Life Kit

How to Harness and Transform Anger

10 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Anger can be a powerful teacher — if we know how to use it. In this episode, Lama Rod Owens, a teacher of Tibetan Buddhism, explains how he learned ...

Navigating The Coming Out Conversation

08 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Coming out looks different for everyone. Kathy Tu and Tobin Low (formerly of the podcast Nancy) talk with people about their coming out stories to lea...

Honoring Your Heritage Through Food

07 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Food is more than just fuel for your body. Food is a connection to the stories of your ancestors, and the stories of your descendants. In this episode...

A Field Guide To Birding

04 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

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

What You Need To Start Biking

03 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Bike sales shot up last year and lots of cyclists dusted off their old wheels. If you're itching to get out there, this episode covers what you'll nee...

Breaking Ground On A Garden

02 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Whether you have big plans for a vegetable garden or a tiny pot of window sill herbs, this episode will help you get your green thumb. We cover the ba...

A Sunscreen Evangelist Explains The Importance Of SPF

01 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

If you're making plans to enjoy the weather, don't forget to pack your sunscreen. What's that? You don't need it? Yes, you do. Here's why, and how to ...

New To Camping? Here's Your Orientation

31 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

This week, Life Kit is heading outside! We're sharing our favorite episodes about getting out there, just in time for summer. Today, we're talking cam...

Why Leaving A Legacy Takes Self-Reflection

27 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Wealth isn't just cold, hard cash, says strategic investor Pamela Jolly. It's whatever you value — and that means generational wealth can take lots ...

Rational Advice For A Chaotic Housing Market

25 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Home prices have shot up in the last year. But with so many people eager to buy, the competition is stiff. If you're in the market to buy a home, this...

Understanding — And Coping With — Racial Trauma

24 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Psychotherapist April Preston speaks with Tonya Mosley of NPR's Here and Now about what racial trauma is, how it can be passed down, and how to addres...

Understanding The Latest CDC Mask Guidance

22 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

The CDC says vaccinated folks don't need masks in most settings. NPR's Short Wave team breaks down that guidance and the pushback.Learn more about spo...

Be a better bystander

20 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

What would you do if you saw someone being harassed on the bus or attacked in broad daylight? Most of us would like to think we know how we'd respond,...

Need To Make A Change? Behavioral Science Can Help

18 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

When's the best time to start a new habit? And what makes some stick while others fall by the wayside? Behavioral scientist Katy Milkman's new book, H...

Feeling Foggy? It's Not Just You

17 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

The stress and trauma from the past year have taken a toll on all of our brains. Mental health care providers say their patients are reporting brain f...

You Need A Hobby. Here's How To Find One

13 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

When was the last time you did something just for fun — not to make money, or be productive, or because someone else wanted you to? In this episode,...

Why Talking About Hard Things Makes 'Whole Dimensions Open Up'

11 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

NPR's Noel King talks to Anna Sale of the podcast 'Death, Sex & Money' about her new book, "Let's Talk About Hard Things."Learn more about sponsor mes...

Questions To Ask Yourself Before Going Maskless

10 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

There are lots of things to consider if you're planning on shedding your mask. In this episode, NPR science editor Maria Godoy joins us to walk throug...

Finding The Perfect Name For Your Baby

06 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Picking a name for a baby can be overwhelming. With all the possibilities out in the world, it can be hard to even begin to choose. On this episode of...

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 ...