Michelle Obama Opens Up About Marriage, Freedom, and Family Bonds in New Podcast Series

Michelle Obama is stepping into a new chapter of public life — one that’s more personal than political. The former First Lady is launching a new podcast titled IMO (short for “In My Opinion”) alongside her brother, Craig Robinson, where the siblings dive into life’s most personal topics — including marriage, divorce, friendship, and navigating fame.

Set to premiere this week, the show offers a rare window into Michelle Obama’s world beyond the White House. Unlike her previous podcast, which leaned into interviews and light political commentary, IMO is more intimate, grounded in the sibling bond she shares with Craig, who is the executive director of the National Association of Basketball Coaches and a former college basketball coach.

The first two episodes, previewed by The New York Times, reveal an unfiltered look at the Obamas’ private life — including Michelle’s reflections on her long marriage to former President Barack Obama and her personal evolution after years in the national spotlight. Though the show steers clear of current political debates, it doesn’t shy away from emotionally complex issues.

Talking Divorce and Change

One of the earliest topics addressed on the show is divorce — particularly that of Craig Robinson, who separated from his first wife, Janis Robinson, in 2000 before remarrying in 2006. Through candid conversation, the siblings explore what it means to grow through personal change, loss, and second chances.

While Michelle doesn’t directly confirm any speculation about her own marriage, her openness on the show has fueled public curiosity, especially as rumors about a potential separation from Barack Obama have circulated in recent months.

The Obamas’ marriage has long been the subject of media fascination, and the former First Lady’s decision to speak candidly — albeit indirectly — about personal matters has stirred new interest. Though she avoids political commentary, her choice to reflect on the highs and lows of long-term partnership may offer insights into the reality behind the public image.

Navigating Life After the White House

Michelle Obama also shares stories about reclaiming a sense of normalcy — such as the simple freedom of driving again. After years of Secret Service protection, she describes the joy of taking the wheel herself, a symbolic gesture of personal independence after leaving the public eye.

The show also takes listeners back to the Obamas’ roots, exploring the siblings’ childhood in Chicago. Living in a modest apartment, they shared not only a room but also life lessons that would shape their futures. From their upbringing in a working-class neighborhood to the experiences that forged their resilience, Michelle and Craig reflect on how their past continues to inform their values and relationships.

Friendships, Fame, and Keeping It Real

While IMO is deeply personal, it’s not just a family affair. The show will feature a rotating lineup of celebrity guests, including names familiar from Michelle’s previous podcast series — like filmmaker Tyler Perry — as well as newcomers such as actors Seth Rogen, Keke Palmer, and Issa Rae.

In the second episode, Issa Rae joins the conversation to talk about maintaining friendships as an adult — especially while juggling fame, work, and family. This thread of connection, growth, and vulnerability appears to be a central theme of the podcast, aligning with Michelle Obama’s message of authenticity and emotional strength.

According to The New York Times, the show leans heavily on life experience rather than current headlines, which is consistent with Michelle’s longstanding desire to remain separate from direct political engagement. In her bestselling memoir Becoming, she famously wrote, “I never wanted to be involved in politics.” Her latest project reinforces that stance while still offering deep personal insight into her life before, during, and after the White House.

Public Absences and Renewed Speculation

Although the podcast promotes a sense of unity between Michelle and her family, her recent absence from several high-profile events has fueled ongoing speculation about a possible rift with Barack Obama.

Just last week, the former president attended an L.A. Clippers game courtside with team owner Steve Ballmer — and without Michelle. He was similarly alone at former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral and at President Donald Trump’s second inauguration, both times raising eyebrows over Michelle’s absence.

Sources have claimed that Michelle chose to extend a personal vacation in Hawaii rather than attend the Carter memorial, while her decision to skip Trump’s inauguration was widely interpreted as a political and personal protest. “She wouldn’t want to fake a smile for someone she still sees as a threat to American democracy,” one source reportedly said at the time.

Still, despite the rumors, the Obamas have continued to display public affection. This past Valentine’s Day, both Michelle and Barack posted loving messages to each other on social media, signaling that — at least publicly — their bond remains intact.

A New Chapter Begins

IMO is produced by Higher Ground, the Obamas’ media company, in partnership with Amazon-owned Audible. With its debut set for this week, the podcast offers fans — and skeptics — a closer look at Michelle Obama’s next phase.

Whether she’s reflecting on her marriage, sharing advice with her brother, or opening up about finding herself after years in the political spotlight, Michelle’s message is clear: This chapter is hers to define.

And for those wondering what’s really going on behind the scenes, IMO just might offer the closest thing to an answer.