S3: Episode 31: Change is in the Air
Advice Is Optional
Thirty-one episodes. Two and a half years behind the scenes. And somehow, we’re still surprised by where this podcast has taken us. In this Season 3 finale, we look back at the growth, the pivots, the tension, and the unexpected turns that shaped this season, from money shifts and moving in together to career curveballs and Gage almost quitting the podcast. Life changed. So did we. Season 4 might look different… but the conversations aren’t going anywhere. 1:42 Let's talk about what things have changed 3:04 Spoiler Gage got a pet 7:21 Kristal says I told you so 9:32 A...
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S3: Episode 30: Think and Grow Rich
Advice Is Optional
Inspired by by Napoleon Hill, Gage opens up about writing down a big life goal, setting a money target, and how it felt to tell his girlfriend and then now put it out on the podcast. Plus, Kristal shares how manifestations can show up in the most unexpected ways. Listen in and ask yourself, what’s your dream and who do you trust enough to share it with? 1:14 Think and Grow Rich and defining a goal with steps 4:00 Kristal flashbacks to college tours and tricking Gage into listening 10:20 What you want from the Universe will change 12:47 Money is currency and currency is energy and it needs a...
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S3: Episode 29: Love Languages: Is it BS?
Advice Is Optional
Kristal and Gage revisit a topic that once got a hard eye-roll from Gage, the book Back in season one, Kristal swore by them. Gage? He called bullsh*t. Fast forward to real adult life and moving in with his girlfriend, navigating stress, conflict, and connection and suddenly those “bullsh*t” concepts start hitting a little closer to home. 1:47 Can Gage name the five love languages? 3:34 Gage reveals his and Sarah’s love language 5:34 Gage explains his self sabotage of receiving the actual “gift” from his partner 8:01 Filling the love tank and Gage explains how he has been...
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S3: Episode 28: In and Outs of Buying a Car
Advice Is Optional
Buying your next car doesn’t have to wreck your finances. In this episode we sit down with Christian, car industry insider and lifelong car enthusiast to break down how to buy smart in today’s used car market. From why new cars are a bad idea in your 20's to what mileage actually means, red flags on Carfax, maintenance myths, and why oil changes matter more than you think! 1:43 Mid 20’s should you be buying used or new? 6:20 Best models to purchase 9:00 Why it’s best to trade in at under 100k miles 13:05 It’s important to get your oil changed 16:00 Tire rotation...
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S3: Episode 27: Moving in part 2
Advice Is Optional
Gage shares a real-time life update, he and his partner, Sarah, have decided to move in together which moves the convo towards fears, finances, and logistics… eventually bringing in one of Gage’s famous spreadsheets. This episode reminds you that growth isn’t perfect, and the advice is always optional. Something good to say? Leave a review or give us a shout out on social media. We would totally appreciate it! Interested in your own Coaching Session with Kristal? click on Highlights: 1:00 Gage’s update on moving in with his partner, Sarah 4:02 Moving in with a significant...
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S3 Episode 26: Dress Codes at Work
Advice Is Optional
Gage and Kristal take on workplace dress codes, professional expectations, and the unwritten rules no one ever explains. What begins with Gage’s frustration over having to get a haircut turns into a debate about comfort versus professionalism, generational differences, and the hidden power dynamics behind “looking the part.” Something good to say? Leave a review or give us a shout out on social media. We would totally appreciate it! Interested in your own Coaching Session with Kristal? click on Highlights: 0:48 Gage’s luxurious mane is gone! But why? 3:49 Do we...
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S3 Episode 25: Bar Scene with Hannah
Advice Is Optional
AIO welcomes special guest Hannah, Gage’s mentor in bartending and managing. Hannah speaks of navigating alcohol safely and thoughtfully—especially for women. From pacing drinks and ordering smarter, to social pressure, bartender etiquette, mocktails, and staying aware in bar settings, this conversation blends real-life bar experience with mindset and self-trust. Honest, and informative, this episode reminds listeners that you can enjoy the scene without losing yourself in it. This podcast may include conversations and recipes that reference alcohol. All alcohol-related content is...
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S3 Episode 24: Humbled by the Job Market
Advice Is Optional
Gage needs a side hustle and what should’ve been easy turns into a lesson in humility. AI hiring, ego checks, and shifting mindset. Kristal and Gage talk about knowing your worth, staying grounded, and trusting that everything works out for the best. Something good to say? Leave a review or give us a shout out on social media. We would totally appreciate it! Interested in your own Coaching Session with Kristal? click on Highlights: 1:18 Gage needs a low-stress side gig in the summer 2:48 Ego is part of Gage’s charm? 9:06 The application process is weird, hello AI...
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S3 Episode 23: Keeping Friends in Adulthood
Advice Is Optional
Gage and Kristal dive into the meaningful parts of maintaining friendships as life shifts, schedules get busy, and miles grow between them. They explore how friendships evolve over time, why reaching out can feel intimidating, and the different ways each generation stays connected — from video games to intentional heartfelt texts. Whether you’re trying to reconnect, maintain your circle, or simply feel less alone in the struggle, this conversation is for you. Something additional to consider: Something good to say? Leave a review or give us a shout out on social media. We...
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S3 Episode 22: When is the Right Time to Move In with Your GF
Advice Is Optional
Gage actually asks for advice and this episode catches a real time, raw conversation about expectations, maturity, money, communication, and navigating the genuine next step in a relationship. Something good to say? Leave a review or give us a shout out on social media. We would totally appreciate it! Interested in your own Coaching Session with Kristal? Click on Highlights: 01:07 The text: how it all started 04:19 A sick gaming room is not good enough reason to move into together 05:02 Gage reflects on how he is different than he was at 19 09:45 Gage asks Kristal how did she know...
info_outlineA harrowing trip to the Emergency Room sent my life literally spinning out of control. What my “woo woo” mom had to say about it, and how this might have changed my entire life (and our relationship) from here on out.
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"Advice is Optional" is a conversational podcast. The insights we share are personal opinions, not professional advice, and are intended to foster understanding, not to substitute expert guidance. Remember to consult qualified professionals for any medical, legal, or psychological concerns.