Life Kit

Enjoying travel with a baby

05 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Yes, there will be meltdowns. But there will also be joy. Tips on which baby gear to pack, how to prepare your child (and yourself) for the long journ...

How to have a 'grown up' relationship with a sibling

04 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The longest relationship of your life might be with your sibling. But there aren't many tools for navigating the complex dynamic that can develop betw...

It's leap day! Here's what to do with your extra time

29 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Happy leap day! What will you do with your extra 24 hours? Whether you want to slow down and make time stop or just make sure to enjoy the time you've...

Thoughts on Ozempic from a body-positive doctor

27 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The popular weight loss drug Ozempic makes shedding pounds seem like magic. But the reality is more complicated, says family physician Dr. Mara Gordon...

Improve your chances of learning a new skill

22 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Mastering a new hobby, like bowling or baking, can be a frustrating process. But experts say it doesn't have to be that way. If you set yourself up fo...

How to be a 'supercommunicator'

20 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Called 'supercommunicators,' these people have the exceptional ability of creating authentic connections with others — just by listening and talking...

Investing for beginners

19 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

You don't need to be an expert to grow a nest egg. We'll cover how to build your portfolio, when to sell (or not sell) stocks and how to avoid fees.Le...

What to do with your childhood stuff

15 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Do you have boxes filled with photos, artwork and artifacts from when you were a kid? Here's how to decide what to keep and toss — and manage the em...

How to 'fight right' with your partner

13 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The Gottmans have been studying marriage and relationships for 40 years. In a new book, Fight Right, they explain how successful couples resolve their...

Save money on streaming services

12 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Just about every major streaming service has raised its subscription fees. At the same time, there are more programming bundles, membership deals, ad-...

5 tips for starting a new job

08 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Just starting your career? Elainy Mata, host of the Harvard Business Review podcast New Here, offers advice on how to deal with issues that aren't par...

5 simple ways to minimize stress

06 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Aditi Nerurkar offers five accessible ways to minimize stress in your daily life — no lavish vacations or big life changes necessary.Learn more ...

How to talk to kids about sex, bodies and consent

05 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It's tricky to talk to younger kids about sex. This episode helps parents get past the confusion and embarrassment around sex education so they can ra...

Thinking of getting inked? Start with a tiny tattoo

01 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

There are many decisions that go into getting a tattoo. You need to choose the right artist, design, style and placement. Veteran tattoo artist Noemi ...

Improve your indoor air quality

30 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Want fresher, cleaner air at home? Researchers share practical tips from researchers on how to clean your house (and your air), test your air quality ...

How to mind your own business

29 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Do you often find yourself in the center of other people's drama? Intervening when you wish you didn't? These practical tips can help you draw boundar...

How to have a healthy relationship with caffeine

25 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Worry you're drinking too much coffee, tea, soda or energy drinks? A gastroenterologist and a caffeine researcher share surprising insights about the ...

The emotional rollercoaster of being a new mom

23 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Becoming a mother is a complicated life transition. That postpartum feeling of being on an emotional rollercoaster, not recognizing your body in the m...

How to prevent stress from escalating into distress

22 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

If you've been experiencing negative feelings like panic or anxiety for more than a few days, you might be in distress, says psychiatrist Dr. Kali Cyr...

How to save for a big financial goal

18 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When money's tight, it's hard to save for a rainy day or pay off credit card debt. But it's not impossible, says Monique White, a financial expert and...

Fitness as your body fluctuates

16 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Life happens. Sometimes we get injured or sick — and of course we get older. As we change, so should our exercise routine. Here's how to adapt your ...

Soothe stress in minutes

15 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Feeling overwhelmed, panicked or anxious? Clinical psychologist Jenny Taitz offers simple techniques to improve your mood and calm your body and mind ...

What happens when you move your body throughout the day

13 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Last fall, NPR's Body Electric challenged listeners to take part in a study with Columbia University. Over 20,000 people signed up to incorporate move...

It's not too late to learn a new instrument

11 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Whether you grew up playing music or you never progressed beyond "Hot Cross Buns," it's not too late to pick up a new instrument. Let fun lead the way...

Freshen up your resume

08 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

For many employers, the resume is still a must-have in the job process, says career coach Cynthia Pong. Here's how to write a CV that's competitive an...

How to start an exercise habit

04 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

You don't have to be a marathoner or a gym rat to get meaningful health benefits from exercise. And that sort of "go big or go home" mentality can act...

Refresh your budget with these simple finance tips

02 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The new year is a great time to update your budget, say financial experts. Here's what you can do to curb your spending, save for emergencies and keep...

How to make resolutions you'll keep

01 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Happy New Year! If you want to make a resolution that sticks, the key to success is creating what's known as a SMART goal. This episode outlines how S...

Ready to get running? A starter guide

28 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Running is a classic form of exercise for a reason. You don't need equipment or a gym membership and it provides cardiovascular benefits. But many peo...

How to slow down and reflect ahead of 2024

26 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The week between Christmas and New Year's Day is a good time to check in with yourself and take stock of the year. Reporter Kyle Norris talks with Bud...

How to find a book you won't want to put down

25 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Traci Thomas, host of the hit book podcast 'The Stacks,' shares 6 surprising tips on how to find your next great read. One tip? Don't be afraid to jud...

How to cope with seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

21 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's getting darker and colder, and there's still a pandemic. Oh, and then there's seasonal affective disorder. Here's how to spot it and what you can...

How to talk to teens about drugs

19 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Overdose deaths among teenagers have skyrocketed in the last few years due to opioids like fentanyl. Experts say drug education that focuses on harm r...

Build your chosen family

18 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Some queer and trans people may experience rejection from their families after coming out. And so instead, they may have a chosen family: a loving net...

Dear Life Kit: My folks guilt-trip me into spending the holidays with them

16 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Between long-held traditions, unfair expectations and clashing personalities, the holidays can be a perfect storm for conflict. Therapist John Kim hel...

How to minimize family fights during the holidays

14 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Is your aunt asking too many personal questions? Is your cousin talking your ear off about politics? These coping techniques can help you navigate sti...

The decluttering philosophy that can help you keep your home organized

12 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Got piles of stuff you just can't seem to get rid of? Professional organizer Star Hansen explains how to let go of unnecessary items – and keep your...

Amp up your gift-giving game

11 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Searching for the perfect gift for a loved one doesn't have to be stressful. With some clever thinking, buying a present can be even more fun than rec...

How to relieve constipation

09 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Haven't pooped in days? Gastroenterologists explain what to do in this SOS moment — and share tips on how to avoid chronic constipation. This episod...

First time decorating for the holidays? Here's where to begin

07 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Designer Elaine Griffin explains her philosophy when it comes to decking the halls for Christmas, Hanukkah and all your winter festivities: Begin the ...

How to combat loneliness

05 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

1 in 4 adults says they're lonely. The consequences of long-term social disconnection can be dire — everything from an increased risk of heart attac...

Make the most of your chilly outdoor workouts

04 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How cold is too cold? What kind of gear should you wear? And how do you stay motivated to workout outside when the weather is dreary? Cold-loving runn...

Kids and firearm safety

30 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Firearms are the No. 1 cause of death for children and teens in the U.S. Take these life-saving precautions to protect kids — whether or not you own...

5 questions to ask your partner for a healthy, lasting marriage

28 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

These conversation starters get at the heart of your values, including how you deal with conflict, your attitude toward gender roles and your relation...

How to donate to a charity with purpose and intention

27 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Not sure which cause to support or how much to give? Kevin Scally of Charity Navigator has some advice to help you make the right decisions.Learn more...

Giving thanks is good for you. Here's how to make it a habit

23 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Being thankful doesn't have to happen just once a year. Creating a daily gratitude habit can improve our mental and physical health. This episode, way...

Create a ritual to honor your ancestors

21 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Your ancestors don't have to feel like a distant memory. In this episode, spiritual practitioners and Indigenous educators offer cross-cultural guida...

Ready to cold plunge? We dive into the science to see if it's worth it

20 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Dipping in cold water is a growing trend. It's not just for the thrill — people who cold plunge say it helps with anxiety, metabolic health and more...

A beginner's guide to roasting a Thanksgiving turkey

16 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Don't be nervous — we got you! This guide explains how pick the right turkey, when to buy it, how to prep it and when to start cooking. It also come...

Find a bra that actually fits

14 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Can't wait to take your bra off at the end of every day? A professional bra fitter explains how to find a bra that makes you feel comfortable and cute...

How to ditch the apps and date offline

09 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tired of swiping through dating profiles on your phone? Maybe it's time to get out there and meet people in real life. A sexuality and relationship ed...

Protect yourself from scams

07 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Scams can happen to anyone. Experts explain how to safeguard your data and money from being exploited or stolen by fraudsters.Learn more about sponsor...

How to build low-waste practices into your life

06 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The average American generates five pounds of trash per day, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Reduce your household trash by lis...

How screens are changing our eyes

04 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is on the rise in children as a result of reduced time outside and screen usage. TED Radio Hour host Manoush Zomorodi talk...

Dear LK: My kids are enemies. What should I do?

02 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

​A sister relentlessly picks on her brother despite their mom's best attempt to make peace between them. Psychologist Becky Kennedy shares advice wi...

Demystifying your health insurance plan

31 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's open enrollment season, meaning it's time to pick a health care plan. But it can be confusing to decipher all the acronyms and lingo of health ca...

It's soup season! Get cooking with these tips from Sohla El-Waylly

30 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Soup can be a flexible, cozy meal that allows you to experiment in the kitchen. But to make a delicious one, you need to get some fundamentals down fi...

How to save a life with CPR

26 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Every year, more than 350,000 people go into cardiac arrest outside of a hospital setting in the United States. CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation,...

Anxious about public speaking? We've got tips

24 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It can be anxiety-inducing to deliver a speech in front of an audience. How do you capture people's attention? What do you do if you stumble? A speech...

Live with your parents? Here's how to create a harmonious household

23 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Three people who've spent time living with their parents as adults share advice on how they've coped with their situation. Don't compare yourself to o...

A shame-free guide to digging out of debt

19 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Life happens, and so does debt. Unexpected car trouble, the high price of food, a family emergency — there is no shortage of reasons why debt can pi...

Can't decide on a Halloween costume? These 5 questions can help

17 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's hard to nail down a costume idea. You could be anything from an alien to Taylor Swift! Here's how to pick a getup without spending big bucks, or ...

How to talk to kids about the violence in Israel and Gaza

12 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Last weekend, militants from the terrorist group Hamas killed more than a thousand people, including children, in an attack on Israel while also takin...

How to actively heal from an injury or illness

10 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If you're recuperating after an illness or injury, it's normal to not feel like yourself. Your body needs time to heal so you can get back to your reg...

Can I afford to totally change my life?

09 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Longing to quit your job and follow your passion? Or perhaps take a break to travel? Or move to a new place? First, you'll need to look at your financ...

Dear Life Kit: Your most petty social dilemmas, answered

05 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Lunch snubs, bad neighbors and needy in-laws. Advice columnist R. Eric Thomas responds to the bad behavior getting under your skin.Learn more about sp...

6 big purchases that can save energy and money at home

03 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

To live a more climate friendly life, invest in home appliances and vehicles that run on electricity, not fossil fuels, say sustainability experts. He...

The new rules of laundry

02 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Patric Richardson, host of 'The Laundry Guy' on HGTV, wants you to change the way you wash your clothes. Go ahead and wash those darks in warm water —...

What to know if you're exploring non-monogamy

28 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When we think about romance, many of us have a specific script in mind. Two people date, fall in love and get married. But that traditional path doesn...

Teeth: an owner's manual

26 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Brush twice a day. Remember to floss. Visit the dentist twice a year. We know the drill...or maybe not? In this episode, how to take care of your teet...

Ace Your Freshman Year of College

21 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Congratulations! You've been accepted into college. Now you've got to find your way around campus, pick out classes, make new friends, and figure out ...

We've heard we need more fiber in our diets. Here are 8 easy tips for getting there

19 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Rethink your relationship with fiber, the dietary superhero of food — and learn clever ways to add more of it to your diet.Learn more about sponsor ...

The consequences of overindulging your kids

18 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Giving in to your kid too much can be harmful to their development. Take the 'Test of Four' to examine your relationship with your child — then find...

What to know about the new COVID boosters

14 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Updated versions of the mRNA vaccines roll out this week. Experts say they offer good protection against current COVID variants. Who should get them, ...

How to avoid 'lifestyle creep'

12 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Making more money tends to lead to spending more money. It's a phenomenon known as "lifestyle creep." Paco de Leon, author of Finance for the People, ...

Scarfing down your food? Here's how to slow down and eat more mindfully

11 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When we scarf down our food, we don't get a chance to properly digest or appreciate it. Lilian Cheung, a mindful eating lecturer at Harvard, shares te...

Dear Life Kit: My husband shuts down any time I try to talk about our finances

07 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

I'm struggling to get my husband to make a family budget with me. Whenever the topic comes up, he completely gets defensive. How do I get him to talk ...

Stomp, scrape, repeat: What you can do to stop the spotted lanternfly

05 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

An entomologist shares surprising insights about the invasive bug, which is wreaking havoc on crops and trees across 14 U.S. states. Plus: A poster wi...

Don't 'get' art? You may be looking at it wrong

04 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Art professionals explain how to look at paintings and sculptures like an expert — and how to make the most out of a museum visit. This episode orig...

Prenups aren't just for the rich and famous. Here's when to consider one

31 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Everyone should consider a prenuptial agreement before getting married, says family law attorney Theresa Viera. Here's how to talk about it with your ...

Student loan repayment is resuming. Here's what you need to know

29 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The three-year federal pause on student loans is expiring soon. If your financial circumstances have changed, or you just need an explanation of the m...

Start cleaning your home more sustainably with these tips

28 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Environmentally-friendly living isn't an all-or-nothing equation: think of it as a spectrum of greens. Wherever you fall on that spectrum, green clean...

A guide to forest bathing

24 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Studies have shown that "forest bathing," or spending time in the forest, can significantly improve mood and reduce stress. Here's how to reap these b...

When is it OK to lie?

22 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

When are white lies harmless or hurtful? Experts weigh in on when it's appropriate to tell a lie, explain how lying can lead to more lying and share t...

Meal prep made easy

21 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What's for dinner? It's a question that can lead to overspending on delivery, unhealthy meals and dread. FitMenCook founder Kevin Curry shares meal pr...

Protect your hearing and ears

17 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Go easy on the Q-tips. Watch your phone volume. And if you're experiencing hearing issues like muffled sounds or tinnitus, see a professional. This co...

Start a financial self-care routine

15 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Just like your health, your finances need checkups too. Here are 5 good habits to do every year to help you reach your financial goals.Learn more abou...

The 5-minute playtime ritual that can help your kids listen

14 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Children's health professionals widely recommend a strategy known as 'special time' to help reduce behavioral issues in young children. This episode e...

Start learning your family's language

10 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Heritage language learners are different from people learning a second language for the first time. They often grow up hearing it, but that can come w...

Millennial? Gen Z? It may be time for colorectal cancer screening

08 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Colorectal cancer cases are on the rise among people under 50. In this episode, we explain the risk, symptoms to look out for and how to get screened....

Looking for a job? Advice to help you land the gig

07 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How helpful are personal connections? When should you send a thank you email? Cynthia Pong, founder and CEO of the career coaching firm Embrace Change...

Dear LK: How should I talk to my kids about their incarcerated uncle?

03 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

My brother-in-law was convicted of murder and is serving a life sentence. We haven't shared any of these details with our kids, ages 7 and 9. When sho...

Let's have some cheap fun

01 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

You don't need to spend a lot of money to have fun. Have you ever done a chocolate bar taste test? Hosted a themed hangout? Ideas to keep yourself ent...

Minimize your back pain while cooking

31 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Many of us will experience back pain at some point in our lives. It might not disappear entirely, but you can find ways to comfortably perform everyda...

Start your own business

29 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's time to get your MBA — the easy way. We're sharing an episode from Planet Money's Summer School. In this lesson: Everyone has a million dollar ...

Bring more play into your life

27 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Play isn't just fun. Researchers argue it can help you adapt to difficult circumstances, collaborate better and problem-solve. We'll help you figure o...

Losing a pet is hard. Here's how to cope

25 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Losing a pet can be devastating. Here's how to process the loss of your special friend and open yourself up to the love and lessons they left behind.L...

How to make a salad you want to eat

24 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Salads are so often hit or miss. Here's how to make a salad that's nutritious, easy to make and a joy to eat.Learn more about sponsor message choices:...

Find books you'll love

20 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Traci Thomas, host of the hit reading podcast The Stacks, explains how she finds books she can read from start to finish. Some of her ideas may surpri...

How to be an amazing auntie or uncle

18 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Parents aren't the only people who help raise kids or invest in their wellbeing. Uncles, aunties and family friends make great role models too.Learn m...