Episodios

  • Budgeting for college students
    Sep 9 2025
    A new semester has begun, which means college students across the country are taking on debt, opening credit cards and navigating meal plans and housing on their own. Budgeting and managing money, especially as a first-year college student, can be daunting. In this episode, we cover how to plan for student loans, look for scholarships, get part time work and more.

    Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit
    Sign up for our newsletter here.
    Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org
    Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit

    Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    NPR Privacy Policy
    Más Menos
    26 m
  • Don't make these financial mistakes
    Jul 21 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
    Más Menos
    16 m
  • Should I buy it? A framework to help you decide
    Jul 17 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
    Más Menos
    18 m
  • Make your savings work harder
    Jul 1 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
    Más Menos
    14 m
  • Budget friendly things to do this summer
    Jun 10 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
    Más Menos
    13 m
  • Avoid debt with these credit card tips
    May 29 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
    Más Menos
    19 m
  • How to save big on groceries
    May 12 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
    Más Menos
    17 m
  • How to handle your money during tariff uncertainty
    Apr 28 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
    Más Menos
    19 m