Life Matters

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.”

Today on Life Matters, we are joined by Angela Copenhaver, founder of We Teach Think and Human from Day One. Once pro-choice, Angela reversed her position and now leads a nonprofit in Lincoln, Nebraska that uses truth, reason, and science to ask bold questions about the dignity of human life. In Part One, Angela shares her personal journey and unpacks the vision of We Teach Think—an innovative effort to provide, train, and launch multi-generational media campaigns.

In Part Two of this Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke continues her interview with Renee Eames and Mary Crosby—The Lenz Sisters. They share the deeper meaning of the bluebird, the mission of Bluebird Refuge, and their book 9 Days of Refuge, written to encourage women in difficult seasons. You’ll also hear how tea, community, and generosity are fueling their vision for the future—and how you can be part of it.

In Part One of this special Life Matters series, Toni Clarke talks with sisters Renee Eames and Mary Crosby—The Lenz Sisters—about the heart behind Bluebird Refuge. They share their upbringing, the faith and values that shaped them, and the leap of faith that led to their ministry to women experiencing uncertainty during pregnancy.

What happens when an abortion meant to end a life. . . doesn’t? On this week’s Life Matters, Melissa Ohden, founder of the Abortion Survivors Network, shares her incredible story of surviving an abortion—and how she’s using her voice to bring awareness, hope and help for abortion survivors. Don’t miss this powerful conversation!

In this episode, we sit down with Gaye Tillotson, Executive Director of Collage Center, a medical pregnancy help center serving central Nebraska. Gaye shares her personal journey into this work, the history and growth of Collage—including a new location coming soon to Columbus—and the unique needs of the women and families they serve. Listeners will be inspired by her faith-driven leadership, powerful stories of hope, and vision for the future of Collage.

In part two of our conversation with Assure's Patient Process Manager, Audrey Selander, we explore the vital role of volunteer advocates and how they walk alongside women who feel unsupported or under-supported in their pregnancies. Audrey also shares how prayer and faith sustain her team, the challenges they face, and the lessons she’s learned through her work.

In this first episode of a two-part series, Toni Clarke visits with Audrey Selander, Patient Process Manager at AWC, to explore her journey into pro-life work and the vital role she plays in guiding women through their appointments. Audrey shares what a typical day looks like, why listening matters so deeply, and how her team ensures every woman is treated with dignity and compassion. This heartfelt conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the frontlines of the patient process.

On this episode of Life Matters, we’re joined by mother-daughter duo Michelle and Annaliese Scollard, who share what it’s like to serve together at AWC. From stories of life-changing moments to the role of faith and family in their ministry, their conversation is both heartfelt and inspiring.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Robyn Chambers, we explore how Focus on the Family is uniting churches, pregnancy centers, and national partners to build a truly pro-family culture. Robyn shares powerful stories from the field, highlights the Wait No More adoption initiative, and offers practical ways to get involved in the life movement today.

In Part 1 of this special two-part series, Toni Clarke sits down with Robyn Chambers, Vice President of Advocacy for Children at Focus on the Family. Robyn shares her personal journey into pro-life work, highlights the impact of the Option Ultrasound program, and explores what it means to be pro-woman, pro-baby, and pro-family in a post-Roe world.

This week on Life Matters, we continue our conversation with Jor-El Godsey, President of Heartbeat International. He shares how the pro-life movement is responding to the rise of chemical abortion—and the truth behind its dangers. You'll hear about the lifesaving work of the Abortion Pill Rescue Network, the growing number of women seeking reversal, and what the next generation of leaders must be ready to face. Don’t miss this inspiring and eye-opening conclusion to our two-part series.

This week on Life Matters, we welcome Jor-El Godsey, President of Heartbeat International—the world’s largest network of life-affirming pregnancy help. With over 30 years in the movement, Jor-El shares his journey from volunteer to global leader and offers insight into the evolving landscape of pregnancy help worldwide. In Part 1 of this two-part interview, Jor-El reflects on his early days in the pro-life movement, the vision he's carrying forward at Heartbeat, and the global trends shaping the future of life-saving work. Don't miss this powerful conversation with one of the most trusted voices in the movement.

In this Life Matters episode, Nate Grasz, Executive Director of Nebraska Family Alliance, returns to recap the 2025 legislative session and discuss what’s ahead for life-affirming policy in Nebraska. From key pro-life bills to a new adoption tax credit, Nate shares legislative wins, challenges, and how citizens can stay engaged. Don’t miss this timely update on the future of the pro-life movement in our state.

In part two of our Life Matters conversation with Jennifer Gutierrez, President of the Nebraska Pregnancy Care Alliance, we explore the full spectrum of support that pregnancy help organizations offer—before and after birth. Jennifer shares why wraparound care, church involvement, and community collaboration are key to long-term impact for life, as well as what lies ahead for Nebraska’s pro-life movement.

In part one of our two-part interview, we’re joined by Jennifer Gutierrez, President of the Nebraska Pregnancy Care Alliance. She shares how NPCA is uniting and equipping pregnancy help organizations across Nebraska to provide compassionate, life-affirming care. From medical clinics to maternity homes, hear how our state is building a stronger pro-life network.

On this episode of Life Matters, Toni Clarke is joined by Sarah Louise Peterson, the Omaha and Bellevue, Nebraska Program Leader for Sidewalk Advocates for Life. Sarah shares how everyday people can be trained to peacefully and prayerfully offer life-affirming alternatives to women outside abortion facilities. From what a typical shift looks like to powerful stories of lives saved and hearts changed, Sarah offers insight, encouragement, and practical ways you can get involved in the life movement as a Sidewalk Advocate.

This week on Life Matters, host Toni Clarke welcomes Gina Tomes, a pioneer in the pro-life movement and co-founder of Bethlehem House in Omaha, Nebraska. With over 30 years of experience serving women in crisis pregnancies, Gina shares her powerful journey from launching one of the nation’s most respected maternity homes to founding the Guiding Grace Motherhood Support Network. She explores how maternity homes offer not just shelter, but family, stability, and long-term support for women navigating trauma, addiction, and generational poverty—and how her model is helping create a culture where abortion becomes unthinkable.

In today’s episode of Life Matters, Toni Clarke is joined by Dr. Janet Morana, the Executive Director of Priests for Life and Co-Founder of the Silent No More Awareness Campaign. Janet shares her inspiring journey into the pro-life movement, the importance of unity across Christian denominations, and the emotional and spiritual struggles many women face after abortion. She also discusses the broader impact of abortion on families, how churches can better support those suffering in silence, and offers invaluable advice for equipping the next generation to stand for life with confidence and compassion.

In part two of our interview with Teresa Kenney, she explores the deeper cultural and medical issues surrounding hormonal birth control and its impact on how society views fertility and womanhood. Teresa shares hope-filled insights for couples struggling with infertility and highlights the importance of educating young women about their bodies. Drawing from her new book The Happy Girl’s Guide to Being Whole, she encourages parents, churches, and healthcare professionals to champion a life-affirming, dignity-centered approach to women’s health.