Middle Class Matters

Plunged into Darkness: A Survivor’s Story of Trauma, Addiction, and God’s Grace

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

Getting to the Root Cause: Functional Medicine, Faith, and Fighting for Our Kids

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

Aging Parents & Hard Decisions: When Is It Time?

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

Middle-Class Tips for 2026, The Economy, Taxes, and the Road Ahead

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

Running on Empty: What IV Hydration Offers, How it Works… and Can It Help?

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