Quarter-Life Questions - adulting made easy

Staying warm this winter shouldn’t feel like a dilemma — but for many of us, high energy prices, confusing tariffs, and unpredictable bills can make it stressful. So this week, we’re diving into a very timely Quarter Life Question: How do you actually cut energy costs this winter - and what genuinely makes a difference when it comes to keeping bills low? I’m joined by Brian Horne from the Energy Saving Trust, who spends his days helping people understand their energy use, navigate price changes, and make smart choices at home - whether you rent, own, or live somewhere in between.✨ In this episode, we chat about:How UK energy tariffs really work Whether it’s better to stick with a variable tariff or switch to a fixed oneWhat the “energy price cap” actually is — and what it means for your billQuick daily habits (under a minute!) that genuinely reduce energy costsWhere to go for help if you’re struggling to pay💬 More about the Energy Saving Trust:The Energy Saving Trust is a leading UK organisation helping households reduce energy use, lower bills, and move towards a more sustainable lifestyle. Their advice is independent, trusted, and designed to help people stay warm and save money — without needing to spend a fortune.Explore their guides, tools, and support here:https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/📲 Want to get involved?Got a Quarter Life Question you’d love to hear answered on the pod?DM me on Instagram @gracemcintosh1 or TikTok @gracemcintosh_  - I’d love to hear from you⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Please leave a 5-star review — it helps more people find the show, and it genuinely means the world.Thanks for listening, look after yourself, and I’ll see you next week.Grace x

Relationships can be exciting, messy, intense, and confusing — especially in your twenties. But sometimes, what feels like “passion,” “chemistry,” or someone being “really into you” can actually be early signs that something isn’t right. And when you’re in it, it can be really hard to tell the difference.So this week, we’re diving into a big Quarter Life Question:How do you spot early signs of unhealthy or abusive behaviour - and what does a genuinely safe, supportive, fear-free relationship look like?I’m joined by Debbie Beadle, CEO of FearFree, a UK charity supporting people experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence, or unhealthy relationships. Debbie has spent years working directly with survivors and helping people understand the subtle, early warning signs before abuse escalates. ✨ In this episode, we chat about:The different forms abuse can take — emotional, financial, digital, and moreEarly, subtle signs that a relationship may be turning unhealthyWhy some red flags get normalised or go unnoticed over time & the impact of trauma bondsWhat lovebombing actually isHow friends and family can support someone they’re worried aboutAnd importantly… what a healthy, supportive relationship should look likeDISCLAIMER: If you may find any of the above distressing please skip to 38 minutes 20 seconds. 💬 More about FearFree:FearFree is a UK charity providing support, advocacy, and specialist services for people experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking, or unhealthy relationships. Their work is trauma-informed, non-judgmental, and aimed at helping people feel safer, empowered, and understood.Find out more: https://www.fearfree.org.uk/🧡 Additional organisations & helpful resources:National Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0808 2000 247RefugeWomen’s AidGalop (LGBTQ+ anti-abuse charity)Respect Men’s Advice Line📲 Want to get involved?Got a Quarter Life Question you’d love to hear answered on the pod?DM me on Instagram @gracemcintosh1 or TikTok @gracemcintosh_ — I’d love to hear from you!⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Please leave a 5-star review - it helps more people find the show, and it means the world.Thanks for listening, take care of yourself, and I’ll see you next week.Grace x

Bonfire night has been and gone which means the festive season is officially on the horizon. Yes, we’re talking about Christmas already, and specifically shopping for gifts! If like me, you haven’t started your shopping yet and you’re on a budget, this episode is for you.This week on the pod, I’m joined by Hannah, the creator behind @HanninDevon on TikTok and Instagram - who’s built a following by sharing affordable gift ideas, Home Bargains hauls, and clever hacks for thoughtful giving on a budget.✨ In this episode, we chat about:How to plan your Christmas gifting budget (and stick to it!)Hannah’s favourite stores and websites for budget-friendly presentsCreative DIY ideas that don’t look “cheap”Gift ideas for Men, Women, Kids, Grandparents and Secret Santa under £10💬 More about Hannah:Hannah (aka @HanninDevon) is a mum of four and content creator who shares realistic and creative shopping inspiration for those who want to give thoughtful gifts without breaking the bank. Her videos cover everything from fitness tips and day in the lives to seasonal hauls and property investment journey. TikTok: @HanninDevonInstagram: @HanninDevon📲 Want to get involved?Got a Quarter Life Question you’d love to hear answered on the pod? DM me on Instagram @gracemcintosh1 or TikTok @gracemcintosh_ — I’d love to hear from you!⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Please leave a 5-star review — it really helps more people find us and keeps the Quarter Life Questions community growing.Thanks for listening, Grace x

Nights out are meant to be fun — not stressful and certainly not scary or unsafe. Maybe your phone died, you lost your friends, or a date started to feel a bit off. I’ve been there. This week on the pod, we’re talking about all things nightlife safety, from how to get help if you feel uncomfortable, to spotting the signs of spiking, and how our towns and cities are working to make nights out safer for everyone.✨ In this episode, we chat about:What “Ask for Angela” means and how to use it if you feel unsafeHow to spot and prevent drink spikingHow Purple Flag Month celebrates safer, more inclusive nightlifePractical ways to keep yourself and your friends safe on a night out💬 More about this week’s guests:👉  Sylvia Oates — Ask for AngelaSylvia is the National Director of Ask for Angela, a nationwide initiative that helps anyone discreetly ask for help if they feel unsafe on a date or night out. The campaign is now active in thousands of venues across the UK.👉 Colin Mackie — SpikeAware UKColin co-founded SpikeAware UK after losing his son to spiking. The charity raises awareness, supports victims, and campaigns for stronger action against spiking incidents.👉 Laura Blake — Purple FlagLaura leads the Purple Flag programme, which recognises UK towns and cities that offer safe, welcoming, and well-managed nightlife.📲 Helpful Resources: Ask for Angela SpikeAware UKDrinkaware: Spiking Prevention & AdvicePurple Flag — ATCMVictim Support — for anyone affected by spiking or harassmentStop Hate UK Rape Crisis England & Wales — for confidential advice and helpRape Crisis Scotland Strut Safe - UK-wide phone line if you’re walking alone 📲 Want to get involved?Got a Quarter Life Question you’d love to hear answered on the pod?Slide into my DMs over on Instagram @gracemcintosh1 or TikTok  @gracemcintosh_  - I’d love to hear from you!⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Please take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star review wherever you’re listening — it helps more people find the show and keeps the QLQ conversations going 💫Thanks so much for listening — and I’ll catch you next week!Grace x

Weight loss is one of those topics where it’s everywhere, but still so misunderstood. From calorie counting to weight loss jabs, hormone talk to TikTok "fat-burning" teas, it’s hard to know what’s real and what’s just a fad. So how do you lose weight safely and sustainably - without falling into toxic diet culture or wasting time? This week I’m joined by Laura Southern, a registered nutritional therapist who’s all about science-backed, non-restrictive approaches to health. She works with clients to support everything from gut health to emotional eating, and she’s answering all of our weight loss questions. ✨ In this episode, we chat about:The role hormones play in hunger, cravings, and fat storageWeight Loss Jabs vs. Lifestyle Changes: Which Actually Works?The healthiest, most sustainable way to lose weight (and keep it off)A realistic starter plan if you do want to lose weight  💬 More about Laura:Laura Southern is a registered nutritional therapist who supports clients with weight management, hormone health, gut issues and more. She believes food should feel freeing, not restrictive - and uses evidence-based guidance to help people feel healthier, stronger and more in tune with their bodies.Website:https://www.londonfoodtherapy.com/Instagram: @londonfoodtherapy📲 Want to get involved?Got a Quarter Life Question you want answered on the pod? DM me on Instagram @gracemcintosh1 or TikTok @gracemcintosh_ - I'd love to hear from you.⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Please leave a 5-star review - it really helps more people find us and keeps the QLQ convo going.Thanks so much for listening - and see you next week!Grace x

Isn’t it weird that from a young age we're told to eat our five a day, get enough sleep, stay active… But when it comes to our minds? No one really taught us how to look after those.This week on Quarter-Life Questions podcast, we’re asking How do you take care of your mental health? I’m chatting with Anita Guru, a Mindset coach and mental health educator, about what emotional resilience actually is, how to spot the early signs of burnout, and why rest isn’t something we should have to earn. This one’s for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed, on edge, or just plain exhausted by the pressure of life, work, social media - all of it.✨ In this episode, we chat about:Why so many of us miss the signs that we’re strugglingWhat burnout actually looks like and how to avoid itSubtle signs a friend might not be okay - even if they say they’re “fine”The way social media impacts our mental healthBuilding emotional resilienceSimple ways to look after our mental health 💬 More about Anita:Anita Guru is a Mindset Coach, motivational speaker, educator, and trainee therapist with nearly two decades of experience in organisations like Deloitte and Coca-Cola European Partners. After years in the corporate world, Anita made a powerful shift toward a purpose-driven career focused on mental wellbeing and human leadership.She has shared her story and insights on major platforms including the BBC, British Vogue, Happiful, and Stylist Magazine — using her lived experience to challenge the stigma around mental health and create open, honest conversations that help others feel seen, supported, and empowered.Instagram: @_themindcoach_Website: https://anitagurumindcoach.com/LinkedIn: Anita Guru - The Mind Coach 📲 Want to get involved?Got a Quarter Life Question you’d love to hear answered on the pod?Send me a DM over on Instagram @gracemcintosh1 - I’d love to hear from you!⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Please take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star review wherever you’re listening - it helps more people find the show and keeps these honest conversations going 💫Thanks so much for listening, take care of yourself this week, and I’ll catch you on the next one.Grace x

Ever dreamed of being financially free? Maybe even retiring early? But then thought… is that actually realistic? Well, you’re not alone.This week on Quarter-Life Questions podcast, we’re getting into all things financial freedom, long-term wealth, and future-proofing your money with Lewis Crompton - a finance and trading mentor who’s helped loads of people (especially young people) get smarter with their money and feel more confident about investing.✨ In this episode, we chat about:How to start preparing about your financial future Why financial freedom isn’t just for the super richWhat “safe” investing actually looks like How trading changed Lewis’ life 💬 More about Lewis:Lewis Crompton is a finance and trading mentor and the founder of STARTrading. After walking away from his low-paying 9–5, he built his own version of financial freedom and now helps others do the same. He’s now on a mission to help 1 million families move closer to financial independence. Whether it’s through trading, investing, or learning how money actually works, Lewis is all about education, not gatekeeping.Website: STARTradingInstagram: @withlewiscromptonTikTok: @withlewiscrompton📲 Want to get involved?Got a Quarter Life Question you’d love to hear answered on the pod?Slide into my DMs over on Instagram @gracemcintosh1 — I’d love to hear from you!⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Please take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star review wherever you’re listening — it helps more people find the show and keeps the QLQ conversations going 💫Thanks so much for listening — and I’ll catch you next week!Grace x

Have you ever wanted to start a side hustle and make some extra money outside your 9–5? Well, you’re not alone.This week on the pod, we’re diving into the world of side hustles, digital income streams, and content creation with the brilliant Will Gryba from Next Gen Personal Finance. Will’s a personal finance educator who’s on a mission to make money talk less confusing and way more accessible - especially for young people.He shares how he turned his interest in finance into a very decent side hustle through social media, affiliate marketing, and digital content. No get rich quick secrets. No financial gatekeeping. Just real, relatable advice.✨ In this episode, we chat about:Where to start if you want to earn extra money on the sideThe mindset shift that helps side hustles actually succeedAffiliate marketing 101 — what it is and how to get into itHow Will built a content creation income stream from scratch💬 More about Will:Will Gryba is a personal finance educator and content creator at Next Gen Personal Finance. He’s passionate about helping people understand how money works — and how to make it work for you. From budgeting basics to building digital income streams, Will’s content is real, relatable, and genuinely helpful. You can find his tips, tricks, and advice on money over on his socials. Instagram:@nextgenngpfTikTok: @nextgenngpf📲 Want to get involved?Got a Quarter Life Question you’d love to hear answered on the pod?Message me on Instagram @gracemcintosh1 or TikTok @gracemcintosh_ — I’d love to hear from you!⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Please take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star review wherever you’re listening — it helps more people find the show and keeps the QLQ conversations going 💫Thanks so much for listening — and I’ll catch you next week!Grace x

Dating in your twenties can feel like a lot! From ghosting to commitment issues, awkward first messages to decoding red flags — and navigating this as a straight man (often the one expected to make the first move) is arguably even harder. So how do you actually get better at it and attract the women you really want? This week on the pod, I’m joined by David Chambers, host of The Authentic Man Podcast and a dating, relationship, and intimacy coach who’s answering this very question and more. He’s spent over a decade helping men build confidence, improve their dating lives, and show up more authentically in relationships.✨ In this episode, we chat about:Why commitment can feel so hard for some menThe pressure guys feel when making the first move (and how to do it respectfully)Conversation starters & first messages that actually workDating app profiles, flirting in the club & avoiding the “ick” factorHow self-awareness (for both men and women) is the secret to better connections💬 More about David:David Chambers is a dating, intimacy, and relationship coach who helps men move past outdated stereotypes and the “man box” to build deeper, healthier connections. Through coaching, workshops, and his podcast The Authentic Man Podcast, David shares practical tools for men who want to date more consciously, show up authentically, and create more fulfilling relationships.Check out David’s podcast: The Authentic Man PodcastInstagram: @theauthenticman_📲 Want to get involved?Got a Quarter Life Question you’d love to hear answered on the pod? DM me on Instagram @gracemcintosh1 or TikTok @gracemcintosh_ — I’d love to hear from you!⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Please leave a 5-star review — it really helps more people find us and keeps the QLQ convo going.Thanks for listening — and see you next week!Grace x