Life Kit

Stacey Vanek Smith, author of "Machiavelli For Women," dives into the pervasive issue of workplace interruptions that particularly affect women and marginalized groups. She discusses the impact of these interruptions on effective communication and shares eye-opening studies, including surprising statistics about female Supreme Court justices. Smith offers practical strategies for claiming your voice and managing interruptions, emphasizing the importance of amplification and allyship to create a more inclusive work environment.

Eric Garcia, Senior Washington correspondent for The Independent and author of We're Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation, shatters myths surrounding autism. He emphasizes that autism affects everyone and reveals the societal misconceptions that lead to harmful stereotypes. Garcia critiques media representation, advocates for understanding diverse experiences, and calls for an inclusive narrative. He stresses the importance of dialogue to ensure autistic individuals are supported in living fulfilling lives, breaking away from the pursuit of a 'cure'.

Join Bella Gandhi, a professional dating coach and founder of Smart Dating Academy, and Susan Winter, a relationship expert and author, as they tackle the unique challenges of dating after 50. They discuss the importance of self-reflection and personal growth in navigating the dating landscape. Listeners will learn practical strategies for dating, including recognizing red flags and the value of communication. The conversation also covers how to foster positive relationships while balancing family dynamics and exploring new social environments.

Maylard Howell, a former pharmaceutical professional and current head of fitness at Reebok, shares insights on a holistic approach to health. He discusses the post-pandemic shifts in body image perceptions and the importance of mental health alongside physical fitness. The conversation dives into redefining fitness beyond aesthetics, promoting self-awareness, and the impact of social media on self-esteem. Howell also emphasizes finding personal enjoyment in exercise and the power of small, consistent actions to achieve wellness goals.

Starting hormone replacement therapy can be daunting, especially within a challenging healthcare system. The importance of community support is emphasized as a vital part of the journey. The podcast debunks common myths, including those around fertility and mental health benefits. Listeners will learn about the informed consent model and find practical advice for accessing care, even without insurance. Ultimately, it highlights the overwhelmingly positive impacts of HRT on both physical and mental well-being for transgender individuals.

Wendy Suzuki, a neuroscience and psychology professor at NYU and author of "Good Anxiety," explains how anxiety can be transformed from an enemy into an ally. She shares strategies for harnessing this often-misunderstood emotion to foster personal growth and resilience. Rather than viewing anxiety as solely negative, Suzuki encourages listeners to embrace its insights and potential. Through open discussions and practical tips, she highlights the importance of emotional regulation and self-care in turning anxiety into a productive force.

Larissa Horton, a leader at Cisco's WebEx, shares her expertise on thriving in hybrid work environments. She discusses the evolving dynamics of balancing office and remote work, emphasizing self-advocacy and personalized setups. Horton highlights the importance of empathy in employer-employee relationships and offers practical tips for maintaining meaningful connections. With real-life scenarios, she underscores the significance of open communication and tailored arrangements to build trust and ensure productivity in this new work landscape.

Michelle Singletary, a personal finance columnist for The Washington Post and author, shares her insights on overcoming debt. She discusses motivational strategies likening the journey to Baron Munchausen's escape from a swamp. Listeners learn about effective repayment strategies, including the snowball and avalanche methods. Singletary emphasizes the importance of having a solid budget, introducing tools like the envelope system. She also offers practical tips on cutting expenses and the value of seeking nonprofit assistance for financial stability.

Receiving feedback can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be! A feedback coach shares insights on how to view feedback as a chance for growth rather than a source of anxiety. Discover practical strategies like the SIFT model to help analyze feedback and the OPEN acronym to foster engaging conversations. Learn to listen actively, express gratitude, and stay adaptable, transforming feedback from a fear into an opportunity for personal and professional development.

Rhonda Kaysen, a New York Times contributor and author of the 'Ask Real Estate' column, joins to tackle the complexities of renting in today’s market. She shares vital strategies for finding a rental that truly feels like home by prioritizing your needs. The conversation includes essential advice on touring properties and understanding local neighborhoods. Kaysen also warns about the risks of renting sight unseen and emphasizes the need for renter's insurance, all while encouraging responsible tenant practices and building good relationships with landlords.