Episodes

  • Should I buy that thing? A framework to help you decide

    Should I buy that thing? A framework to help you decide
    Dec 19 2024
    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.

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    18 mins
  • 5 ways to cut back your spending

    5 ways to cut back your spending
    Dec 3 2024
    As we enter a period of high personal spending, here are 5 tips from past Life Kit experts on how to save money during the holidays and year-round.

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    17 mins
  • How to avoid counterfeit and unsafe products online

    How to avoid counterfeit and unsafe products online
    Oct 22 2024
    Nearly 70 percent of people were deceived into buying a counterfeit product online at least once last year, according to research from Michigan State University. And buying knockoff versions of products can be dangerous. Kari Kammel, the director at the Center for Anti Counterfeiting and Product Protection at Michigan State University, shares tips for how to avoid counterfeit and unsafe products, especially online.

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    22 mins
  • How to refinance your mortgage

    How to refinance your mortgage
    Oct 8 2024
    Mortgage rates have dropped significantly in recent months, and that means one thing for those who bought a home in the last couple years: It might be time to refinance. You might save hundreds of dollars a month depending on how much you owe. Here's how to get the process started.

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    17 mins
  • How to start saving for retirement

    How to start saving for retirement
    Sep 24 2024
    It's never too early to start putting away money for retirement. In this episode, Washington Post personal finance columnist Michelle Singletary explains how to start building your nest egg by setting savings goals and contributing funds to your retirement plan. This episode originally aired on October 5, 2020.

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    15 mins
  • Interest rates just dropped — how does that impact you?

    Interest rates just dropped — how does that impact you?
    Sep 19 2024
    This week, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by half a point. NPR's Laurel Wamsley breaks down how it may affect your financial plans. High-yield savings accounts won't yield quite so much. And for recent homebuyers, it might also be time to think about refinancing.

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    5 mins
  • Smart credit card habits that will keep you out of debt

    Smart credit card habits that will keep you out of debt
    Aug 29 2024
    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.

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    19 mins
  • How to buy less stuff

    How to buy less stuff
    Aug 20 2024
    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 ourselves to buy less.

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    21 mins