexists in the healing process, encouraging patience and presence in supporting those who are grieving.

5 snips
Sep 29, 2022 • 10min
What to do when driving during flood conditions
As hurricane season intensifies, stay informed about the dangers of driving in flood conditions. Discover essential safety strategies to help reduce risks during heavy rain. Learn why urban development contributes to increased flooding and how impervious surfaces exacerbate the issue. Get practical tips on what to keep in your vehicle and the importance of knowing when to turn around to avoid danger. Emphasize awareness and preparedness to navigate the roads safely during these critical times.

45 snips
Sep 27, 2022 • 22min
When something feels personal, here's how to cope
Diana Apong, a dedicated reporter and mental health advocate, dials into the conversation on coping with personal offenses. She highlights the power of mindfulness in managing reactions and the link between personal perceptions and self-worth. Experts discuss overcoming feelings of rejection and rumination while offering practical strategies like mental distancing and self-coaching. They emphasize navigating negative emotions' evolutionary roles and how moderation can enhance emotional clarity. Listeners leave with actionable tips to bolster self-esteem while minimizing the sting of external negativity.

11 snips
Sep 26, 2022 • 18min
When it comes to parenting, lead with connection
Becky Kennedy, a clinical psychologist and host of the Good Inside podcast, shares her wisdom on parenting that focuses on connection. She stresses that children inherently have good intentions and explores how empathy can transform discipline. Instead of seeking external validation, she encourages fostering self-trust in kids. Kennedy also emphasizes that it’s never too late for parents to grow and improve their relationships. Plus, she offers practical hacks from her book to enhance parenting skills, making it a relatable discussion for any caregiver.

Sep 24, 2022 • 10min
Dear LK: My parents ran a background check on my boyfriend
Nedra Glover Tawwab, a renowned therapist and best-selling author, dives into a listener's dilemma: her parents conducted a background check on her boyfriend. They explore the emotional fallout and ethical concerns surrounding trust and boundaries within families. Nedra highlights the importance of setting healthy boundaries and the complexities of navigating parental involvement in adult relationships. Discussions emphasize rebuilding trust through vulnerability and accountability, ultimately encouraging a path toward mutual understanding.

4 snips
Sep 22, 2022 • 19min
How much water does your body really need?
Aaron Scott, an expert on hydration and water balance, delves into the science behind how much water we really need. He challenges the myth of the eight-glasses-a-day rule and discusses the risks of both dehydration and overhydration, highlighting a critical incident from a marathon. Scott explains the body's intricate water regulation system and emphasizes the importance of listening to thirst cues. He also debunks common hydration myths, such as the idea that coffee dehydrates, and shares practical tips for optimal hydration.

51 snips
Sep 20, 2022 • 25min
Stuck doing all the household chores? This practical guide can help
Experts tackle the often-ignored burden of household chores, shedding light on the emotional weight of unequal labor. They propose strategies to reframe domestic responsibilities, urging open communication to foster fairness. Listeners learn to assess their roles and values to encourage equity in homes. The discussion also explores how upbringing and societal norms shape perceptions of chores, providing practical tips for balanced responsibilities. Discover how clear roles, chore charts, and accountability can create a more harmonious living space.

20 snips
Sep 19, 2022 • 16min
How to start a new job
Starting a new job can be nerve-wracking, filled with jitters and the pressure to make a great impression. The host shares personal experiences and gathers advice on overcoming anxieties and building connections with new colleagues. Patience and authenticity are emphasized as key tools for navigating this transition. Practical tips, like seeking support and staying organized, help ease the process. It's a relatable journey that reminds us we're not alone in tackling the challenges of new beginnings.

8 snips
Sep 17, 2022 • 9min
Dear LK: Do I have to read the book my husband wrote?
In this engaging discussion, award-winning speaker and licensed marriage and family therapist Kiaundra Jackson shares valuable insights into the complexities of married life. She tackles the delicate issue of supporting a partner's creative endeavors, even when preferences clash. Kiaundra emphasizes the importance of honest communication and using methods like the 'hamburger method' for constructive feedback. Listeners will discover tips for nurturing creativity while balancing personal tastes, ultimately understanding how to foster supportive relationships.