Category Archives: Resources

Reproductive Coercion, Abortion Pill Poisonings & Protecting Women’s Choice

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In this eye-opening episode of the Pregnancy Help Podcast, Andrea Trudden and Christa Brown uncover the disturbing rise of reproductive coercion and abortion pill poisoning, sharing real stories from women who faced betrayal, manipulation, and even life-threatening situations. Learn how the Abortion Pill Rescue Network is responding, discover the new tools created to help women find safety and support, and hear why pregnancy help organizations across the country need to be aware of this growing issue.

Resources:

Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations.  The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement.  We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented.

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Healthy Boundaries/Healthy Leaders

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What does it take to be a healthy leader? In this episode of the Pregnancy Help Podcast, longtime Heartbeat International and pregnancy help leader and consultant Betty McDowell joins Michele Cheresnick to discuss the importance of healthy boundaries in leadership. Together, they explore the balance between authority and relationships, the value of identifying trusted “truth tellers,” and practical ways leaders can cultivate humility, accountability, and lasting influence both within their organizations and in the public sphere.

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Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations.  The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement.  We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented.

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Honoring Her Story

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In this episode, special guests Robin Stephenson, Founder and Director of Lifetree Adoption Agency in Texas; Selina Arevalo, Adoption Specialist with Lifetree; and Kathy Jerman, Heartbeat’s Director of Affiliate Services explore the vital role pregnancy help organizations play in honoring and supporting birthmothers with compassion, dignity, and respect.

They discuss what it truly means to care well for women considering adoption—emotionally, spiritually, and practically—while also addressing the common misconceptions that often surround the adoption journey.

More Resources From The Heartbeat Academy:

More Adoption Episodes on The Pregnancy Help Podcast:

Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations.  The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement. We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented.

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A Year in Review: Pro-Life Wins, Battles, and What to Watch for in 2026

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Join Heartbeat International President, Jor-El Godsey in this in-depth conversation with Andrea Trudden and Jessica Prol Smith as they review the political landscape of 2025 and how it relates to the pro-life pregnancy help movement. From recent policy wins and ongoing legal battles to the continuing rise of chemical abortion and the growing importance of advocacy efforts like Babies Go to Congress, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at the opportunities and challenges ahead. You’ll also hear encouraging stories of impact, reminders of why your work in pregnancy help matters, and what to watch as we head into a new year.

Resources:

 

Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations.  The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement.  We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented.

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National Adoption Month: Honoring Birth Parents and Building Partnerships

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November is National Adoption Month—a time to celebrate stories of love, courage, and redemption. Join Heartbeat International’s Director of Affiliate Services, Kathy Jerman as she speaks with with Carol Gledhill of Covenant Care Adoptions and Angela Boblitt of Choosing Hope Adoptions to discuss the realities of modern adoption. Their conversation explores how pregnancy help organizations can present adoption as a loving and empowered parenting choice, honor birth parents with dignity, and build strong, ethical partnerships with Christian adoption agencies.

Resources:

Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations.  The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement.  We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented. 

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Prenatal Diagnosis and Trauma Informed Care

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A prenatal diagnosis can leave parents feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and unsure of what lies ahead. In this episode, Option Line Director Nafisa Kennedy is joined by neonatologist Dr. Robin Pierucci, Parent Care Coordinator Heidi Martin, and mom Maureen O’Connor to share practical, trauma-informed ways to bring hope and steady support in some of the hardest moments families face. From medical expertise to trauma-informed guidance and a powerful firsthand story, this conversation will inspire you with ways that your pregnancy help organization can walk confidently and compassionately with families facing a prenatal diagnosis.

Websites:
Previous Pregnancy Help Podcast Episodes:

Sponsored by: Option Line

If you are a Pregnancy Help Organization and are interested in having Option Line answer your after-hours calls, email info@optionline.org

Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations.  The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement.  We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented.

 

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Governing with Purpose: The Impact of Board Training & Strategic Planning

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Doreen Jansson and Bryan Gonzalez join Heartbeat’s Kathy Jerman to explore the value of board training and the power of strategic planning for your pregnancy help organization. Learn how your center’s leadership can unite around mission, stay on course, and build a strong foundation for lasting growth. No matter the size of your organization, these tools will help your team thrive and multiply its impact.

Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations.  The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement.  We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented.

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Incorporating Sexual Wellness Throughout your Center – Lori Kuykendall

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Lori Kuykendall joins Kathy Jerman to discuss how sexual wellness can be woven into every client interaction, offering women and families not only practical support but also truth, hope, and the foundation for lasting relationships. This conversation highlights the unique opportunity pregnancy help centers have to speak into clients’ lives with grace, guiding them toward God’s design for wholeness and healthy connection.

Resources:

Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations.  The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement. We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented.

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Advance Your Mission Through Media

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How can Pregnancy Help Organizations navigate today’s media landscape with clarity and confidence? In this episode, Andrea Trudden and Lisa Bourne break it down, offering practical insight on building strong relationships with journalists, preparing for interviews, and staying proactive with your messaging. They also dive into the unique media challenges PHOs face post-Dobbs—and why it’s more important than ever to speak boldly and authentically. Plus, get a sneak peek at this year’s Pregnancy Help Institute Media & Messaging track!

Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations. The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement. We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented.

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Saving Lives Through Collaboration – Let Them Live

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Kathy Jerman interviews Emily Berning, Co-Founder of Let Them Live to share how they partner with pregnancy centers to offer financial aid, virtual support groups, and mentorship — creating a safety net for women who often feel like they have nowhere to turn. They also dive into the power of storytelling in nonprofit fundraising, and how social media has become a vital tool for connection and support.

Sponsored by Heartbeat International’s Pregnancy Help Institute

Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations.  The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement.  We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Android | Pandora | iHeartRadio | Email | Youtube Music | RSS | More