Life Kit

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...

How to buy a car with confidence

17 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Buying a car can be intimidating. This episode will help you strategize to avoid all the potential pitfalls, so you can drive away with a good deal. T...

How to tell your own story

13 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Everyone has a story to tell. Writing a memoir is more than just documenting your life — it can help you process what you've gone through, capture a...

How to choose a bank

11 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's easy to feel stuck with a bank account you've had forever, even if it's inconvenient or racking up fees. But there are lots of other options out ...

What to do when you're constipated

10 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We've got a step-by-step guide for that SOS moment when you haven't pooped in days and days.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.c...

Dear LK: My group chat is toxic

06 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In college, I became close with a diverse friend group. Years later, we still stay in touch via text. Some people rely on our group to manage their an...

Coping with a fear of flying

04 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Whether you're a nervous flyer, you'll do almost anything to avoid flying or you have an actual flying phobia, these tips from psychotherapist Luana M...

How to prepare for the return of student loan payments

03 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The Supreme Court has decided to strike down the Biden administration's plan to discharge some or all federal student loan debt. The decision impacts ...

It's never too late to become a strong swimmer

29 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Knowing how to swim can help you have fun at the pool or beach this summer. But it could also save your life. Here are some tips to start swimming at ...

How to stop overthinking romantic relationships

27 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Romance makes us feel vulnerable, and dating can feel high stakes. We talk about how to keep things in perspective and take care of your mental health...

Get grilling this summer

26 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Intimidated by grilling? Cooking over an open flame can do that! In this episode, learn which type of grill to choose, how to maintain a fire, how to ...

How to start running in the body you have

22 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Ready to kickstart a new running habit? Coach Martinus Evans breaks down a common misconception to get you into the mindset — and offers quick tips ...

Ultra-processed foods are everywhere. Here's how to avoid them

20 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Ultra-processed foods are tasty, cheap and everywhere. But they come with health risks. NPR health correspondent Maria Godoy lays out ways to spot and...

Get more rest

19 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's time to make room for more naps. Tricia Hersey, also known as the 'nap bishop' and author of the book "Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto," explains...

The do's and don'ts of being a plus-one

15 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's wedding season. If you've been invited as a plus-one, here's the etiquette you need to be the best guest.Learn more about sponsor message choices...

How to spot AI-generated and other fake content

13 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It's easy to be fooled by AI-generated images and other content. We talk about how to identify them, how media literacy can help, plus how to use thes...

Renting? Learn to be your own best housing advocate

12 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Does your landlord have to fix that leak? Should you be worried about that clause in your lease? If you live in one of the nearly 44.1 million renter ...

How to protect yourself from poor air quality

08 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The health effects of wildfire smoke are dangerous. Here's how to stay safe when the air quality is unhealthy.Learn more about sponsor message choices...

Get more out of your dreams

06 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Dreams have inspired works of art, led to breakthroughs in organic chemistry and helped people process their deepest fears and emotions. They're not j...

Why you should play video games with your kid

05 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Video games get a bad reputation that's often unwarranted. But kids do need guidance in using them wisely. Here's how to help them, starting with spen...

Dear LK: I'm happily married but hate our sex life. Should I ask for a divorce?

01 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

I've been in a loving relationship with my husband for years. We're incredibly compatible except for our sex life. The sex started off great, became l...

To save money on groceries, try these tips before going to the store

30 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Groceries aren't cheap, but there are ways beyond just looking for sales to make budget meals. To help cut down your grocery bill, we have practical t...

Pick the right sunscreen for you

29 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

No matter your skin tone, sunscreen keeps your skin safe from harmful UVA and UVB rays. But to use it right, you need to know a few things: What SPF t...

Extend the life of your clothes with visible mending

25 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Extend the life of your clothing with this creative sewing technique. All you need are a few basic sewing skills, thread and scrap material to get sta...

How to have healthy dating expectations

22 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Dating in search of "the one"? Relationship therapist Jeff Guenther, known as Therapy Jeff on TikTok, says that might not be practical. If your goal i...

Making friends anywhere you move

18 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Whether you're moving into a summer sublet or your forever home, friendships are important to feeling settled in a new place. So how do we do that? A ...

Create a better to-do list

16 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Is your to-do list helping you reach your goals? Or is it holding you back? Productivity experts explain how to level up your list so it prioritizes w...

Thrifting 101: Your guide to finding quality pieces

15 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Shopping secondhand is a good way to be more sustainable, explore your personal style or score a deal. We have tips from some diehard thrifters so you...

Pregnant? Here's how to deal with the new you

11 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Pregnancy is hard work – for the body, mind and soul. There are seemingly endless resources for all the physical and logistical aspects of pregnancy...

Improve the indoor air quality in your home

09 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Want fresher, cleaner air at home? Researchers share practical tips on how to limit indoor air pollution.Learn more about sponsor message choices: pod...

5 ways to explore your gender identity

08 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If you're an adult starting to explore your gender identity, it can be tough knowing where to begin. Here's some advice from trans people to help you ...

Dear LK: My parents pay my tuition. Do I have to show them my grades?

04 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If your parents pay for your college, do they have a right to demand to see your grades? Berna Anat, the author of Money Out Loud, shares advice on de...

A better way to talk to your doctor

02 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Ever leave the doctor's office confused or with unanswered questions? Talking to doctors and other medical professionals can be hard — whether they'...

Want to create a stronger bond with your kids? First relinquish control

01 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

It may sound counterintuitive, but if you want to take charge as a parent, stop trying to control your child, says psychologist and author Shefali Tsa...

When a partner keeps a financial secret

29 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How do you cope when your partner keeps a secret that impacts your personal finances? Meredith Goldstein of the Love Letters podcast from The Boston ...

How to break up with your therapist

27 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Getting into therapy comes with its own hurdles, but what about knowing when to stop it? Moraya Seeger DeGeare, a licensed marriage and family therapi...

A field guide for fledgling birders

25 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

You don't need binoculars and a trip to a nature preserve to go birding. If you've ever paused to appreciate a bird, you're already well on your way. ...

Put your savings to work

24 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The current inflation rate in the US is 5 percent. And most big bank savings accounts offer interest rates much lower than that. In this episode, you...

How to clean when you don't feel like cleaning

20 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Too overwhelmed to tidy up? KC Davis, author of the book "How to Keep House While Drowning," suggests a clean-up strategy that homes in on trash and c...

Your guide to running for office

18 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If you've ever thought about running for office — your town council or school board, the state legislature, or even Congress, this episode is for yo...

So you don't want kids. How to build a child-free life

17 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If you've decided not to have kids, your life will look different from what you might have seen growing up. Here's how to build your child-free life, ...

Find your way to a (high-paying) trade job

13 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

There are lots of jobs that don't require a bachelor's degree and pay well. Here's what to consider if you're thinking about a job in the trades — f...

Get your debt under control

11 Apr 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...

Practicing the art of saying goodbye

10 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Saying goodbye can be tough, especially if you're parting ways for good. But grief counselor and patient advocate Isabel Stenzel Byrnes says the art o...

Dear LK: My boyfriend's parents pay for everything. It makes me uncomfortable

06 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

She loves her boyfriend's parents, but their generosity feels inappropriate. Maya Lau, host of the podcast Other People's Pockets, weighs in on how to...

Tips for acing that job interview

04 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How should you prepare in advance for a job interview? We discuss what questions to prep for, how to choose an outfit you feel your best in, and what ...

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro

03 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Getting ready for a trip is fun until you have to start packing. These tips for packing a carry-on will help you figure out what you need in your bag ...

How to show up for teens when big emotions arise

30 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Being a teenager is hard. There are emotional highs and lows every day. Clinical psychologist Lisa Damour says instead of jumping into problem-solving...

Tips for negotiating your medical bills

28 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

There's an estimated $195 billion of medical debt in America. But just because a medical bill comes in the mail doesn't mean you have to pay that exac...

6 tips for raising happy houseplants

27 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

From monstera to snake plants, we'll walk you through how to care for your houseplants properly. Plus, troubleshooting tips for knowing when your plan...

How an aerialist uses trapeze to teach students about consent

25 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How do we learn to trust what our bodies tell us and express it to others? Aerialist Adie Delaney speaks with TED Radio Hour host Manoush Zomorodi abo...

5 things to remember when a friendship ends

23 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Not all friends are meant to last forever. Here are 5 things to remember if you're processing the loss of a friendship — or trying to save one that ...

How to have the STIs conversation

21 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

With Dr. Evalene Dacker, we lay out the science of STIs and then give you language to talk about them and, more broadly, about sex, with a potential p...

Tricks to boost your credit score

20 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A strong credit score can make major purchases and financial transactions much easier. Here's how to make yours better and keep it high. (This episode...

Masculinity doesn't have to be restrictive. Here's how to redefine it for yourself

16 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Restrictive expectations of masculinity can be perpetuated by anyone and impact how we view ourselves and others. We spoke with experts for tips on ho...

5 questions to ask your partner before getting hitched

14 Mar 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...

Braving the 'quarterlife' crisis

13 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Stuck between two conflicting desires and can't seem to move forward? Psychotherapist Satya Doyle Byock shares an exercise called "My Two Conflicting ...

Finding joy in the face of sorrow

11 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Poet Ross Gay knows a thing or two about finding joy in life's most difficult moments. He talks with It's Been a Minute host Brittany Luse about his n...

So you want to be a mentor

09 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we talk about who can be a mentor, how to structure the relationship, and how to have tricky conversations with your mentees. Also, ...

The truth about caffeine

07 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Are you drinking too much coffee? A gastroenterologist and a caffeine researcher share surprising insights about the psychoactive drug.Learn more abou...

This is the period talk you should've gotten

06 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We asked two experts how they would give the period talk. Here are six pieces of advice — including the science of periods, management techniques, a...

Dear Life Kit: Do I have to listen to my boss complain?

02 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

An employee struggles to cope with her boss's constant oversharing and negativity. Journalist and host of the podcast Work Appropriate Anne Helen Pete...

Can I afford to quit my job?

28 Feb 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...

'Do I really need to floss?' and other common questions about dental care

27 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We asked experts to answer five questions about how to properly care for your teeth. Here's what they said about finding a dentist, whitening your tee...

How to file your tax returns: 6 things you should know this year

23 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

For something that's legally required, taxes can be confusing. This guide covers the latest credits and deductions — and helps you plan ahead for ne...

Define your personal style

21 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fashion may not have been at the top of your priority list over the last two years. If you're ready to shake the dust off, here's advice from the expe...

How caregivers can prevent burnout

20 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Two women who took care of their moms as unpaid caregivers share advice about how to approach the job, find support and make time for self-care.Learn ...

Earthquake preparedness in 6 steps

16 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Earthquakes strike at a moment's notice. That's why having a plan in place is key. In this episode, emergency and disaster experts share their tips to...

The science of finding a partner

14 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Logan Ury, a behavioral scientist at the dating app Hinge, says making dating decisions based on initial chemistry alone is a losing battle. In this e...

Why the 5-minute walk break is so powerful

13 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Sitting all day isn't good for your health. Long stretches glued to a chair can increase the risk of heart disease and early death. Thankfully, new re...

Dear LK: My husband is still living under COVID lockdown

09 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Three years into the pandemic, one spouse is ready to lift lockdown. The other? Not so much. Epidemiologist and science communicator Jessica Malaty Ri...

Creative ways to get kids to eat their veggies

07 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Veggies help kids grow and develop, but it can be hard to convince them to eat their broccoli. These research-backed tips can help you encourage your ...

Budgeting for dating

06 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How much should you spend on a date? Who should pick up the bill? Can you talk money on the first date? Kristin Myers, editor-in-chief of The Balance,...

Be an awesome gift giver

02 Feb 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 that rec...