The OBservations Podcast

Most people assume effective pro-life activism requires big national efforts or dramatic moments. David Bereit’s story proves that life-changing impact often begins with a single step: prayer, community, and a courageous heart.  

Dr. Christina Francis and David Bereit discuss the power of living out pro-life convictions in healthcare, the vital role of medical professionals in shifting cultural perceptions, and why the post-Dobbs era demands unified, innovative strategies. You'll learn how trusted voices like doctors can influence laws, culture, and hearts. 

Join us for inspiring insights from a leader whose work proves that one brave act at a time, we can rewrite the story of life in America. Whether you’re new to the movement or a seasoned advocate, this conversation will renew your hope and clarify your role in one of the greatest moral fights of our time. 

David Bereit, former CEO of 40 Days for Life and current executive director of the Life Leadership Conference, is a pro-life pioneer with decades of experience mobilizing faith communities, healthcare providers, and grassroots activists. His story is a testament to the power of daily courage and unwavering faith—an essential listen for anyone who believes that every life matters and that together, we can change the culture. 

Resources:  

• About David Bereit 
• Learn more about MBEC 2027 in St. Louis, Missouri.  

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Most people still believe that feelings are the ultimate guide to truth, but what if trusting emotions is actually leading us astray?  

In this powerful keynote address at MBEC 2026, philosopher and public thinker Professor Robert George joins Dr. Susan Bane and exposes how the modern age has shifted from faith and reason to feelings as the central source of morality, and why that shift threatens real freedom, truthful medicine, and moral clarity. 

Professor George reveals how feelings, subjective and unreliable, are dominating our cultural and medical decisions, pushing us toward authoritarianism disguised as liberation. He shares profound insights on the true purpose of medicine, the importance of faith and reason working together, and the moral courage needed to stand up against the tide of emotionalism that risks destroying civil liberties, honest dialogue, and objective truths. 

This episode is perfect for students, healthcare professionals, and anyone committed to truth in a culture that often prioritizes emotion over reality. Professor George’s insights challenge us to reclaim the dignity of reason and moral clarity, and to stand firm in the face of social and cultural pressures. 

Get a sneak peek at MBEC 2027 in St. Louis, Missouri, and stay tuned for when ticket purchases go live this summer: AAPLOG Conference - MBEC 2027 | St. Louis, MO | Feb. 26-28 

Other Resources:  

• Learn more about Professor Robbie George.  
• Order his book, Seeking Truth and Speaking Truth: Law and Morality in Our Cultural Moment. 
• Explore the MBEC 2027 theme, “The Strength and Beauty of Life-Affirming Medicine.”  

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Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. John Thorp, a revered OB-GYN and educator whose work has shaped obstetrics globally. Discover how his research, mentorship, and faith influence his practice and vision for the future of medicine. Plus 

Key topics: 

• Dr. Thorp's journey from North Carolina roots to leading OB-GYN research and practice 
• The history and evolution of childbirth medicalization and shifts in clinical guidelines 
• The impact of research on obstetric practices like episiotomy and labor induction 
• The slow but vital process of translating research into clinical practice 
• The role of evidence-based medicine and its limitations in individualized care 
• Mentorship's importance in medicine and how Dr. Thorp mentors future generations 
• Innovative educational efforts, including courses on medical philosophy and faith 
• Upcoming initiatives like the Restorative Reproductive Medicine Conference 
• The intersection of faith, ethics, and medicine in shaping patient care and professional identity 

Dr. John Thorp is a native North Carolinian who began my OB-GYN residency at the University of North Carolina in 1983 and has practiced there ever since. His clinical focus includes preterm birth prevention, perinatal substance use, and office gynecology. Over the years, he has contributed to research shaping the limited use of episiotomy, progesterone therapy for recurrent preterm birth, magnesium for neuroprotection, and the timing of labor induction. Dr. Thorp recently completed a certificate in Theology, Medicine, and Culture from Duke Divinity School, reflecting my interest in the intersection of faith and clinical care. 

Additionally, Dr. Thorp is hosting a seminar on Restorative Reproductive Medicine at Duke University in Durham, NC. The seminar will explore the ethical and medical dimensions of restorative and assisted reproductive approaches, including the history, philosophy, and future potential of RRM. Apply early with many applicants having full funding for travel and conference coverage. 

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Today, we’re talking about an exciting project that we, along with EveryLife, launched this month - ReThink Pregnancy.  

AAPLOG and EveryLife have partnered together on this campaign to challenge a narrative our culture has been telling women for decades—that pregnancy is something to fear, something that diminishes women, or harms their bodies.  

But that story is not only manipulative and harmful, it’s often directly contradicted by science. And together, we’re working to flip the switch by correcting that narrative.  

The ReThink Pregnancy campaign is about replacing fear with facts: that pregnancy is one of the most extraordinary, purposeful, and even beneficial biological events a woman’s body can experience. And when you really look at the science, it shows our bodies were designed with incredible intention.  

EveryLife founder and CEO, Sarah Gabel Seifert, sits down with Dr. Christina Francis to talk about our joint mission and the incredible benefits of pregnancy 

Resources:  

• Explore ReThink Pregnancy 
• Discover EveryLife products  
• Follow EveryLife on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter 

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Are men really being heard in discussions about abortion?  It's time we dive deep into this overlooked role. 

In our latest conversation, Brandy Meeks, President of Vitae Foundation, discusses Vitae Foundation’s newest research on how to communicate with men about abortion. In this episode, Dr. Susan Bane and Brandy explore the critical role of men in the abortion decision-making process, highlighting research-driven messaging strategies to influence hearts and minds. The conversation covers emotional research methods, men's emotional responses to pregnancy, and practical ways to engage men in supporting life-affirming choices. 

For too long, the narrative has centered on women alone, but Brandy’s research reveals that men’s responses can shape a woman’s experience profoundly. When partners say, "I’ll support you no matter what you choose," it often leaves women feeling isolated, as if the weight of the decision rests solely on their shoulders.  

Let’s break down these barriers and learn how we can best communicate with men about abortion.  

A special thanks to Vitae Foundation for being an MBEC 2026 sponsor! 

Resources:  

• Learn more about Vitae Foundation 
• Read “A Few Good Men: Increasing the Masculine Presence” study  

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In this episode, Dr. Christina Francis discusses one of the most significant breakthroughs since the Dobbs decision, which is the groundbreaking Fifth Circuit decision to pause mail-in abortion drugs. Joining her to discuss all the intricacies and the fight ahead is  Alliance Defending Freedom’s Erik Baptist and pro-life advocate Elizabeth Gillette. We explore how recent court decisions could impact access, safety, and women’s rights across the United States. 

Main Topics Covered: 

• The origins of the Louisiana lawsuit against the FDA over mail-order abortion drugs and ADF’s critical role.  
• The significance of the Fifth Circuit Court's recent decision to temporarily halt mail-order abortion drugs and the U.S. Supreme Court’s pause of that ruling. What does it mean?  
• How the Biden administration’s policies override state laws and the implications for pro-life states 
• The importance of in-person dispensing requirements for women’s and preborn children’s safety 
• Elizabeth Gillette's powerful testimony about her personal experience with chemical abortion and the risks involved 
• The legal process, upcoming Supreme Court decisions, and potential outcomes for women and pre-born children 

Resources:  

• Follow ADF’s case against the FDA 
• Learn more about Elizabeth Gillette and her advocacy 
• WATCH AAPLOG go undercover to get abortion drugs 
• Follow ADF. 

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Most women, including Gen Z, don't realize how dangerous the abortion pill truly is physically and emotionally. Rachel Owen, CEO of Infinite Worth, reveals how a simple chat line is saving lives, exposing the dark side of online abortion access, and transforming care for women facing unplanned pregnancies. 

In this eye-opening episode, you'll discover how Infinite Worth’s 24/7 nurse helpline is providing immediate, personalized support that counters misinformation and coercion. Rachel shares powerful stories of women choosing life after ultrasound guidance, the rise of online abortion drugs, and the urgent need for relationship-based care in a digital age. We break down the shocking statistics — like 60% of abortions being coerced — and discuss how real-time, compassionate outreach is disrupting the abortion industry. 

You'll learn why this platform creates a crucial continuity of care, bringing trust and safety to vulnerable women. This episode also explores the rising toll of the abortion pill, the emotional aftermath for women, and how the pro-life movement can meet Gen Z where they are: on their phones, with love and truth. 

Join us to discover how your voice and support can empower women to choose life—one conversation at a time. This is more than advocacy; it's life-affirming medicine powered by compassion, science, and faith. 

A special thank you to Infinite Worth for being an MBEC 2026 sponsor and supporting AAPLOG’s mission to empower women with life-affirming care. 

Resources:  

Infinite Worth 

Support Infinite Worth 

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In this episode, Dr. Christina Francis sits down with Dr. Jill Simons, pediatrician and Executive Director of the American College of Pediatricians (ACPeds), to explore the importance of life‑affirming, evidence‑based healthcare for children beyond the womb. Their conversation examines the growing influence of gender ideology in pediatric medicine and the urgent need to respond with biologically grounded care rooted in compassion and truth. Dr. Simons also shares insight into ACPeds’ Doctor, Heal Thyself campaign—an ambitious initiative aimed at supporting physicians and addressing the rapid adoption of irreversible medical interventions for children and adolescents experiencing sex‑identity distress. Together, they discuss the vital role physicians play in protecting children’s health and why a broader cultural shift toward integrity, courage, and authentic care is needed now more than ever. 

A special thanks to ACPeds for being MBEC 2026 Platinum Sponsors! 

Resources:   

Doctor, Heal Thyself Campaign 

American College of Pediatricians 

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Meet Teresa Rincon, the VP of Clinical Services at PreBorn!, where they’re revolutionizing care in pregnancy centers across the U.S. by integrating telehealth with compassionate support and also a platinum sponsor at MBEC 2026.  

From providing vital training and resources to connecting women with loving care, PreBorn! is bridging gaps in maternal health, especially in areas where clinics are scarce.  

Join Dr. Christina Francis as they explore how PreBorn!’s technology and comprehensive care are transforming women's health and pro-life efforts, as well as discussing why abortion should never be referred to as “telehealth.” 

Resources:  

• PreBorn! website 

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In this special episode in honor of Doctor’s Day, we’re coming to you from AAPLOG’s annual MBEC conference with a powerful keynote from Dr. Christina Francis. 

Dr. Francis takes us on a journey through the history of the Hippocratic Oath, a legacy that has guided physicians for centuries, and challenges physicians to consider what it truly means to uphold the ethical responsibility to do no harm. She reminds us that there are times in medicine when silence is not neutrality… it’s surrender. 

As physicians, our voices matter. Our oath matters. And today, Dr. Francis invites you to rediscover why and recommit yourself to use your voice for your profession and your patients. Enjoy this episode of OBservations. 

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