We’re proud to bring you the third episode of My Body. My Pod. in partnership with Abortion in America. In addition to Mini Timmaraju’s regular episodes interviewing leading figures in the fight to protect reproductive freedom, we will periodically share the powerful stories of real people who’ve accessed – or struggled to access – the reproductive health care they need. 

First up: Riata Walker’s journey from firm anti-abortion beliefs to the understanding that abortion is critical health care. 

💬  “My challenge to people who would say that they are pro-life… is to dig a little deeper,” says Riata. “Just listen to some stories and listen to where people are coming from and just try to understand.”

Growing up in a conservative community, Riata was firmly opposed to abortion and never imagined her own pregnancy would test everything she believed. When a devastating diagnosis revealed fatal fetal abnormalities, she made the decision to end her pregnancy. Through her experience, Riata came to understand what abortion truly is: health care. A personal choice. The freedom to decide what’s best for yourself, your family, and your future. Now, Riata advocates for abortion access, and shares why her experience transformed her understanding of privilege, compassion, and reproductive freedom.

Riata’s story is about more than one decision—it’s about the barriers and inequities that determine who can get care and who cannot. She had the support, the means, and the legal access to care. Many do not. Across the country, patients are navigating dangerous laws that endanger their lives and well-being. The consequences are devastating—and often preventable. 

We’re deeply grateful to Riata and other abortion storytellers for their courage, and to Abortion in America for helping bring these voices forward. Visit Abortion in America and follow on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to stay connected with their important work.

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Episode recording: 

October 7, 2025

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