Michelle Obama made a notable appearance on the January 21 episode of Alex Cooper’s “Call Her Daddy” podcast, marking an engaging conversation just days after her 62nd birthday. The former First Lady spoke candidly about her daughters, Malia and Sasha, both now in their 20s, and addressed the delicate dynamics of parenting as children transition into adulthood.
During the nearly two-hour discussion, Obama reflected on her experiences as a mother and the social pressures that come with raising daughters in the public eye. She specifically mentioned avoiding the question, “Are you dating anyone?” as one she finds herself sometimes slipping into while conversing with her girls. Obama emphasized the importance of questioning such inquiries, noting they might stem from “our own insecurities as mothers.”
She expressed a desire to shift the focus of conversations with her daughters to avoid reinforcing societal pressures regarding romantic relationships. “It’s like, let me not make that the first question or the second question or a question at all,” she said. The conversation underscored the necessity for parents to separate personal fears from their children’s experiences, encouraging a more mindful approach in discussions about happiness and fulfillment.
Reflecting on her journey as a mother, Obama shared that both she and former President Barack Obama aimed to provide their daughters with a normal upbringing amid extraordinary circumstances. “Once we left the White House, their lives slowly began to inch a little closer toward normalcy,” she said, while also highlighting the critical skills the girls have developed.
On another podcast appearance, she touched on her reluctance to enter the political arena, citing her daughters’ need for privacy and normalcy. “I wanted them to have the freedom of not having the eyes of the world on them,” Obama remarked, reinforcing her commitment to their well-being.
As she transitions into this new chapter of motherhood, she welcomes the role of “advisor-in-chief,” expressing relief at witnessing her daughters thrive as young women. This positive outlook on her evolving relationship with Malia and Sasha signifies a hopeful approach to the challenges of parenting in today’s complex landscape.