

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

May 30, 2022 • 17min
How to prepare for a hurricane
Chauncia Willis, an experienced emergency manager and the co-founder of the Institute for Diversity and Inclusion in Emergency Management, shares crucial strategies for hurricane preparedness. She emphasizes the intensified impact of climate change and the need for proactive planning to mitigate disasters. listeners learn about timely evacuation strategies, essential go-kit checklists, and the importance of community support. Willis also highlights the significance of addressing the unique needs of vulnerable populations in disaster response.

May 28, 2022 • 23min
What to say to kids when the news is scary
Rosemary Trulio, the Senior Vice President of Education and Research at Sesame Workshop, discusses how to navigate scary news with children. She shares insights on the impact of distressing events and emphasizes the importance of open communication. Trulio provides strategies for parents to help kids process their emotions, highlighting the balance between shielding them and fostering dialogue. The conversation also explores teaching media literacy and encouraging positivity through storytelling, helping kids focus on caring individuals in their communities.

May 26, 2022 • 21min
How to talk about Asian American mental health
Jenny Wang, a psychologist and author of "Permission to Come Home," dives deep into Asian American mental health challenges. She discusses the struggle of saying 'no' and the cultural pressure to conform, particularly from immigrant parents. Wang highlights the necessity of reclaiming personal agency and setting boundaries to combat guilt. They also explore the emotional complexities tied to the concept of 'home,' emphasizing the importance of community and authenticity in fostering a true sense of belonging.

May 24, 2022 • 21min
A beginner's guide to grilling: How to start a fire, adjust your heat and more
Intimidated by grilling? Cooking over an open flame can do that! In this guide, learn the basics from which type of grill to choose, to how to maintain a fire and create different temperature zones, to tips on tools and safety.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

May 23, 2022 • 26min
How to get a job after college
Dive into the world of job hunting after graduation! Discover how to craft a standout résumé while reflecting on your passions. Learn about innovative strategies like the 'Good Time Journal' and building a 'try-stuff list' to uncover your interests. Master the art of storytelling and elevator pitches to engage effectively with potential employers. Plus, unlock key tips on business etiquette and the power of curiosity in your professional journey. And don't miss the quirky tip on guacamole preservation!

6 snips
May 19, 2022 • 22min
Singing 101: How to find your voice
Asia Drain, a journalist passionate about singing, shares her journey and insights on discovering one's unique voice. She emphasizes that everyone can sing, highlighting the emotional benefits and sense of community it brings. Exercises for confidence-building and vocal health are discussed, alongside personal anecdotes that inspire listeners to embrace their singing abilities. Drain invites everyone to enjoy singing without the pressure of performance, celebrating the joy of personal expression through music.

46 snips
May 17, 2022 • 17min
How to overcome FOMO
Aarti Gupta, the clinical director at Therapy Nest in Palo Alto and a FOMO expert, dives deep into the psychological impact of the fear of missing out. She discusses how FOMO stretches beyond social gatherings, influencing our perception of opportunities and experiences, especially post-pandemic. Gupta emphasizes the emotional complexities tied to FOMO, exploring its roots and the role of social media. She also shares practical strategies for fostering an abundance mindset, managing anxiety, and being present in the moment.

May 16, 2022 • 19min
How to get back what we've lost to the internet
Pamela Paul, author of "100 Things We've Lost to the Internet," reflects on what life was like before our screens took over. She shares fascinating anecdotes about the emotional weight of constant connectivity and why we should embrace simpler, analog joys. Discover practical tips on creating phone-free zones and enhancing our problem-solving skills without technology. Paul also encourages a mindful approach to our digital lives, urging listeners to reconnect with the meaningful experiences we've lost in the age of the internet.

12 snips
May 12, 2022 • 20min
How to pay attention to (and appreciate) what's around you
Jenny Odell, an artist and the author of "How to Do Nothing," discusses the art of noticing and appreciating everyday surroundings. She emphasizes the importance of rekindling curiosity and explores how adopting a tourist mindset can transform our perception of familiar places. Odell shares insights on building communities around nature appreciation and reflects on the unique bonds formed during bus rides, where shared humanity comes alive. This conversation inspires listeners to deepen their connections with the world around them.

5 snips
May 10, 2022 • 20min
How to give mothering the value it deserves
Angela Garbes, author of *Essential Labor: Mothering as Social Change*, discusses the profound undervaluation of mothering in society. She emphasizes the need to recognize caregiving as skilled labor, particularly spotlighting the contributions of mothers during the pandemic. The conversation shifts toward post-pandemic reimagining of caregiving, advocating for community support and systemic changes. Garbes highlights the importance of fostering interdependence and instilling values in children, reminding us that parenting is an evolving journey.