

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

Jan 24, 2022 • 21min
How to make sure you're paid for your time and work
Juleyka Lantigua-Williams, founder and CEO of LWC Studios, shares her insights on valuing your work in the creative industry. She discusses the pervasive issue of underpayment, especially for marginalized individuals, and introduces the concept of the 'Brown Discount.' Juleyka offers practical negotiation strategies to help professionals advocate for fair compensation. The conversation emphasizes self-belief and the importance of building supportive networks, ultimately empowering listeners to recognize and assert their worth in the workplace.

11 snips
Jan 20, 2022 • 21min
The case for being ordinary
Rainsford Stauffer, a freelance writer and author of An Ordinary Age, discusses the unrealistic pressures faced by young adults striving for an extraordinary life. She emphasizes embracing ordinariness as a path to personal fulfillment and identity. The conversation touches on the harmful effects of perfectionism and societal expectations, urging a shift from traditional views of success to a focus on community and personal values. Rainsford also redefines self-care, encouraging listeners to seek authentic strategies amidst the noise of commercialization.

Jan 17, 2022 • 18min
Need to make a change in your life? Behavioral science can help
Katy Milkman, a renowned behavioral scientist and author of "How to Change," dives into the intricacies of habit formation and personal transformation. She explores the optimal times to start new habits and why some are more successful than others. Katy discusses innovative strategies to conquer procrastination, highlighting the benefits of flexibility in routines. Fresh starts are examined, showcasing how life events and social accountability can motivate change. Ultimately, she emphasizes that meaningful change is a continuous journey, not just a quick solution.

Jan 15, 2022 • 16min
How to talk about the COVID vaccine with people who are hesitant
Dr. Jasmine Marcelin, an infectious disease specialist, dives into the delicate art of discussing COVID-19 vaccines with hesitant folks. She emphasizes empathy and open dialogue as key strategies for effective conversations. Sharing personal stories can help build trust and foster understanding. Dr. Marcelin also highlights the importance of listening to concerns and addressing misinformation, particularly when engaging with family and friends. By nurturing respectful dialogues, we can gradually shift mindsets and encourage informed decisions.

Jan 13, 2022 • 17min
How to make ethical investing work for you
Manisha Dekor, a seasoned financial planner with over 25 years of experience, shares her insights on ethical investing. She explains how to align investments with personal values using ESG criteria. The discussion covers the complexities of selecting ethical investments and the rising trend of incorporating such options into workplace retirement plans. Manisha also offers practical tips for beginners to navigate the challenges of investing responsibly while achieving financial success, making money work for a better world.

14 snips
Jan 11, 2022 • 22min
How to work through a creative rut
Feeling stuck creatively? Discover how intentional breaks can reignite your spark! The conversation explores the importance of rest in overcoming burnout and fostering creativity. Learn why inspiration doesn't always have to be grand and how everyday moments can lead to breakthroughs. Hear personal stories of rediscovery through collaboration and self-care practices. Embrace simple strategies to make time for creativity in your daily routine and reclaim your artistic expression!

4 snips
Jan 10, 2022 • 22min
How to enjoy single life
Singlehood isn’t just a waiting room; it’s an opportunity for a fulfilling life. Explore how societal pressures shape our views on relationships and discover the true value of self-acceptance. Learn to redefine your worth beyond romance and embrace the diverse connections life offers. The conversation also highlights practical tips, like a clever kitchen hack to make cucumbers less bitter, while celebrating the joys of solo adventures and meaningful friendships.

5 snips
Jan 8, 2022 • 10min
A pediatrician's advice on omicron, daycare and travel for kids under 5
Parents of young children are feeling the heat with the Omicron variant, and an infectious disease expert provides much-needed reassurance. The podcast dives into how the variant impacts kids, highlighting rising hospitalizations and varying symptoms across ages. Listeners learn about vaccine trials for those under five and the importance of maternal vaccination for newborn immunity. Plus, tips on safe family travel during high infection periods ensure parents are equipped with planning strategies to keep their little ones protected.

Jan 7, 2022 • 17min
How to curb money avoidance and face financial woes head-on
Discover the roots of money avoidance and the psychological factors driving it. Expert insights reveal how reshaping your relationship with finances can lead to improved wellbeing. Learn to confront financial stress through mindfulness and healthier habits. Explore creative, cost-effective ways to stay connected without breaking the bank. Cultivating self-awareness helps foster a positive relationship with money, turning mistakes into valuable learning experiences.

7 snips
Jan 4, 2022 • 32min
How to divest from diet culture
Explore the pervasive effects of diet culture on body image and self-worth. Discover how societal pressures equate value with appearance, and learn practical strategies for promoting body positivity. Delve into intuitive eating and the flaws of traditional metrics like BMI, stressing that well-being is more than just weight. The conversation encourages a shift towards body neutrality, challenging harmful beliefs and fostering self-compassion. It's a call to reject negative narratives and embrace a healthier relationship with food and ourselves.