Don't get swindled while buying gifts this holiday season. This episode, Amy Nofziger of AARP's Fraud Watch Network explains how to safeguard yourself from common shopping scams like fake shipping alerts and online stores — and offers advice on what to do if you fall for one.

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When it comes to relationships, being comfortable is not necessarily the same as sharing emotional intimacy. But if you're in a long-term relationship, how do you maintain closeness over time? In this episode of Life Kit, psychologist James Cordova shares tips on how to build emotional intimacy into your daily life.

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About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Most of the time, diagnosis happens through routine screenings. This episode, we discuss risk factors for prostate cancer, how to get screened and what you can do if you are diagnosed.

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There's research showing that too much light at night and not enough daylight is taking years off our lives. NPR health correspondent Will Stone has tips to tune up your body's internal clock. This episode originally published December 17, 2024.

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Investing can be intimidating. How do you know which funds to choose? How do you diversify? How much should you be setting aside in a retirement plan versus a savings account or a brokerage account? This episode, we talk to Mary Childs, co-host of NPR'sPlanet Money, about these questions and more.

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There can be a lot of stress when it comes to the holidays: figuring out travel plans, preparing the perfect meal, spending time with the whole family for days on end. There can also be a lot pressure to do everything perfectly, but psychotherapist and author of All Is Calmish: How to Feel Less Frantic and More Festive During the Holidays, Niro Feliciano, says that letting go of the need for perfection can actually make your holiday less stressful. This episode, Feliciano shares tips for keeping your holiday season merry and bright.

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Martinus Evans, author ofSlow AF Run Club: The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Who Wants to Run, explains why anyone who wants to run can run. He shares tips on gear, training programs and what he calls "sexy pace." This episode originally aired on June 22, 2023.

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We're surrounded by ads and sales pitches — in our inboxes, on our phones and when we walk down the street. And everyone loves a good deal, but what actually constitutes a deal? How do you know you're getting the best price or that what you're purchasing is of good quality? In this episode, we offer tips to help you make purchases you're happy with this holiday season.

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Winter tends to get a bad rap: people complain endlessly about its shorter days, darker skies and plummeting temperatures. It's true that parts of winter can be unpleasant, but psychologist Kari Leibowitz, author ofHow to Winter: Harness your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark, or Difficult Days, says that winter can also be a time of reflection, creativity and coziness. This episode, Leibowitz shares tips on learning to appreciate winter's unique opportunities. This episode originally published Dec. 9, 2024.

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People may think of hair loss as a guy thing. But by some estimates, half of all women experience hair loss in their lifetime. While there are some solutions out there based in science, not every remedy works for every person — or every type of hair loss. Today's episode is from our friends at NPR's science podcastShort Wave.

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It's easy to spiral and feel anxious when you're on a first date, at your office holiday party or heading to your high school reunion. The stakes feel high and you want to make a good impression. But social anxiety can get in the way of connection, fun and feeling good. In this episode, we give you tools to survive small talk, practice social courage and embrace the awkward.

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Why is muscle power so important? What do you really need to know about your testosterone levels? What are some free, research-backed tools for managing depression? Brett McKay, founder and editor-in-chief ofThe Art of Manliness, an independent men's health and lifestyle web magazine, shares top health tips. Whether you identify as a man or not, he says a lot of this advice can help us all live healthier lives.

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Clinical psychologist Adia Gooden and NPR'sIt's Been A Minutehost, Brittany Luse, answer questions from Dear Life Kit listeners and they sharetheirbest advice on unsolicited advice.

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Does your back hurt after a long day at your desk? Do you wake up with a sore neck every morning? Muscle aches in your body could be a signyou need to improve your posture. This episode, a physical therapist and a biomechanist break down what "good posture" looks like and how you can begin to correct yours. This episode originally published Feb. 2, 2025.

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Millions of people have been left without access to food as a result of funding delays for SNAP benefits. Kevin Curry ofFit Men Cook, an online food community, shares resources for those affected, including how to build a low-budget cart at the grocery store.

A previous version of this episode incorrectly said that Kevin Curry graduated from Harvard Business School. In fact, he graduated from Harvard Kennedy School.

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After a big blowup or recurring fight with your partner or spouse, how do you reconnect? Couples therapist Baya Voce offers a five-step process for couples to make amends after conflict, including what to do if you're still upset and how to make sure both of you get a chance to say what you feel and need.

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When you're decorating a room, it can be difficult to identify your personal vision and stay true to it — especially if you have financial constraints or are designing with others in mind. But Vern Yip, who has designed on TLC'sTrading Spacesand hosts the interior design showHome Reimagined,says that compromising on your tastes now means you might be redecorating a year from now. This episode, Yip shares a step-by-step guide from his new book,Color Pattern Texture,to make any room feel undeniably you — and still keep roommates, partners and your budget happy.

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Prescription drug prices can be costly. What are you supposed to do if you can't afford medication? In this episode, Dan Weissmann, host of KUOW's podcastAn Arm and a Leg, shares how to find discounts on prescription medications and navigate the health care system when drugs cost more than you expected.

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Introverts and extroverts move through the world differently and sometimes friendships can suffer when those differences clash. Reporter Yowei Show, host of the podcast Proxy, explores the science of personality to help you bridge the divide in your own friendships.

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When you've already spent money on an expensive ticket, and bad weather can cause potential flight delays and cancellations, it's good to know what you're entitled to in the event of a travel issue.Scott Keyes, founder of the travel siteGoing.com(formerly known as Scott's Cheap Flights), shares his recommendations, including days to avoid and the best time of day to fly. This episode originally published Nov. 13, 2023.

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Collagen supplements have been widely promoted on social media, with claims that they'll strengthen hair and nails, lessen wrinkles and even ease joint pain. But are there studies backing these claims? NPR health correspondent Maria Godoy dives into the research and shares science-backed tips for better skin that are more effective.

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