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
Jan 28, 2026 • 1h 6min
Surrender to the Process with Jon Batiste and Suleika Jaouad
Suleika Jaouad, writer who chronicles illness and recovery, and Jon Batiste, Grammy and Oscar–winning musician and bandleader, share how they met and shaped their creative lives. They talk about meeting at band camp, reconnecting at Juilliard, journaling and the Book of Alchemy, and navigating illness, care, and daily practices that sustain creativity.
9 snips
Jan 21, 2026 • 1h 5min
Support Your Village with Regina and Reina King
Regina King, an Academy Award-winning actress and director, and her sister Raina King, an accomplished actress and producer, share heartfelt reflections on their close sibling bond. They discuss their LA upbringing, early acting careers, and the impact of their mother's parenting style. Regina opens up about her wine label, Me and You, created in memory of her late son, Ian. The sisters also dive into the challenges of balancing careers, the importance of community, and crafting meaningful relationships in life.
10 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 1h 14min
Your Turn Will Come with Carol Burnett
Carol Burnett, a legendary actress and comedian known for her groundbreaking show, shares her journey from childhood in Hollywood to her iconic career. She discusses how she turned rejection into motivation and highlights the importance of patience with her mantra, 'my turn will come.' Carol reflects on mentoring by Lucille Ball and navigating gender biases in comedy. The trio also tackles a listener's imposter syndrome, offering advice rooted in preparation and mindset. It's a heartfelt conversation filled with laughter and invaluable life lessons.
Jan 7, 2026 • 1h 1min
Tell Your Story with Jonathan Capehart
Jonathan Capehart, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and media commentator, shares his journey from a childhood in New Jersey and North Carolina to prominent journalism. He reflects on his memoir, Yet Here I Am, exploring life as a gay Black man in America. Jonathan discusses his grandmother’s influence, his mother’s sacrifices for education, and the complexities of growing up in a segregated town. He also touches on the significance of chosen family and his experiences shaping his identity in a supportive community.
Dec 24, 2025 • 1h 3min
Follow your Instincts with Henry Winkler
Henry Winkler, a veteran actor and celebrated children's author, joins the conversation to share his remarkable journey with dyslexia and his career insights. He reveals how he learned to read at 31 and discusses the impact of therapy on his self-awareness. Winkler reflects on turning 80, his ongoing creative projects, and the joys of grandparenting. The trio delves into the influence of his iconic role as 'The Fonz' and shares heartfelt advice on parenting and trusting instincts in life.
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.
