Happy New Year! I hope 2026 is a fab one for all of us. 

Now things are a little different this week on Quarter Life Questions. That’s because there’s no guest - it’s just me. 

We’re starting the new year with the first-ever solo episode and I’ll be sharing a bit more about who I am, how this podcast came to be, and answering some of the questions you sent me. From my time on 4 O’Clock Club to my journalism career highlights, this is a relaxed, getting-to-know-me style episode before we get back to tackling your quarter-life questions with expert guests on the next one. 

Right grab a cuppa and take a listen. 

📲 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 leave a 5-star review - it helps more people find the show.

Thanks for listening, have a fab rest of your week, and I’ll see you next Wednesday. 

Grace x

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Being a young professional can feel overwhelming from walking into interviews with imposter syndrome, to awkward salary conversations, and trying to figure out how on earth people get promoted so quickly.

So this week, we’re diving into a very relatable Quarter Life Question: How do you successfully navigate corporate life in your 20s and actually progress without burning out or underselling yourself? I’m joined by Leah (@thatyoungprofessional_) a career content creator who shares practical advice on early-career growth, confidence at work, and thriving in corporate environments. Leah has experienced her own career transition, secured multiple promotions and is passionate about helping young professionals advocate for themselves and build careers they’re happy to be in.

✨ In this episode, we chat about:

• Interview tips to help you feel confident and prepared
• How to tackle awkward salary conversations
• Finding a genuine work-life balance 
• How to secure promotions in your 20s
• Building confidence and credibility when you’re the youngest person in the team

💬 More about Leah (@thatyoungprofessional_):

Leah is a career and corporate content creator dedicated to helping young professionals navigate work with confidence. From interview prep and career transitions to negotiating pay and promotions, Leah shares honest insights and actionable advice to help you grow in your chosen field. 

Follow Leah for more tips: 

Instagram: @thatyoungprofessional_

TikTok: @thatyoungprofessional_

📲 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 leave a 5-star review — it helps more people find the show, and it genuinely means the world.

Thanks for listening, take care of yourself, and I’ll see you next week.

Grace x

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Solo travel can feel exciting, empowering… and at the same time terrifying - especially if it’s something you’ve never done before. If you’ve been dreaming about booking that trip but have some reservations - fear not!

This week on the pod, I’m joined by Rikkell, the creator behind @yoursolotravelbestie, who’s built a community around encouraging women to travel solo with confidence. From first-time nerves to embracing freedom, Rikkell shares her honest experiences and what she loves about going abroad alone. 

✨ In this episode, we chat about:

• The biggest fears and misconceptions that stop women from solo travelling
• Safety while travelling alone and how identity can shape your experience
• How to budget, plan, and find the best deals for solo trips
• Tips for someone planning their first solo adventure

💬 More about Rikkell:

Rikkell is a solo travel content creator and the voice behind @yoursolotravelbestie, where she shares honest advice, destination tips, and encouragement for women who want to see the world on their own terms. She’s passionate about making solo travel feel accessible for all. 

Follow Rikkell on TikTok: @yoursolotravelbestie

📲 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 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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 one
• What the “energy price cap” actually is — and what it means for your bill
• Quick daily habits (under a minute!) that genuinely reduce energy costs
• Where 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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 more
• Early, subtle signs that a relationship may be turning unhealthy
• Why some red flags get normalised or go unnoticed over time & the impact of trauma bonds
• What lovebombing actually is
• How friends and family can support someone they’re worried about
• And importantly… what a healthy, supportive relationship should look like

DISCLAIMER: 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 247
• Refuge
• Women’s Aid
• Galop (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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 presents
• Creative 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: @HanninDevon

Instagram: @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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 unsafe
• How to spot and prevent drink spiking
• How Purple Flag Month celebrates safer, more inclusive nightlife
• Practical ways to keep yourself and your friends safe on a night out

💬 More about this week’s guests:

👉  Sylvia Oates — Ask for Angela

Sylvia 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 UK

Colin 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 Flag

Laura 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 UK
• Drinkaware: Spiking Prevention & Advice
• Purple Flag — ATCM
• Victim Support — for anyone affected by spiking or harassment
• Stop Hate UK 
• Rape Crisis England & Wales — for confidential advice and help
• Rape 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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 storage
• Weight 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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 struggling
• What burnout actually looks like and how to avoid it
• Subtle signs a friend might not be okay - even if they say they’re “fine”
• The way social media impacts our mental health
• Building emotional resilience
• Simple 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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 rich
• What “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: STARTrading

Instagram: @withlewiscrompton

TikTok: @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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 side
• The mindset shift that helps side hustles actually succeed
• Affiliate marketing 101 — what it is and how to get into it
• How 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:@nextgenngpf

TikTok: @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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 men
• The pressure guys feel when making the first move (and how to do it respectfully)
• Conversation starters & first messages that actually work
• Dating app profiles, flirting in the club & avoiding the “ick” factor
• How 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 Podcast

Instagram: @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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever daydreamed about leaving your 9–5 to work for yourself — but then thought, “But to do what?” You’re not alone.

This week on the pod, we’re diving into one of the biggest Quarter-Life Questions out there: How do you actually quit your job and start freelancing? Joining me is the incredible Virtual Vivian (aka Vivian Elizabeth, or Viv!) — a virtual assistant who built her own six-figure business in her 20s. She helps business owners with everything from admin and social media management to streamlining their workflows, all while working remotely and living life on her own terms.

Viv went from having no idea how to start a business to becoming her own boss and creating a lifestyle that gives her the freedom to work from anywhere in the world. In this episode, she’s sharing the real story behind her journey — the wins, the challenges, and the lessons she learned along the way.

✨ In this episode, we chat about:

• How Viv went from 9–5 employee to full-time freelancer
• What a virtual assistant actually does (and why it’s such a growing industry)
• How to find your first freelance clients and build a business from scratch
• How to use the skills you already have and what skills are in demand 
• How much you can earn as a Virtual Assistant and what prices to charge

💬 More about Viv:

Viv is a freelance virtual assistant and business owner. She helps entrepreneurs with admin, social media, and business operations so they can free up time and grow their companies. Realising others might want the same freedom but didn't know how to start, she created the Virtual Freelancer Academy - a step-by-step online course based on her own experience and strategies. She’s a coach too and supports new and aspiring VA’s on their journey. 

Instagram: @virtual.vivian

TikTok: @virtual.vivian

Website: virtualvivian.com

📲 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 tuning in — and I’ll see you next week!

Grace x

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you're thinking about buying your first home but have absolutely no idea where to start - please do not worry, you are not alone.

This week on the pod, we’re tackling one of the most confusing and overwhelming Quarter-Life Questions out there: What do first-time buyers actually need to know when it comes to mortgages?

Joining me is Philip Keith, an expert mortgage adviser and founder of Mellow Financial. Philip helps first-time buyers make sense of the whole process — from saving for a deposit and keeping an eye on your credit score to what actually happens when you apply for a mortgage. Whether you’re years away from buying or just about to book your first viewing, this episode is packed with straightforward and practical advice. 

✨ In this episode, we chat about:

• Where to start if you’re thinking about buying
• How much you you can borrow
• Biggest mistakes first time buyers make and how to avoid them
• What a mortgage broker/ adviser actually does 
• The truth about credit scores and how much they actually matter 

💬 More about Philip:

Philip Keith is a friendly and very personable mortgage adviser at Mellow Financial. Philip has over 20 years experience working in financial services and started Mellow Financial in 2019. He specialises in helping first-time buyers feel confident and clear about their home-buying journey. No jargon, no pompous suits — just honest, tailored advice to help you get where you want to go.

Website: mellowfinancial.co.uk

TikTok: @philip_mellow_financial

Instagram: @mellowfinancial

📲 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 I’ll see you on the next one!

Grace x

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you struggle with self-doubt? Imposter syndrome? Or maybe you’re just tired of second-guessing yourself in work, relationships, or social settings? This one’s for you.

This week on the pod, we’re diving into a Quarter-Life Question that so many of us have asked at one point or another: How do you actually build lasting confidence?

Joining me is certified confidence coach Tamsin Broster, founder of Unshakable Confidence. Tamsin helps women stop waiting to feel “ready” and start showing up exactly as they are - and she shares her top tips when it comes to building confidence from the inside out.

✨ In this episode, we chat about:

• What confidence really is — and where it comes from
• Why you don’t need to be “loud” to be confident
• The biggest myths about self-confidence (and how they hold us back)
• Practical tools to help you feel more confident in everyday life

💬 More about Tamsin:

Tamsin Broster is a certified coach and the founder of Unshakable Confidence, a coaching practice dedicated to helping women let go of self-doubt and feel powerful in their own skin. With a background in leadership coaching and a warm, no-BS approach, Tamsin’s helped countless clients find their voice and stop playing small. She has a podcast too: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/unshakeable-confidence/id1739103221

Website: unshakableconfidence.co.uk

Instagram: @unshakableconfidence_

📲 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 I’ll see you next week!

Grace x

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever dreamed of turning a side hustle into a thriving business? Or maybe you’ve got an idea but no clue where to even start? This episode is for you.

This week, we’re tackling a big Quarter Life Question so many of us ask ourselves: How do you actually start and grow a business?

To help me answer this, I’m joined by Lucy Hitchcock, founder of the viral brand Partner in Wine and the creative force behind Sassy Digital. Lucy went from launching a lockdown side hustle to building a business that’s been featured on This Morning and in OK! and Heat magazine - and in this ep, she’s sharing how she did it.

✨ In this episode, we chat about:

• How Lucy turned a lockdown idea into a viral brand
• The biggest challenges (and lessons) of starting a business from scratch
• The benefits of being a solopreneur 
• Why authenticity matters more than perfection when building your brand
• Social media tips for standing out (and even going viral!)

💬 More about Lucy:

Lucy Hitchcock is the founder of Partner in Wine, the insulated wine bottle and tumbler brand that took Instagram by storm, and Sassy Digital, a digital marketing & web design company helping businesses create stand-out brands online. Check her out: 

Websites: partnerinwine.co.uk | sassydigital.co.uk

TikTok: @partnerinwineuk | @lucyhitchcock

Instagram: @partnerinwineuk | @sassydigital | @lucyhitchcock_

📲 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 I’ll see you next week!

Grace x

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we’re diving into everything you need to know about apprenticeships - what they are, how to find them, how the application process works, what kind of money you can earn, and how to make yourself stand out and bag your dream one.

And here to answer all of this and more as well as sharing his own personal experience is Elijah Olanipekun from the Black Apprentice Network, he’s done one and has lots of tips and advice from his own personal experience landing his dream apprenticeship role with one of the biggest tech companies in the world: Salesforce. They even paid for his degree too! 

✨ In this episode, we chat about:

• What an apprenticeship actually is (hint: it’s a real job and you get paid)
• The different levels and types of apprenticeships available
• What the application process involves (plus Elijah’s top tips for standing out) 
• How much apprentices are paid and what kind of benefits are included

💬 More about The Black Apprentice Network:

Elijah is part of the team behind the Black Apprentice Network, a community platform supporting Black apprentices across the UK. The network offers guidance, events, peer support, and visibility for apprentices at all levels. Find out more here: https://www.blackapprenticenetwork.co.uk/

📸 Instagram:@blackapprenticenetwork

🎥 TikTok:@blackapprenticenetwork

📍Where to find apprenticeship opportunities: 

• GOV.uk Apprenticeships: https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
• UCAS: https://www.ucas.com/apprenticeships
• Amazing Apprenticeships: https://www.amazingapprenticeships.com/employers/bbc/#programme-details
• Not Going To Uni: https://notgoingtouni.co.uk/opportunities#

📲 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 I’ll see you next week!

Grace x

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever thought about packing a bag, quitting your job (or just pressing pause!), and heading off on a gap year adventure? Whether you’re fresh out of uni, stuck in the 9–5 rut, or just craving a break from everyday life, this episode’s for you.

This week, we’re diving into a big Quarter Life Question that I’m sure many of us have asked ourselves at some point which is:

Should I take a gap year? And how do I actually make it happen? To help me answer this, I’m joined by Casey from Gap 360 - a travel expert who’s not only helped loads of people plan their dream trips, but has done her own gap year adventure too. 

✨ In this episode, we chat about:

• Casey’s gap year experience around Central and South America 
• Why a gap year isn’t just for 18-year-olds
• Going solo and safety advice 
• Packing essentials - what to take with you 

💬 More about Casey:

Casey is a Travel Advisor at Gap 360, a UK-based company that helps you plan epic gap year trips with loads of support (perfect if the whole thing feels a bit overwhelming). They specialise in gap year and adventure travel for 18–30-year-olds - check them out here: www.gap360.com

🎥 TikTok: @gap360official

📸 Instagram: @gap360official

📲 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 I’ll see you next week!

Grace x

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Politics can often feel messy, confusing, and - let’s be honest - sometimes it’s completely out of touch with the average working person. When headlines are about yet another scandal and politicians feel hard to trust, it’s no surprise that so many young people are switching off.

But here’s the thing: politics affects everything — from the price of your rent to the apps you use, to your rights at work.

So this week, we’re tackling a big Quarter Life Question: Why should we care about politics — and can we even trust politicians anymore? To help me break this down, I’m joined by Alex and Isaac, the brilliant duo behind Pop and Politics, a podcast making politics digestible and fun. They’re on a mission to get more young people engaged in politics without the boring jargon.

✨ In this episode, we chat about:

• Why politics matters, even if you feel like it doesn’t
• Whether politicians can be trusted
• The role of pop culture and social media 
• Tips for staying informed without feeling overwhelmed

💬 More about Pop and Politics:

Alex Charles and Isaac Male talk to some of the most influential MP's about the music that has sound tracked their lives and impacted their political views. 

Check them out here:

📸 Instagram: @popandpoliticsuk

🎥 TikTok: @popandpolitics

My recommendations for good instagram accounts to follow for politics news: 

@ukfactcheckpolitics

@simplepolitics

@politicsjoe

@girlswhotalkpolitics

📲 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 I’ll see you next week!

Grace x

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all know that eating well is important, but when your budget is tight, it can feel very difficult. The cost of living crisis is no joke and it impacts all of us in some way or another and especially what we eat. 

So this week, we’re diving into a very relatable Quarter Life Question:

How can I eat well on a budget? 

To help me answer this, I’m joined by Emelia, a registered nutritionist and the creator of Eat with Emelia - a brilliant resource full of realistic, affordable nutrition tips that actually make sense. No fad diets. No calorie-counting apps. Just simple, supportive advice to help you nourish your body without stressing about your bank account.

✨ In this episode, we chat about:

• What should we be eating/ avoiding
• Easy food swaps to make your meals more more healthy
• Easy meal ideas and meal prep hacks 
• Why perfection isn’t the goal when it comes to healthy eating

💬 More about Emelia:

Emelia is a registered nutritionist who’s passionate about making good nutrition more accessible and less overwhelming. Her Instagram and TikTok accounts are full of brilliant tips, meal ideas, and myth-busting facts.

Check her out here:

📸 Instagram: @eat.with.emelia

🎥 TikTok: @eat.with.emelia

📲 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 I’ll see you next week!

Grace x

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.