Life Kit

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...

Meal prep made easy

31 Jan 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...

The five kinds of perfectionists

30 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Are you a 'Parisian perfectionist'? How about a 'messy perfectionist'? Psychotherapist Katherine Morgan Schafler believes there are 5 kinds of perfect...

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

26 Jan 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...

Helpful financial advice for creative types

24 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Got a side hustle and not sure how to handle your money? Financial coach Paco de Leon, author of 'Finance for the People: Getting a Grip on Your Finan...

Practical tips for exercising in the cold

23 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Athlete and activist Alison Mariella Désir and sports medicine specialist Dr. Kelechi Okoroha explain how runners should dress when temperatures drop...

'Terrestrials,' a new kid's show from Radiolab, uncovers the strangeness on Earth

21 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

This is the story of one particularly devious octopus who lost a limb, was captured by humans — then managed to make an escape from its aquarium tan...

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

19 Jan 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...

Pushing back against 'anti-fatness'

17 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

All Things Considered host Juana Summers interviews Aubrey Gordon, author of the book " 'You Just Need To Lose Weight': And 19 Other Myths About Fat P...

How to reduce your climate footprint in 2023

16 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Lowering individual greenhouse emissions may be easier than you think. Here are some New Year's resolutions experts agree have an impact in addressing...

Dear LK: I'm tired of my boyfriend's lack of ambition

12 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Can you successfully motivate someone else to change? Clinical psychologist Jody Adewale shares advice with a letter writer feels put off by her partn...

How to look at art (and have a perception-altering experience)

10 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Everyone can have a profound connection with a work of art. You just need the right mindset and attitude. Art professionals share tips on how to navig...

Find your authentic personal brand

09 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Life Kit's Andee Tagle talks to networking coach Lynda Peralta about how to present her personal life and her professional life on Instagram. See how ...

How to make a better to-do list

05 Jan 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...

Clear out your clutter

03 Jan 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...

New Year's resolutions from Life Kit

02 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Happy New Year! Team members at Life Kit share some of their favorite tips they are looking to trying in 2023, from how to start an art habit to how t...

How to start an exercise routine that works for you

29 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

You don't have to be a marathoner or gym rat to get meaningful health benefits from exercise. In fact, that die-hard mentality can actually deter you ...

Ready to make a change for New Year's? Behavioral science can help

27 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

When is the best time to start a new habit? And why are some habits easier to practice than others? Behavioral scientist Katy Milkman, author of 'How ...

This acronym will help you give the perfect toast

26 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

It's the wild card of every big event — the toast. Done well, it can be a memorable highlight. Done badly, it can be a total cringefest. Here's a he...

How to help someone at risk of suicide

22 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

If you know someone struggling with despair, depression or thoughts of suicide, you may be wondering how to help. Psychologists and researchers explai...

How to be a better movie watcher, according to film critics

20 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

This guide — which comes with a fun brochure you can download and print at home — offers advice on how to pick a film, get outside your comfort zo...

How to cut down your alcohol intake

19 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Want to skip the champagne and cocktails this holiday season? Here's how to take a break from drinking alcohol — including in social settings — an...

Can therapy save their friendship?

17 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Would you ever consider going to therapy with a friend? In this episode from NPR Invisibilia, two best friends — who are so close they call themselv...

Dear LK: We bought a dog instead of rescuing one. It cost me a friend

15 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

An ideological difference over adopting versus shopping for a pet causes a rift between friends. Tania Israel, a professor of psychology, shares advic...

How to support people with long COVID

13 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

One in five Americans who have had COVID have experienced symptoms lasting three months or more. How can patients navigate this chronic illness? And h...

Build a healthy relationship with your in-laws

12 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Creating a relationship with your partner's family can be hard work. Experts share how to navigate 5 tricky situations, including dealing with in-laws...

How to start new traditions that feel right to you

08 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Traditions can foster a sense of unity with the people we love and help pass down cultural values. But what happens when these events no longer make s...

Piece together your family tree

06 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

If you're interested in learning more about your family history, genealogist Mica Anders says to get creative. Look through newspaper archives, census...