IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson
Higher Ground
Michelle Obama and her big brother Craig Robinson bring their unique experiences and candid perspectives to a range of listeners’ personal dilemmas, from the everyday to the existential. Each week, they’re joined by special guests to tackle audience questions with practical advice, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. From dating and relationships to parenting and financial planning, IMO sees the iconic First Lady at her most relaxed and honest. This podcast will leave you laughing, reflecting, and feeling more prepared to tackle life’s challenges. Join the fun and submit your questions at imopod.com!
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 5, 2025 • 1h 20min
The Making of A Style Icon
Join Michelle Obama, former First Lady and style icon, as she explores her fashion evolution from the South Side of Chicago to the national stage. She's joined by Farah Jasmine Griffin, a professor who frames Michelle's style within cultural and historical contexts. They discuss the challenges of media scrutiny, the significance of her 2004 DNC suit, and how representation shaped her identity. From practical wardrobe strategies to the impact of fashion as political messaging, this conversation celebrates individuality and the legacy of Black womanhood.
Oct 29, 2025 • 1h 11min
Share the Shine with Kenan Thompson
Kenan Thompson, a beloved actor and comedian known for his long tenure on SNL, shares insights from his journey as a child actor and his parenting experiences. He discusses the challenges of fame and how he fosters community on set. Kenan also tackles a listener's question on guiding a daughter aspiring for fame, emphasizing passion over notoriety. With a special appearance by his daughters, he reflects on balancing work and family life, creating a supportive environment, and the importance of maintaining privacy in a public world.
Oct 22, 2025 • 1h 7min
Trust Your Kids with Mara Brock Akil
Mara Brock Akil, a celebrated television writer and producer known for her impactful series like Girlfriends and Forever, joins the conversation to share insights from her creative journey. She discusses how her sons influence her storytelling and the importance of fostering communication with teenagers. The trio dives into the challenges of parenting through adolescence and cultural identity. Mara also hints at a potential Girlfriends movie, reflecting on its legacy. Tune in for a blend of humor, wisdom, and heartfelt discussions!
Oct 17, 2025 • 58min
Introducing Fela Kuti: Fear No Man
Sandra Isidore, a singer and key figure in Fela Kuti's life, shares her journey from growing up in Watts to meeting the legendary Nigerian musician. They discuss how Sandra's influence inspired Fela to transition from jazz to Afrobeat after learning about Black history and politics. Archival clips of Fela reveal his bold stance against oppressive regimes through music. The conversation dives into the melding of genres, the birth of a revolutionary sound, and the impact of art as a means of resistance.
Oct 15, 2025 • 1h 18min
Tap Into Your Vulnerability with Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson
In this engaging discussion, former NBA players Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson share their journeys from the court to the mic as co-hosts of the podcast All The Smoke. They delve into their childhoods and the pivotal family influences that shaped their values. The duo tackles the importance of healthy masculinity in parenting, emphasizing vulnerability and emotional intelligence for their sons. They also reflect on community engagement, activism after George Floyd, and the realities of co-parenting, offering insights that resonate far beyond sports.
11 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 1h 14min
What Every Woman Should Know About Menopause with Dr. Sharon Malone
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Sharon Malone, an OB-GYN and bestselling author, shares her passion for women's health, stemming from her upbringing in Alabama and friendship with Michelle Obama. She sheds light on menopause, detailing its impact on the body, common symptoms like hot flashes, and the often-misunderstood perimenopause. Dr. Malone also tackles the fears surrounding hormone therapy and offers invaluable tips for men to support their partners. This conversation is a blend of personal experiences and pivotal advice for navigating this significant life transition.
10 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 1h 6min
Live On Your Edge with Dr. Orna Guralnik
Dr. Orna Guralnik, a renowned clinical psychologist and the mind behind Showtime’s Couples Therapy, dives into the complexities of marital boredom and disconnection. She explores how inner disconnection often triggers feelings of boredom and offers practical steps to rekindle romance. The conversation highlights the importance of creating meaningful shared moments and embracing vulnerability to deepen intimacy. Listeners also learn about the benefits of therapy and the necessity of broadening support networks beyond one's partner.
Sep 24, 2025 • 1h 22min
Choose Your Creative Path with Erika Alexander and Kim Coles
Join actresses and podcasters Erika Alexander, known for her role as Maxine Shaw on Living Single, and Kim Coles, celebrated for her work as Synclaire/Jones, as they reminisce about their hit show and discuss its impact. They share heartfelt memories of their friendship and delve into Hollywood’s evolution since then. Erika reveals a transformative moment with a psychic that changed her perspective on acting. Together, they emphasize the importance of diversity in media and reflect on their ongoing creative journeys.
21 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 1h 3min
Find The Can-Do Attitude with Candace Parker
Candace Parker, a former WNBA star and influential voice in sports, joins the conversation to discuss the importance of self-exploration in our careers. She shares her experiences balancing motherhood with professional basketball, highlighting the unique challenges faced by female athletes. Love stories take center stage as she opens up about her relationship with her wife. Topics also include navigating identity and advocating for women in sports, underscoring the evolving landscape of female athletics and the personal growth that comes with it.
9 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 1h 13min
IMO Live: Choose Yourself with Natasha Rothwell
Natasha Rothwell, an Emmy-nominated actress and the founder of Big Hattie Productions, brings her vibrant energy to the conversation. She shares insights about her role in The White Lotus and her unique comedic journey in Tokyo. The discussion also delves into her experience as a 'neurospicy' individual and its impact on her creativity. With light-hearted matchmaking moments from Michelle and Craig, the episode celebrates identity, representation, and the importance of self-expression in art, particularly for Black women.
