Life Matters

First Step to Life
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We believe that every life matters. Each week on Life Matters, host Toni Clarke leads open discussions on critical life issues, equipping Christians with the tools and understanding to engage in conversations about the sanctity of life. Drawing from a biblical worldview, she dives into complex topics surrounding the pro-life movement, encouraging listeners to get involved. Toni Clarke, Executive Director at a pregnancy center located in Omaha, NE, is passionate about spreading the message of life across Nebraska and beyond.

  1. Interview with Dena Espenscheid

    5D AGO

    Interview with Dena Espenscheid

    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.

    28 min
  2. Interview with Nate Grasz

    JAN 31

    Interview with Nate Grasz

    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.

    28 min
  3. Interview with Pastor Kurt Barman

    JAN 24

    Interview with Pastor Kurt Barman

    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.

    28 min
  4. Interview with Pastor Mark Ashton

    JAN 19

    Interview with Pastor Mark Ashton

    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.

    28 min
  5. Interview with Dan Hauge - Part 2

    JAN 10

    Interview with Dan Hauge - Part 2

    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.

    28 min
  6. Interview with Dan Hauge - Part 1

    JAN 3

    Interview with Dan Hauge - Part 1

    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.

    28 min
  7. Interview with the Directors - part 2

    12/27/2025

    Interview with the Directors - part 2

    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.

    28 min
  8. Interview with the Directors

    12/20/2025

    Interview with the Directors

    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.

    28 min
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About

We believe that every life matters. Each week on Life Matters, host Toni Clarke leads open discussions on critical life issues, equipping Christians with the tools and understanding to engage in conversations about the sanctity of life. Drawing from a biblical worldview, she dives into complex topics surrounding the pro-life movement, encouraging listeners to get involved. Toni Clarke, Executive Director at a pregnancy center located in Omaha, NE, is passionate about spreading the message of life across Nebraska and beyond.

Information

  • Creator
    First Step to Life
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Life Matters
  • Show Website
    Life Matters