Michelle Obama Gets Candid About Parenting: ‘I’m So Glad I Didn’t Have a Boy’

In a revealing and humorous moment on her podcast, former First Lady Michelle Obama admitted she’s relieved she didn’t have a son with former President Barack Obama — and her candid comments are resonating with parents everywhere.

Speaking on the June 18 episode of her “IMO” podcast, Obama opened up during a heartfelt discussion with her brother, Craig Robinson, and special guest, radio personality Angie Martinez. The topic: the joys and challenges of raising children — particularly boys.

“I’m so glad I didn’t have a boy,” Michelle said with a laugh, after Martinez playfully suggested that the Obamas “should’ve thrown a boy in the mix.”

“He would’ve been a Barack Obama!” she joked, implying that raising a mini version of her husband — known for his commanding intellect and strong personality — might have been especially challenging.

The Obamas, of course, are parents to two daughters: Malia Ann, 26, an up-and-coming filmmaker, and Sasha, 24, a recent graduate of the University of Southern California.

Parenting Reflections with Humor and Heart

Craig Robinson, himself a father of four — three sons and a daughter — responded with a smile, telling his sister, “You borrowed our boys,” referencing Michelle’s close bond with his children.

The episode struck a chord with listeners, as the trio’s lighthearted banter gave way to deeper reflections on what it means to raise children in the spotlight and navigate the pressures of parenting in a complex world.

Michelle, never one to shy away from vulnerability, has spoken openly about parenting in previous interviews. She’s emphasized the importance of raising independent, grounded children, especially when their last name is “Obama.”

Malia’s Name Change Sparks Conversation

Earlier this month, Michelle Obama made headlines for speaking out about her eldest daughter’s decision to drop her last name professionally. Malia, who is pursuing a career in Hollywood, now goes by “Malia Ann” — her first and middle name — in her creative projects.

Her 2023 short film, The Heart, which she wrote and directed, debuted at the Sundance Film Festival in 2024, crediting her as Malia Ann.

On the “Sibling Revelry” podcast with Oliver and Kate Hudson, Michelle addressed the choice:

“It is very important for my kids to feel like they’ve earned what they are getting in the world,” she said. “They don’t want people to assume that they don’t work hard… They want to be their own people.”

Michelle and Barack have long emphasized the importance of self-reliance and authenticity in parenting. Her bestselling memoir Becoming offered a window into her values as a mother, and her continued honesty has helped shape her image as both a role model and a relatable parent.

A Mother First, Always

Though she’s spent years in the public eye as First Lady, author, and advocate, Michelle Obama never hesitates to return to her most important role — mom. Whether she’s proudly sharing her daughters’ milestones or joking about the hypothetical chaos of raising a “baby Barack,” her reflections resonate deeply with parents navigating the same joys and struggles — just without the global spotlight.

And while she may joke about dodging the challenge of raising a boy, Michelle Obama’s parenting journey continues to inspire families with its mix of realism, resilience, and love.