
The Charlie Kirk Show Motherhood, Meaning, and the Road Ahead ft. Riley Gaines
Jan 2, 2026
Riley Gaines, a former All-American collegiate swimmer and advocate for women's rights, shares her journey of activism and motherhood. She discusses the challenges of facing harassment on campuses while promoting women's sports. Riley highlights Turning Point USA's supportive pro-family culture, including its six-month maternity leave policy. She reflects on her response to Charlie's assassination, the impact of faith on family life, and the importance of grassroots efforts to protect girls in sports. This heartfelt conversation is filled with hope and resilience.
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Early Support That Built Trust
- Riley describes Turning Point's early personal outreach after she spoke out in March 2022 and how it felt different from others.
- She says Charlie and Turning Point prioritized her wellbeing over political gain and that grew into a lasting relationship.
Why Campus Activism Matters
- Riley argues campuses and many institutions have been captured by leftist influence across multiple spheres.
- She sees campus activism as critical because young people are being shaped by those institutions and must be reached directly.
Taking A Newborn On The Road
- Riley recounts traveling with her newborn to multiple campuses and states within weeks of giving birth.
- She frames motherhood as transformative and says your life doesn’t end when you have children, it begins.




