Good Neighbor Podcast Live

Hosted by Garfield Bowen

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Episodes

280

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Bringing Local Businesses & Neighbors Together The Good Neighbor Podcast , hosted by Garfield Bowen, helps residents discover and connect with local business owners right in their own community. Is your business serving local residents? Let’s talk! 👉 Visit gnpLive.com to schedule your free interview.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 12, 20267 min

Natural Skincare For Sensitive Skin

Your skin doesn’t care about marketing, it cares about what you put on it. If you’ve ever bought a “gentle” product that still left you itchy, dry, or irritated, this conversation will feel like a breath of fresh air. We’re joined by Angela Jones, founder of Angela’s Boutique, a Philadelphia-based natural skincare and self-care business created for people with skin sensitivities. Angela shares how her own struggle with reactive skin pushed her to create handcrafted products designed to help support common concerns like eczema, psoriasis, hyperpigmentation, inflammation, and rough, dry texture. We talk through what she actually makes and why it matters, from whipped shea butters and cold-pressed soaps to facial cleansers, toners, hair and body oils, plus a men’s line with beard oil and beard balms. We also get honest about myths around clean beauty and handcrafted cosmetics. “Natural” isn’t a magic cure, and Angela explains the difference between promising miracles and offering a holistic skincare approach that helps alleviate symptoms and make skin more manageable day to day. If you’re building a healthier skincare routine and want products that feel intentional, simple, and results-focused, you’ll take away practical clarity and a better mindset for choosing what belongs in your cabinet. Subscribe for more local business stories, share this episode with a friend who’s tired of trial-and-error skincare, and leave a review to help more neighbors find the show.

April 6, 20267 min

Estate Planning Peace Of Mind

Estate planning gets treated like a luxury purchase, but what happens when real life hits and nobody can find the accounts, the logins, or the right documents. We talk with Michael Kirstein from Estate Doc Prep, who reframes estate preparation as a peace of mind service for everyday families, not a paperwork chore for the wealthy. He breaks down what an “estate” truly is: your home, your bank account, your sentimental photos, and even your digital passwords and online access. Michael shares how a background in tech, AI, and automation led him into modernizing an estate planning firm, and how that work opened his eyes to how unprepared most people are. We dig into the myths that keep people stuck, including the dangerous idea that you need a mansion to need a plan and the misconception that a will automatically avoids probate. The heart of the conversation is simple: preparation makes life easier for the people you love, and it can protect you if you become incapacitated so decisions are not left to a court. We also spotlight a group many families overlook: parents of kids heading to college. Once a child turns 18, parents may not be able to make medical decisions without the right documents, which is why health care surrogate forms, an advance directive, and a living will can matter sooner than you think. If you want a clear starting point for estate planning in Florida, this is a practical place to begin. Subscribe, share this with someone putting it off, and leave a review with your biggest estate planning question.

January 19, 20267 min

Port St. Lucie’s Living History

A city that incorporated with zero residents sounds like a riddle, but it’s the spark that brings Port St. Lucie’s past to life in this conversation with curator Donnita Graben. We pull back the curtain on the Port St. Lucie History Museum and Education Center inside the historic Peacock Lodge, tracing the city’s rapid journey from ranch land and river bends to one of Florida’s fastest-growing communities. Donnita shares how the Port St. Lucie Historical Society began in 1996 with a simple, ambitious goal: capture and protect local history before it fades. You’ll hear about moving historic buildings from the Peacock Ranch to McCarty Ranch and finally to the Port, and why those relocations matter for preserving a sense of place. We explore the power of oral histories in a young city where founders and first residents are still around to share stories, and we discuss how outreach to HOAs, clubs, and neighborhood groups helps new arrivals connect with the roots under their feet. Along the way, we surface surprises—like why the 1961 incorporation counted zero residents and how the city operated without its own police department until 1980—framing Port St. Lucie’s growth in a way that’s both human and historic. If you’re curious about local museums, civic identity, or how communities preserve living memory, this is a thoughtful guide to visiting and getting involved. Plan your trip to 2456 SE Westmoreland Boulevard, check hours Wednesday to Friday 10–4 and Saturday 11–3, and explore pslhistory.org for memberships and volunteer opportunities that keep this nonprofit museum thriving. If this story opened your eyes to Port St. Lucie’s hidden history, subscribe, share the episode with a neighbor, and leave a review to help more locals find the museum and become part of the story.

December 4, 20257 min

Inside A Dedicated Hernia Surgery Practice With Dr. Meshach Cober

What if your hernia care could be truly tailored to your body, goals, and daily life? We sit down with Dr. Meshach Cober with Cober Hernia, a general surgeon who built a dedicated hernia center to offer patients more nuanced choices, clearer guidance, and outcomes that last. Instead of squeezing hernias into a generic surgical playbook, Dr. Cober explains why specialization matters: from diagnosing which hernias need immediate repair to identifying when watchful waiting is safe, and from choosing the right mesh to deciding between open, laparoscopic, or robotic techniques. We explore the turning points that led him from hospital employment to running a focused practice with his wife, the gaps he saw in complex and recurrent hernia care, and how deeper repetition in one domain sharpens judgment and technique. Dr. Cober walks through how a specialist weighs durability, recovery time, and long-term comfort, and why a one-size-fits-all approach misses the mark. He also shares how the practice removes friction for patients—clear articles on hernia types, privacy-enabled texting, and simple ways to ask questions—so people can move from uncertainty to confident action. Beyond the OR, we get candid about the human side: raising two young kids, catching peaceful moments at Florida’s clear springs, carving out time for faith and family, and how that grounded life shapes a compassionate approach to care. If you or someone you love is weighing hernia surgery, this conversation delivers practical insight, real options, and a reminder that expert help might be closer than you think. Enjoyed the show? Follow for more local expert stories, share this episode with someone who needs it, and leave a quick review to help others find reliable, patient-centered care. For more information on Cober Hernia, visit CoberHernia.com .

October 15, 20256 min

You don’t have to be “sick” to start feeling better with acupuncture and bodywork

What if you didn’t have to wait until you’re “really sick” to feel better? We sit down with Dr. Cynthia Ann Hayes-Hurst—Dr. Cindy—whose journey from critical care and emergency medicine to a doctorate in acupuncture reshaped how she helps people heal. After decades watching preventable issues turn into crises, she built Serendipity Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork to meet folks earlier, with care that blends physical medicine, nutrition, and movement in ways that fit real life. We break down the myths around acupuncture and share why it’s not just about needles. Think nervous system regulation, improved circulation, pain relief, and calmer stress responses—supported by acupressure, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, and everyday nutrition shifts. Dr. Cindy’s whole-person approach spans body, mind, and spirit, and it’s designed for everyone: newborns building strong foundations, adults juggling stress and posture, and older adults focused on mobility, sleep, and independence. If something feels “a little off,” that’s your cue—not a reason to wait. You’ll hear practical ways to start: simple daily habits that boost energy and ease pain, plus how a short, budget-friendly visit can help you test what works for your body. We also share details on Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Day on October 24, a welcoming chance to try treatments, ask questions, and get a feel for integrative care with zero pressure. Want to learn more or book time with Dr. Cindy? Call 772-521-3638 or email theonlyresortspa@gmail.com, and explore Serendipity Massage & Acupuncture online. If this conversation sparks ideas for your health, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—your feedback helps more neighbors find care that actually fits.

September 4, 202510 min

Creating Safe Havens: Inside I Am Academy for Special Needs Children

When traditional education failed her autistic son, Anna Moore took matters into her own hands. What began as personal advocacy blossomed into I Am Academy, a sanctuary where children with special needs are celebrated rather than merely accommodated. Since 2015, this intimate K-12 private school has been transforming lives by rejecting the common misconception that neurodivergent children are simply "defiant." As Anna poignantly explains, behaviors often misinterpreted as intentional misbehavior are actually manifestations of neurological differences requiring patience, understanding, and tailored approaches. Drawing from her experience raising a son with autism and Tourette's syndrome, Anna has created an educational environment where dignity and respect form the foundation of every interaction. What sets I Am Academy apart isn't just its curriculum, but its deliberate smallness. Anna maintains limited enrollment to ensure each child receives the personalized attention they deserve. Many students have grown up within the school's nurturing embrace, some now transitioning to adulthood after joining as five-year-olds. Before founding the academy, Anna's advocacy work led to landmark changes in Florida legislation, requiring schools to report instances of restraining special needs children – a practice previously conducted without parental notification. The school operates on a word-of-mouth model, with families finding each other through therapy networks and special education circles. Currently relocating to a more visible location at Kitterman and US1, I Am Academy participates in the Step Up for Students scholarship program, making specialized education accessible to more families. Connect with this remarkable school through Facebook (I Am Academy K312) or by calling 772-380-4400, and discover a place where children with special needs aren't just taught – they're understood, valued, and empowered to be exactly who they're meant to be.

September 4, 20258 min

From Apprentice to Artist: Ana's Stained Glass Journey

Ever wondered what it takes to transform a childhood fascination into a lifelong artistic career? In our newest episode, we meet Ana Booth, a master stained glass artisan with 34 years of experience who's bringing her unique craft to our local community. Ana shares her remarkable journey that began at age 16 when she finally convinced her father to let her apprentice with a family friend who worked with glass. What started as youthful curiosity evolved into decades of expertise crafting everything from traditional church windows to intricate jewelry boxes, three-dimensional flowers, and custom photo recreations in glass. But it's Ana's story of resilience that truly captivates. During the height of the COVID pandemic, she made the bold decision to leave Virginia with just $20 in her pocket, her children, and their dog. Landing in Florida, Anna worked roofing at a hotel while transforming her room into an impromptu studio during off-hours. She would create art before and after shifts, selling her work outside her door – a testament to unwavering determination that eventually led to rebuilding her business from scratch. Today, Anna runs a thriving studio from her home, offering personalized classes and custom creations. She adapts her business seasonally – teaching at children's camps in summer, working with seniors during off-season, and creating for tourists year-round. Her philosophy that "art is soul food" underscores her holistic approach to creativity as a form of stress management and spiritual nourishment. Ready to explore the world of stained glass or commission a unique piece? Visit anasartz.com or call Anna directly at 772-475-2556. Whether you're looking to learn a new skill or add a beautiful handcrafted element to your home, Ana's expertise and passion are just a call away. Subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring stories of local artisans transforming our community through creativity and determination.

September 4, 202511 min

E334: Pool Secrets Unveiled

Dive into the surprisingly complex world of pool maintenance with Ross Negger, founder of Tiki Nui Pool Care Inc. Ross's journey from Vancouver-born mechanical engineer to Florida pool expert is a testament to entrepreneurial adaptability. After building and selling various companies and working in the film industry, pandemic shutdowns led him to seek a recession-proof business—finding his answer in Florida's 25 million privately owned pools. Ross shatters common misconceptions that plague pool owners. Did you know that crystal-clear water can still harbor harmful bacteria? Or that the strong "chlorine smell" actually indicates you need MORE chlorine, not less? Perhaps most surprising is the truth about saltwater pools—they don't eliminate chlorine; they generate it continuously! These insights represent just a fraction of the expert knowledge Ross has accumulated and documented in his comprehensive pool maintenance book, which he generously offers free to listeners. The name "Tiki Nui" reflects a personal touch—inspired by Ross's three daughters who dance in Polynesian style. This family connection underscores the values driving his business as it services approximately 300 residential pools throughout the Treasure Coast. When he's not ensuring pristine pools, Ross embraces adventure through international travel with his wife, rides his Harley Davidson Road King, and learns to sail, dreaming of future catamaran journeys through island waters. Ready to transform your pool experience with professional care or expert advice? Whether you're in Fort Pierce, Palm City, Jensen, or anywhere on the Treasure Coast—or simply seeking knowledge about proper pool maintenance—visit TikiNui.com or call 772-828-2281 to connect with a company that truly cares about being "the best, most professional pool company on the Treasure Coast."

September 4, 202512 min

E337: Marriage Rescue

Ever wondered why some marriages thrive while others struggle despite both partners truly loving each other? The answer might surprise you. Greg and Julie Gorman, founders of Married for a Purpose, join the Good Neighbor Podcast to reveal how they transformed their own once-failing relationship into a thriving partnership—and how they've helped thousands of couples do the same with their revolutionary approach to marriage coaching. What makes their method different? Unlike traditional problem-focused marriage counseling, the Gormans teach couples to acknowledge issues briefly before pivoting to a more powerful question: "What do we want instead?" This simple shift aligns with the universal truth that "we become what we think about" and "what you feed grows, what you starve dies." By building on common ground rather than assigning blame, couples learn to create unity that multiplies their effectiveness. The results speak for themselves—a remarkable 99.7% success rate with over 1,000 couples. Their battle-tested approach isn't theoretical; it's grounded in real-life application developed through their own relationship struggles and refined over two and a half decades of working with couples in crisis. They don't just teach what to think but how to think for better outcomes, showing couples how to make conflict productive rather than destructive. Whether your marriage is in crisis or you're simply looking to move from good to great, the Gormans offer practical tools to help you build the relationship you truly desire. Discover their free resources or connect with a coach by visiting marriedforapurpose.com or texting "IGNITE" to 772-291-1136 for free conversation starters.

September 4, 2025Episode 33610 min

E336: Born to Decorate: One Designer's Lifelong Passion for Beautiful Spaces

Step into the world of interior design with Francesca Morgan, a lifelong expert who transforms houses into personalized sanctuaries. Drawing from generations of family expertise, Francesca shares how her Miami upbringing in her family's home décor business shaped her unique approach to design and client relationships. What sets Francesca apart is her refreshing perspective on common design misconceptions. Rather than pushing clients to discard cherished possessions, she artfully incorporates meaningful pieces into cohesive designs. "We're not expensive—we bring value," she explains, highlighting how professional guidance actually protects homeowners' investments and prevents costly mistakes. Her approach balances aesthetics with psychology, ensuring spaces not only look beautiful but genuinely reflect the personalities and histories of those who inhabit them. The conversation takes us through Francesca's charming studio housed in a historic 1917 building in downtown Stuart, where clients can explore everything from full design services to individual home décor pieces. Beyond business insights, we discover Francesca's personal passions for cooking and world travel, elements that enrich her design perspective. She candidly addresses business challenges with wisdom gained through experience, emphasizing organization and clear communication as keys to success. Whether you're planning a complete home transformation or seeking that perfect accent chair, Francesca invites listeners to discover how thoughtful design can truly elevate everyday living. Visit her studio at 227 Southeast Ocean Boulevard or connect through francescamorganinteriors.com to begin creating a home that feels like your personal haven.