There’s something magical about listening to siblings talk, especially when those siblings happen to be former First Lady Michelle Obama and her older brother, Craig Robinson. Their podcast captures the warmth, wisdom, and occasional sibling rivalry that makes their relationship so relatable and compelling.
“The Michelle Obama Podcast” brought listeners into intimate conversations about family, relationships, health, and the issues shaping our world. When Craig joined as a guest and co-host throughout the series, their episodes became instant classics. The dynamic between them, Michelle’s thoughtful introspection paired with Craig’s humor and basketball coach’s perspective. created moments that were both deeply personal and universally resonant.
I’ve listened through the entire series to bring you the episodes where their sibling bond truly shines. the conversations that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even call your own siblings. Here are the best episodes featuring Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson.
“The Friendship Bubble” with Elizabeth Alexander
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Renowned poet and educator Elizabeth Alexander joins Michelle to reflect on three decades of friendship, the challenges they faced as new mothers, and the vital support their circle of friends provided during difficult times. Elizabeth also offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the reality of attending a Camp David retreat with the First Lady.
The Lessons Our Mother Taught Us
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In this episode, Michelle and Craig discuss how they’ve coped with the loss of their cherished mother, Marian Robinson. A listener from IMO seeks guidance from Michelle and Craig on handling difficult family relationships following her father’s death. The siblings reveal how their parents taught them to process grief from childhood, and provide counsel to the listener on discovering purpose and connection following profound loss.
Focus On What’s Right About Young Men with Barack Obama
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Former President Barack Obama joins Michelle and Craig to tackle a listener’s question about raising emotionally aware young men. He discusses how his single mother shaped his view of manhood and how childhood lessons in Indonesia taught him independence. Michelle and Craig consider their father’s example of masculinity, and all three emphasize the importance of community in raising boys today. Obama also explains his hope for the next generation.
You Need to Fight for Friendship with Julia Louis Dreyfus
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Acclaimed actress and comedian Julia Louis-Dreyfus joins to explore building community as adults. Michelle discusses navigating her 60s and her unexpected method for keeping friendships strong during her White House years, while Julia reveals the women who most inspire her. They also address a listener’s question about making friends at any age.
Break Up With Him When It’s Over with Elaine Welteroth
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Michelle meets one-on-one with author, entrepreneur, and multi-talented professional Elaine Welteroth to respond to a listener’s question about warning signs in dating. Elaine recounts a previous relationship with her own “Mr. Big” and how it almost derailed her from the family aspirations that mattered most to her. Michelle emphasizes the value of dating before marriage and spotlights an underappreciated idea: being the one who chooses, rather than being chosen.
Ask Your Kid The Tough Questions with Angie Martinez
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Michelle and Craig meet with celebrated radio personality, podcaster, recent golf enthusiast, and “Voice of New York,” Angie Martinez. As a mother of two boys, Angie provides insight to a listener grappling with raising a son in a turbulent culture full of poor masculine role models. Michelle and Craig address teenage peer pressure, and Angie reveals her most effective approach for bonding with sons.
Put The Phones Away with Jonathan Haidt
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Social psychologist and bestselling author Jonathan Haidt (“The Anxious Generation”) joins Michelle and Craig to examine the harm smartphones and social media inflict on children. Jon outlines four strategies for addressing kids’ phone issues, fostering a play-centered childhood, and delaying social media access until children are prepared. The episode also features a listener seeking advice on managing screen addiction.
Share the shine with Kenan Thompson
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Actor, comedian, and longtime SNL cast member Kenan Thompson joins Michelle and Craig to address a listener’s question about raising a daughter who aspires to fame. Kenan discusses his journey as a child performer, his efforts to build community on SNL, and his approach to fathering his two young daughters. The episode also features a surprise appearance from Kenan’s children.
“Telling Myself I Was Enough” with Conan O’Brien
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Conan meets with Michelle to discuss growing up feeling like an outsider and exchange hard-earned wisdom about relationships and marriage. Additionally, Michelle shares anecdotes from her White House travels, including a surprising invitation from the Queen that culminated in a room made of solid gold.
Be a Different Kind of Leader with Brian Chesky
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Airbnb co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky joins Michelle and Craig to discuss scaling a startup and seeking meaningful relationships. He shares stories about Airbnb’s early success (involving breakfast cereal), tech companies’ evolving responsibilities, and advice for young entrepreneurs. Michelle also questions Brian about dating tips he received from an unexpected source during the pandemic.
“We Weren’t Meant to Do This Life Alone” with Heather McGhee
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Author and commentator Heather McGhee meets with Michelle to discuss growing up fearlessly, the events of January 6th, and maintaining hope.