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
Dec 17, 2025 • 1h 13min
Perform your Truth with Jenifer Lewis
Jenifer Lewis, the acclaimed actress and activist known for her powerful roles and vibrant personality, opens up about her lifetime experiences with bipolar disorder and sex addiction. She shares her journey from childhood ambitions shaped by poverty to achieving Broadway success. Jenifer discusses confronting her abuser, the impacts of early trauma, and the healing power of journaling. Listeners enjoy a sneak peek into her unreleased one-woman show, filled with humor and resilience, as she shares her wisdom for young achievers.
6 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 1h 21min
Hold Space for Grief with Anderson Cooper
Anderson Cooper, a prominent broadcast journalist and host of the grief-focused podcast All There Is, joins Michelle and Craig for an insightful discussion. He shares his experiences of navigating grief after his mother's death, including how documenting their conversations led to a book and documentary. They explore the individuality of grief and the importance of rituals and community support. Anderson also offers practical advice for talking to someone in mourning and highlights the value of passing family stories to children, emphasizing the significance of living a life that honors loved ones.
Dec 3, 2025 • 1h 20min
Find Your Adventure with Katt Williams
Katt Williams, the energetic stand-up comedian and actor, dives into his colorful past and shared life experiences. He recounts his strict Jehovah’s Witness upbringing and how it shaped his approach to love and parenting. With humor, he reflects on his journey from independence at 13 to adopting siblings. Katt shares profound insights on resilience learned from golf and the challenges of grief after losing a child. He also offers advice to artists about faith and navigating the entertainment world while valuing family over traditional relationships.
Nov 28, 2025 • 1h 40min
IMO Presents: The Look Live with Wesley Morris
Wesley Morris, a Pulitzer Prize-winning critic, engages in a lively discussion with Michelle Obama at a live event. Michelle shares her experiences in the East Wing, contrasting her vibrant style with Barack's simplicity. She reflects on fashion choices, including an iconic inaugural gown and a recent shift to pants. The conversation humorously touches on Oprah's gift etiquette and childhood style memories, while also highlighting the cultural significance of her fashion during her White House tenure.
Nov 26, 2025 • 1h 31min
Behind The Looks with Meredith Koop
Meredith Koop, a professional stylist and Michelle Obama's longtime wardrobe wizard, shares fascinating insights into her journey through fashion. She recounts how a cold call led to styling the first Black First Lady, navigating the unique challenges of the White House. The duo discusses storytelling through fashion, with a spotlight on bold wardrobe choices like the iconic thigh-high Balenciaga boots. They reflect on authenticity, comfort, and the liberation of style post-White House, revealing the deeper meanings behind each carefully curated look.
Nov 21, 2025 • 1h 10min
Love the Process with Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo, Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award winner, joins to discuss her newly released book, Simply More, which offers creative exercises rather than a full memoir. She shares insights from her journey from South London to Broadway and reflects on the challenges faced at RADA. The conversation includes the emotional weight of her role in The Color Purple and her anticipation for Wicked: For Good, which promises deeper character explorations. Cynthia also emphasizes the importance of creativity and authenticity in life.
Nov 19, 2025 • 1h 15min
I’m Not Disappearing - A Candid Conversation About Aging
Join Academy Award-winner Jane Fonda and former model Bethann Hardison as they dive into the realities of aging and activism. They discuss intentional living in later life, with Jane sharing her journey towards fulfillment and Bethann reflecting on body image and independence. The duo tackles age bias in the fashion industry and the push for greater representation. They also emphasize the importance of supporting younger generations in leadership roles and the transformative power of activism in their lives.
Nov 14, 2025 • 1h 9min
IMO Presents: The Look Live with Tracee Ellis Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross, an acclaimed actress and entrepreneur, joins Michelle Obama for a lively chat about fashion and identity. They delve into Michelle’s new book, discussing why she chose to share her fashion journey now. Tracee highlights their friendship and the longtime teams that shaped Michelle’s iconic looks. From managing public scrutiny to embracing natural hair, Michelle reveals her strategic approach to style, while both women celebrate how fashion amplifies diverse voices. Their conversation is a blend of empowerment, personal stories, and chic moments.
Nov 12, 2025 • 1h 19min
Let’s Talk About Hair
In a captivating discussion, actress Marsai Martin shares her hair journey and the significance of representation in media. Renowned stylist Yene Damtew elaborates on the importance of salon culture, hair care, and the communal experience it fosters. Michelle Obama reflects on her own hair evolution while navigating public life. The group addresses both the challenges and triumphs of Black hair, touching on topics like the Crown Act, hair discrimination, and the journey towards embracing natural beauty.
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.
