Middle Class Matters

In this heartfelt episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down with author, publisher, and businesswoman Kennisha Thornton, who shares her journey through five miscarriages and the inspiration behind her book Once Upon a Child.Through unwavering faith, God’s guidance, and the care of a compassionate physician He placed in their path, Kennisha and her husband found hope after unimaginable loss. What once felt like heartbreak became part of a greater story God was still writing. Today, she is the grateful mother of seven beautiful children and a living testimony that even in seasons of grief and waiting, God is present, faithful, and powerfully at work.If you’ve experienced miscarriage or pregnancy loss, this conversation offers comfort, encouragement, and the reminder that your story is not over.

In this compassionate episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with the founders of Hope and Healing Abortion Recovery, women who bravely share their personal stories of abortion and the journey to healing through Christ.Many women suffer silently after abortion, including those sitting in church pews week after week carrying guilt, shame, and grief they’ve never voiced. Through storytelling, peer support, fellowship, and Bible study, Hope and Healing Abortion Recovery exists to bring hope, lift shame, and set hearts free through the power of Christ.This episode is a reminder that no story is beyond redemption and healing is possible.

In this heartfelt episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down with Waco-based licensed psychotherapist Hannah Short, LCSW, to talk about something many women experience but few openly discuss — postpartum depression.While welcoming a baby is often expected to be joyful, nearly 1 in 8 women in the United States experience postpartum depression, according to the CDC. Many suffer quietly, feeling guilt, shame, or confusion about emotions they didn’t expect.Hannah brings a compassionate, trauma-aware perspective to this conversation, helping women understand what postpartum depression truly is, how it affects identity and self-trust, and what healing can look like. If you or someone you love is navigating the emotional weight after birth, this episode offers reassurance, truth, and hope.

In this powerful episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down with author, entrepreneur, and speaker Paul Lamar Hunter, whose life story proves that circumstances do not define destiny.As the 19th child out of 21 children, Paul grew up surrounded by poverty, dysfunction, and emotional neglect. Despite overwhelming challenges and painful childhood experiences, he became the first in his family to graduate from college, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and rewriting the trajectory of his life.Paul shares the deeply personal journey behind his autobiography, No Love, No Charity: The Success of the 19th Child, opening up about resilience, faith, forgiveness, and the determination it takes to rise above generational hardship. His story is a reminder that where you begin does not determine where God can take you.

Human trafficking isn’t just something that happens far away, it exists in communities across America, even in places we call home. In this powerful episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down with Bronda Hays with Unbound Now, an organization leading the fight against human trafficking through victim identification, survivor care, justice advocacy, and community education. Bronda shares how trafficking operates along major travel corridors like I-35, why cities like Waco can become hubs, and how Unbound Now walks alongside survivors toward healing and freedom. This eye-opening conversation equips listeners with awareness, practical wisdom, and hope, reminding us that ordinary people can play an extraordinary role in protecting the vulnerable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's deeply moving episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brook sit down with Mary Beth Talley, a survivor of the 1999 mass shooting of Wedgwood Church and an author of the new memoir Not Bad, Just Different. At just 17 years old, Mary Beth endured unimaginable trauma. Now, twenty-five years later, she shares her journey of faith, healing, and resilience, and how God transformed her pain into purpose. This conversation is for anyone walking through trauma, grief, fear, or uncertainty....and for those searching for hope on the other side of pain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this moving episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with Janice Johnson Dowd, an author, Licensed Medical Social Worker, mom, and recovering alcoholic to share a story of loss, healing, and hope. Janice grew up around addiction and was determined to create a different life for her own family. But in her 40s, what began as casual social drinking with friends quietly turned into a battle she never expected. She opens up about how addiction affected her children, the heartbreak of losing her family during active addiction, and the slow, humbling work of rebuilding trust in recovery. Through her journey and her book Rebuilding Relationships in Recovery, Janice offers practical tools, honest reflection, and hope for families learning how to heal together. This episode is a reminder that second chances are real, grace is powerful, and no story is beyond redemption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this deeply moving episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with George, a devoted son, caregiver, author, and advocate in the fight against Parkinson’s disease. His book, A Son’s Journey from Parkinson’s Disease Caregiver to Advocate, is a heartfelt tribute to his mother, Sharon, his best friend and inspiration, and a powerful call for awareness, understanding, and hope. As nurses, Brooke and Renae have seen firsthand the toll Parkinson’s takes on patients and families, and this conversation is one every caregiver, family member, and community needs to hear. George shares the reality of the diagnosis, the courage of his mother’s fight, the bond that grew between them, and why advocacy matters so deeply in the journey toward a cure. If Parkinson’s has touched your life in any way, or if you love someone walking that road, this episode will bring comfort, clarity, and encouragement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For middle-class families, our pets aren’t just animals — they’re part of the family. They’re there for the big moments, the quiet evenings, the hard days, and everything in between. They listen without judging, love without limits, and leave paw prints on our hearts that last a lifetime. In this special episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down with a veterinarian for a thoughtful, comforting, and eye-opening conversation about caring for the pets we love. From everyday pet parenting to the emotional side of loving an animal through every season of life, this episode is full of insight, reassurance, and the kind of wisdom every pet owner needs. If you have a dog, a cat, or any furry friend who feels like family, you won’t want to miss this one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down with Mark Kneebone, a former law enforcement officer, recovering alcoholic, and host of the Steel City Round Table Podcast. Mark shares his journey through PTSD, severe depression, and addiction — struggles often hidden behind the badge. From rock bottom and suicidal thoughts to inpatient treatment and early sobriety, Mark speaks honestly about trauma, recovery, and choosing life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a world that’s busy, distracted, and often rushed, teens can be left feeling unheard, misunderstood, and alone. In this heartfelt episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down with author, mentor, and youth advocate Josh Cordell, whose book With Changes Everything draws on his experience walking with more than 5,000 teens to learn how presence, trust, and connection really work. Josh shares stories from the road, the importance of simply being with young people, talking with them, not at them, and how families and communities can build bridges of trust instead of walls of frustration. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, teacher, coach, or mentor, this episode will remind you that being present matters more than you know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with Brittney Garrett, a Central Texas mom whose life changed in an instant when a crash sent her nearly 60 feet into freezing water during a storm. She survived the accident—but the trauma led to years of PTSD, addiction, and despair. Today, Brittney is sober, restored, and walking in the healing she once thought was impossible. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, God’s grace still finds us—and your story is not over. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When your child is struggling with chronic illness, developmental challenges, or conditions like autism, ADHD, or PANDAS/PANS, the healthcare journey can feel overwhelming—and often discouraging. In this episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke & Renae sit down with Jana Roso, a certified pediatric nurse practitioner specializing in functional medicine, to talk about what it really means to treat the root cause instead of just managing symptoms. Jana shares her journey from bedside pediatric oncology nursing to becoming a leader in pediatric functional medicine. We talk gut health, genetics, nutrition, environment, and why one-size-fits-all medicine often falls short for kids with complex needs. Jana also discusses her co-authored book, The Parent’s Roadmap to Autism, and how empowering parents with knowledge can change the entire trajectory of a child’s health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When aging parents or grandparents begin to struggle, families face some of the hardest decisions of their lives—safety, dignity, independence, memory loss, and the fear of “doing the wrong thing.” In this heartfelt episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with registered nurse Laura Painter, owner and operator of The Residency at Ridgewood in Waco, Texas. Together, they talk openly about when it’s time to consider assisted living, what memory care truly means, how to choose a facility you can trust, and how families can walk through this season with wisdom, love, and peace. Whether you’re caring for aging parents now or preparing for the future, this episode will speak straight to your heart. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we move through 2026, many middle-class families are beginning to see signs of economic stabilization, even while still feeling the impact of higher costs from recent years. In this episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down for a thoughtful, faith-centered conversation about what’s happening now and how families can move forward with wisdom and confidence. Together, they talk about the new tax laws affecting middle-class households—including changes to the Child Tax Credit, childcare-related benefits, and charitable giving—offering practical insight to help families stay informed, plan intentionally, and practice wise stewardship while trusting God’s provision. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Life can drain us—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. In this refreshing episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with Shaunta, a representative from I-Vit Hydration Lounge in Downtown Waco, to talk about the importance of hydration, balance, and self-care. From IV vitamin therapy to immune support and post-workout recovery, Shaunta explains how nourishing your body can uplift your mind and spirit. Tune in for an encouraging conversation about health, restoration, and the spiritual reminder that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this deeply moving episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with Texas author and speaker Roseann Mayer, who bravely shares her story of surviving years of emotional, spiritual, and physical abuse—all while appearing to be part of a normal, churchgoing family. Week after week, Roseann sat in the pews wondering if other women were suffering in silence too. When she finally found the courage to leave, she rebuilt her life and began sharing her story so others wouldn’t feel alone. Today, she speaks openly about faith in the midst of fear, healing after trauma, and her journey told in her book Bones Beneath the Prairie. This episode brings hope, truth, and the reminder that God never asks His daughters to stay silent in abuse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a secret buried for decades is brought to light—through a DNA test? In this powerful episode of Middle-Class Matters, we sit down with Carole, a brave and faith-filled woman who became pregnant as a teenager and made the heartbreaking decision to place her baby for adoption. Now, at 80 years old, Carole’s daughter has found her… and what happened next is nothing short of a miracle. Join us as we unpack Carole’s honest and vulnerable story—of trauma, shame, silence, and ultimately, reunion, redemption, and healing. If you’ve ever wondered about the long-term impact of adoption, or the way God works across time and generations, this one’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thinking about buying your first home? Or maybe you’re ready to sell and move on? In this episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with real estate broker Reagan, who walks us through everything you need to know about the buying and selling process—from staging your home and setting the right price, to understanding inspections, loans, credit, and taxes. Packed with faith, facts, and that good Southern charm, this is one episode you don’t want to miss! Whether you’re buying your first home, moving your growing family, or starting to think about downsizing, this episode offers practical tips, honest conversation, and encouragement for every season of homeownership. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a heartbreaking battle with infertility and a failed IVF attempt, Jana turned to foster care—where God gave her not just one, but six children through adoption. In this powerful episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down with Jana as she shares her emotional journey, the high cost of infertility, and the unexpected blessings that came from trusting God's plan. If you’re in a season of waiting, this story will inspire you to hold on and believe that purpose can grow out of pain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens after the diagnosis? In this powerful follow-up episode, Nakala returns to share what’s working—what brought hope, progress, and even smiles back into her daughter’s world. From food sensitivities and gut health to supplements, epigenetics, and faith, this episode dives into real strategies one family used to support their child with autism. Whether you’re a parent seeking answers or simply want to understand autism more deeply, don’t miss this inspiring and practical conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Christmas time, y’all! In this special holiday episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with their friends Regan and Stephanie to talk about what truly matters to families during the Christmas season. From keeping Jesus at the center of it all to the simple, meaningful family traditions that make this time of year so special, we’re sharing stories, memories, and the little things that bring joy to our homes. Whether your Christmas is filled with matching pajamas, candlelight services, cookie baking, or reading the birth of Jesus with your kids, this episode is all about celebrating the traditions that shape our families and remind us of the true reason for the season. Grab a cozy blanket and a cup of cocoa, this Christmas conversation will warm your heart. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What inspires someone to leave the comfort of home to share the Gospel across the world? In this powerful episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down with Matthew Heaton, a devoted missionary and partner with One Mandate, to talk about his recent ministry journey to Guatemala. From citywide evangelism campaigns to praying over hurting schoolchildren, Matthew shares incredible stories of salvation, healing, and lives transformed by the power of Jesus. If you've ever felt a stirring to serve, wondered how God moves in new places, or simply needed a reminder of how far His love reaches—this is one episode you don’t want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this moving episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with Omar, a man whose life once spiraled into alcoholism and liver failure, but whose story didn’t end there. Raised in a Catholic home and rooted in early faith, Omar battled a rough upbringing and a long struggle with alcohol that nearly cost him his life. But just when doctors told him there was no hope, God stepped in. Now completely healed, Omar is living proof of God’s mercy and power. He shares his powerful testimony of transformation and talks about working as a bartender today, without even a trace of temptation, because his eyes are on Jesus. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, this episode will give you hope that it’s never too late for healing, purpose, and redemption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Domestic violence is a silent epidemic—happening behind closed doors every single day. In this powerful episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with Amanda, a survivor who bravely escaped years of physical and emotional abuse. Amanda opens up about the darkness she endured, the courage it took to leave, and how God turned her pain into purpose. Her message is one of survival, hope, and faith—and a reminder that no one is too broken for God’s love. If you or someone you love is facing abuse, this episode will remind you: you are worthy, you are loved, and there is a way out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After years of struggling with kidney failure and countless hours hooked to a dialysis machine, today’s guest, a devoted school teacher, shares her powerful story of resilience, faith, and hope. Despite the heartache of losing her mother to the same illness and spending years at a dialysis center just to stay alive, she never lost sight of God’s plan. Now, doing dialysis from home and placed near the top of the transplant list, she opens up about her journey. Join Brooke and Renae in this heartfelt episode of Middle-Class Matters that will lift your spirit and show how even in the waiting, God is working. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this heart-stirring episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with Chester Moore, founder of Kingdom Zoo and the Wild Wishes program. Since 2012, Chester and his wife Lisa have used exotic animals, over 100 species from around the world, to help children facing unthinkable hardships like sex trafficking, terminal illness, bullying, witchcraft, and the loss of parents or siblings. With compassion and faith, Chester shares how God called him to create a place where hurting kids could find hope, healing, and the reminder that they are fearfully and wonderfully made. From animal encounters with sick children to prayers spoken over broken hearts, you’ll hear unforgettable stories of restoration through God’s creation. This is an episode of redemption, community, and the powerful truth that no child is ever forgotten in the eyes of the Creator. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can a weekly shot really help you lose weight? Is it safe? And what happens when you stop taking it? In this episode of Middle-Class Matters, Family Nurse Practitioner Jessica joins Renae and Brooke to break down the facts about GLP-1 meds like Ozempic and Wegovy. Get the real talk on how they work, who they help, and what to expect long-term, all from a faith-based perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Against all odds, Candi’s life was hanging by a thread. After a gastric bypass gone wrong, her health spiraled until she was at death’s door, and the only way she pulled through was by God’s grace. In this powerful episode of Middle-Class Matters, Brooke and Renae sit down with Candi as she shares her near death, out of body experience with Jesus in the “God Zone,” and how her faith gave her the strength to survive when medicine couldn’t do it alone. This is more than a story of survival, it’s a story of redemption, resilience, and the God who still performs miracles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your child’s speech delay is more than just trouble with the “R” sound? In this episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke are joined by pediatric speech pathologist Jennifer Davis, who shares her inspiring journey of faith, obedience, and opening her own thriving clinic. We dive into what speech pathologists really do—from supporting kids with autism and cognitive delays to teaching writing skills and helping with play-based communication. You’ll learn about early detection, milestones, and why speech therapy is so much more than most people think. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this emotional episode, Renae and Brooke sit down with Allie, a nurse whose relationship was torn apart by addiction and drug diversion. From healthcare access to fentanyl overdose, this story exposes a crisis few talk about—and how easily it can happen. With real statistics, heartfelt conversation, and a message of hope, this episode is a powerful reminder that addiction can touch anyone… but healing is possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When God closes a door, He always opens another — and sometimes it leads to your life’s true calling. In this episode, Renae and Brooke sit down with Rachel and Chris, the founders of Redeemed Chiropractic in Waco, Texas. Hear how a season of health struggles and uncertainty turned into a thriving family business dedicated to healing bodies and spreading God’s love. You’ll laugh, tear up, and leave inspired to follow God’s call no matter where it leads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When life takes an unexpected turn, God can turn your pain into purpose. In this heartfelt episode, Renae and Brooke sit down with Alisha, a brave mom who chose life at the last moment and discovered God’s incredible blessings on the other side. Hear her powerful testimony, learn about the life-changing work of her pregnancy center, and find hope no matter where you are in your journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anxiety, depression, and burnout are rising fast among teens and college students, and it's more than just growing pains. In this eye-opening episode, Brooke and Renae talk with Meghan, a Texas high school counselor and Region 12’s “Counselor of the Year,” about what’s really happening behind classroom doors. From social media pressures to academic overload, we explore what today’s youth are up against, and how families, schools, and communities can step in. With heartfelt stories, expert insight, and faith-filled encouragement, this episode is a wake-up call filled with real talk and real hope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the end of life isn’t the end at all? In this episode, Renae and Brooke are joined by Steven, a seasoned hospice nurse who’s been present for hundreds of deaths, and what he shares just might challenge everything you’ve ever believed about dying. From patients seeing long-lost loved ones, to the last words that send chills down your spine, we’re diving into the deeply spiritual moments that often get written off as hallucinations. Whether you’re a believer, a skeptic, or somewhere in between, this episode will move you, make you think, and maybe even prepare you to face life and death with a little more peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Autism is on the rise, but what’s causing it? In this deeply personal episode, Renae and Brooke are joined by Nakala, a mother who shares her journey from trust to heartbreak and back to hope. After watching her daughter regress following routine vaccinations, Nakala began asking the hard questions no one else would. Could vaccines be a trigger for some children? Could genetic mutations like MTHFR play a role? Could diet and supplements lead to healing? Listen in as we explore these questions, share evidence-based resources, and end with spiritual encouragement for families navigating autism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this raw and eye-opening episode of Middle-Class Matters, Renae and Brooke sit down with Dr. Cindy Little, a paranormal psychologist in Waco with a PhD in educational psychology, she has spent years investigating the paranormal. From haunted places around Waco to unexplained encounters, Cindy and her team have gathered compelling evidence that spirits are very real. Renae and Brooke dive into the heart of faith, fear, and the unseen spiritual world, reminding listeners that while the paranormal may raise goosebumps, God’s Word promises His power and protection. If you’ve ever wondered whether spirits really walk among us, or wrestled with experiences you can’t explain, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Middle-Class Matters is a bold, faith-driven podcast where Texas mother-daughter duo Renae and Brooke get real about the everyday struggles facing America’s middle class. From family and finances to faith, education, and social issues, they dive deep into the challenges, and the blessings, that shape working-class life today. Each week, they share honest conversations, inspiring guest stories, and spiritual encouragement with a Southern dose of sass, heart, and truth. If you’ve ever felt overlooked, overwhelmed, or just plain tired, this show is for you. Because here, we believe in real talk, real life, and real solutions, rooted in truth and covered in grace. New episodes every week. Visit us at mcmatterspodcast.com Follow along on Instagram: @mcmatterspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices