Life Kit

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Everyone needs a little help being a human. From sleep to saving money to parenting and more, host Marielle Segarra talks to experts to get the best advice out there. Life Kit is here to help you get it together.Want another life hack? Try Life Kit+. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks an exclusive sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/lifekit

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    • Jun 3, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 19m AVG DURATION
    • 977 EPISODES

    4.3 from 3,561 ratings Listeners of Life Kit that love the show mention: life kit, key takeaways, brach, please fix, hesitant, julia, doable, npr, allison, debt, relevant topics, evidence based, short and sweet, approachable, finances, digestible, habits, sam, parenting, love the way.


    Ivy Insights

    The Life Kit: All Guides podcast is a gem in the world of self-help and personal development podcasts. It offers practical, to-the-point tips that are easy to learn and apply in everyday life. Whether I'm relaxing or driving, this podcast is the perfect companion with its episodes that are just the right length. The guests on the show always provide tangible advice that has tremendously helped me in my day-to-day life. One of the best aspects of this podcast is the wide range of topics covered. Each week brings a different advice on a different topic, keeping it interesting and fresh. From finances to car maintenance to learning new skills as an adult, Life Kit has got you covered. The host, Marielle, does an incredible job of keeping listeners engaged and entertained with her informative and interesting shows.

    However, one minor downside of this podcast is that not every episode resonates with me personally. Since the topics are specific, there are some episodes that don't apply to my life circumstances. However, the descriptions provided for each episode help me pick and choose effectively based on my interests and needs.

    In conclusion, I can't recommend The Life Kit: All Guides podcast enough. It has become one of my favorite podcasts due to its valuable insights and practical advice for navigating everyday challenges in life. The team behind Life Kit does an exceptional job of providing informative content with kind and empathetic voices. If you're looking for a podcast that helps inch you closer to knowing who you are while offering actionable steps for personal growth, give Life Kit a listen - you won't be disappointed!



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    Latest episodes from Life Kit

    So you got laid off. What next?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 20:24


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to make decisions you won't regret

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 22:22


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Avoid debt with these credit card tips

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 18:43


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to pack for your summer travel

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 15:18


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    5 essential water skills to know this summer

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 20:06


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Dear Life Kit: I'm having neighbor drama

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 19:54


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to keep old friends

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 21:43


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to lead a more creative life

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 13:52


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to stay calm in emergency situations

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 26:13


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    The connecting power of 'magical questions'

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 19:37


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to save big on groceries

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 17:09


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to bring the house down at karaoke

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 26:47


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to maintain your friendships after kids

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 19:38


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Often ignored spring cleaning tips

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 18:07


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Here's why your feet hurt — and what you can do about it

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 25:49


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    What to eat for better sleep

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 15:52


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to handle your money during tariff uncertainty

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 18:38


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Improve your sense of direction

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 17:46


    Do you feel like you always need to use GPS to get around? Never quite sure if it's a left or a right turn — even though you just looked at a map? It can be anxiety-inducing to get around when you don't have a great sense of direction. This episode, experts explain how to gain more confidence while navigating. This episode originally aired May 6, 2024.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Why spending time in the woods makes you feel calm

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 16:21


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    The etiquette of texting

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2025 22:05


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Can I afford to buy a house?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2025 19:23


    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/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    The art and pleasure of writing a letter

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 21:39


    In her new book, Syme's Letter Writer, Rachel Syme of The New Yorker explains how to write a delightful letter to a loved one. Unlike texting and email, old-fashioned letters, hand-addressed and sent in the mail, are "read intentionally," she says. Syme offers advice on what to write about, how to find the perfect stationery, and how to find a pen pal.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    5 simple ways to minimize stress

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2025 17:08


    Need a break? Dr. Aditi Nerurkar, author of The 5 Resets, offers quick, easy ways to minimize stress in your daily life — no lavish vacations or big life changes necessary. This episode originally aired Feb. 6, 2024.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    DLK: In our relationship, her dog comes first. Now I'm having doubts about us

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025 21:20


    That uncertainty you might feel in romantic relationships is common — and not always a bad thing, say Haley Nahman, writer of the Maybe Baby newsletter and Danny Nelson, co-host of the Dear Danny podcast series. In this episode of Life Kit, they weigh in on pet jealousy, whether it's OK to make a move on a friend, and questionable future in-laws.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to relieve constipation

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 16:25


    Haven't pooped in days? Gastroenterologists explain what to do in this SOS moment — and share tips on how to avoid chronic constipation. This episode was originally published July 10, 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to pack a go bag for emergencies

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 23:35


    As climate emergencies like wildfires and hurricanes become more prevalent, it's important to have essentials like food and medicine on hand and ready to go in case you need to evacuate. On today's episode, emergency preparedness expert Alyssa Provencio explains what you do and don't need in your go bag, how to create a household emergency plan and why now is a good time to prepare for disasters.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to find a supportive queer community

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 22:51


    If you're exploring your sexuality or gender identity for the first time, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. You might be processing mixed emotions, grieving the loss of people in your life or struggling with imposter syndrome. But on the other side is a supportive community that will celebrate you, not just tolerate you. In this episode, Life Kit producer Margaret Cirino talks with queer community organizers about the affirming power of queer spaces and how to find your own community.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    A beginner's guide to bartering

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 20:44


    Bartering can help you mind your budget and build relationships with your community. In this episode, we cover how to suggest bartering as an option and make the exchange feel fair. We'll also share stories of successful trades.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Over-the-counter pain medications 101

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 22:14


    Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin — there are many over-the-counter pain medications available, but are they all the same? And how much should you really take? In this episode, a doctor and pharmacists cover your drug options, including side effects, dosage and what to reach for the next time you have a headache or fever.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to raise kids in a multilingual home

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 22:17


    There are a lot of benefits to raising a child speaking two or more languages: a better understanding of their culture and their relatives, cognitive benefits and expanded job opportunities. But raising a kid is hard enough in one language. How can a parent be expected to do it in two or more? Reporter Julia Furlan explains that raising a kid in a multilingual household isn't a burden — it's a gift.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    RERUN financial self care —03.25.2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 16:01


    There are things we're supposed to do routinely for our health: brush our teeth, shower and exercise. There's a version of that for financial health too. We'll talk about those tasks — and go beyond the number-crunching to explore how our mental health affects our finances. This episode originally published August 15, 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Car safety 101: Crashes, road rage, weather and more

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2025 20:33


    You might know the basics of car safety, like buckling your seatbelt or using your turn signal. But what do you do in car emergencies? This episode, Hector Carias, an officer with the California Highway Patrol, breaks down how to handle emergency situations.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to maintain an exercise routine as you age

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 16:57


    It's important to exercise as we age. Regular movement can help not just with cardiovascular health and maintaining muscle mass — it can also foster community. Juana Summers, co-host of NPR's All Things Considered, speaks with older exercisers about what motivates them to stay active.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Don't panic when the markets are down

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 15:13


    About 60% of Americans have some money in the stock market — and the markets are not doing great. Your knee-jerk reaction might be to sell. But experts explain why that's not a good idea. This episode originally published October 3, 2022.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    What's in your lotion? A guide to personal care product safety

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2025 24:32


    It's easy to get overwhelmed by long ingredient lists when it comes to personal care products like shampoo, makeup and lotion. Which substances could be potentially harmful? Which are safe to use? In this episode, we cover current ingredients of concern, alternatives and how to decide which products you actually need in your life.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Too many goals and too little time? How to focus your attention

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2025 18:07


    Time is precious and we never seem to have enough of it. We have to work, feed ourselves, clean our homes, take care of kids or family members, catch up with friends, sleep ... and on top of that, there are endless hobbies or pursuits we'd want to do if only we had more hours in the week. Is it any wonder we feel like we're constantly scrambling? This episode, how to carve out time for that passion project. Life Kit experts share tips on how we can be intentional about our attention.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    OMG how embarrassing! How to stop feeling so awkward

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 22:41


    Cringing at the time you gave a speech with spinach in your teeth, or accidentally liked an ex's picture on social media? Still reliving that incident in the fourth grade when you called your teacher "mommy"? Awkward moments have a tendency to haunt us – even ones from decades ago. This episode, Life Kit reporter Andee Tagle breaks down why we get so embarrassed about the things we do and how we can experience those feelings a little less.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    It's time to make your dream vacation a reality

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2025 21:48


    Jealous of your friends' spring break plans? This year, get your summer trip out of the group chat. Condé Nast Traveler's articles director Lale Arikoglu shares tips for planning the big trip of your dreams: where to start your search, what logistical questions you should ask yourself, and how to actually relax and enjoy yourself once you're there. This episode previously aired April 22, 2024.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    The key to happiness? Know thyself, says Gretchen Rubin

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2025 20:30


    What is happiness? How do you define it? Maybe it's feeling good, having a sunny disposition or being fulfilled, even if you don't feel pleasant all the time. Gretchen Rubin, host of the Happier podcast and author of The Happiness Project, says happiness is less about attaining joy than it is about growing in the right direction. In this episode, she explains how to make small changes that can move you toward happiness, and why knowing yourself helps contribute to this emotion.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Freshen up your resume

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2025 19:29


    Do's, don'ts and current best practices for resume-writing from career coach Cynthia Pong. One tip? Keep the format simple and make it easy to read. This episode originally aired on Jan. 8, 2024.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Dear Life Kit: Can I tell my friend she texts me too much?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2025 20:13


    When it comes to friendship, how honest is too honest? Friendship experts, and real-life friends, Danielle Bayard Jackson and Marisa G. Franco weigh in on your thorny dilemmas around platonic relationships to help you create closer, lasting friendships.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    How to create your own spiritual practices

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2025 24:04


    Are you looking to connect to something greater than yourself, but aren't sure how? In this episode, a spiritual psychiatrist and a professor of theology share ways to personalize your path, whether that's seeking inspiration from the faiths and religions you grew up with or trying something new.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

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