Their Voices Are Needed Now More Than Ever

Sibling connection, shared wisdom, and humor are taking center stage as Michelle Obama and her older brother Craig Robinson step into the podcast world together. The Chicago-born duo has teamed up for a new audio series titled IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, produced by Higher Ground, the media company founded by Michelle and former President Barack Obama. According to Variety, the series aims to “uncover the shared experiences that connect us all.”

A Podcast Rooted in Family and Authenticity

As co-hosts, Michelle and Craig will explore both the monumental and everyday questions of life — offering advice, laughter, and heartfelt stories along the way. Robinson, who serves as the Executive Director of the National Association of Basketball Coaches, brings a grounded, pragmatic perspective that complements Michelle’s signature blend of empathy and optimism.

Each week, the siblings will be joined by special guests to tackle audience questions about relationships, parenting, faith, resilience, identity, and navigating uncertainty. In an announcement from Higher Ground, producers described the podcast as showcasing “the First Lady at her most relaxed and honest,” providing listeners with an intimate look at the authentic bond that shaped both siblings from childhood. (Deadline, Associated Press)

The Launch and Guest Lineup

The first two episodes premiered on March 12, with new installments dropping weekly across all major platforms including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. The debut lineup already features some of today’s most influential voices in entertainment and culture. Actor, writer, and producer Issa Rae appears in one of the earliest episodes to discuss the complexity of “mismatched expectations in adult friendships.” (People)

Michelle and Craig are also set to appear at SXSW in Austin for a live taping of the show — an event anticipated to draw large audiences and offer fans a firsthand look at the pair’s natural, engaging chemistry. (Variety)

Future episodes will feature a mix of prominent names across entertainment, sports, and culture — including Tyler Perry, Keke Palmer, Tracee Ellis Ross, Jay Shetty, Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach, Elaine Welteroth, Angie Martinez, Dwyane Wade, and Gabrielle Union. (Associated Press)

A Time for Connection

Michelle Obama explained the heart behind the project, saying:

“There’s a lot going on in the world right now. We’re living through complicated and confusing times — people are juggling family, work, relationships, aging parents, and more. I’m going to be honest: we don’t have all the answers. But there will be plenty of opinions, a lot of learning, and a lot of laughs. Because we all need moments of light right now.” (People)

Craig Robinson added that the idea for the podcast came naturally:

“We grew up talking through life’s big and small questions together. Now, we’re inviting listeners into that same conversation, hoping it sparks new ideas, perspectives, and connections.” (Associated Press)

Continuing a Legacy of Storytelling

This isn’t Michelle Obama’s first venture into podcasting. She previously hosted The Michelle Obama Podcast on Spotify and later The Light Podcast on Audible, where she engaged in candid discussions with cultural icons such as Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, Tyler Perry, and Conan O’Brien. Those projects marked the beginning of Higher Ground’s broader mission — to produce content that informs, uplifts, and inspires audiences through powerful storytelling. (CNN, The Hollywood Reporter)

Higher Ground has since expanded its portfolio beyond politics and inspiration. The company has produced documentaries, scripted series, and podcasts such as The Wonder of Stevie (celebrating Stevie Wonder’s musical legacy), Your Mama’s Kitchen hosted by journalist Michele Norris, The Big Hit Show, Tell Them, I Am, Renegades: Born in the USA featuring President Obama and Bruce Springsteen, and The Sum of Us, inspired by Heather McGhee’s bestselling book. (New York Times, Variety)

A Show for the Moment

With IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, Higher Ground continues to strengthen its reputation for championing thoughtful, community-centered media. The series blends wisdom, humor, and emotional openness — qualities that both siblings embody and that audiences crave in uncertain times.

What could have been just another celebrity podcast has instead become a heartfelt cultural dialogue — a show that reminds listeners that laughter, honesty, and human connection remain powerful forces for healing and growth. As the Obamas’ media company continues to evolve, this project feels like its most personal and universal yet: an invitation to slow down, reflect, and find common ground, one conversation at a time.