Home Podcasts Life Kit: Money
Life Kit: Money

Life Kit: Money

NPR 155 Episodes Aug 24, 2026

Life Kit: Money is a podcast from NPR that helps listeners take control of their personal finances. Episodes cover topics like dealing with debt, student loans, and buying a house. The show is updated whenever Life Kit releases a new episode on money or personal finance. It also offers a sponsor-free feed through Life Kit+ subscription.

Episodes

5 questions that can save you from a bad purchase
5 questions that can save you from a bad purchase Aug 24, 2026 1054 Sometimes we buy things that we later regret: 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. This episode, financial experts offer a framework to help you decide whether
Savings strategies that actually work
Savings strategies that actually work Jul 27, 2026 1329 You know you want to save for that vacation, those new tires and more generally, the future. But what savings approach actually works? Certified financial planner Tania P. Brown recommends trying savings buckets. By creating separate categories — or buckets — for your savings, you can prioritize your goals, plan ahead and set rules for when you'll tap into each fund. In this episode, Brown shares
Summer fun that doesn't break the budget
Summer fun that doesn't break the budget Jul 14, 2026 739 Wondering how to have fun this summer without spending a fortune? All you need is a little creativity. 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 — to your sunny days ahead. This episode originally aired Aug. 1, 2023.Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekitSign up for our newsletter here.Have an
A financial planner's advice for spending without guilt
A financial planner's advice for spending without guilt Jul 13, 2026 1388 Whether you're feeling guilty about overspending or guilty about not spending enough, shame around money can get in the way of your goals. In this episode, Marielle Segarra talks with certified financial planner Lauryn Williams about how to address financial guilt and align your spending with your values.Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekitSign up for our newsletter here.Have an episode idea or fee
How to save at restaurants if you're burnt out on cooking
How to save at restaurants if you're burnt out on cooking Jun 30, 2026 1059 Do you blow $20 on slop bowls because you keep forgetting to pack lunch? Or can't help but overspend every time you eat out with friends? Dining out can be expensive — but there are ways to minimize the financial punch. This episode, reporter Joe Hernandez shares tips on how to dine out on a budget. Sign up for his one-month newsletter, How to Cut Your Food Bill, for more tips.Follow us on Instagr
Gold is having a moment. Is now the time to invest?
Gold is having a moment. Is now the time to invest? May 28, 2026 894 In the world of investing, gold is having a moment. Last year, the price of gold crossed $4,000 an ounce for the first time ever. But does that mean it's time to rebalance your portfolio and get in on the precious metal action? This episode, NPR finance correspondent Maria Aspan explains why the world has been so obsessed with gold lately, how you can invest and whether doing so makes sense in the
Unsure which retirement account to choose? We have some tips
Unsure which retirement account to choose? We have some tips May 7, 2026 669 Retirement accounts are not just a vehicle to let your money grow over time for when you're ready to stop working. They're also a tax shelter. In this episode, we talk about how much you can expect to save in taxes, the difference between pre-tax and post-tax accounts, and how to decide which to prioritize. Spoiler: when in doubt, just pick one and get started. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekitS
Shop less and save more with a 'no-buy challenge'
Shop less and save more with a 'no-buy challenge' Apr 30, 2026 1236 If you're struggling to save for long-term goals, find yourself lost in a sea of clutter or are concerned about consumerism and climate change, there are ways to curb your shopping habits. This episode, journalist Stacey Vanek Smith talks to writers, influencers and activists in the sustainable fashion industry about how to reign in overconsumption, rethink our power as consumers and challenge our
Do you have a financial self-care routine?
Do you have a financial self-care routine? Apr 23, 2026 957 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 Aug. 15, 2023.Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekitSign up for our newsletter here.Have an ep
How to get 'financially naked' with your partner
How to get 'financially naked' with your partner Mar 31, 2026 1301 How much money do you make? What assets and debts do you have? What are your spending habits? These are all questions you should ask your partner, says Vivian Tu, founder of Your Rich BFF, a financial education company. In this episode, host Marielle Segarra talks with Tu about how to get “financially naked” with your partner, whether you just started dating or have been together for years.Follow
Don't get taken for a ride by your car insurer
Don't get taken for a ride by your car insurer Mar 19, 2026 1087 Between the start of 2022 and the start of 2025, car insurance rates jumped by more than 50%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Luckily, there are tried-and-true tactics for finding the cheapest deal you can -- from comparing rates from multiple insurance companies to not letting your teen get their license just yet. NPR's cars and energy correspondent, Camila Domonoske, breaks down the
How to avoid this year's common tax scams
How to avoid this year's common tax scams Mar 12, 2026 1155 There's a lot of tax advice on social media, but not all of it is sound. This episode, certified public accountant Mark Gallegos breaks down how to identify bad tax advice and avoid this year's most common tax scams.Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekitSign up for our newsletter here.Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.orgSupport the show and listen to it spon

Recommended