Life Kit

Dive into the journey of running for office and the transformative experiences of a first-time candidate. Discover the role of confidence and community support in overcoming imposter syndrome. Learn the essentials of crafting a winning campaign strategy, from engaging voters to creative fundraising. Hear tips on how to effectively ask for support while navigating the political landscape. It's a candid exploration of challenges and triumphs that aspiring politicians face on their path to making a difference.

Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, a psychology professor at Temple University and co-author of 'Becoming Brilliant,' discusses the transformative power of play in child development. She introduces the 'six C's' crucial for raising successful children. Instead of stressing rote learning, she advocates for playful, experiential learning that fosters creativity and social skills. Kathy emphasizes that kids thrive through relationships and the ability to embrace failure. Practical tips for integrating play into everyday activities are also shared, making parenting both engaging and effective.

Dariush Mozaffarian, a renowned cardiologist and dean at Tufts University's nutrition school, shares valuable insights on healthy eating. He discusses the importance of whole foods, emphasizing fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts while warning against processed foods and high sugar snacks. Dariush highlights practical meal prep tips, including the benefits of omega-3s from fish and how to choose healthier alternatives. He also underscores the significance of reading nutrition labels to make better dietary choices and enhance overall well-being.

Discover the emotional journey of a woman surprising her children with a new home and the mortgage secrets that could save you thousands. Learn critical steps for first-time buyers, including various lending options and the importance of pre-approval. Explore the benefits of 15-year mortgages versus 30-year ones, and understand the implications of mortgage insurance for low down payments. Get practical advice on home equity loans and some surprising tips for homeownership, all while navigating the often confounding mortgage landscape.

Elizabeth Emmons, a Columbia law professor and author of a book on Life Admin, dives into the often-overlooked responsibilities of adulthood. She discusses the overwhelming nature of tasks like paperwork, scheduling, and managing bills, coining the term 'Life Admin.' Emmons shares strategies to conquer these duties, emphasizing the psychological burdens they carry. She also explores different personality types in handling responsibilities, encouraging listeners to find tailored approaches and even partner with a 'buddy' to tackle their to-do lists more effectively.

Ana Homayoun, an education consultant and author on social media wellness, shares insights into navigating kids' screen time. She emphasizes empowering children to make informed choices about technology. The discussion covers critical topics like when to give a child their first phone and setting practical boundaries. Homayoun advocates for open conversations between parents and kids regarding online safety, cyberbullying, and even the tricky subject of online pornography, aiming to foster responsible tech use and independence.

Join Michelle Singletary, a personal finance author and columnist for The Washington Post, as she dives into the essential strategies for saving for your child's college education. Discover the magic of 529 plans for tax-free growth and why income matters more than savings when it comes to financial aid. Learn how automatic transfers can pave the way to financial stability, and hear inspiring stories of parents who successfully achieved a debt-free college experience. Get practical tips to make your college savings journey more manageable!

Navigating the post-college job market can be daunting. Self-reflection is key—create a 'wandering map' to uncover your interests. Utilize campus resources for early career planning and consider design thinking techniques. Embrace self-discovery with exercises like the Good Time Journal to guide your exploration. Learn to craft an engaging resume and master your elevator pitch. Networking through informational interviews can open doors. Plus, practical tips on storing guacamole make for a tasty takeaway!

Explore the age-old debate of laptops versus handwritten notes and discover the key to effective studying. Learn strategies to master note-taking and time management, including the handy Pomodoro Technique. Dive into the importance of mental health in academic success and how it influences self-worth. Navigate through academic challenges with helpful tips on seeking support and discussing emotional struggles openly. Find out how managing stress can help you thrive in college.

Starting college can be both exciting and overwhelming. Students are guided through navigating campus life, selecting classes, and forming new friendships. Strategic planning is crucial to avoid financial mishaps and ensure timely graduation. The importance of networking with faculty and utilizing office hours is emphasized to enhance the college journey. Plus, listeners discover stress management techniques, including the surprisingly soothing practice of caring for succulents. It's all about thriving during those transformative years!