Former First Lady Michelle Obama shared a light-hearted insight into her husband’s personal habit, former President Barack Obama, during the launch of her new podcast. The debut episode of “IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson” featured Michelle discussing Barack’s tendency to be tardy.
Michelle’s podcast, co-hosted with her brother Craig Robinson, released its first two episodes on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. The first episode featured an interview with actress Issa Rae. During the opening episode, Michelle, 61, expressed her irritation with Barack’s approach to time management.
“Well Barack, he had to adjust to what ‘on time’ was,” Michelle explained to listeners. Her brother Craig added that Barack was on “island time,” a nod to his upbringing in Hawaii.
Michelle humorously recounted: “I got this husband who’s like, when it’s time to leave, it’s three o’clock, he’s getting up and going to the bathroom! And I was like, ‘Dude, dude, like three o’clock departure means you’ve done all that,’ you know? It’s like, don’t start looking for your glasses, you know, at the three o’clock departure.”
She noted that over their 30-year marriage, Barack, 63, has improved his punctuality. Michelle also mentioned she has instilled the same sense of timeliness in their daughters, Malia and Sasha.
Higher Ground, the Obamas ‘ media company, announced the podcast, known as “IMO” (In My Opinion). It is intended to feature Michelle and Craig sharing their views on various topics affecting their lives, relationships, and the broader world.
This podcast is not Michelle’s first venture in this medium. In 2020, she launched “The Michelle Obama Podcast,” which became a leading original podcast on Spotify, particularly popular among women over 40, as her website notes.
On Instagram, Michelle emphasized the significance of her relationship with her brother, Craig, describing him as her confidant. She praised his insight, wisdom, and humor, which assisted her in navigating difficult times. Michelle also stated that they aim to share their perspectives on various topics, with input from special guests, friends, and experts.
The podcast launches amid ongoing speculation about the Obamas’ marriage, with some reports suggesting marital issues. However, the couple has attempted to counter these rumors through affectionate posts on social media and public affirmations.
In addition to Issa Rae, the podcast will feature guests such as Seth Rogen, Keke Palmer, and others, discussing topics like family, marriage, parenting, and personal matters.
During the second episode, Michelle shared additional insights about Barack, noting that he does not engage in meaningful discussions with his golfing friends and does not fully understand the complexities of women’s friendships.
Michelle also revealed that she was initially hesitant about Barack’s presidential run, and Craig convinced her to support his political aspirations.
Despite sharing some frustrations in the podcast, Michelle has underscored her appreciation for their 30-year marriage.
New episodes of “IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson” will be released weekly and available on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms.
