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...
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Can I get my own pet now?
Advice Is Optional
Our favorite special guest Ellie is back—and things get ruff! Gage and Ellie have very different takes on this topic, so buckle up and get ready to duck…shots are definitely fired in this episode. Find us @adviceisoptional on TikTok and IG for pictures of all the animals mentioned in this episode. Other helpful links from this episode: Helps homeless dogs to be matched with people with disabilities Rights to Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) Considering adoption or other ways to get involved with animals Something good to say? Leave a review or...
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Anxiety and A Case of Missing Baseballs
Advice Is Optional
In this episode, Gage and Kristal get real about anxiety—what it feels like, why it shows up, and what actually helps. From sweaty palms to spiraling thoughts, they break down the mind-body connection and give some tried-and-true tools to live by if you experience it. 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: 1:52 Gage defines anxiety 4:16 your brain doesn't know the difference between real and imagination 4:36...
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One Wedding and My Funeral?
Advice Is Optional
Gage is invited to his cousin’s wedding and he has a bunch of questions and a few rants. So, Kristal dives into the do’s and don’ts of wedding etiquette—from gifts and dress codes to rehearsal dinner confusion and whether or not it’s okay to sneak a peek at the Final Four during the vows. 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: 1:35 gift rant 5:18 generational differences 6:36 rehearsal dinner...
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Exercise as therapy, Say what?
Advice Is Optional
Gage shares how lifting weights became his therapy for dealing with anxiety, and Kristal explains why that worked. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or just trying to get consistent, this episode offers simple, real-life ways to use movement as medicine. No gym membership required. 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: 2:45 Gage connects mental health and exercise thru yoga therapy 6:05 different...
info_outlineIs Work-Life Balance even a thing? We tackle this very question with a special guest, Ellie, Gage’s younger sister who is also experiencing her first real job and struggling with this same question.
Something good to say? Leave a review or give us a shout out on social media. It really helps us and we would totally appreciate it!
Interested in your own Coaching Session with Kristal?
Click on https://kristalfiorentino.com/life-101/
Highlights:
1:00 Meet Ellie
2:46 Gage’s definition of work life balance
3:44 Ellie’s definition of work life balance
4:09 Kristal’s definition of work life balance
9:34 To do the cool sh*t in life, it takes a lot of work
19:49 Sometimes all you need is a-little acknowledgement
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.