Life Kit

Eating disorders are complicated illnesses that are often misunderstood. Dr. Eva Trujillo, a specialist in eating disorders, says eating disorders "literally rewire the brain," decrease brain size and make it harder to concentrate and regulate emotions. Emily Kwong, host of NPR's Short Wave, talks about the physical and mental impacts of eating disorders and how to recover in a world steeped in diet culture. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at [email protected] Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit For handpicked podcast recommendations every week, subscribe to NPR’s Pod Club newsletter at npr.org/podclub Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 14 August 2025

We use encouragement and support to get through life's big moments. But what about a little pep talk for those smaller moments, like when it's raining and your dog needs to go out? Or some inspiration to help you parallel park or send that email you've been avoiding? In this episode, Paula Skaggs and Josh Linden, co-authors of the book Tiny Pep Talks, share bite-sized motivation for everyday nuisances. For handpicked podcast recommendations every week, subscribe to NPR’s Pod Club newsletter at npr.org/podclub. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 12 August 2025

Phones can be addicting: There are endless texts to answer, notifications to check and games to play. We often end up on our phones without intending to. But Jose Briones, author of Low Tech Life: A Guide to Mindful Digital Minimalism, says there is a solution. This episode, tips on quitting your smartphone in favor of simpler technology. This episode originally published July 30, 2024. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 7 August 2025

Whether you're sleeping on your old friend's couch or staying with a family member for a long weekend, we have tips to make sure your presence is a gift and not a chore. What's the ideal amount of time to stay with your host? Should you strip the bed when you leave? When your host says, "Make yourself at home," what does that really mean? In this episode, lifestyle and etiquette expert Elaine Swann answers these questions and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 5 August 2025

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and others have said that seed oils, like soybean, corn and sunflower oils, are poisoning Americans. But what does the research say? NPR health correspondent Maria Godoy speaks with nutrition and fatty acids scientists about the most common concerns with seed oils. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 31 July 2025

From pregnancy tracking apps to smart baby monitors, technology is ingrained in parenthood at every turn. But at what cost? In this episode, Amanda Hess, author of Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age, shares how data, metrics and our relationship to technology can shape child-rearing — and create barriers between parents and their kids. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2025

For Suleika Jaouad, journaling has been a source of solace through life's ups and downs for as long as she can remember. Writing in her journal helps her process, reflect and make meaning from painful experiences. In her book, The Book of Alchemy: A Creative Practice for an Inspired Life, Jaouad shares writing prompts from writers, artists and thinkers, to help you put pen to paper (even when you don't feel like it). Because creative expression, even on bad days, can offer inspiration and insight. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 28 July 2025

If you have kids, cooking with them might sound like a daunting prospect. But David Nayfeld, the chef behind the new book, Dad, What's for Dinner?, says cooking with your kids can create positive memories and help your kids build useful skills. In this episode, Nayfeld shares easy weeknight recipes to try with your kids and cooking tasks children can help with at any age. Yes, it might get messy, but that's OK if you're connecting and spending time together. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 24 July 2025

Author and body-acceptance advocate Katie Sturino joins Ronald Young Jr., host of the podcast Weight For It, to answer listener questions about body image. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2025

Financial educator Yanely Espinal shares her don'ts when it comes to money. Don't co-sign loans. Don't make hype-driven investments. Don't spend money you don't have. If you've been making these missteps, don't worry — Espinal has advice on how to create a path forward. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 21 July 2025

Act now to ensure public media remains free and accessible to all. Your donation will help this essential American service survive and thrive. Visit donate.npr.org now. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2025

Sometimes we buy things that we later regret spending on: a new sweater that's already falling apart, or a thrifted "vintage" vase that turns out to be a mass-produced dupe. In the moment, it's difficult to resist the temptation of making a purchase. But with a few pointed questions, you can make sure you've done your due diligence and buy something guilt-free. This episode, financial experts offer a framework to help you decide whether or not something is worth buying. This episode originally published December 18, 2024. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 17 July 2025

Receiving praise can feel good. But it can also feel uncomfortable. Should you say something nice back? Brush it off? Make a self-deprecating comment? Many of us were never taught how to accept compliments, but there's science to back up the benefits of receiving and giving kudos. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2025

In the era of online dating, asking someone out in real life has become a lost art. This episode, confidence coach Regina Bonds shares tips on putting yourself out there, bouncing back from rejections and talking to people in person. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 14 July 2025

Oftentimes, it's easier to scroll through our phones than do some squats. So what can we do to motivate ourselves to pick movement? In this episode of Life Kit, we speak with clinical psychologist Diana Hill and movement specialist Katy Bowman about how to retrain your brain to crave physical activity more than your phone. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 10 July 2025

In this episode of Life Kit, reporter Andee Tagle talks to entomologist Sammy Ramsey and environmental health professor Brian Byrd about why some people get bitten more than others, which ingredients to seek in bug repellents and what you can do to protect yourself against those itchy bites. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

Play isn't just for kids. Research shows it can help you adapt to difficult circumstances, collaborate better and problem-solve. In this episode, play researchers and enthusiasts share the benefits of playtime at any age and how you can bring more play into your life. This episode originally published July 27, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 7 July 2025

There are options beyond living solo or with roommates — and one of them is called 'communal living.' In this arrangement, people don't just simply live together, but share resources and create community. In this episode, co-living enthusiasts explain how it works and how to decide whether it's right for you. This episode originally published on April 16, 2024. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 3 July 2025

Typical savings account interest rates can earn you pennies. In this episode, you'll learn about other high-interest savings options to earn more in interest and protect your savings against inflation. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025

Sex, and the pursuit of it, can feel amazing. But sometimes, cravings for sex lead to unhealthy obsessions, poor choices or a loss of identity. If you're struggling to see a way out of old dating patterns or if you want to pour more into yourself, Melissa Febos, author of The Dry Season, suggests taking a break. In this episode, Febos and others share the benefits they've gotten from temporary periods of celibacy and why you might want to try one too. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 30 June 2025

It's long been thought that eating protein from animals (eggs, meat, chicken, fish) can help you become stronger. But a new study out of the University of Illinois shows that plant protein is just as effective at building muscle. NPR health correspondent Will Stone explains how the science around plant protein is shifting. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 26 June 2025

There's a heat wave hitting much of the United State this week. Our bodies do have natural ways to dissipate heat, but when temperatures get extreme, sometimes they just can't keep up. In this episode of Life Kit, learn how to keep cool, hydrated and safe in extreme heat. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025

As summer heats up, we often crank the air conditioning, which uses a lot of energy. NPR's Climate Solutions Correspondent Julia Simon has five simple and affordable tips to save electricity without sacrificing comfort. We'll cover the science behind the open window versus AC debate, "night flushing" your home and cost-saving home improvement projects to help keep you cool. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 23 June 2025

More than 31 million people in the United States get bitten by ticks each year, and some of those ticks carry diseases such as Lyme disease, according to the CDC. In this episode of Life Kit, we cover where you might encounter ticks this summer, how to protect yourself against them and what to do if you get bitten. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 19 June 2025

Air travel can be frustrating. According to the Department of Transportation, in 2024 flights were delayed about 20% of the time and there were over 400 tarmac delays of three hours or more for domestic flights. In this episode, learn what you can do ahead of time to avoid delays, get ahead of drama in the terminal when your flight is cancelled and strategies for getting refunds quickly (like referencing the Airline Cancellation and Delay Dashboard). Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025

Your pelvic floor helps with all sorts of bodily functions — it helps you go to the bathroom, breathe, and orgasm, and it supports your internal organs. But pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to painful sex, constipation, urinary leakage, and pelvic pain. In this episode, we talk with pelvic floor physical therapist Sara Reardon about how to treat pelvic floor dysfunction and the basics of keeping your pelvic floor healthy and functioning. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 16 June 2025

Hurricane season can feel unnerving for many, especially as hurricanes grow more intense due to climate change. WUSF climate and environment reporter Jessica Meszaros breaks down how to know your flood risk level and ways to flood-proof your home so that you'll be more secure this season. This episode is part of NPR's Climate Solutions Week, a series where we examine how to be more resilient in a changing climate. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 12 June 2025

Ideas on how to have fun this summer without breaking the bank. Go on a "penny date." Throw a movie marathon party. Swap houses with a friend. With a little imagination, you can bring delight and joy — at a low cost — into your sunny days ahead. This episode originally aired August 1st, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2025

If you're online, your personal data is at risk. It might feel impossible to protect your data from hacks and breaches, but there are methods to make it slow and expensive for bad actors to target you. Our experts share simple measures to better protect your data online, including practices you can pick up starting now. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 9 June 2025

Dan Harris of the 10% Happier podcast interviews Life Kit host Marielle Segarra as part of their Get Fit Sanely series. Marielle talks her favorite tips, like building in exercise snacks, preventing revenge bedtime procrastination, finding your play personality and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 5 June 2025

Whether you saw it coming or were completely blindsided, getting laid off is one of the most stressful experiences in life. It can also be a huge hit to your mental health, making it even harder to focus on logistics. This episode, we lay out concrete next steps for the first day, week, month and onward after a layoff. That includes how to find health insurance, apply for unemployment and create a job search plan. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025

Should you move across the country? Take that job? Have a baby? Life is full of big decisions and it can be easy to get stuck in the "what-ifs" of them. As a decision coach, Nell Wulfhart helps people address indecision head-on. In this episode, Wulfhart shares exercises to make speedier decisions, when to bring others in to your decision-making process for guidance and how to deal with post-decision regret. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2025

Even if you use a credit card all the time, it can be difficult to understand the ins and outs of how they work. Whether you're a new credit card owner or just want to make sure you're getting the most out of your card, this episode will walk through the fundamentals of the credit card game. This episode originally published August 29, 2024. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2025

Nailing the vacation packing list is a difficult art. Overpacking or underpacking can make an already unpleasant travel day go off the rails. But when you bring exactly what you need and nothing more, the whole trip runs more smoothly. This episode, Life Kit experts outline the ideal packing list and how to customize it based on your destination, the weather, how you're getting there and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025

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 if you never learned as a kid. This episode originally published June 29, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2025

What should you do if your next-door neighbor plays the drums all the time? Or shows up uninvited? Or leaves trash in their front yard? In this episode of Dear Life Kit, professional mediator Sasha Philip and writer Celeste Headlee share advice on these thorny neighbor dilemmas. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2025

Psychologist Zorana Ivcevic Pringle says creativity isn't a trait. It's a choice, something you can foster and prioritize. In this episode of Life Kit, in collaboration with NPR's science podcast, Short Wave, Ivcevic Pringle explains how to bring creativity into your everyday life, overcome creative blocks and stick with creative ideas and projects. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

Nina Badzin, host of the podcast Dear Nina: Conversations About Friendship, has spent a lot of time thinking about the richness that old friends add to our lives. In our lows and in our highs, our old friends can remind us of who we are. But time can also do a number on those relationships. So on this episode of Life Kit: how to maintain your longstanding friendships. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2025

There are some emergency scenarios we don't want to think about: medical accidents, mass shootings or suicidal crises. But when these situations happen, staying calm and having a response plan could be the difference between life and death. In this episode, a fire captain, emergency room doctor and mental health advocate share how they keep their cool in the most high-stakes emergencies. There are skills that everyone can learn. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2025

Want to cut through small talk at your next mixer? Try asking a "magical question," says Priya Parker, a conflict resolution facilitator and author of the book The Art of Gathering. These questions, like "What is a path you almost took but didn't?" and "What topic could you give a 20 minute talk with zero preparation?" can spark deep and meaningful conversations and foster connection. In this episode, Parker explains how to come up with your own magical questions. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

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 tips for saving money on the food you cook at home. This episode original published May 30, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2025

Karaoke isn't just a crowd-pleasing pastime. When well-executed, it can unite a room of strangers and help you build your internal power. Zak Rosen, reporter and host of The Best Advice Show, offers tips on mastering the art of karaoke. And no, you don't need to be a good (or even average) singer. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2025

It can be tough to navigate adult friendships when kids come into the picture. Parents assume their child-free buds don't want to hang out with them, and vice versa. To overcome this divide, reporter Emily Siner speaks with three experts about what makes friendships work across parenting stages. So whether you have kids, want kids, have friends with kids, or know anyone who could have kids someday, we've got you covered. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

Spring is a great excuse to tackle those hard-to-clean appliances and furniture. In this episode, Kyshawn Lane of the Weekly Home Check walks through a surprising mix of deep cleaning tasks, from cleaning your oven to washing your walls. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2025

If you're struggling with foot pain from bunions, Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis, it might be time to reevaluate your foot care routine. In this episode, foot experts share advice on picking the right running shoes, strengthening your feet muscles and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2025

Your diet affects your sleep. What foods can help you be your most rested self? Nutrition scientist and researcher Marie-Pierre St-Onge has research-backed tips on which foods to eat — and, spoilers, a lot of them are foods you either have in your fridge already or can work into nearly any recipe. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

With stock market volatility and fears of price increases driven by the new tariffs, you may be worried about your finances. In this episode, certified financial planner Lauryn Williams explains how to handle your spending, savings and retirement accounts in times of economic instability. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2025

Decades of research have shown that "forest bathing" is good for your health. It can boost your immune system, lower blood pressure and help with depression. Here's how to reap these benefits on your next walk in the woods. This episode originally published August 24, 2023. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

In this episode, tips on how to manage your text messages, from dealing with chaotic group chats to getting an unresponsive friend to message you back. Erica Dhawan, author of Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection No Matter the Distance, explains how to apply the basic rules of etiquette to everyday texting conundrums. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

Buying a home can feel out of reach for many. But if you're an aspiring homeowner, there are ways to make it a reality. In this episode, mortgage reporter Molly Grace explains how to know if you're financially ready, what costs to budget for and how to find a home that works for you. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2025