

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

6 snips
Feb 14, 2022 • 15min
How to let more joy into your life
In this insightful discussion, poet Ross Gay, known for his work 'The Book of Delights,' shares his perspective on joy in everyday moments—like orchards and even weeds. He emphasizes the power of vulnerability and self-compassion in embracing joy. Gay encourages listeners to reconnect with their childlike wonder, highlighting how emotional openness can foster personal growth. He also shares practical tips for finding delight in daily life, reminding us that joy often flourishes through community and shared experiences.

Feb 10, 2022 • 21min
How to get over someone
In this discussion, Amy Chan, founder of Renew Breakup Bootcamp and author of Breakup Bootcamp, shares her expertise on navigating heartbreak. She addresses the emotional turmoil of breakups, emphasizing the need to acknowledge feelings of pain and rejection. Amy offers essential self-care strategies, such as confronting grief head-on, practicing self-reflection, and seeking support from friends. Listeners gain valuable insights into moving forward, avoiding fixation on exes, and embracing new experiences for a healthier recovery.

Feb 8, 2022 • 24min
How to lose well — and why it matters
Discover how to turn failure into a stepping stone for growth. Learn the difference between loss as an event and personal failure, emphasizing self-compassion. Hear a former professional athlete's journey of reclaiming identity after a major setback. Explore the transformative power of a growth mindset, where setbacks become valuable lessons. Find out how to build resilience and embrace emotions with kindness, using practical strategies for coping with loss and rejection.

Feb 7, 2022 • 22min
Financial advice for artists who think they're 'bad with money'
Paco de Leon, a financial planner and author of "Finance for the People," shares insightful advice catered to creatives struggling with finances. He challenges common misconceptions about money, encouraging artists to confront their negative beliefs and embrace financial literacy. Paco offers practical tips like separating personal and business expenses, establishing a finance routine, and understanding market dynamics. He also discusses the importance of emotional well-being during financial uncertainties, advocating for holistic practices to manage stress.

Feb 4, 2022 • 23min
How to talk to your Latinx parents about mental health
The podcast dives into the stigma surrounding mental health in the Latinx community, shedding light on the cultural barriers that often silence these discussions. Personal stories highlight the journey of seeking therapy and the challenges faced when addressing mental health with parents. Experts offer practical strategies for fostering open conversations, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and emotional expression. The impact of inherited trauma is also explored, aiming to bridge generational gaps and promote understanding within families.

Feb 3, 2022 • 15min
Pick a card, any card: How to get into tarot
Michelle Tea, a tarot reader and author of "Modern Tarot," shares her insights on the transformative power of tarot. She redefines tarot as a personal, accessible tool for self-reflection rather than a mere fortune-telling gimmick. Tea dives into the significance of the major and minor arcana, explaining their role in pivotal life moments. She also discusses the importance of well-formed questions in readings and offers tips for integrating tarot into daily self-care practices, making the mystical approachable for everyone.

9 snips
Feb 1, 2022 • 19min
It's OK to not be passionate about your job
Erin A. Cech, a sociology professor and author of "The Trouble with Passion," tackles the pervasive belief that passion should drive career choices. She argues this expectation can perpetuate inequality and lead to burnout. The discussion reveals how the myth of passion often overlooks practical concerns like salary and job security. Cech highlights the exploitation of dedicated workers in certain industries and emphasizes the need to balance personal fulfillment with realistic career goals, reinforcing that job satisfaction can stem from various sources beyond passion.

Jan 31, 2022 • 20min
What 'likeability' really means in the workplace
Join journalist Alicia Menendez, author of "The Likeability Trap," as she delves into the complex dynamics of likeability in the workplace. She argues that biases shape our perceptions and how women often wrestle with the 'Goldilocks conundrum,' balancing warmth and assertiveness. Alicia shares insights on the impact of likeability on marginalized individuals and provides actionable strategies for fostering inclusivity. She emphasizes the importance of advocating for others over mere self-promotion, transforming workplace relationships for the better.

Jan 27, 2022 • 20min
How to cope with seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Discover how seasonal affective disorder can dim the spirits as the days grow darker and colder. Personal stories highlight the struggle and isolation felt during winter months, while practical strategies are shared to combat these feelings. Light therapy, exercise, and mindful eating prove effective in boosting mood. Emphasis is placed on the importance of self-care and celebrating small joys, especially amid the ongoing challenges of a pandemic. Understanding the symptoms and reaching out for help can make all the difference.

Jan 25, 2022 • 24min
Dog training 101 — How to set realistic goals and where to get started
Dog training can be daunting, but experts offer valuable insights to simplify the journey. Discover the LEGS framework, which emphasizes the emotional bond between dogs and owners. Learn the importance of choosing the right trainer tailored to your dog's unique needs, and explore effective communication over punitive measures. The discussion also touches on balancing realistic goals with your dog's well-being, including the sensitive topic of rehoming. Get ready to enhance your dog's behavior with achievable strategies!