How To! with Mike Pesca

Delve into the fascinating world of nonverbal communication, where gestures and facial expressions often speak louder than words. Explore how sitcom legends like The Big Bang Theory masterfully use these cues to enhance emotional depth. Gain insight into the impact of tone and body language on personal connections, revealing secrets that can transform everyday interactions. Hear expert opinions and personal stories that highlight the significance of subtle behaviors in fostering understanding and trust.

Kathy Stokes, Director of fraud prevention programs at AARP, shares her expertise on protecting older adults from fraud. She recounts a chilling scam involving a fake Microsoft employee, illustrating the vulnerability of seniors. Kathy emphasizes the importance of open communication about cyber threats and offers practical strategies for families to educate their loved ones. She encourages involving seniors in fraud prevention discussions to empower them and suggests actionable measures like freezing credit and using AARP's Fraud Watch Network for support.

In this engaging discussion, psychology professor Nick Epley shares insights on how deep questions can transform conversations and create genuine connections. Mandy Len Catron reflects on her viral essay about the 36 questions that can lead to love, exploring the nuances of intimacy and vulnerability. Together, they highlight the importance of curiosity in fostering meaningful relationships, revealing how asking the right questions can turn everyday chats into profound exchanges. Dive into the art of heartfelt communication and discover new ways to connect!

Discover the art of conversation and the secrets to building deep connections. Psychologist Nick Epley shares insights on using 36 powerful questions to foster relationships, especially among executives. The discussion explores the emotional impact of storytelling and highlights how meaningful conversations can change our lives. Tune in for expert perspectives on communication without words!

Yanely Espinal, a financial educator and author of "Mind Your Money," shares her expertise on managing student loan debt. She discusses the emotional and practical realities of student loan repayment, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy. Yanely offers smart strategies like loan consolidation, automatic payments, and understanding credit scores to tackle debt effectively. She also addresses the risks of using retirement funds for repayment and encourages proactive financial planning to achieve independence from student loans.

Emily Nagoski, a renowned sex educator and author of "Come as You Are," delves into the complexities of sexual desire and intimacy. She addresses how medications can affect libido, emphasizing the importance of emotional communication in relationships. Nagoski encourages scheduling intimate time, advocating for 'sex dates' to enhance connection. She dispels common myths about sex, offering actionable advice for individuals regardless of age or relationship status. Ultimately, she reframes societal views on desire, promoting a healthier understanding of intimacy.

Jeff and his family lost their home last month in the L.A. wildfires. Since then, he's been hyperfocused on insurance claims, an epic to-do list, and finding a "temporary" place to live for the next several years. But Jeff hasn't experienced the emotional punch of the devastation yet. In fact… he just feels numb. On this episode of How To!, Courtney Martin brings on Laurel Braitman, author of What Looks Like Bravery: An Epic Journey Through Loss to Love. In a moving (and sometimes funny) conversation, Laurel tells Jeff how she's still processing what she lost in a 2017 wildfire, and they talk about the heartbreak, grief—and glimmers of hope—that follow the sudden loss of your family's home. Artwork mentioned: It's Going Down Like a House on Fire by Nyx Coker. https://compote.slate.com/images/59305637-0bdb-492c-9734-39addc8f11b6.jpeg If you liked this episode check out: How To Survive a Disaster. Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. How To's executive producer is Derek John. Joel Meyer is our senior editor/producer. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis. Want more How To!? Subscribe to Slate Plus to unlock exclusive bonus episodes. Plus, you'll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts by clicking "Try Free" at the top of the How To! show page. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guillermo and his ex-wife divorced nearly a decade ago. They share custody of their son which, Guillermo says, lets her continue meddling in his life. He recently started dating someone and it's getting serious, but he's worried that his ex is going to destroy his new relationship. On this episode of How To!, Carvell Wallace brings on Bill Eddy, author and co-founder of the High Conflict Institute. Bill explains how to set limits and impose consequences in truly difficult situations to preserve your peace of mind and foster happiness. If you liked this episode check out: How To Do Divorce Right and How To Save a Friend from a Bad Relationship Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. How To's executive producer is Derek John. Joel Meyer is our senior editor/producer. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis. Want more How To!? Subscribe to Slate Plus to unlock exclusive bonus episodes. Plus, you'll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts by clicking "Try Free" at the top of the How To! show page. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Eric Liu, co-founder and CEO of Citizen University and a former advisor to Presidents Clinton and Obama, shares insights into harnessing civic power. He emphasizes that everyone can make a difference, even busy parents and first-timers. Liu discusses overcoming imposter syndrome in civic engagement and the importance of small acts to foster community connection. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their authenticity and navigate local politics to effect change, spotlighting the value of civic catalysts in today’s landscape.

A journalist grappling with midlife career changes explores the exciting prospect of switching to fields like astrophysics or law. With the help of a career coach, they delve into mindset shifts and the importance of aligning new roles with personal passions. The podcast discusses navigating ageism, networking, and finding fulfillment in new careers, all while transforming feelings of stagnation into thrilling adventures. Listeners are encouraged to embrace ambiguity and see career transitions as opportunities for personal growth.