“The Michelle Obama Podcast” is a refreshingly relatable and optimistic take on the madness surrounding the United States in the face of a pandemic, racial injustice and political unrest.
Rather than focusing on the expected political or legal analysis of current events, the former first lady relates to those around her through “topics and issues that we’re all dealing with, no matter what’s going on — whether that’s a pandemic, a nationwide reckoning with race or just any old summer afternoon sitting with our own thoughts.”
This ongoing podcast is in its first season on Spotify. The first episode premiered on July 29, and new episodes will continue coming out weekly.
Throughout the podcast, Michelle Obama emphasizes the importance of the conversations we have with our loved ones and how they lead to greater growth and change.
The first episode focuses on a conversation with former President Barack Obama. The conversation is an enjoyable balance between complex political issues and more personal, intimate topics.
Her husband seems to constantly direct the conversation towards political topics, but Michelle Obama’s powerful presence reminds the audience of the purpose and true moderator of the conversation.
Hearing the former president and first lady discuss their childhood and hopes for the future makes you feel as if you’re sitting with them at their kitchen table. Their playful and flirtatious tone provides comfort during a stressful, volatile political period.
The compassionate nature of the former first lady is evident as she discusses impactful issues such as racial justice, the COVID-19 pandemic, mass incarceration, healthcare and poverty.
The conversations between Michelle Obama and her friends and family are enlightening and entertaining , giving you a unique glimpse into her life.
However, there are moments that cause the listener to wonder if the Obama family has become disconnected from the public they used to govern. As they discuss the pandemic and importance of a nationalized health care system, one wonders if their wealth and power shields them from the economic and social fallout facing the average citizen.
Although each conversation and episode of the podcast is empathetic and optimistic, it’s clear that even the Obamas could benefit from listening to community members and leaders, as they are far removed from the effects of poverty that so many currently face.
The podcast might be more impactful in the current political realm if it was centered on conversations with those who are most affected by the issues being discussed.
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
That being said, the former first lady works hard to emphasize that our lives and political choices as United States citizens should be focused on compassion and community. These conversations — as well as maintaining relationships with our communities — are the most important change we can make.
As Michelle Obama said in the podcast’s inaugural episode, “It is much more hopeful, it is much more gratifying and much more effective to live this life as a ‘we.’”
Genevieve Romero is a freelance reporter at the Daily Lobo. She can be contacted at culture@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @Vieve2020
