

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

110 snips
May 15, 2025 • 26min
How to stay calm in emergency situations
Discover how to stay calm in emergencies like medical crises or mass shootings. Experts share valuable strategies for mental preparedness and decision-making under stress. Learn practical techniques such as mindfulness and breathing exercises to enhance resilience. The importance of CPR and open discussions about mental health are emphasized, along with empathetic communication for those in distress. Supporting each other and developing a safety plan can make a significant difference in high-stakes situations.

209 snips
May 13, 2025 • 20min
The connecting power of 'magical questions'
Priya Parker, a conflict resolution facilitator and author of 'The Art of Gathering,' shares her insights on transforming social gatherings. She introduces 'magical questions' designed to spark meaningful conversations, like asking about paths not taken. Parker emphasizes intentionality in planning events to foster genuine connections, allowing participants to share their stories and vulnerabilities. By creating a space for openness, these questions can ignite deeper interactions, turning casual mixers into memorable experiences.

166 snips
May 12, 2025 • 17min
How to save big on groceries
Beth Moncel, the founder of BudgetBytes.com, shares her expertise on saving money while grocery shopping. She breaks down meal costs to help listeners rethink their grocery habits. Heavily focused on practical strategies, Beth emphasizes using affordable staples and reducing waste through meal planning. Tips include making lists, using sales-tracking apps, and shopping during quieter times to dodge impulse buys. She also highlights the benefits of food banks and encourages a communal cooking experience to make budgeting enjoyable.

41 snips
May 8, 2025 • 27min
How to bring the house down at karaoke
Zak Rosen, a reporter and host of The Best Advice Show, shares insights on karaoke as a powerful tool for self-discovery and community building. He highlights that you don't need to be a great singer to make an impact. With practical tips, Zak discusses overcoming stage fright and the joy of performing familiar songs. He emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment to foster self-expression and inspires listeners to embrace vulnerability on stage, making karaoke a memorable experience.

58 snips
May 6, 2025 • 20min
How to maintain your friendships after kids
Navigating friendships can be a challenge after becoming a parent. Experts share practical strategies to maintain connections, emphasizing the power of communication and creativity in scheduling. The discussion highlights the feelings of isolation that parents might experience, and offers advice for child-free friends to stay involved. Personal anecdotes reveal how intentional efforts can strengthen bonds, ensuring that friendships evolve positively, regardless of parenting stages.

80 snips
May 5, 2025 • 18min
Often ignored spring cleaning tips
Kyshawn Lane, creator of Weekly Home Check, shares his expertise in making spring cleaning less daunting. He discusses the overlooked deep cleaning tasks, such as scrubbing your oven and washing walls. Kyshawn emphasizes the importance of maintaining appliances like air conditioning units for better performance and hygiene. He also introduces a simple baking soda and vinegar mixture for clearing drains while promoting a clutter-free and fresh home atmosphere. His refreshing tips empower listeners to reclaim their spaces and boost well-being.

129 snips
May 1, 2025 • 26min
Here's why your feet hurt — and what you can do about it
Andy Tegel, a dedicated reporter, dives into the often-overlooked realm of foot health and pain. She discusses common issues like bunions and Achilles tendinitis, shedding light on how proper foot care can make a huge difference. Listeners learn the importance of choosing the right footwear, the impact of daily routines on foot well-being, and effective strength exercises for healthy feet. Tegel emphasizes tailored advice over generic solutions, encouraging everyone to prioritize their foot health.

170 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 16min
What to eat for better sleep
Marie-Pierre St-Onge, a nutrition scientist from Columbia University, shares her expertise on how diet influences sleep quality. She reveals the power of foods rich in magnesium and melatonin, suggesting easy ways to incorporate them into your diet. The discussion includes the importance of tryptophan and busts myths about common sleep aids like turkey. Additionally, she offers practical meal tips and warns against refined sugars and caffeine, emphasizing the role of a balanced diet in achieving better rest.

72 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 19min
How to handle your money during tariff uncertainty
Lauryn Williams, a certified financial planner and Olympic gold medalist, shares her insights on managing finances amid tariff uncertainty. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining calm and sticking to financial plans during economic turmoil. Listeners learn strategies for building an emergency fund and protecting against financial scams. Williams warns against panic buying and highlights the need for informed decision-making. She encourages individuals, especially those nearing retirement, to focus on long-term savings and consult professionals for tailored advice.

87 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 18min
Improve your sense of direction
Struggling with your sense of direction? Discover humorous anecdotes about reliance on GPS and learn practical tips to navigate without tech. Explore the concept of spatial anxiety and gain confidence in unfamiliar environments. Embrace the joy of rediscovering navigation skills through exploration and engaging with your surroundings. Find out how to use landmarks effectively to enhance your orientation and memory, while creating personal narratives that empower you as a navigator. It's time to turn off the GPS and embark on your own journey!