

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

Jul 22, 2021 • 23min
4 Tips For Cleaning Up Your Social Media Diet
Chris Stedman, author of "IRL," shares his insights on cultivating a healthier connection with social media. He discusses the addictive nature of these platforms and their emotional impact, urging listeners to reflect on their online habits. Stedman offers four practical tips for improving social media interactions, emphasizing mindfulness and self-awareness. He contrasts shallow versus meaningful connections, encouraging a thoughtful approach to digital engagement, and highlights recent initiatives aimed at promoting healthier usage.

Jul 20, 2021 • 18min
'Managing Up' And The Art Of Leadership At Work
Career and leadership development expert Kimberly B. Cummings shares her journey from observing leaders to becoming one. She discusses the art of leadership, emphasizing the need for radical transparency and effective communication. Cummings advocates for managing up, fostering team dynamics, and empowering individuals to communicate their goals. She redefines leadership as an influence that anyone can embody, urging proactive engagement for professional growth. Discover practical tips for navigating workplace relationships and enhancing your career!

Jul 19, 2021 • 14min
4 Tips To Beat Extreme Heat
Record-breaking temperatures are taking a toll on public health due to climate change. Experts share essential strategies to stay safe and cool, including hydration and appropriate clothing. Vulnerable populations face heightened risks, with particular emphasis on how children and the elderly are affected. The conversation highlights the importance of community awareness and support in combating heat-related illnesses, ensuring that even those in marginalized areas can navigate the sweltering conditions safely.

Jul 15, 2021 • 21min
How To Host: The Art Of Having People Over
Priya Parker, an expert in meaningful gatherings and author of "The Art of Gathering," shares insights into the art of hosting. She emphasizes that hosting should focus on connection rather than perfection, drawing inspiration from Middle Eastern hospitality. The discussion covers the importance of a clear purpose and intentional guest selection for impactful interactions. Parker also highlights the joy of hosting, encouraging hosts to prioritize their enjoyment and create welcoming atmospheres through thoughtful invitations and personal touches.

Jul 13, 2021 • 24min
How To Use Less Plastic
Dive into the pervasive issue of single-use plastics and their impact on our lives. Discover personal stories and expert insights on reducing plastic usage while saving money. Learn about the recycling challenges faced by many, and the environmental health risks posed by petrochemical pollution, especially in vulnerable communities. Get practical grocery shopping tips to minimize plastic waste in your kitchen and bathroom, while embracing mindful consumption habits that advocate for a sustainable future.

16 snips
Jul 12, 2021 • 20min
Flirting Advice That Will Help You Talk To Anyone
Flirting doesn't have to be scary! Experts share how to reframe the fear of rejection into a fun experience. Discover tips for striking up conversations, gauging interest, and innovative techniques for number exchanges—hint: don’t ask directly! Learn about non-verbal cues and how to connect genuinely in social settings. The focus shifts from pressure-filled interactions to making others feel special, promoting a relaxed vibe that encourages authentic communication. Get ready to engage with confidence and charm!

Jul 9, 2021 • 15min
Retirement 101: How To Save What You Need
Michelle Singletary, a personal finance columnist for The Washington Post, shares invaluable insights on retirement planning. She emphasizes the critical importance of starting savings early and how compound interest can significantly boost your wealth. Singletary discusses various retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs, encouraging listeners to take advantage of employer matching. She also highlights the power of setting personal goals to motivate financial responsibility, ultimately guiding individuals toward a more secure and fulfilling retirement.

Jul 8, 2021 • 19min
Tricks To Improve Your Credit Score
Tiffany Aliche, known as the Budgetnista, is a financial expert and educator dedicated to making personal finance accessible. She dives into the intricacies of credit scores, revealing their often misunderstood nature. Tiffany shares actionable strategies for improving credit, emphasizing responsible credit card use and the importance of understanding payment timelines. She highlights systemic inequalities in the credit system and provides tips for readers to manage their credit health effectively, ensuring listeners feel empowered to enhance their financial futures.

Jul 7, 2021 • 21min
Spend Savvier, Save Smarter: 5 Tips to Stop Stress Spending
Tiffany Aliche, known as the Budgetnista, is a financial expert dedicated to helping others manage their money. In this engaging discussion, she reveals how impulse spending provides temporary relief but can harm long-term financial health. Listeners learn smart strategies for effective spending and saving, especially during stressful times. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of categorizing purchases, setting spending limits, and creating a planned budget that allows for small indulgences while maintaining financial stability.

Jul 6, 2021 • 17min
How To Navigate A Financial Crisis
Michelle Singletary, a personal finance expert and author, shares her wisdom on navigating through financial crises. She discusses essential strategies for prioritizing expenses during tough times and emphasizes the importance of proactive saving. Michelle warns against predatory lending and encourages open communication for support. She also highlights the careful management of retirement funds during hardships and promotes self-forgiveness and incremental steps towards recovery. Her insights are a beacon for anyone facing money struggles.