Michelle Obama recently opened up about her marriage and personal struggles during a conversation on her podcast, IMO With Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, which she co-hosts with her brother. In the latest episode, Michelle explained why she decided not to attend Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration a choice that caused a lot of public backlash and rumors about her relationship with Barack Obama.
Speaking to actress Taraji P. Henson, Michelle revealed that after spending eight intense years in the White House, she realized she needed to start living life on her own terms. She talked about how much being First Lady changed her internally and how therapy has helped her finally believe she is “good enough” without needing to meet everyone’s expectations.
Michelle admitted that saying “no” to attending Trump’s inauguration was a huge step for her. She said it was one of the first times she made a decision based purely on what was best for her own well-being, rather than what was expected of her. Although she faced heavy criticism for not attending, and some people even assumed it meant her marriage was in trouble, Michelle said the truth was much simpler: she was choosing herself for once.
She shared that part of sticking to her decision involved not even preparing a dress for the event. Normally, she’s always ready for anything formal, including funerals, but this time she told her team not to have anything ready — to avoid the temptation of doing “the right thing” for others instead of for herself.
Michelle explained that the pressure of being a public figure, especially as First Lady, often meant she had to absorb stress for everyone around her — her husband, her daughters, her family, and the country. Taraji P. Henson pointed out during the conversation that women often act like “shock absorbers” for others’ emotions and struggles, and that it’s exhausting and unfair. She praised Michelle for finally putting herself first.
Support poured in online after Michelle posted a clip from the podcast. Journalist Katie Couric left a supportive comment telling Michelle to keep being herself and to ignore critics. Actress Julia Roberts and others also showed love and encouragement.
In the end, Michelle Obama’s message was clear: after years of carrying the weight of so many expectations, she is learning to choose what’s best for her own mental health — and she hopes others will feel empowered to do the same.
