Life Kit

Christine Saxman, an expert in racial and social justice facilitation, shares vital insights for parents on confronting the scary reality of radicalization. She discusses how to spot warning signs in children and emphasizes the need for open dialogues about online influences. Parents are equipped with strategies to engage meaningfully with their kids, focusing on trust and critical thinking to navigate sensitive topics. Saxman also explores how to make discussions about safety and play activities enriching rather than fear-driven.

Becca Levy, a professor at Yale and founder of the age liberation movement, dives into how negative beliefs about aging reshape our health and longevity. She challenges ageism, offering fascinating insights from her book, Breaking the Age Code. Levy discusses the transformative power of community support, like Zimbabwe's 'friendship bench,' and debunks stereotypes surrounding older adults. With practical strategies like age belief journaling, she empowers listeners to reframe their thoughts on aging, enhancing well-being across generations.

Discussing civics with kids is crucial for their development, similar to sensitive topics like sex. The importance of understanding America's complex history is highlighted, as it fosters informed and engaged citizens. Practical strategies for parents to teach civics through fun activities are shared. Recognizing America's past is essential for true patriotism, emphasizing empathy and tolerance. Ultimately, the conversation focuses on the need for children to actively participate in civic life, learning about government and respectful dialogue.

Tiffany Aliche, widely known as the Budgetnista, is a financial expert and educator dedicated to empowering individuals with financial wisdom. In this discussion, she tackles the psychology of impulse spending and shares tips on creating smart spending habits. Listeners learn how to distinguish needs from wants, manage expenses effectively, and recover from past spending mistakes. Aliche emphasizes the importance of budgeting and saving, and introduces a playful metaphor, 'Wanda,' to motivate people towards better financial health for their future.

Navigating the dating world as a queer person can be both challenging and rewarding. Personal stories reflect the journey of embracing queer identity without a clear roadmap. Overcoming societal shame and fostering self-acceptance is emphasized as crucial for authenticity. The exploration of first queer relationships highlights fears, triumphs, and the importance of mutual support. Building connections and practicing comfortable communication are vital for self-discovery and intimacy, while celebrating individuality fosters a sense of freedom within the queer community.

Join Devin Mahesua, an expert in indigenous foodways and professor at the University of Kansas, alongside James Beard Award-winning author Michael W. Twitty, who specializes in African-American culinary traditions. They delve into how food serves as a vital link to ancestry and identity. Discover the importance of engaging with community elders in culinary practices, the concept of 'vibration cooking,' and the political implications of food access. They also advocate for a mindful approach to food that emphasizes love, gratitude, and cultural preservation.

Gene Demby, host of Code Switch, and comedian Hari Kondabolu engage in a heartfelt discussion about modern fatherhood. They reflect on how to teach their children about race amid diverse identities. Both share personal anecdotes that highlight their nostalgic childhoods and their desire to pass on cultural values. They also tackle the emotional complexities of parenting, exploring joys and challenges while redefining masculinity. It’s a poignant look at what it means to be a father in today's world.

Lauren Whitehurst, a psychology professor and sleep researcher from the University of Kentucky, chats about the struggle of revenge bedtime procrastination. She explains how busy lives lead to sacrificing sleep for personal time. The discussion reveals practical strategies to reclaim restful sleep, particularly for parents and shift workers. Whitehurst highlights the importance of sleep hygiene and offers insights on creating a calming bedtime routine, ensuring you not only catch Z's but also enjoy guilt-free leisure!

Explore the joy of picking up new hobbies just for fun. Discover how engaging in leisure activities can improve mental health and foster connections. Learn practical tips to start hobbies on a budget while maintaining a healthy balance. Hear inspiring personal stories of individuals who found independence and personal growth through their pursuits. Find out how to choose activities that bring personal satisfaction and comfort.

Luana Marques, an associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and author of 'Almost Anxious,' shares her expertise on conquering the fear of flying. She dives into the emotional challenges of aviophobia and offers practical coping strategies, including exposure therapy and distraction techniques. Luana emphasizes the importance of aligning personal values with the desire to overcome anxiety. Listeners are encouraged to embrace discomfort as a pathway to personal growth and to transform their fears into opportunities.