Life Matters

What happens to abortion pill chemicals and fetal remains after a chemical abortion takes place at home? Toni Clarke talks with John Stemberger, President of Liberty Counsel Action, about the Abortion in Our Water report and the concerns it raises about chemical abortion, wastewater, public health, and government oversight.

In Part 2, Toni Clarke continues her conversation with Dr. William Lile about some of today’s most important life issues, including the rise of chemical abortion, what women need to know about abortion procedures, and the role of pro-life pregnancy clinics.

What does modern medicine reveal about life before birth? In Part 1, Toni Clarke talks with Dr. William Lile, known as the “Pro-Life Doc,” about his journey from taking over a former abortion practice to becoming a national advocate for the preborn. Dr. Lile explains how ultrasound, fetal surgery, and other medical advances demonstrate a powerful truth: preborn babies are patients too.

How do we pass faith and a respect for life on to the next generation—and how much of what we say actually sticks? Toni Clarke is joined by two very special guests, her daughters Alissa and Aliah, for an honest conversation about growing up in a pro-life home and how Generation Z thinks about faith, abortion, relationships, family, and culture. Hear their perspective on what parents and churches are doing well, what can cause Gen Z to tune out, and how authentic conversations can help the next generation develop a lasting faith and respect for the value of every human life.

How can parents continue to influence their children as they grow - and what happens when those values are carried into the next generation? In Part 2 of this special two-part conversation, Joy Graves and her daughter, Ebony Turner, discuss parenting through changing seasons, keeping communication open through disagreement, and the importance of prayer and grace.

How do parents intentionally build a culture of life at home? In Part 1 of this special two-part conversation, Toni Clarke is joined by Joy Graves and her daughter, Ebony Turner, to explore how faith and honest conversations can shape the next generation's pro-lifeworldview. Through both a mother's and a daughter's perspective, you'll hear practical encouragement for raising children with compassion, conviction, and a deep respect for the value of every human life.

In Part 2, Dr. Marie Belin discusses the growing use of the abortion pill, the importance of women receiving accurate medical information and compassionate care, and why pregnancy centers play a critical role in today's culture. She also offers practical encouragement for parents and families who want to build a culture of life and make a meaningful difference in the lives of women and their unborn children.

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Toni Clarke sits down with Dr. Marie Belin, a board-certified pediatrician and founder of In Home Peds, an in-home pediatric practice serving Omaha-area families. Dr. Belin shares how her faith, medical career, and experiences as a wife and mother have shaped her passion for protecting the dignity of every human life from the very beginning.

In Part 2, Kristine explores how to navigate difficult questions with grace, engage the next generation, and equip churches and families to speak truth with compassion. You'll also hear practical resources from Justice For All and encouraging stories of how respectful conversations can truly change hearts and minds.

How can Christians confidently and compassionately talk about abortion in today's culture? In Part 1 of this conversation, Kristine Hunerwadel of Justice For All shares her personal journey into pro-life advocacy and introduces practical, dialogue-based approaches that help move conversations from debate to meaningful connection.

How can the pro-life movement more effectively reach women before they choose abortion? In Part 2 of Toni Clarke’s conversation with David Bereit, they explore the rise of chemical abortions, the influence of the abortion industry, the critical role of pregnancy centers, and innovative strategies being developed to save lives, support women, and engage the next generation in the cause for life.

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Toni Clarke sits down with David Bereit, founder of 40 Days for Life and Executive Director of the Life Leadership Conference. David shares his personal journey into the pro-life movement, the story behind one of the largest grassroots pro-life efforts in history, and his perspective on how the movement has evolved in the years since the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

In Part 2, Carol Szczepaniak with the Nebraska Coalition for Ethical Research explores the recent NIH decision to end federal funding for research using newly obtained fetal tissue from abortions. She also highlights ethical alternatives that are advancing medical research while respecting the dignity of every human life.

What happens when scientific research collides with questions of human dignity and ethics? In Part 1 of this conversation, Toni Clarke sits down with Carol Szczepaniak, President of the Nebraska Coalition for Ethical Research, to discuss her background in science and bioethics, the mission of NCER, and the ethical concerns surrounding the use of aborted fetal tissue in medical research.

In Part 2 of this conversation, Toni Clarke continues her discussion with Joni Shepherd of Hope & Grace Global. The focus shifts from understanding the problem to exploring practical solutions as Joni explains the Safe Church Project and how churches can become places where women and families find both truth and grace. She shares how churches can proactively support women facing unplanned pregnancies, help those carrying the pain of past abortions, and create environments where confession, healing, and restoration are possible.

In Part 1 of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke is joined by Joni Shepherd with Hope & Grace Global, an organization focused on equipping churches to respond to abortion and sexual brokenness with both truth and grace. Joni shares her personal story, discusses the hidden reality of abortion within the Church, and explains how churches can become places of healing, restoration, and support for women and families.

In Part 2 of this Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke continues her discussion with Dan Hauge, Senior Pastor of Grace Bible Church in Bellevue, about healing after abortion, the power of forgiveness, and finding a new identity in Christ. Pastor Dan shares practical and biblical encouragement for those struggling with lingering shame, grief, or regret, while also challenging churches and believers to better reflect the grace and mercy of Jesus to those carrying hidden wounds.

In Part 1 of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke is joined by Dan Hauge, Senior Pastor of Grace Bible Church in Bellevue, to discuss the heavy burden of shame, guilt, and grief that many women and men carry surrounding unplanned pregnancy and abortion. Together, they explore the difference between conviction and condemnation, how the gospel speaks to those who feel disqualified by their past, and the hope and forgiveness available through Jesus Christ.

In this Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke is joined by Nate Grasz, Executive Director of Nebraska Family Alliance, to discuss the most recent Nebraska legislative session. They discuss the current legislative landscape around life and family issues and what Nebraskas can do to remain faithful to the call of God to protect life.

In Part 2 of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke is again joined by Candace Gregory of Open Door Mission and Ashley Belmudez-Frakes of Good News Global as the discussion turns toward healing, redemption, and the role of the Church in walking alongside women facing the aftermath of trauma. They share powerful stories of transformation, practical ways to support women in crisis, and a message of hope—that no past is beyond God’s ability to restore.

In Part 1 of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke is joined by Candace Gregory of Open Door Mission and Ashley Belmudez-Frakes of Good News Global to explore how trauma—such as homelessness, incarceration, abuse, and abortion—shapes the lives of women they serve. They share personal stories, front-line experiences, and how deep wounds often reveal themselves over time, pointing to the need for compassionate, trauma-informed care rooted in truth and hope.

In part two of this Life Matters conversation, Dr. Ingrid Skop takes a deeper look at the data behind abortion complications and maternal mortality, highlighting gaps, inconsistencies, and why accurate reporting matters. She also addresses common claims about abortion and women’s health, while exploring the broader factors that impact outcomes for women. This episode challenges listeners to think critically and consider what truly supports both women and their children.

In part one of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke sits down with Dr. Ingrid Skop, an OB-GYN and Vice President and Director of Medical Affairs at the Charlotte Lozier Institute, to explore her decades of experience and how it shapes her perspective on women’s health today. Together, they examine how abortion is commonly presented to women versus the medical realities, and begin unpacking the science behind abortion procedures and risks.

In part two of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke continues her discussion with Beth Fox, exploring how the same worldview behind abortion extends into assisted suicide and end-of-life decisions.

In part one of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke sits down with Beth Fox, Board President of Rehumanize International, to hear her powerful personal story of being recommended for abortion before birth due to disability. Beth shares how cultural messages about “quality of life” shape how we view suffering, disability, and human worth—and why those assumptions are often deeply flawed.

In part two of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Dr. Catherine Wheeler shares about repentance, forgiveness, and the freedom she found in Christ after decades of carrying hidden grief. Now a board member of the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists, she speaks boldly about life-affirming medicine, the realities of abortion in today’s medical landscape, and how Christians can engage these conversations with both truth and grace.

In part one of this powerful two-part conversation, Toni Clarke sits down with Dr. Catherine Wheeler, a retired OB-GYN and former abortionist, to hear her deeply personal story. Dr. Wheeler shares how she opted into abortion training during residency, and ultimately performed abortions before God began to transform her heart. This episode is a candid and redemptive look at truth, conviction, and the first steps of healing.

In part two of this two-part conversation, Toni Clarke continues her discussion with Lauren Pope, Executive Director of Rehumanize International, focusing on what justice and healing should look like in a post-Roe world. They explore restorative justice, the importance of listening to women’s abortion stories, and how Christians can speak truth with mercy while building bridges across religious and political lines. This episode continues our multi-week series highlighting national organizations engaged in pro-life work.

In part one of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke sits down with Lauren Pope, Executive Director of Rehumanize International, to explore how a deeply personal experience shaped Lauren’s passion for defending human life. Together, they discuss human dignity, vulnerability, and how framing the pro-life case through a human rights lens can help Christians engage thoughtfully and compassionately in a divided culture. This program is part of a multi-week series highlighting national organizations engaged in pro-life work.

In Part 2 of this two-part series, Toni Clarke continues her conversation with Monica Snyder of Secular Pro-Life on Life Matters. This episode goes deeper into practical conversation strategies, common secular arguments surrounding abortion, and how pro-lifers can communicate truth when engaging those who are undecided or skeptical of the pro-life position. This program is part of a multi-week series highlighting organizations engaged in pro-life work nationwide.

In Part 1 of this two-part series on Life Matters, Toni Clarke is joined by Monica Snyder, Executive Director of Secular Pro-Life. As part of our multi-week focus on national pro-life organizations, this conversation explores why secular arguments against abortion matter and how understanding them can help Christians engage thoughtfully and effectively with those who do not share a Christian worldview.

In this episode of Life Matters, Toni Clarke sits down with Dena Espenscheid, Director of Pro-Life Programs at the Leadership Institute, to unpack what’s happening nationally on life issues in a post-Dobbs landscape. Drawing on more than two decades in public policy, campaigns, and grassroots training, Dena shares what she’s seeing across the country, where the movement is gaining momentum, and how everyday people can speak persuasively and get involved.

In this episode of Life Matters, Toni Clarke sits down with Nate Grasz, Executive Director of Nebraska Family Alliance, to break down what’s happening in Nebraska’s 2026 legislative session as it relates to life, family, and public policy. Together, they unpack new legislation, recent abortion data, the shift toward chemical abortions, and what these developments mean for protecting women, families, and the unborn both in Nebraska and nationwide.

As part of our Sanctity of Human Life Month series, Life Matters features a conversation with Pastor Kurt Barman of Harvest Alliance Church in Minden, Iowa. Pastor Kurt shares the biblical foundation for the sanctity of life and how the local church can compassionately come alongside women and families facing unsupported pregnancies.

Pastor Mark Ashton of Christ Community Church joins Life Matters during Sanctity of Human Life Month to talk about the value of human life and the responsibility of the church to protect it. Pastor Mark shares insight on how churches can faithfully stand for life with grace and truth.

In Part 2 of this Life Matters Sanctity of Human Life Month interview, Pastor Dan Hauge, Senior Pastor of Grace Bible Church in Bellevue, Nebraska, discusses how the Church can actively champion life in local communities. From supporting women and families facing unsupported pregnancies to partnering with pregnancy centers and equipping congregations to respond with grace and conviction, this episode offers encouragement and tangible next steps for pastors and believers who want to be a faithful voice for life.

In Part 1 of this Life Matters Sanctity of Human Life Month interview, Toni Clarke sits down with Pastor Dan Hauge, Senior Pastor of Grace Bible Church in Bellevue, Nebraska. Pastor Dan shares his personal journey into ministry and unpacks the biblical and theological foundations for the sanctity of human life, helping listeners understand why life matters—from the womb to eternity—and how pastors can communicate truth with compassion in today’s culture.

In Part 2 of this Life Matters conversation with Assure’s Directors, the focus turns toward the future as they share how God is shaping the next chapter of the ministry. From research and innovation to leadership, culture, and prayer, this episode invites listeners to join Assure in praying for the women and families who will be served in the year ahead.

In Part 1 of this special Life Matters series, Toni Clarke is joined by the Directors of Assure to reflect on the past year of ministry and the lives God has changed. You’ll hear from the about frontline patient care, faithful partners, and powerful moments that reveal God’s provision and grace.

In this special year-end episode of Life Matters, Toni Clarke sits down with Board Chair Chris Cannon to reflect on a year of growth, answered prayers, and lives changed through Assure. Chris shares her personal connection to the mission, the heart behind her leadership, and her hopes for the ministry's future.

Cris and Katie serve on the front lines of Assure’s medical team, offering healthcare excellence, compassion, and truth to women searching for answers amid unplanned and unsupported pregnancies. Every day, they witness the miracle of life through the ultrasound screen and walk women through some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Their work is tender, courageous, and fueled by deep faith. Today on Life Matters, Cris and Katie share their stories, their calling, and the heart behind their work.

In this episode of Life Matters, we sit down with Jodi Borgmann, Assure’s Project and Volunteer Specialist, whose journey from faithful volunteer to staff leader beautifully reflects how God grows a willing “yes” into a lifelong calling. Jodi shares the story of her own spiritual formation, the moments and patient experiences that shaped her heart, and the vital role volunteers play in advancing Assure’s mission. This conversation is an inspiring reminder of how God uses ordinary obedience to write extraordinary stories.

In Part Two, Dr. Edward DeSimone examines the rising risks of chemical abortion — including mail-order access, patient safety concerns, and even potential environmental impacts. He also discusses conscience rights for pharmacists and the challenges facing pro-life healthcare workers. Dr. DeSimone closes with practical encouragement for anyone seeking to stand for life with conviction.

In part one of this two-part Life Matters interview, we sit down with Dr. Edward DeSimone, longtime Creighton University pharmacy professor, researcher, and national pro-life leader. He shares his personal journey, his decades of mentoring students, and how his work in patient safety intersects with his commitment to protecting life. Dr. DeSimone also offers a pharmacist’s perspective on the abortion pill and the growing concerns surrounding chemical abortions.

On this week’s Life Matters, Toni Clarke talks with Michelle Scollard, Partnerships and Outreach Coordinator at Assure, about three exciting upcoming initiatives — the new Church Ambassador Program, 40 Days of Prayer, and Sanctity of Human Life Sunday. Tune in to hear how you and your church can take simple, meaningful steps to support life and serve women facing unsupported or unplanned pregnancies.

Join Toni Clarke and Amanda Temoshek, Assure’s Advancement Director, as they unpack the Nebraska Pregnancy Help Act Tax Credit—a unique opportunity for Nebraskans to support life-affirming work and receive a state income tax credit. Learn how your tax-credit eligible gift to Assure can fund 100% free services for women facing unplanned and unsupported pregnancies.

In this episode of Life Matters, Assure Follow-Up Specialist Joy Graves shares her powerful testimony and the heart behind her work connecting with women after their appointment at Assure. Through stories of faith, perseverance, and life-changing conversations, Joy reveals how God uses the follow-up ministry at Assure – a vital part of the 15-step patient process -  to bring hope, healing, and the courage to choose life.

In Part Two of Life Matters with David Sundman, we explore the church’s vital role in meeting both the material and spiritual needs of women and families facing unsupported pregnancies. David shares how his own redemption story shapes his view of the sanctity of life and why the gospel calls believers to both compassion and conviction.

At 24 years old, David Sundman was homeless, addicted, and convinced God didn’t exist. In this episode of Life Matters, David—now a husband, father, rapper, and pastoral resident at Coram Deo Church—shares how God transformed his life and gave him a new purpose. Hear how he uses gospel hip hop to reach others and why he believes the church must live out the gospel in both word and deed.

Today on Life Matters, we are joined once again by Angela Copenhaver, founder of We Teach Think and Human from Day One, for Part 2 of her interview. Angela unpacks the meaning behind "Human" from Day One and walks us through the science of when life begins, the role of DNA, and early signs of development, such as heartbeat and brain activity. She also discusses how visuals and messaging can spark deeper dialogue and shares her hope that one day all humans will be treated with dignity and respect—no matter the “day number.”