After 33 years of marriage, Barack and Michelle Obama are navigating unfamiliar changes, and the former First Lady is revealing it.
The former first couple’s marriage has weathered its share of challenges, something they have opened up about.
After debunking divorce rumors last year, the pair are now stepping into a different chapter of life, with their daughters, Malia Obama and Sasha Obama, all grown and living independently.
How Michelle And Barack Obama Are Adjusting As Empty Nesters
The “Becoming” author recently spoke candidly about where she and her husband stand today, describing their marriage as entering a period of rediscovery and focusing on themselves.
“Our kids are grown. They’re out,” Michelle said on Wednesday’s episode of the “IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson” podcast. “They’re out. We’re looking at each other like, ‘Hey, I remember you.’ Now I’m not mad about anything. I don’t need you to do anything for me.”
The 62-year-old admitted that the transition has been unfamiliar territory for both of them. “It’s a new phase,” Michelle said. “Which takes time. We’re in a new phase of life.”
Michelle explained that both she and Barack now have to find themselves, as for years, their lives have revolved around their kids.
She also disclosed that many of the hardest moments in their relationship happened “because of their kids,” and called parenting the first major joint project couples do together.
Even after more than three decades together, Michelle emphasized that the relationship still requires effort.
“The level of muscle Barack and I have in our marriage is earned,” the mom of two added. “It’s earned over time, and it’s only gotten better. That’s the point. It only gets better. We’ve done the work.”
Michelle Obama Credited Couples Therapy And Self-Empowerment For Strengthening Her Marriage
Michelle’s comments about putting effort into her relationship echo comments she made earlier this year during an appearance on Alex Cooper’s “Call Her Daddy” podcast.
As The Blast reported, at the time, the author explained that she and her beau have constantly worked together to further strengthen their union. She revealed that they have attended couples therapy, which helped them improve communication and navigate challenges better.
She further emphasized the importance of self-empowerment, encouraging people to prioritize their health, confidence, and personal development rather than depending entirely on a partner for validation.
How Barack Failed To Notice Michelle’s New Appearance
The attorney has also shared light-hearted moments from her union. The Blast reported a February episode of her podcast with her brother, Craig Robinson, where she shared that she recently gotten new ear piercings, an idea inspired by younger generations.
She noted that the decision was not spontaneous, as she wanted more piercings, but stopped after getting a second one before having children.
However, she went for it, and it took three days before Barack realized something was different, jokingly blaming her habit of wearing her hair down. She recalled teasing him, saying: “I sleep with you every night, dude, you know?”
Barack Obama Praised As Protective Husband At NBA Game
Regardless of Barack’s failure to notice his wife’s new looks, he has undoubtedly had sweet public moments with her. Last month, the couple attended the NBA All-Star Game with their daughter Sasha. Michelle later posted photos from the outing on Instagram.
One moment, however, captured fans’ attention when a stray ball flew toward the couple. The ex-president quickly caught it before it could hit Michelle.
In a video later shared online, he calmly handed the ball to Devin Booker with a grin. The clip quickly gained attention on social media, with many praising his quick reflexes and protective instincts.
Per The Blast, one fan gushed about the moment, writing, “He’s a protector! I saw now he protected Michelle right there.”
Michelle Obama’s Second Daughter Seen Vaping
While Michelle and Barack adjust to life without their daughters at home, Sasha has recently made headlines of her own.
According to The Blast, the 24-year-old was spotted vaping after a workout session. In clips circulating online, she carried an oversized tote bag over one shoulder, her phone in one hand and a vape in the other, taking a few puffs as she walked away.
Michelle has previously spoken about the challenges of raising children in the public eye during their time in the White House. She explained that Sasha and Malia went through typical milestones like driving, prom, parties, drinking, and even smoking. However, keeping the vices out of headlines was a struggle she described as a “nightmare.”
