Unless you’ve been living under a rock (no judgment), you’ve probably heard about Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson’s new podcast, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson.
The sibling duo launched the pod in March and have already welcomed some of the biggest names in entertainment, business, and sports — including Keke Palmer, Jay Shetty, and Issa Rae — for thoughtful, hilarious, and genuinely moving conversations the world could use more of right now.
In a recent Zoom interview with iHeartRadio’s own Angie Martinez, Michelle and Craig opened up about what led them to hit record, and why this podcast means so much to them.
“[IMO] is a tribute to our parents,” Craig told Angie. “In these times where people need something different, we just want to be here the way our parents were there for us… I want people to walk away feeling uplifted and impacted.”
Michelle agreed, adding that the podcast is her way of pouring into others. “There’s a lot of people who don’t feel like these voices are for them," she shared. "My hope is that we create a voice that feels unique for people looking for a platform where they feel seen.”
Podcasting together has revealed a new side of Michelle and Craig’s relationship. Swapping stories from their childhood has made them realize just how differently they remember certain moments growing up. And it’s those differences that are creating space for deeper, more honest conversations between the two.
One of the hardest topics for them both, though, has been the loss of their mother and matriarch, Marian Robinson, in May 2024. The IMO episode dedicated to her took nearly six months to record — a process they say was filled with laughter, emotion, and reflection.
“We laughed, got choked up…” Michelle recalled, while Craig described it as the most meaningful episode for him during that time of grief.
While their upbringing and parenting have been recurring themes on the podcast, Michelle and Craig have made space for a wide range of conversations. From setting boundaries to navigating caretaking, adult friendships, and even those moments of hopelessness — they’ve created space for it all.
Still, they aren’t shying away from discussing their family — including their kids. Michelle told Angie how proud she is of the women her daughters, Sasha and Malia, have become. “They’re out on their own, holding down jobs,” she said, reflecting on how much they’ve grown. While they weren’t always eager to hear about Barack’s day, that’s shifted — they’re now in a place where they actually take advice from their mom, she admitted.
As for whether Sasha, Malia, or Craig’s kids, Avery and Leslie, might ever make an appearance on the podcast? Don’t count on it. Michelle said they’re focused on carving their own paths. “They want to make their own way,” she said — so much so that Malia doesn’t even use her last name professionally.
To listen to Angie’s full interview with Michelle and Craig, click HERE.