Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 20, 2025 · Entertainment

Michelle Obama’s Candid Take on Parenting: Sasha vs. Malia

Michelle and Barack Obama pictured with daughters Sasha (in white) and Malia (in black and white patterned dress) while living in the White House in 2009

EXCLUSIVE: Michelle Obama Spills Tea on Her Daughters, Husband, and Marriage

In a juicy episode of her podcast IMO, Michelle Obama, 61, opened up about the challenges of raising her two daughters, Malia, 26, and Sasha, 24, while they were living in the White House between 2009 and 2017. The former First Lady dished out some candid comments about her husband, Barack, and their parenting styles, leaving fans wondering if the power couple's marriage is as strong as it seems.

Michelle sat down with her brother, Craig Robinson, and guests Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade to discuss the dynamics between siblings and parents. As they delved into the topic, Michelle shared a revealing anecdote about how her daughters interacted with their father during their teenage years. She explained that Malia would often try to please Barack by engaging in conversations about politics, but Sasha was a different story altogether.

Michelle, pictured with Barack and her children on the Iowa campaign trail in 2008, says Barack found youngest daughter Sasha more difficult to parent than the couple's older child Malia

"Sasha was like a cat," Michelle said with a chuckle. "She didn't want to be touched or petted; she just wanted her space." This behavior reportedly frustrated Barack, who couldn't understand why his youngest daughter wasn't more affectionate towards him.

Michelle took a subtle jab at her husband's parenting skills, saying, "Barack would say Sasha was difficult, but I'd say no, the first one [Malia] was a pleaser. Right?" This comment left fans wondering if Michelle is hinting that Barack struggles with being a hands-on parent, especially when it comes to Sasha.

The mother-of-two also reminisced about how her daughters started "pushing away" from them during their teenage years. Michelle explained that she believes they distanced themselves because they wanted to establish their own identities and distinguish themselves from their famous parents. This revelation has sparked debate among fans, with some sympathizing with the Obama daughters' desire for independence.

The Obama family are pictured in 2013. Michelle has continued to spill family secrets amid rumors her marriage to Barack is on the rocks

The episode's candid conversation about family dynamics comes amidst swirling rumors about the state of Barack and Michelle's marriage. In a recent episode of IMO, the couple addressed speculation that they're on the rocks after 33 years together. When Craig Robinson joked, "What, you guys like each other?" Michelle playfully replied, "Oh yeah, the rumor mill." However, her continued comments about their family life have done little to quell the rumors.

Michelle's latest episode has also left fans wondering if she's subtly hinting that Barack's parenting style may be one of the issues in their marriage. In a previous episode, Michelle shared that she had a stern conversation with her husband about getting their daughters' school used to having the President attend events. She revealed that she told him, "You have to get the school normalized to you being the type of engaged parent that you were before election night."

This story has left fans speculating about the Obama's marriage and whether they're facing challenges in their relationship. In a June episode, Michelle jokingly said she was glad they never had a son because he would have been just like Barack. Her comment sparked laughter among her guests but also raised eyebrows.

Michelle and her guests were discussing the dynamics between siblings and parents,  when she shared an anecdote from when they were raising their then-teenage girls in the White House

As the rumors continue to swirl, one thing is clear: Michelle Obama is not afraid to speak her mind and share her thoughts on family dynamics, marriage, and parenting. Whether she's dishing out advice or making light of her husband's quirks, Michelle remains as sharp-tongued and candid as ever.

Sources:

  • IMO podcast
  • The Scholarly Note (thescholarlynote.com)

In June, the devoted mom took another jibe at her husband of 33 years, confessing that she was glad the pair never had a son because he would have been just like her husband

Michelle explained her youngest daughter Sasha was 'like a cat' and wasn't so much a people pleaser - which Barack struggled with

Michelle and Barack Obama are pictured together on their wedding day in October 1992