The Good Soul

In Episode 97 of The Good Soul Podcast, Patti Alvarez continues her conversation with hospice nurse practitioner Kirsten Carpenter in Journey to End of Life Care (Part 2). This episode goes deeper into what really happens at the end of life—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—while gently breaking down the fears and misconceptions surrounding hospice care. With honesty, compassion, and real-life experience, Kirsten shares what families can expect, how to navigate those final moments, and what this work has taught her about truly living. A powerful, eye-opening conversation that brings clarity, comfort, and perspective to one of life’s most human experiences.

In Episode 96 of The Good Soul Podcast, Patti Alvarez sits down with hospice nurse practitioner Kirsten Carpenter for The Journey to End of Life Care pt. 1. Through deeply personal experiences with loss and her work guiding patients and families at the end of life, Kirsten shares how grief can shape purpose and how understanding death can transform the way we live. A powerful and heartfelt conversation about empathy, presence, and finding meaning in both life’s hardest and most beautiful moments.

In Episode 95 of The Good Soul Podcast, Patti Alvarez sits down with Max Carpenter for Live Fearlessly – Rising from Health Challenges. Born with Cystic Fibrosis, Max shares his incredible journey through lifelong health battles, a double lung transplant, fatherhood, and now facing chronic rejection while participating in a rare experimental treatment. Through it all, his story is one of resilience, perspective, and choosing to live fully—no matter the circumstances. An inspiring conversation that will leave you rethinking strength, gratitude, and what it truly means to live fearlessly.https://pro.gofundme.com/fundraiser/7002872

In Episode 94 of The Good Soul Podcast, Patti Alvarez sits down with Renee Kelly for Faith, Yoga & Finding Alignment—a thoughtful and honest conversation about how faith and movement can coexist beautifully. Together, they explore the idea that caring for our bodies can be a deeply spiritual practice, while addressing the question many people have: is there a conflict between Christianity and yoga? With openness, grace, and personal experience, Renee shares her journey of living as both a devoted Christian and a yogi. A meaningful episode about belief, growth, and finding alignment in your own way.

In Episode 93 of The Good Soul Podcast, Patti Alvarez sits down with Bob Fryer to talk all things pickleball in Let’s Talk Pickleball. From Bob’s personal journey into the sport to the explosive growth of pickleball across the country, this episode explores why so many people are getting hooked. Patti shares her own first-time experience, and together they highlight the vibrant Lake Norman pickleball community and how anyone—at any age—can jump in and start playing. Fun, social, and surprisingly addictive… you just might want to grab a paddle after this one.

In Episode 92 of The Good Soul Podcast, Patti Alvarez is joined by her husband and built-in co-host for life, Manny, for Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda. Together, they reflect on life’s biggest “what ifs,” regrets, and turning points—while realizing they wouldn’t actually change a thing. A fun, honest, and heartfelt conversation about growth, perspective, and how every moment leads us exactly where we’re meant to be.

In Episode 91 of The Good Soul Podcast, Patti Alvarez sits down with Angela Kline and Brittney Holbert of FeedNC in Mooresville for Getting to Know Feed NC. Together, they share the story behind the organization, the people they serve, and how FeedNC is making a lasting impact through food, support, and dignity. A meaningful conversation about community, compassion, and the power of helping others.

In Episode 90 of The Good Soul Podcast, Patti Alvarez sits down with Cindy Bishop for Inspo from a Kind Soul. Cindy shares how her love of volunteering and community led her to support The Dove House and help lead the silent auction for their upcoming fundraiser, An Evening for Dove House. A warm conversation about kindness, friendship, and the power of showing up for others.https://dovehousecac.org/

On January 23rd, Patti pulled off the surprise of a lifetime for Manny’s 60th birthday — and somehow kept it secret for months. Family hid out at the Aloft, a fake fundraiser covered her tracks, and friends from every chapter of Manny’s life gathered to celebrate his AWESOME existence. In this joyful recap, Patti and Manny relive the shock, the dance floor, the cannoli cake, the BBQ buffet (sorry, vegetarian daughters!), and the love that filled the room. A celebration of legacy, marriage, and honoring the people we cherish while they’re here.

In this episode of The Good Soul, Patti is joined by Dorothy Diana to explore the question so many of us quietly ask: Red flags or human flaws? Together, they unpack boundaries, normal conflict in relationships, and how much imperfection is healthy to endure — while also addressing when behavior crosses the line into harm or abuse. This honest, compassionate conversation invites listeners to trust themselves, recognize patterns, and choose clarity, safety, and self-respect without shame. 

In Episode 87 of The Good Soul, what begins as an exploration of boundaries and why we return to toxic or unhealthy situations naturally evolves into a deeper conversation about modern dating and the dynamic between men and women. Together, Patti and Dorothy Diana unpack how unhealed patterns, nervous system conditioning, and blurred boundaries don’t just affect long-term relationships — they shape who we’re attracted to, how we date, and what we tolerate in the early stages of connection. By looking at both sides of the equation, this episode invites listeners to consider how healing, embodiment, and self-trust shift the way we show up in dating, communicate needs, and create relationships rooted in safety, polarity, and mutual respect.You can find Dorothy at: https://www.radiantfemininelife.com/

In Episode 86 of The Good Soul Podcast, host Patti Alvarez sits down with holistic business coach Taylor Short for a soulful, practical conversation about turning big visions into businesses that truly work. In Vision to Matter, they explore alignment, purpose, and the often-overlooked systems that support heart-led work—without sacrificing authenticity or joy. This episode is an invitation to stop carrying your vision alone and start building with clarity, flow, and intention.You can find Amazing Taylor at: https://www.holisticconsulting.tech

In this episode of The Good Soul, Patti is joined by her husband Manny for a thoughtful, lighthearted conversation about doomscrolling—why we do it, how it affects our minds and nervous systems, and how to stay informed without feeling overwhelmed. Together, they explore the science behind the habit and share gentle, realistic ways to create more balance, calm, and clarity in a nonstop world. Take a breath, settle in, and let’s begin.

 In this episode of The Good Soul Podcast, Patti sits down with Donald Gullett of Piedmont Animal Rescue and Tara Collins of Aloft Mooresville to share the story behind the Fur Ever Home Program — a creative, compassionate adoption initiative bringing foster dogs into a hotel lobby to help them find forever families. From the program’s heartfelt beginnings to the ripple effect it’s creating in the community, this conversation celebrates how visibility, connection, and a simple yes can change lives — on both ends of the leash. 

Patti sits down with Ed Babcock, co-owner of Tacos 4 Life Mooresville, to talk about purpose, reinvention, and the power of the Meal 4 Meal mission. From life after a long career in higher education to building community through food, this episode explores how simple choices can create meaningful impact — one meal, one table, one life at a time.

Patti and Manny bring all the “Holiday Cheer & Big Family Energy” in this warm, funny, and deeply heartfelt episode as they share what it’s really like navigating the season with their beautifully blended family—three daughters, two step-sons, exes who are genuinely friends, Molly and her fiancé Squeeky flying in from Portland, and a house full of guests despite a basement mid-renovation. From traditions old and new to Christmas shopping chaos, staying grounded as a couple, and embracing gratitude through it all, this episode offers real talk, big laughs, and a simple Holiday Manifesto for anyone seeking less pressure and more presence this season.

In this episode, Patti sits down with the Roettger family of Troutman, NC to explore the heart, hustle, and hometown magic behind 11-year-old Little Kenny and K3 Racing. From how this journey began to what it takes to keep a young driver focused, supported, and soaring, Patti talks with Dad, Mom, and Kenny himself about racing, family, passion, and the big dreams ahead. It’s a fast, fun, inspiring look at a kid on a mission — and the Good Souls helping him get there.

What really happens to your body — and your spirit — in midlife? In this episode, Patti sits down with Liz Skalsky, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Ova Women’s Health, to talk about the truth behind hormonal shifts, energy changes, and confidence through every stage of womanhood. After 25 years in traditional medicine, Liz built a space where women finally feel seen, heard, and understood. Together, they unpack what it means to feel like yourself again — inside and out.

When stay-at-home mom Anne Mautner saw a need she couldn’t ignore, she turned compassion into action — creating The Kindness Closet, a nonprofit providing hygiene essentials to those in need. In this episode, Anne shares her journey from reluctant leader to community advocate, the realities of hygiene poverty, and why simple acts of kindness can change lives — including our own.

In this inspiring episode, Patti sits down with meditation guide Wendie Dunn to explore the beauty and purpose of meditation. From her roots in Transcendental and Primordial Sound Meditation to her work with HeartMath, Wendie shares simple, powerful ways to quiet the mind and open the heart.Autobiography of a YogiHeartmath MeditationDeepak ChopraTranscendental Meditation

We’re all guilty of it — checking our phones mid-conversation, scrolling before bed, half-listening to the person we love most. In this episode, Patti and Manny open up about how digital distraction is changing modern relationships — and how couples can reclaim their attention, intimacy, and joy.

From NASCAR pit lanes to luxury real estate in North Carolina—this week’s episode is all about reinvention. Patti sits down with Austin, who traded the adrenaline and precision of racing for the strategy and relationships of high-end property. Together they explore the surprising overlaps between engineering, wellness, and business: the discipline of showing up, the focus it takes to succeed, and the balance that keeps you moving forward. You’ll hear how both Patti and Austin have redefined success on their own terms, plus practical advice for anyone ready to pivot into a new chapter.

Talk about a hero among us! When devastating floods swept through Western North Carolina in 2024, lives, homes, and entire communities were changed forever. In this episode, Patti sits down with Ben Van Hook, founder of the Mountain Alliance, to talk about how neighbors came together in the darkest hours, the creation of a nonprofit born from tragedy, and the ongoing work to restore both homes and hope. Guided by faith and compassion, the Mountain Alliance is proving that resilience is built neighbor to neighbor, heart to heart.The cold weather is coming and the people of WNC are still in need! Donate here TODAY!https://themountainalliance.com/

Shame quietly shapes how we eat, drink, work, love, and rest. Patti and licensed therapist Chris McClure explore how shame shows up in everyday life, relationships, and past mistakes, and share practical tools for managing it with empathy, humor, and self-compassion. This episode is an honest guide to practicing the art of shame-free living.

The story continues! In this second half of Patti’s interview with guest host Sue Ratcliff, we dive deeper into the life, lessons, and passions behind The Good Soul. From family and love to dreams for the future, Patti shares the pieces of her journey that couldn’t fit into Part 1.

In this special episode, guest host Sue Ratcliff flips the mic and interviews Patti Alvarez, the voice behind The Good Soul. Patti opens up about her roots, family, career, resilience through loss, and the joy she finds in sharing wisdom. It’s a heartfelt conversation that invites you to reflect on your own journey while getting to know the woman behind the podcast.

Episode 71: I Was Today Years Old When I Learned – Patti and her ride-or-die loverboy Manny Alvarez dive into the hilarious, fascinating, and sometimes spooky truths hiding in everyday life. From the secret escape tool built into your car’s headrest, to why garbage bags are inside-out, to the creepy origins of words like nightmare and deadline — this episode will leave you laughing, cringing, and saying, “I was today years old when I learned that!”

The Good Soul | Episode 70 | This Woman's Work - Pt. 2 In Episode 70 of The Good Soul, Patti Alvarez sits down with her friend Sue Ratcliff for Part 2 of This Woman’s Work. Sue shares her second-act journey — helping families struck with pediatric cancer with Pinky Swear, meeting the amazing Brad, embracing stepmom life, and building a dream home while staying close to her kids. A heartwarming conversation about love, purpose, and creating a life you truly love. 

In Episode 69 of The Good Soul in this one of 2 part series, Patti Alvarez sits down with her dear friend Sue Ratcliff for a heartfelt and uplifting conversation about what it means to thrive in the face of change. From moving across the pond from the UK to raising incredible kids to navigating unexpected changes and embracing the beauty of post-50 living — this episode is a celebration of reinvention, resilience, and joy. If you’re ready to be inspired, this one’s for you.

In this powerful episode of The Good Soul, we explore the quiet, persistent feeling that you’re meant for more. If you’ve ever felt stuck in patterns that don’t reflect who you truly are, this conversation will awaken something within you. You’ll learn how to let go of what no longer fits and begin to trust the pull toward a more honest, soul-aligned life. The life that’s waiting isn’t somewhere far away—it’s been inside you all along.

The Good Soul | Episode 66 | Empty NestingIn Episode 66 of The Good Soul, Patti and Manny dive into the wild, wonderful world of empty nesting. From the joy of having the house to themselves, to the surprise return of their daughter (and her cat), to the emotional rollercoaster of sending her off again—this episode is full of laughter, love, and honest reflections on family life. Whether you’re approaching an empty nest or deep in the thick of it, this heartfelt and hopeful conversation will leave you inspired, comforted, and maybe even a little teary-eyed.

In this feel-good episode of A Good Soul, we sit down with Sandy Plemmons, the heart behind Hoptown Brewery in Mooresville, NC. From hops to heart, we talk about what it takes to craft exceptional beer, build a true community hub, and give back in big ways. With award-winning brews, local events, and a “good neighbor” philosophy, Hoptown is more than a brewery — it’s a vibe. Cheers to connection, creativity, and community!  www.hoptownbrewing.com

Join Patti on Episode 64 of The Good Soul podcast, "A Heavenly Head Spa," where we explore the rejuvenating world of scalp massages with Jessica Beaver, owner of Haven Head Spa. Discover the ancient origins and modern benefits of scalp treatments, how they compare to traditional massages, and the unique, personalized services offered at Haven. Plus, hear Jessica’s inspiring journey and her exciting plans for expanding this wellness haven. Tune in for a relaxing dive into self-care and holistic health!

In Episode 63 of the podcast, "Biohacking & Living Well," host Patti Alvarez welcomes Ben Vanhook, the superhuman owner of Livewell Spa @ Langtree in Mooresville. This inspiring episode dives into Ben's passion for transforming lives through biohacking. He shares his vision for a healthier world and highlights the innovative offerings at Livewell Spa, including infrared saunas, salt therapy, Vibragenix, and other transformative life hacks designed to optimize wellness and vitality. Sign me up!https://livewellspanc.com

Dive into Episode 62 of our podcast, "Cool Words English Needs," where the charming soulmate husband-and-wife duo, Patti and Manny, bring you a fun and entertaining exploration of 32 unique words from other languages that English lacks. With their signature humor and chemistry, they unpack these fascinating terms—ranging from quirky to profound—offering a delightful glimpse into cultural concepts and expressions that will leave you laughing and longing for English to catch up. Tune in for a lively, lighthearted journey through the quirks of language!Here's the Bees Rescue Gal we discussed: https://howsyourdayhoney.com/Word: SobremesaPhonetic: soh-breh-MEH-sahOrigin: SpanishMeaning: The time spent lingering at the table after a meal, chatting and savoring each other’s company—pure, unhurried bliss.Word: GezelligPhonetic: heh-ZELL-ikOrigin: DutchMeaning: A cozy, warm feeling of togetherness, like a perfect evening with friends by a fireplace.Word: HiraethPhonetic: HEER-eyethOrigin: WelshMeaning: A deep, nostalgic longing for a home or place you can’t return to, tinged with joy and sorrow.Word: MerakiPhonetic: meh-RAH-keeOrigin: GreekMeaning: Pouring your heart and soul into something you love, like cooking or art, with total devotion.Word: UbuntuPhonetic: oo-BOON-tooOrigin: Nguni Bantu (Southern Africa)Meaning: A profound sense of humanity—“I am because we are”—celebrating our shared connection.Word: KomorebiPhonetic: koh-moh-REH-beeOrigin: JapaneseMeaning: The magical interplay of sunlight filtering through tree leaves, a dance of light and nature.Word: GigilPhonetic: GEE-gilOrigin: Tagalog (Philippines)Meaning: That irresistible urge to squeeze something adorable, like a chubby baby’s cheeks!Word: FernwehPhonetic: FEHRN-vayOrigin: GermanMeaning: A longing for far-off places, a wanderlust that pulls your heart to explore.Segment 2: Quirky Words for Life’s OdditiesWord: TartlePhonetic: TAR-tlOrigin: ScottishMeaning: That awkward moment when you forget someone’s name mid-introduction—oops!Word: PochemuchkaPhonetic: poh-cheh-MOOCH-kahOrigin: RussianMeaning: A person who asks too many questions, like a curious kid who just won’t stop.Word: TsundokuPhonetic: tsoon-DOH-kooOrigin: JapaneseMeaning: Buying books and letting them pile up unread—a delightful habit for book lovers!Word: PelintiPhonetic: peh-LIN-teeOrigin: Buli (Ghana)Meaning: Moving hot food around in your mouth to avoid burning your tongue—we’ve all been there!Word: FikaPhonetic: FEE-kahOrigin: SwedishMeaning: A cozy coffee break with friends or colleagues, a ritual of pause and pastries.Word: Nito-onnaPhonetic: NEE-toh-ohn-nahOrigin: JapaneseMeaning: A woman so devoted to work she neglects her appearance—quirky but relatable!Word: BackpfeifengesichtPhonetic: BAK-fy-fen-geh-ziktOrigin: GermanMeaning: A face that desperately needs a slap—cheeky and a little mischievous!Word: MångataPhonetic: MOHN-gah-tahOrigin: SwedishMeaning: The shimmering, road-like reflection of the moon on water—pure poetic magic.Segment 3: Powerful Words of Strength and ResilienceWord: SisuPhonetic: SEE-sooOrigin: FinnishMeaning: Gritty determination and courage in the face of adversity, a quiet inner strength.Word: IkigaiPhonetic: ee-kee-GUYOrigin: JapaneseMeaning: Your reason for being—what gets you up in the morning, blending purpose and passion.Word: FriluftslivPhonetic: FREE-loofts-leevOrigin: NorwegianMeaning: Living in tune with nature, a powerful embrace of the outdoors for strength and peace.Word: KintsugiPhonetic: kin-TSOO-geeOrigin: JapaneseMeaning: The art of repairing broken pottery with gold, celebrating flaws as beautiful and strong.Word: GumusserviPhonetic: goo-moo-SAIR-veeOrigin: TurkishMeaning: Moonlight on water, a resilient glow that transforms the night with quiet power.Word: AretéPhonetic: ah-reh-TAYOrigin: GreekMeaning: Excellence and moral virtue, striving to be your best self with purpose.Word: DépaysementPhonetic: day-pay-eez-MAHNOrigin: FrenchMeaning: The disorienting yet strengthening feeling of being in a foreign land, growing through change.Word: HanyaukuPhonetic: hahn-YOW-kooOrigin: Rukwangali (Namibia)Meaning: Tiptoeing across hot sand, a bold, quick act of resilience in tough conditions.Segment 4: Intriguing Words of Mystery and WonderWord: SaudadePhonetic: sow-DAH-dehOrigin: PortugueseMeaning: A deep, melancholic longing for something absent, mysterious and bittersweet.Word: Wabi-sabiPhonetic: WAH-bee-SAH-beeOrigin: JapaneseMeaning: Finding beauty in imperfection and transience, a wondrous view of life’s flaws.Word: YūgenPhonetic: YOO-genOrigin: JapaneseMeaning: A profound, mysterious sense of the universe’s beauty, too deep to explain.Word: HyggeligPhonetic

In Episode 61, Am I Living Up to What I’m Asking of the World?, husband-and-wife duo Patti and Manny dive into self-reflection with heartfelt humor and authenticity. They explore whether their actions match the expectations they set for the world, sharing candid anecdotes and lively banter. This short, this engaging episode invites listeners to laugh, reflect, and examine their own values in a warm, relatable conversation.

In Episode 60, "Dance, Dance, Dance," host Patti sits down with Josh Van Dyke, the Principal Dancer for the South Carolina Ballet, and his wife Dylan Van Dyke, an extrordinary and dedicated 10-year member of the company. Together, they share the triumphs and challenges of their lives as professional dancers, weaving in their inspiring love story and a mix of entertaining anecdotes that highlight their passion for dance and each other. To check out Dylan and Josh in action or to learn more about the South Carolina Ballet, visit https://southcarolinaballet.com/ 

In Episode 59, "Tales from a NICU Nurse," Patti sits down with Debbie Thompson, a seasoned nurse with over 30 years of experience in the neonatal intensive care unit. Debbie shares heartfelt stories from her career, offering a glimpse into the delicate and rewarding world of caring for newborns. She also provides practical child safety tips for parents, blending expertise with compassion in this inspiring conversation. Join us! 

In Episode 58 of The Daily Stoic, hosted by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo Patti and Manny Alvarez, listeners are treated to a lively and insightful breakdown of their eight favorite passages from the book The Daily Stoic. With their signature blend of humor, authenticity, and practical wisdom, Patti and Manny dive deep into the timeless Stoic principles, sharing personal anecdotes and relatable takeaways that make the philosophy accessible and actionable. This fun, engaging episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to apply Stoic teachings to modern life with a fresh, real-world perspective.

In Episode 57, titled “The Let Them Theory,” join Patti and Manny Alvarez as they dive into the transformative concept of the “Let Them” theory, exploring its practical applications in relationships and personal growth. With their signature warmth and humor, this match made in heaven unpack the steps of this approach, sharing relatable insights and personal anecdotes from their own lives. Through engaging conversation, they illustrate how embracing the “Let Them” philosophy can foster healthier connections, encourage self-awareness, and promote emotional freedom, making this episode a heartfelt guide for listeners seeking to navigate life’s complexities with grace.

Episode 56 - Helping Kids with Cancer - Join Patti as she sits down with Sue Harding & Sue Radcliffe of The Pinky Swear Foundation as we learn some about this exceptional group. Just before nine-year-old Mitch passed away from bone cancer, he made his father pinky swear promise to always help kids with cancer even after he was gone. The promise lives on to this very day thanks to the foundation! Tune in & get inspired! https://pinkyswear.org/

In this eye-opening episode, we're shining a spotlight on Dove House Children’s Advocacy Center in Statesville. The Dove House is a fully accredited 501c3 nonprofit organization that supports the investigation, prosecution, and therapy and follow-up of reported child sexual abuse and assault cases in Iredell and Alexander counties – all from their safe and child-friendly facility. Beth McKiethan, the executive director and Amy Stevens, director of development at Dove House, join us to share the story of her child advocacy journey and the story of Dove House. https://dovehousecac.org/

Episode 54! Kimberly Flebbe is our official Integrative Wellness Expert!  Here's why! So your genes contain valuable information about your body’s unique needs and preferences—what are yours telling you about your health? Our bodies are complex. 3X4 looks at how our genes work together in cellular pathways and functional systems to control processes such as inflammation, metabolism, and detoxification and Kimberly Flebbe reviews Patti's results to uncover some life-changing findings.

Once again guys...relationships can be tough, but there's always a solution!  Join Patti and Manny as they unpack their love story, challenges and solutions to this ever-changing and worthwhile adventure. Using the Gottman Method which is primarily made up of the powerful formula, The 7 Principles to Make Your Marriage Work, let's see what me might be able to fix together on part two of a two-part series!

Relationships can be tough, but there's always a solution!  Join Patti and Manny as they unpack their love story, challenges and solutions to this ever-changing and worthwhile adventure. Using the Gottman Method which is primarily made up of the powerful formula, The7 Principles to Make Your Marriage Work, let's see what me might be able to fix together on part one of a two-part series!

Join Patti and Manny for an amazing chat with Realtor Extraordinaire, Erin Ficenec where the talk market trends, decor and all things home related. You'll be informed, entertained and utterly inspired!

Join Patti & Manny as they sit down with the AMAZING Hargobind Khalsa.  We had so many questions and did we get answers!  Clad in a perfectly wrapped white turban, as we like to call him, "Prince Hargo", this dynamic six-foot-something power house is truly a force.  He grew up on an Ashram in the US, went to boarding school in India and returned to the United States to take the yoga world by storm.  With his zest for life, love for humans, this entrepreneur, author, chef, reality TV show creator, yogi and spiritual gangster personified this episode will leave you intrigued, inspired and wanting to be more like him! 

Ladies!  Wanna glow? Guys! Wanna know what makes us tick? Tune into this inspiring, insightful and uplifting episode where the Extraordinary Dorothy Diana unpacks some tips on how we can live as our highest selves. Highly entertaining and informative!

Join Patti as she talks God, Jesus and the power and strength Gary Breit gets from his faith.  Part 2 of 2...the conversation continues from episode 1 where Gary shared his heroic story and inspires us to embrace God.

This was, by far, our most powerful episode. Gary Breit came in to talk to us about his relationship with Jesus, the Bible and how his spiritual journey has brought him redemption. What I thought would be a casual chat took a major turn.  Little did we know we would leave this shoot feeling forever changed as Gary shares his brave and personal story with. Part 1 of 2.