The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map helps home gardeners pick which plants to grow. But recently, roughly a quarter of the country has moved zones. What does this mean for your backyard plants? This episode, how to understand the changes to the hardiness zone map and other factors to think about when planning out your garden.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Introducing solids to your little one can be as stressful as it is special. A pediatric dietitian and a pediatrician discuss menu choices, allergens and safety to help you and your little one succeed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

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

"A total solar eclipse is so much more than something you just see with your eyes. It's something you experience with your whole body," says science writer David Baron.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Rooming with other people can be tricky. Here's how to negotiate a living environment that's safe, comfortable and pleasant for everyone.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Tipping requests are on the rise. Businesses that never seemed to ask for a tip, like fast food joints, are now asking for one. Here's how to deal with unexpected requests and more.A previous version of this story incorrectly said the company Square takes a "chunk of your tip." A representative from Square says while they charge a fee based on the whole transaction, including tip, the worker still gets the full amount of their tip.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Having dirty dishes in the sink isn't a moral failure. Therapist KC Davis, author of How to Keep House While Drowning, has developed a framework for keeping up with house cleaning without feeling overwhelmed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

You can strain your eyes if you stare at a screen for too long, say eye doctors — and that can cause eye fatigue, headaches and blurry vision. Nip those symptoms in the bud with these eye care tips.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Life is full of tedious and time-consuming administrative tasks. Here's how to conquer your 'life admin' so you can get back to real life. This episode originally published September 25, 2019.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Our bodies need protein to maintain muscle. That's important because muscle mass peaks in our 30s and then declines. In this episode, tips about understanding how much protein you really need.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What happens if your car runs out of power on a road trip? Is it better to buy an EV now or wait until you need a new car? A roundup of smart questions from our listeners.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Credit scores determine whether you can get a mortgage, credit card, auto loan and more. So if your score is subprime, how do you bump it up to above a 700? In this episode, find out how to read your credit report, navigate collections and negotiate payments.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Putting off items in your to-do list isn't a sign of laziness. It's your inner critic coming to life. In this episode, revisit your relationship with procrastination — and learn tools to kick the habit.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Fish populations are dwindling around the world due to overfishing. Here's how to make the right choices when dining out or buying fish at the market.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Yes, there will be meltdowns. But there will also be joy. Tips on which baby gear to pack, how to prepare your child (and yourself) for the long journey – and how to make the trip fun for everyone.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The longest relationship of your life might be with your sibling. But there aren't many tools for navigating the complex dynamic that can develop between childhood and adulthood. This episode addresses childhood misunderstandings, resentment, forgiveness and more.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Happy leap day! What will you do with your extra 24 hours? Whether you want to slow down and make time stop or just make sure to enjoy the time you've got, we've picked tips from some of our favorite episodes on how to spend your time wisely.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The popular weight loss drug Ozempic makes shedding pounds seem like magic. But the reality is more complicated, says family physician Dr. Mara Gordon. She explains why it's hard to talk about Ozempic without addressing weight stigma and diet culture.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A good siesta can offer significant mental and physical health benefits. Here's how to take a nap that won't affect your nighttime sleep — and will leave you feeling energized.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Mastering a new hobby, like bowling or baking, can be a frustrating process. But experts say it doesn't have to be that way. If you set yourself up for success at the start and allow yourself to make mistakes — you can stick with it. This episode originally published October 26, 2021.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Called 'supercommunicators,' these people have the exceptional ability of creating authentic connections with others — just by listening and talking.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

You don't need to be an expert to grow a nest egg. We'll cover how to build your portfolio, when to sell (or not sell) stocks and how to avoid fees.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Do you have boxes filled with photos, artwork and artifacts from when you were a kid? Here's how to decide what to keep and toss — and manage the emotions that come up along the way.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Gottmans have been studying marriage and relationships for 40 years. In a new book, Fight Right, they explain how successful couples resolve their conflicts.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Just about every major streaming service has raised its subscription fees. At the same time, there are more programming bundles, membership deals, ad-supported subscriptions and streaming services overall. NPR TV critic and media analyst Eric Deggans shares a streaming strategy to help you get the most bang for your buck.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Just starting your career? Elainy Mata, host of the Harvard Business Review podcast New Here, offers advice on how to deal with issues that aren't part of the job description.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Dr. Aditi Nerurkar offers five accessible ways to minimize stress in your daily life — no lavish vacations or big life changes necessary.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

It's tricky to talk to younger kids about sex. This episode helps parents get past the confusion and embarrassment around sex education so they can raise healthy, responsible kids. This episode originally aired December 17, 2019.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

There are many decisions that go into getting a tattoo. You need to choose the right artist, design, style and placement. Veteran tattoo artist Noemi Barajas shares tips for first-timers.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Want fresher, cleaner air at home? Researchers share practical tips from researchers on how to clean your house (and your air), test your air quality and change your habits to limit indoor air pollution. This episode originally aired on May 9th, 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Do you often find yourself in the center of other people's drama? Intervening when you wish you didn't? These practical tips can help you draw boundaries and stay in your lane.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Worry you're drinking too much coffee, tea, soda or energy drinks? A gastroenterologist and a caffeine researcher share surprising insights about the psychoactive drug — and explain why caffeine may not deserve its bad reputation. This episode originally aired on March 7, 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Becoming a mother is a complicated life transition. That postpartum feeling of being on an emotional rollercoaster, not recognizing your body in the mirror and thinking that you've lost yourself is all part of the process. This episode offers guidance for mothers on how to get their footing, manage expectations, get support and prioritize time for themselves. These insights are also great for people who are in their support network.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

If you've been experiencing negative feelings like panic or anxiety for more than a few days, you might be in distress, says psychiatrist Dr. Kali Cyrus. Here's how to keep those emotions in check.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

When money's tight, it's hard to save for a rainy day or pay off credit card debt. But it's not impossible, says Monique White, a financial expert and the head of community at Self Financial, Inc.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Life happens. Sometimes we get injured or sick — and of course we get older. As we change, so should our exercise routine. Here's how to adapt your fitness plan to meet your body where it is.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Feeling overwhelmed, panicked or anxious? Clinical psychologist Jenny Taitz offers simple techniques to improve your mood and calm your body and mind in minutes.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Last fall, NPR's Body Electric challenged listeners to take part in a study with Columbia University. Over 20,000 people signed up to incorporate movement breaks into their day. So ... did it work?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Whether you grew up playing music or you never progressed beyond "Hot Cross Buns," it's not too late to pick up a new instrument. Let fun lead the way and lose yourself in the joy of learning. Joel Snape, who picked up piano at age 40, offers tips for beginners.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Is it OK to exercise before you hit the hay? Sleep for less than 5 hours a night? Sleep scientist Rebecca Robbins sets the record straight to help you get better sleep.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Do's, don'ts and current best practices for resume-writing from career coach Cynthia Pong.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

You don't have to be a marathoner or a gym rat to get meaningful health benefits from exercise. And that sort of "go big or go home" mentality can actually be a block to getting movement. This episode, we bust common misconceptions about exercise so you can get moving in a way that feels good to you. This episode originally published December 15, 2018.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The new year is a great time to update your budget, say financial experts. Here's what you can do to curb your spending, save for emergencies and keep your investments on track.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Happy New Year! If you want to make a resolution that sticks, the key to success is creating what's known as a SMART goal. This episode outlines how SMART goals work and how they can help you use your time for the things that matter most.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Running is a classic form of exercise for a reason. You don't need equipment or a gym membership and it provides cardiovascular benefits. But many people are told that running is not for them because of their body type. We talk to Martinus Evans, a running coach and the author of "Slow AF Run Club," about how you can start running in the body you have. This episode was originally published June 22, 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The week between Christmas and New Year's Day is a good time to check in with yourself and take stock of the year. Reporter Kyle Norris talks with Buddhist Lama Rod Owens about how to get reflective during this time. Plus, a creative exercise to help you look back from cartoonist Nicole J. Georges.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Traci Thomas, host of the hit book podcast 'The Stacks,' shares 6 surprising tips on how to find your next great read. One tip? Don't be afraid to judge a book by its cover. This episode originally published on July 20, 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

It's getting darker and colder, and there's still a pandemic. Oh, and then there's seasonal affective disorder. Here's how to spot it and what you can do. (This episode originally aired in October 2020.)Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy