

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

8 snips
Mar 5, 2020 • 15min
Start an exercise routine that you'll actually stick with
Maria Godoy, NPR science correspondent specializing in health and fitness, shares insights on establishing an effective exercise routine. She emphasizes that just 22 minutes of daily movement can yield significant health benefits. Godoy redefines what counts as exercise, highlighting how everyday activities contribute to fitness. She encourages a gradual, empowering approach to integrating exercise into busy lives, promoting the idea of viewing movement as a joyful experience rather than a chore.

Mar 3, 2020 • 23min
Is It Better To Rent Or Buy A House?
Explore the age-old dilemma of renting versus buying a home. Personal anecdotes intertwine with historical insights, highlighting the emotional and financial stakes involved. Discover the myth behind the 20% down payment and learn about options available for first-time buyers. Hear real stories of the challenges new homeowners face, including unexpected costs and the emotional rewards of owning a home. Finally, gain practical tips to navigate today's tough housing market and make more informed housing decisions.

Feb 28, 2020 • 16min
5 Ways To Prevent And Prepare For The Coronavirus
Learn essential tips to prevent and prepare for coronavirus with insights from health officials. Discover key symptoms to watch for and the importance of stocking up on essentials. Understand the critical role of face masks in reducing transmission and the need for open discussions with family about safety. Explore practical hygiene practices and the significance of staying informed during these unpredictable times. Equip yourself with knowledge to navigate the pandemic effectively.

18 snips
Feb 27, 2020 • 13min
'Tiny Habits' are the key to behavioral change
BJ Fogg, a Stanford behavior scientist and author of 'Tiny Habits,' shares insights on effective habit formation. He advocates for small, manageable changes that require minimal motivation yet can lead to significant transformations. Fogg emphasizes the importance of self-celebration and emotional connections in developing lasting habits. He debunks the myth that forming habits takes a set number of days, suggesting instead that simplicity and enjoyment are key to success. Embrace tiny habits to create meaningful change in your daily routine!

Feb 25, 2020 • 21min
To give better advice, try less fixing and more listening
John Paul Brammer, an insightful advice columnist known for "Hola Poppy," shares his perspective on giving good advice, especially within the LGBTQ community. He emphasizes that effective support relies more on listening than just fixing problems. The conversation explores the art of empathetic advice, touching on the balance of self-care while assisting others. Brammer discusses the importance of setting boundaries in supportive relationships, stressing that genuine connections and attentive listening can create a more compassionate and meaningful dialogue.

Feb 20, 2020 • 25min
Your guide to navigating birth control
Navigating the world of birth control options can be daunting. The podcast sheds light on the diverse methods available, from pills to IUDs, emphasizing the importance of individualized choices. It debunks common myths about hormonal contraceptives and their effects. Listeners are encouraged to engage in open dialogues with healthcare providers to better understand their options. The discussion also touches on societal pressures and the historical context of reproductive health, promoting informed and personal decision-making.

Feb 18, 2020 • 24min
How to buy a car (without being taken for a ride)
Discover clever strategies to navigate the car-buying maze without getting taken for a ride. Learn the emotional tactics dealerships use and how to maintain your composure. Find out why securing loan pre-approval is a game-changer before you step into a dealership. Explore the risks of long-term car loans and the benefits of considering used cars. Get tips on negotiating and managing trade-ins to maximize your deal. Equip yourself with knowledge to make informed decisions and drive away with confidence.

Feb 13, 2020 • 21min
Can I date that co-worker? What to consider before an office romance
Damona Hoffman, a dating coach from Los Angeles, shares her insights on navigating workplace romances. She discusses the allure of dating coworkers while cautioning against potential pitfalls. Listeners learn the importance of understanding company policies and setting clear boundaries to maintain professionalism. Hoffman offers practical advice for managing workplace dynamics during and after a romance, including tips for maintaining decorum post-breakup. Plus, she injects humor into the conversation with a quirky tip about keeping guacamole fresh!

Feb 11, 2020 • 27min
What your teen wishes you knew about sex education
Navigating conversations about sex education with teens can be tricky. The discussion covers essential topics like consent and the impact of pornography. Parents are encouraged to create an open dialogue about puberty and relationships. Exploring emotional challenges, families learn the importance of resilience and support in these discussions. The necessity of comprehensive sex education is emphasized, helping to foster healthier views on intimacy and communication. Tips for proactive conversations are shared, ensuring teens feel comfortable discussing sensitive subjects.

Feb 6, 2020 • 25min
Helping a child whose parent is struggling with addiction
Children impacted by parental addiction share their heartfelt emotions, revealing the unseen struggles they face. Experts discuss the vital role caring adults play in supporting these kids during tumultuous times. A nonprofit provides nurturing camps to help children heal amidst the crisis. Through personal stories, the complexities of navigating childhood with an addicted parent are explored, emphasizing resilience, emotional support, and maintaining innocence. Listeners learn about coping strategies and the importance of community intervention to aid these vulnerable youth.