The Good Soul

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