

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

146 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 23min
Easy practices for online privacy
Sam Yellow Horse Kessler, a Producer for the Planet Money podcast, shares his insights on online privacy and data protection. He highlights the vulnerabilities of personal data in today's digital landscape. Listeners learn practical strategies to safeguard their information, such as using password managers and enabling multi-factor authentication. Kessler emphasizes the importance of being vigilant about data sharing and encourages regular digital cleanups. Tune in for easy-to-implement tips that help demystify the complexities of online security!

127 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 56min
Our favorite tips on exercise, sleep, and play
Dan Harris, host of the 10% Happier podcast and meditation advocate, joins Marielle Segarra to share their top tips on fitness and wellness. They discuss effective strategies like exercise snacks and preventing bedtime procrastination. The duo delves into the transformative power of meditation for problem-solving and emphasizes the essential role of play in maintaining emotional well-being. Listeners gain insights on improving sleep hygiene and integrating movement effortlessly into their daily lives, inspiring a healthier, more enjoyable routine.

81 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 20min
So you got laid off. What next?
Octavia Gorodima, a career coach and author of 'Prep, Push, Pivot', shares her insights on navigating the tumultuous journey after a layoff. She discusses the emotional toll of job loss and the necessity of processing feelings before making decisions. Listeners learn practical steps for immediate action—like understanding severance packages, applying for unemployment, and exploring health insurance options. Gorodima also emphasizes the importance of networking, job search strategies, and reframing layoffs as opportunities for personal growth and career reinvention.

164 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 22min
How to make decisions you won't regret
Nell Wulfhart, a decision coach, helps individuals tackle indecision and make quicker choices. She shares practical exercises to navigate significant life decisions, from moving to career changes. Wulfhart emphasizes the importance of risk assessment and when to involve others in the decision-making process. She also offers insights on managing post-decision regrets, explaining how making prompt choices can lead to greater satisfaction. Listeners will find valuable strategies to align decisions with personal values and live a regret-free life.

45 snips
May 29, 2025 • 19min
Avoid debt with these credit card tips
Dive into the complexities of credit cards and their impact on your financial health. Discover how these cards can help build a strong credit score while providing rewards and protections. Learn essential terms like APR and late fees to dodge costly mistakes. Gain strategies for effective payment management and tips on choosing the right card based on your spending habits. This journey through responsible credit card use equips you with the tools to avoid debt and optimize your financial well-being.

102 snips
May 27, 2025 • 15min
How to pack for your summer travel
Packing light is an art, and this guide reveals the secrets to master it! Discover how to create the perfect packing list tailored to your destination and weather. Strategic tips ensure you never forget essentials like documents and medications while avoiding the stress of overpacking. Traveling with kids? Learn how to prioritize comfort and find substitutes locally. With smart strategies on trip duration and laundry options, your summer adventure can be both enjoyable and hassle-free!

62 snips
May 26, 2025 • 20min
5 essential water skills to know this summer
Colin Jones, a former Olympic swimmer and world record holder, shares insights on the vital importance of swimming skills for both fun and safety. He discusses how learning to swim can help adults overcome fears and face anxieties around water. The conversation covers practical tips for finding classes, building confidence, and mastering essential water safety skills. Colin emphasizes that perseverance and a positive mindset are key to conquering challenges, making swimming accessible to everyone, regardless of age.

28 snips
May 22, 2025 • 20min
Dear Life Kit: I'm having neighbor drama
Sasha Philip, a seasoned mediator with expertise in civil litigation, teams up with Celeste Headlee, a journalist and author of 'We Need to Talk', to tackle neighbor drama. They discuss how to handle noisy neighbors, uninvited visitors, and trash troubles through effective communication. The duo emphasizes empathy, boundary-setting, and the importance of fostering cordial relationships. Listeners will discover practical strategies to manage conflicts, build community ties, and navigate the complexities of neighborly interactions with grace.

108 snips
May 20, 2025 • 14min
How to lead a more creative life
In this engaging conversation, psychologist Zorana Ivcevic Pringle, author of 'The Creativity Choice', argues that creativity is not an innate trait but a skill we can actively cultivate. She explores the varying levels of creativity, from simple daily expressions to remarkable achievements. Zorana shares strategies for overcoming creative blocks through reframing challenges and practicing self-compassion. She emphasizes that working within constraints can spark innovation, making creativity accessible to everyone.

154 snips
May 19, 2025 • 22min
How to keep old friends
Nina Badzin, host of Dear Nina: Conversations About Friendship, shares her insights on the power of old friendships. She explores the significance of nurturing long-term bonds amidst life's changes, highlighting the importance of communication and intentionality. Nina advocates for adapting to evolving relationships through open discussions and recognizing different expressions of care. She offers practical tips like voice memos and scheduled check-ins to deepen connections, reminding us that genuine conversations can keep friendships thriving through all stages of life.