Life Kit
Episodes
Stitch By Stitch, Get Started Sewing
04 May 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Learning how to sew opens up a world of options for making your own clothes — or transforming old ones. This guide can help you get started.Learn mo...
You're Probably Not As Open-Minded As You Think
03 May 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We'd all like to think we're open to new ideas and curious about how others see the world. But our brains aren't wired that way — in fact, being ope...
Reframing (And Reclaiming) Your Relationship With Food
29 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The practice of intuitive eating is about reconnecting with our bodies, trusting our physical signals and forging a healthy relationship with food. An...
The sex ed most queer students never got
27 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
School health classes in the U.S. rarely include instruction about sex for LGBTQ students. Here's what that could look like.Learn more about sponsor m...
Landing A Job In The Trades
26 Apr 2021
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 —...
Is Your Home At Risk From Climate Change?
23 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Millions of houses and apartments are at risk from floods or wildfires. Here's some advice to figure out if your home is one of them.Learn more about ...
Want To Start Composting? Here's What To Know
22 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Here's how to start composting your food scraps instead of tossing them, whether you've got a small apartment or a big backyard. (This episode origina...
Parenting In The Time Of Climate Change
21 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Whether it's through extreme weather or anxiety-inducing headlines, kids today have a front row seat to the realities of climate change. Here's how pa...
Take on climate change at home
20 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Much of the energy used in buildings comes from burning fossil fuels — so if you want to slow down climate change, your home is one of the first pla...
Why (And How) To Cut Back On Meat
19 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Meat production takes a heavy toll on the environment. Here's how to dial back your meat intake and make a big impact.Learn more about sponsor message...
Digging Yourself Out Of Medical Debt
15 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
One in five Americans struggles with medical debt. Here's some advice about how to negotiate and get the debt collectors to stop calling. (This episod...
Home Decorating For Maximum Comfort
13 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The spaces we live and work in have a big impact on our mindset. And creating a calm, restful space can provide stability in times of change and uncer...
Navigating Life After Pregnancy Loss
12 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Despite how common pregnancy loss is, families often suffer in silence. In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, Life Kit teamed up with the hosts of t...
Raising Boys To Be Feminists
10 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Author Sonora Jha shares insights from her memoir, How To Raise A Feminist Son, which includes practical to-do lists about how to handle some of the h...
The Importance Of Pronouncing Names Correctly
08 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Our names are an extension of who we are. And if your name is mispronounced all the time, you know how painful that can be. In this episode, we're tal...
Buying A Car With Confidence
06 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Buying a car is intimidating. This episode will help you strategize to avoid all the potential pitfalls, so you can drive away with a good deal. (This...
Do We Even Know How To Socialize Anymore?
05 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The pandemic has reshaped social routines. Lots of people are worried about returning to a pre-coronavirus world of water-cooler talk and packed socia...
Raising Kids Who Help With Chores
01 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Raising kids who pitch in around your home doesn't require bribes or a chore chart. Kids want to help – and parents can nurture that desire by inclu...
5 Practices To Become A Better Listener
30 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Actively listening is tough, but it can transform your conversations and improve your relationships. Here's some advice.Learn more about sponsor messa...
The Emotions Behind Money
29 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Money isn't just about numbers. It's about emotions, too. Tiffany 'The Budgetnista' Aliche's new book unpacks the relationships we all have with finan...
Talking With Kids About Anti-Asian Racism
27 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Navigating conversations with kids around race and racism can be tricky. Here's what to think about while talking to kids about the rise in anti-Asian...
Helping Teens Cope With Mental Health Struggles
25 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Almost two years a year into the pandemic, many teens are missing milestones and struggling with their mental health. Here's how to spot red flags an...
Kitchen Organization Tips From Deb Perelman Of Smitten Kitchen
23 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Deb Perelman of the blog and cookbook Smitten Kitchen says she's not an organized person. But, she says, she's got a system that works for her in the ...
Why You Can't Force Focus
22 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Concentrating is hard. Concentrating during a pandemic is even harder. Some experts say the key to focusing isn't forcing yourself to work — but tak...
How to deal with burnout
18 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Burnout is common across the globe. In this episode, experts unpack the signs of burnout and how you can gain more control over your work and your lif...
A First-Timer's Guide To Filing Taxes
16 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Is unemployment taxed? What about stimulus checks? The pandemic has changed a lot when it comes to filing taxes. In this episode, we break down the fi...
What You Can Do Once You're Vaccinated, According To The CDC
15 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Is an indoor visit between vaccinated friends safe? How about a hug with Grandma, even when young relatives haven't gotten their shots? The CDC releas...
Start Therapy (And Make It Work For You)
11 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Plenty of people put off seeking therapy because of the stigma, cost and inconvenience. Here are four tips to help you make your first appointment, ev...
Supporting A Loved One In An Abusive Relationship
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Intimate partner violence is widespread and traumatic. Here's how you can help a friend or loved one in an abusive relationship.Learn more about spons...
Making Ethical, Sustainable Clothing Choices
08 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Fast fashion takes a toll on the environment and on workers. Here's how you can shop more sustainably and build a closet with a better impact.Learn mo...
Understanding (And Practicing) Consent
04 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Everyone has different boundaries. In this episode, we'll talk through what consent is and how to get clear about what you're comfortable with — so ...
What You Can (And Can't) Do After The Vaccine
02 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, NPR's Sam Sanders talks with Short Wave host Maddie Sofia for answers to listener questions about the vaccine. (Here's the story we r...
Deciding when to have a baby
01 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Whether you've always wanted to be a parent or not, starting a family is a big decision. Experts talk through what to consider.Learn more about sponso...
Quitting Your Job The Right Way
27 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Whether you're completely fed up or just ready for the next thing, quitting a job can be stressful and complicated. Here's how to make a game plan and...
Surviving At Work As A Person Of Color
26 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Changing workplace culture isn't the job of marginalized employees. But knowing how to manage your boss or document your daily work can help employees...
Tips For Making A Career Change, From Someone Who Has Done It
25 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Making a career switch can be daunting — but it's doable. In this episode, audio producer Keisha "TK" Dutes breaks down how she made her own switch,...
How to ask for a raise
24 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Negotiations expert Mori Taheripour shares her tips on asking for more money at work — and what to do when the answer is no, or there's just not mon...
Starting Your Career After College
23 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
From informational interviews to applications, landing your first job after college is always hard. A pandemic makes it even tougher. This episode ori...
The Right Mentor Can Change Your Career
22 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
A strong mentor can help you inside and outside of work. In this episode, we'll give you tips on finding the right one to help you achieve your goals....
Getting Comfortable With Self-Pleasure
18 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Human touch is essential. But in a socially distanced world, lots of people are starved for it. Figuring out what feels good to you, from a long hot b...
The Smart Way To Fall In Love
16 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
You might remember Mandy Len Catron from her hit Modern Love essay about going through 36 questions to fall in love. You might have even tried those q...
Stop Arguing, Start Brainstorming
15 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
It's normal to avoid conflict. But if you approach conflict as problem-solving, it might not be so bad. Here's how to turn a fight into a constructive...
Hitting A Pandemic Wall? Remember To Show Up For Yourself
13 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
You can't fully show up for the people in your life until you know how to do the same for yourself. In this episode, we talk with Rachel Wilkerson Mil...
How To Savor Chocolate Like A Cocoa Expert
11 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Making (and tasting) chocolate is an art. In this episode, a cocoa expert guides us through the world of chocolate and how you can appreciate it to it...
F*** The Spark: The Science Of Finding A Partner
09 Feb 2021
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...
How Solitude Can Improve Your Mood
08 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Everyone needs a little alone time, but these days, you might have either too much "me" time or not enough. Here's how to find a balance and get the r...
Making A Side Gig Work For You
04 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Making money from a hobby takes a lot of work — and strategy. In this episode, host Ruth Tam gets some advice from independent business owners and f...
Poet Maggie Smith On 'Trying On' Hope
02 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In her most recent book, poet Maggie Smith compiled notes to self, and says that writing them was her way of 'trying on' hope.Learn more about sponsor...
Tackling Impostor Syndrome
01 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Impostor syndrome: it's the voice in the back of your mind telling you that you're a fraud, and that your peers are all smarter and more creative than...
Why you procrastinate — and how to stop
28 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Putting off items in your to-do list isn't a sign of laziness. It's your inner critic coming to life. Revisit your relationship with procrastination —...
Setting boundaries with family
26 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Maintaining healthy boundaries is a way of taking care of your closest relationships, but setting those boundaries with family can be hard. The proces...
Olympic Runner Alexi Pappas On Learning To Ask For Help
25 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Alexi Pappas is an Olympic runner, an actor and, now, a memoirist. In her new book, Bravey, she shares her struggles with mental health and learning t...
How To Relax More And Work Less
21 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When was the last time you had a meal without looking at your phone, or took a day off without answering a work email? Journalist Celeste Headlee spok...
Get Back Into Your Home Workout Routine
19 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
If your home workout routine isn't much of a routine, we're right there with you. A personal trainer joined NPR's Maria Godoy to talk tips for carving...
Coping With Anxiety Around The News
18 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The news is overwhelming right now. Neuroscientist Judson Brewer can help. Take a break from the headlines and press play. (This episode originally ra...
5 Steps To Get Into A Deep Cleaning Routine
14 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
A clean home can feel like a fresh start. Here's how to build a cleaning routine without getting overwhelmed.Learn more about sponsor message choices:...
What To Say To People Hesitant About The Coronavirus Vaccine
12 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Many Americans remain unsure about whether to get the coronavirus vaccine. If you're talking to people in your life about getting it, make sure to lea...
The art of breaking up
11 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Breaking up is tough, no matter how sure you are in your decision. In this episode, certified dating coach Damona Hoffman walks us through the steps t...
What To Tell Kids When The News Is Scary
07 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When the headlines are terrifying, how can parents make sure kids get the facts without traumatizing them? Whether it's a school shooting, a global pa...
5 Steps To Saving Money On A Move
05 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Moving can be overwhelming and expensive. Here's how to plan for a move — and save money in the process.Learn more about sponsor message choices: po...
How to make a hard decision
04 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Making a hard decision can be agonizing. What if you pick the wrong thing? In this episode, an Oxford professor walks us through a different approach:...
7 Steps To Get Your Photos Organized
31 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Feeling overwhelmed by thousands of photos? Here's how to organize them, from tagging them to backing them up. We've got tips from the experts.Learn m...
Trying To Form A Habit? Start Small
29 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
BJ Fogg's book "Tiny Habits" explains that making small changes in behavior requires just a little motivation and lots of celebrating — and can have...
Understanding The Biology Of Weight Loss
28 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Biology makes it hard to lose weight, so don't beat yourself up. In this episode, we won't tell you how to lose weight — or whether you even need to...
Want To Read More Books? Here's How
24 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Got an intimidating tower of unread books looming on your nightstand? This episode will help you pick up more books and get through them quicker. (Thi...
Finding Your Inner Sneakerhead
22 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Being a sneakerhead looks different in a digital world, where shoes sell out in minutes and YouTubers review new kicks. NPR's Jeff Pierre shows us how...
Should You Lie To Your Kids About Santa And The Tooth Fairy?
21 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
When it comes to characters like Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy, parents often play along with elaborate charades. But what should grown-ups do when ...
Tricks To Stay Warm During Outdoor Winter Hangouts
19 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Socializing in the great outdoors is safer during the pandemic, but lower temperatures can make it tough. NPR's Sam Gringlas got some tips to stay toa...
Cutting Back On Pandemic Drinking
17 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Alcohol sales are high and Americans are drinking more during the pandemic. If you're thinking of cutting back or even taking a break, you're not alon...
How To Help A Someone At Risk Of Suicide
15 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Americans are reporting an increase in mental health challenges and suicidal ideation because of the coronavirus. If someone you know is struggling, h...
A Therapist's Advice For Getting Through Pandemic Holidays
14 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
The holidays are extra stressful this year. Psychologist and author Andrea Bonior offers some tips, whether you're feeling stressed, angry, lonely or ...
Helping Kids (And Parents) Cope During The COVID-19 Pandemic
10 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Kids and teens have had their lives upended by the COVID-19 pandemic. Here's what parents can do to help them stay positive and feel supported.Learn m...
The Secret To Building Better Playlists
08 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
So you're planning the perfect candlelit evening — or the perfect road trip, or the perfect afternoon at home. Where do you start? A playlist, of co...
Giving thoughtful holiday gifts, without breaking the bank
03 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Human connection can seem out of reach this year, but there are still ways to show your loved ones that you care. Harper's Bazaar editor Tiffany Dodso...
Finding Your Own Language For Loss: Grief In The Holidays
01 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
As we inch toward the holidays, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Tracy K. Smith shares how she's processing grief, a subject at the center of much of her w...
Lessons In The Hard Work Of Healing
30 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
America is divided. How can we move forward together? Michel Martin, host of NPR's Weekend All Things Considered, speaks with leaders in mediation and...
Peter Sagal Teaches Us How To Run
26 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
You don't need fancy equipment or a gym to start running. Grab your headphones and some sneakers and let Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me host Peter Sagal te...
Scientifically Proven Ways To Be Happier
24 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
We could all use a little boost these days. Laurie Santos teaches a class on the science of happiness at Yale University, so we got her advice. (This ...
How To Have A Safe Thanksgiving
23 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
All gatherings carry risk during COVID-19. If you're meeting with people outside your immediate household during Thanksgiving, you can mitigate that r...
How To Make Better (And Prettier) Pies
19 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Just in time for Pi Day 2023, self-taught baker Lauren Ko shares her simple tips for making better — and more beautiful — pies.Learn more about sp...
Recreating A Family Recipe
17 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Making a family recipe for the first time can be daunting. Will it turn out just like you remembered? In this episode, podcaster Noor Wazwaz walks us ...
Transforming Kids' Worries Into Superpowers
16 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Kids have anxiety — but it's not always a bad thing. Renee Jain and Dr. Shefali Tsabary have some ideas about how to help children use those feeling...
Checking In On Your Aging Loved Ones
12 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
The coronavirus makes things a lot lonelier, especially if you're older and separated from family and friends. In this episode, NPR's Denise Guerra ta...
Improving Your Credit Score
10 Nov 2020
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.Learn more abo...
How Using (Not Hiding) Emotions Can Help Your Career
09 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Emotions are everywhere, even at work. It might be tempting to hide them — but you can use them to your advantage. (This episode originally ran in D...
How To Take Care Of Yourself This Election Season
05 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
2020 has been a lot. In this special episode from NPR's It's Been A Minute, host Sam Sanders talked with therapist Lori Gottlieb about taking care of ...
Make Journaling Work For You
03 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
There's a lot to think about right now. Journaling might help — and you don't need a fancy notebook or lots of time. Here's where to start.Learn mor...
How To Raise Good Citizens
02 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Now is a good time to talk to the kids in your life about how to engage in civics. Here's a primer from our Life Kit parenting team.Learn more about s...
Dealing With Your Seasonal Affective Disorder
29 Oct 2020
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...
Rights To Remember If Police Stop You
28 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
What should you do if a police officer pulls you over while you're driving, or stops you while you're peacefully protesting?Learn more about sponsor m...
Coping With Anxiety From Constant Headlines
27 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Between the endless stream of headlines and the ongoing pandemic, the news can be overwhelming. Here's neuroscientist Judson Brewer's advice on coping...
Ibram Kendi Reflects On Anti-Racism — And Wants You To Do It Too
24 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Author and renowned scholar Ibram Kendi's new book asks readers to examine their own relationship with race. NPR's Eric Deggans spoke with him about i...
FAFSA 2021: Here's How To Apply For College Financial Aid
22 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is now open to potential college students to fill out. Here's how to fill out the form to get money for c...
Making Social Change, With Help From Meditation
20 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
When the world feels upside-down, it might seem counterintuitive to turn inward to create change. But that's exactly what meditation teacher Sharon Sa...
Tips For Better Conversations, From A Pro
19 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Having good conversations is an art form. NPR's Sam Sanders tapped longtime radio host and podcaster Celeste Headlee for her tips for really listening...
Prepping For Election Day: What You Need To Know To Vote Safely
15 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
NPR's Allison Aubrey spoke with Myrna Pérez of the Brennan Center for Justice about how voters can make election day go smoothly — from what they n...
The Life Kit Guide To Online Privacy
13 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
NPR's Laurel Wamsley talked with the experts about how to protect your information — from your text messages to your location — while you're on th...
7 tips for coping with uncertainty about the future
12 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Uncertainty can be hard to live with — especially when it feels never-ending. Three people who have survived tough times and gained perspective shar...
Eating Healthy Without Overspending
08 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Minding your budget while eating the foods that nourish you takes a little planning — but it's possible. Dietitian Shana Spence shares her tips to h...
How To Make A Career Change, From Someone Who Has Done It
06 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Making a career switch can be daunting — but it's doable. Audio producer Keisha "TK" Dutes breaks down how she made her own switch, and how you can ...