Michelle Obama, Craig Robinson Launch New Podcast Ahead of SXSW

AUSTIN, Texas — Former First Lady Michelle Obama and her brother Craig Robinson are set to launch their new podcast series, “IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson,” on March 12, 2025. The duo, who will also record a live episode at South by Southwest (SXSW) on March 13, aims to create a space for open conversations about life’s everyday challenges.

Produced by Higher Ground, the media company founded by the Obamas, the podcast promises to address the pressing questions surrounding relationships and the world at large. Each episode will feature Robinson, who is the executive director of the National Association of Basketball Coaches, joining Obama to explore candid topics along with a special guest.

The first two episodes include an introductory discussion and a conversation with actress and writer Issa Rae. Rae is expected to share insights on navigating mismatched expectations in adult friendships.

“With everything going on in the world, we’re all looking for answers and people to turn to,” Obama said in a statement. “My brother Craig and I launched the IMO podcast to create a space for people to come as they are, ask honest questions, give their opinions, and have thoughtful conversations about life.”

Rae’s episode is just one of many, with other notable guests lined up for the series. Upcoming episodes will include discussions with Keke Palmer, who will reflect on balancing personal sacrifices with career success, and social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, who will explore childhood changes due to technology. The season will also feature Seth and Lauren Rogen discussing caregiving within the “sandwich generation,” as well as guest appearances by Tyler Perry, Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and several others.

Robinson noted, “We grew up talking through life’s big and small questions together. And now, we’re inviting listeners into that conversation, with the hope that it sparks new ideas, new perspectives, and creates the connection we could all use right now.”

The podcast, which will be available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms, follows Obama’s previous work in the podcast arena, including her Audible original, “Michelle Obama: The Light Podcast,” and her series, “The Michelle Obama Podcast.”u00a0Higher Ground has produced several successful podcasts, such as “The Wonder of Stevie” and “Your Mama’s Kitchen,” focusing on significant cultural and personal narratives.

Listeners can expect new episodes of “IMO” to drop weekly after the initial premiere, providing ongoing communal reflections in a time when connection is crucial.