Work in Progress: Michelle Obama: The Conversation Continues…

Summary

Work in Progress with Sophia Bush: Episode Summary – "Work in Progress: Michelle Obama: The Conversation Continues…"

Release Date: April 9, 2025
Host: Sophia Bush
Guest: Michelle Obama

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Introduction

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Work in Progress with Sophia Bush, host Sophia engages in a deep and meaningful conversation with former First Lady Michelle Obama. The discussion revolves around personal growth, parenting, decision-making, and embracing the continuous journey of self-improvement. This episode offers listeners an intimate glimpse into Michelle Obama’s philosophies and experiences, emphasizing the balance between being a "masterpiece" and a "work in progress."

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Parenting and Building Trust

Sophia Bush begins the conversation by delving into Michelle Obama’s reflections on parenting and the dynamics between her and her mother.

• Sophia Bush (04:03):
  "I know she loved me, but I didn't always think she trusted me."

Michelle shares her journey of healing alongside her mother, exploring the challenges of bridging generational gaps and overcoming fears rooted in her mother's past experiences.

• Michelle Obama (06:25):
  "I tended to try to explain why it was important. And my mom always says that sometimes we don't give our kids credit for just really being able to hear the truth."

This segment highlights the importance of open communication and mutual understanding in fostering trust within the family.

Embracing Independence and Personal Choices

Transitioning into her personal life post-children, Michelle Obama discusses the newfound freedom and responsibility that comes with being an "empty nester."

• Michelle Obama (09:28):
  "In my life, all of my choices are for me."

She candidly addresses the challenges of making decisions solely for herself, free from the obligations tied to her role as a mother and public figure.

• Michelle Obama (09:51):
  "Now, I can't blame my decisions and indecisions on anyone other than me."

Michelle emphasizes the shift from external expectations to internal desires, advocating for self-authorship in one's life journey.

Navigating Personal Loss and Future Decisions

The conversation takes a poignant turn as Michelle Obama reflects on the recent loss of her mother and its impact on her approach to life and decision-making.

• Michelle Obama (17:09):
  "Now is the time for me to make some big girl decisions about my life and to own it fully."

She shares her commitment to living authentically and making choices that align with her true self, rather than succumbing to societal pressures or expectations.

• Michelle Obama (19:21):
  "We start actually, finally, like, going, what am I. What am I doing?"

This reflection underscores the episode's central theme: the ongoing process of self-discovery and the courage to pursue personal fulfillment.

Professional Endeavors and Creative Projects

Michelle Obama introduces her latest project, "Later Daters," a show that celebrates love and connections in later stages of life.

• Michelle Obama (23:28):
  "It's about touching everyone in every way. And unscripted programming is an important genre now."

She discusses the inspiration behind the show, drawn from her own experiences and the desire to showcase the vibrancy and confidence of individuals in their 50s and 60s+.

• Michelle Obama (23:54):
  "We are entering our best years. And I want women in particular to embrace that part of themselves."

Michelle highlights the importance of representation and storytelling in empowering others to embrace their own journeys.

Rapid-Fire Segment: Personal Preferences

In a lighter segment, Sophia and Michelle partake in a rapid-fire exchange, revealing their personal tastes and preferences.

• Sophia Bush:
  "Are you coffee or tea?"

• Michelle Obama (32:56):
  "Tea. Caffeinated or chamomile in the morning every now and then."

• Sophia Bush:
  "What is your go-to cocktail?"

• Michelle Obama (33:54):
  "Vodka martini. Dry, straight up, olives, very cold."

This segment adds a personal touch, showcasing the relatability and warmth between the host and her esteemed guest.

Final Reflections: Continuous Self-Improvement

As the episode draws to a close, Michelle Obama shares her thoughts on maintaining personal growth amidst external chaos.

• Michelle Obama (36:44):
  "I will keep working on the me that is always the work in progress, because we are always still becoming, and that won't change."

She underscores the importance of focusing on what one can control—health, mental well-being, and personal choices—as foundational elements for broader societal change.

• Michelle Obama (38:10):
  "Let's continue to be blessed, to feel blessed and grateful for that and find our happiness and joy there and not rely on things that are external that we don't have control over."

Michelle advocates for redefining happiness, steering away from external validations, and fostering inner contentment and kindness.

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Conclusion

This episode of Work in Progress with Sophia Bush offers a profound exploration of Michelle Obama’s personal and professional life. Through candid conversations and shared experiences, Michelle emphasizes the perpetual journey of self-improvement, the significance of authentic decision-making, and the enduring impact of storytelling. Listeners are left inspired to embrace their own work in progress, fostering growth and resilience in their lives.

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Notable Quotes:

• Michelle Obama (09:28):
  "All of my choices are for me."

• Michelle Obama (17:09):
  "Now is the time for me to make some big girl decisions about my life and to own it fully."

• Michelle Obama (23:54):
  "We are entering our best years. And I want women in particular to embrace that part of themselves."

• Michelle Obama (36:44):
  "I will keep working on the me that is always the work in progress, because we are always still becoming, and that won't change."

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Note: This summary intentionally omits advertisement segments and non-content sections to focus solely on the substantive discussions between Sophia Bush and Michelle Obama.

Transcript

[Sophia Bush]

Hey friends, let's talk about simplifying our beauty routines. I know we have all been there feeling overwhelmed by 12 step skincare regimens and palettes with 50 eyeshadows. Here's the thing, I don't have time for that and I'm pretty sure you don't either. That's why I am so excited that Merit is sponsoring this podcast. Merit is all about a less is more approach. Their makeup and skincare products are designed to enhance your natural beauty, not cover it up. From their minimalist foundation and concealer all in one to their incredible flush balms, it's like Blush but better. With their simple products I can get my whole routine done in under five minutes. If you are looking to simplify your morning, head to Merit Beauty.com and get their signature makeup bag free with your first order. That's Merit Beauty.com Guys, I'm so excited.

[Michelle Obama]

To tell you about one of the brands we love at work in progress. And we cannot stop recommending our friends at Tomboy X. They are a true go to for me and our whole staff here for everything. Underwear, bras, loungewear and more. Their materials are so comfortable, their colorways are so cute and it's nice to have gear that just feels good on your body. Tomboy X creates premium underwear for progressive people. They just drop new prints in their best selling underwear collection plus every bra on their site. 100% wire free.

[Laura Kim]

Tell them Sophia sent you and use.

[Michelle Obama]

Code progress for 20% off your first purchase only at tomboy x.com PayPal lets.

[Ryan Reynolds]

You pay all your pals like your graduation gifters.

[Sophia Bush]

Who's paying for the mattress topper?

[Michelle Obama]

You mean the beanbag chair?

[Sophia Bush]

Aren't we getting a mini fridge?

[Michelle Obama]

Can we create a pool on PayPal? It lets us collect the money before we buy.

[Sophia Bush]

Ooh yes, that's smart.

[Michelle Obama]

Glad we can agree on something easily.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Pool split and Send Money with PayPal get started in the PayPal app. A PayPal account is required to send and receive money. A balance account is required when it.

[Cleveland Clinic Representative]

Comes to your health and well being. The right care can change everything. That's why Cleveland Clinic has been elevating world class patient care for over a century. From the latest in heart neurology and cancer care to advanced diagnostics and beyond. Cleveland Clinic is here for every care in the world. Explore a wide variety of health and wellness info by visiting clevelandclinic.org today.

[Laura Kim]

Imagine a toilet so striking it inspired a couture dress.

[Sophia Bush]

The Kohler veil Smart toilet in honed black actually inspired creative Director and fashion designer Laura Kim to create a stunning black chiffon dress.

[Laura Kim]

The Veil Smart Toilet with its curved design, deep, rich textural color, touchscreen remote control, and customizable cleansing features can transform your routine into something extraordinary. And we all deserve extraordinary. Design changes everything. Valsmart toilet in honed black only from Kohler. Discover the Veil Smart Toilet and go behind the scenes of Kohler's partnership with Laura [e-mail].

[Podcast Host]

Welcome back, everyone.

[Laura Kim]

Our conversation with Michelle Obama continues.

[Podcast Host]

I think your point about the fear. You know, it. It's so human to not want your children to hurt. And it's interesting. I've never talked about this, but you're illuminating something for me that in my adulthood, my mom and I have been healing because my mom went through a really, you know, my mom did not grow up the way I did. I. She did not have, you know, the life that I did. She went through, you know, immigration with her own mother. The classic, beautiful Ellis island story, but the. The reality. And, you know, she lived in a housing project in the Bronx and sometimes had nothing to eat but a piece of bread and salt that she would make into a sandwich. And my mom had such fear about me suffering the way she suffered that there were ways she tried to protect me. And it took a while for us to come back around, for her to not understand why I was doubting myself in this really important moment and for us to unpack that. I knew she loved me, but I didn't always think she trusted me.

[Michelle Obama]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

And so I hadn't really learned how to trust myself.

[Michelle Obama]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

And in that moment, we had this breakthrough as two women, and I learned about these things that happened in her childhood that she had shame about, that she never wanted to tell me about because she never wanted me to be scared that it would happen to us because come hell or high water, she wouldn't let it. And it was this moment where she saw me as more human. I saw her as more human. And we both were like, whoa, you know, and. And then what will the next generation of children have because we have these tools. And I think there's such beauty in. In your willingness to share it in the stories you've told us, in the books, in the stories you're telling right now. Can I ask you a bit of a humorous question? Only because I am now lucky enough to not only love the best person in the world, but the best person in the world came with the two best kids in the. And, like, toddler math is crazy, you know, and. And There are moments where I'm like, how do I, I am an actor. I can make up a story, right? Like, how do I tell a story that is going to get this child to survive or sleep through the night or whatever? So if you don't mind me asking, now that they're grown, ish. Like, what's the craziest lie or tall tale you and Barack had to tell your kids to get them to do something when they were little?

[Michelle Obama]

Oh, my goodness, that is a great question.

[Podcast Host]

Like, I don't know if there was a monster under the bed.

[Michelle Obama]

You know, again, some of the, you know, Robinson wisdom was that our parents talk to us pretty straight about things. My kids will tell you I am a notorious lecturer, right? Sometimes they'd be like, oh, my God, I'm in trouble. And we would, it's a sit down and you have a conversation about what happened. So a bedtime conversation would be, first of all, you have to sleep in your bed because you can't sleep with me forever. And none of us get any sleep, so we all have to go to sleep. You're right down the hall. I know you're going to be scared, but guess what? You can get through it. I mean, these are the kind of conversations. So I didn't tend to tell a tale. I actually talked about why it was important. And my mom always says that sometimes we don't give our kids credit for just really being able to hear the truth. That, you know, and because sometimes that takes time. You know, there was often, because I said so for sure. But I tended to try to explain, why do we have to eat vegetables? I mean, you really do need fiber and roughage and you don't like it because your taste buds haven't. But you have to take a couple of bites, you have to eat some of it, and you're going to sit there until you do. And I'm going to try to make vegetables that you like. But part of dinner is the vegetable. And if you don't eat the vegetable, you don't get the dessert and then sticking with it. So I tended to, you know, as my kids would say, we would have conversations about everything because I just assumed that if I really explained it, I gave my kids credit for being bright, not brighter than most. But I think all kids are really smart and I think that they can understand, explain it at their age, their terms, their, what have you, their way of seeing the world. You know your kid better than anyone. You know what they know, you know how to talk to them. And I Always felt Barack and I always felt like we could talk to the girls and just explain the bigger picture because I think if they. I always felt like if they understood the context, then at least they could work with all the information, you know, I love that. So I love that I tended not to make up too much stuff, but I'm sure there's something that I'm just not remembering. I'll have to check with Malia and Sasha and get back to you on that.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, I can't wait to hear if they have any. If they have any stories. Well, and now that, you know, as you mentioned, they're in la, they're out having careers in the world. It must be so incredible to watch, you know, as a mom, these adults, they've grown into. And I also bet being an empty nester is kind of fun because, like, you get to do whatever you want. What is your 9 to 5? Who are you going to cocktails with? Like, I want to know what your life and your social life looks like right now, man.

[Michelle Obama]

It is whatever I want, Sophia. It's whatever I want. It's the.

[Podcast Host]

I love it for you so much.

[Michelle Obama]

In my life that all of my choices are for me. But it's also a little scary because as a mom and a busy person, I always had. It was somebody else's excuse. Why didn't I do this? Why haven't I gone there? Well, I have to make sure the girls are okay or my husband's president. So I can't. I can't do that.

[Podcast Host]

That's a good get out of jail free card. I'm so sorry I can't come. I'm married to the president.

[Michelle Obama]

Yeah, it's like, so. So now, you know, I can't blame my decisions and indecisions on anyone other than me. And I don't know about a lot of your listeners, but as a woman, I think if I'm honest with myself, I could have made a lot of these decisions years ago, but I didn't give myself that freedom. You know, I, you know, maybe I. Maybe even as much as I let my kids live their own lives, I use their lives as an excuse for why I couldn't do something. And now that's gone. And so now I have to look at my. I get to look at my calendar, which I did this year, was a real big example of me, myself looking at something that I was supposed to do, you know, without naming names. And I chose to do what was best for me, not what I had to do, not what I thought other people wanted me to do. And between you and me, that was an important test for me. Just as a woman, as, as, as an independent person. Because like all women and a lot of people, I operate from guilt. What should I do? What is the best thing for everybody else? Right? Because it's easier for me to say, well, I did this because it was what I was supposed to do. Right?

[Podcast Host]

Yes.

[Sophia Bush]

We'll be back in just a minute, but here's a word from our sponsors. Hey friends, let's talk about simplifying our beauty routines. I know we have all been there feeling overwhelmed by 12 step skincare regimens and palettes with 50 eyeshadows. Here's the thing, I don't have time for that and I'm pretty sure you don't either. That's why I am so excited that Merit is sponsoring this podcast. Merit is all about a less is more approach. Their makeup and skin care products are designed to enhance your natural beauty, not not cover it up. From their minimalist foundation and concealer all in one to their incredible flush balms, it's like Blush, but better. With their simple products, I can get my whole routine done in under five minutes. If you are looking to simplify your morning, head to Merit Beauty.com and get their signature makeup bag free with your first order. That's Merit Beauty.com oh friends, am I.

[Michelle Obama]

Excited to tell you about one of the brands that I just can't stop recommending. It's my friends at Tomboy X. They are a true go to for everything. Underwear, bras, loungewear. They're just amazing. And they happen to be a queer founded queer run and queer designed company. They're actually the makers of the original boxer briefs for women and their boxer briefs now come in the cutest sets with matching bras in a variety of cuts. I'm super super into them. Tomboy X creates sustainable size and gender inclusive underwear, swimwear and loungewear for all bodies to help customers feel comfortable in their own skin. It's all day comfort in sizes extra small through 6x. They have been in business for over 10 years so they know a thing or two about making the perfect pair.

[Laura Kim]

Tell them Sophia sent you and use.

[Michelle Obama]

Code progress for 20% off your first purchase only at tomboy x.com from prioritizing.

[Cleveland Clinic Representative]

Time to keep our bodies active to simply creating space to check on our well being. Happiness Lab listeners take their health very seriously. But when it comes to treating complex issues like heart disease, neurological disorders or even cancer, the right care can make all the difference. That's why Cleveland Clinic has been elevating world class patient care for over a century. Whether they're raising the bar in heart care, uncovering the mysteries of the brain, or researching new treatments for cancer, Cleveland Clinic continues to redefine what's possible for every breakthrough in health for every care in the world. Explore a wide array of health and wellness information by visiting clevelandclinic.org today.

[Mint Mobile Representative]

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[Michelle Obama]

[e-mail] Switch upfront payment of $45 for.

[Ryan Reynolds]

3 month plan equivalent to $15 per month required intro rate first 3 months only then full price plan options available, taxes and fees extra. See full [e-mail] there's nothing more pleasant.

[Laura Kim]

Than the discovery of unexpected beauty in everyday objects. And what's more unexpected than a beautiful toilet? An elegant, sleeked, curved, beautiful toilet. And you see this toilet is the Kohlerville Smart Toilet in honed black. Its unique shape and color are so stunning that they actually inspired fashion designer and creative director Laura Kim to design a couture dress. Beauty inspires beauty. The sleek curved honed black veil smart toilet from Kohler and the long flowing black chiffon dress that Kim designed were born from the belief that design can transform how we live and feel. The Vail Smart Toilet, with its bold design, intuitive touchscreen remote control and customizable cleansing features, creates an experience that is far beyond the expected. It can transform your everyday routine into something that is extraordinary. And don't we all deserve extraordinary? Like a gorgeous Laura Kim design dress? And if you don't know Laura Kim, you should Design changes everything. Veil Smart Toilet in Honed Black only from Kohler Discover the Veil Smart Toilet and go behind the scenes of Kohler's partnership with laura [e-mail].

[Podcast Host]

My therapist gave me this trick that has really illuminated this for me because we were talking about stress and busy and this and that, and I said, you know, and I need to do this and I need to do that. And he said, stop saying need to. What do you want to do? What do you do that you want to do? And how many things that you actually want to do do you tell yourself you need to do?

[Michelle Obama]

That's right.

[Podcast Host]

So you guilt yourself into doing them on Time.

[Michelle Obama]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

And that was like a whoa for me.

[Michelle Obama]

Yeah, yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Is. Is tennis one of your want to dos on your calendar?

[Michelle Obama]

It is an absolute want to do. Because first of all, I don't want to do cardio. And you know, I have just realized I don't like just straight cardio, but I love learning how to do something else. Right. And I love getting cardio. I'm trying to figure out how to hit a two handed backhand with topspin. Right? The time goes by and before you know it, I've, I've sweated for 90 minutes and I've had to unpack something and I've been able to take my mind off of everything else other than watch that ball.

[Podcast Host]

Watch the ball.

[Michelle Obama]

Hit it low, swing up, finish your swing, stay facing sideways. I mean, I just find that to be a bit meditative. Right. So tennis is, look, right now, every this podcast, imo, is what I want to do. It's not what I have to do, it's what I want to do. And I think a lot of this also has to do with me losing my mom this year. Right. And there's just, she was our last elder, right? And now we're it. And me and Craig, my brother, are looking at each other like, oh, okay, we ready for this?

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Michelle Obama]

But I feel like it's time for me to make some big girl decisions about my life and to own it fully. Right? Because if not now, when? What am I waiting for? What am I going to spend the next 20 years? You know, because look, the, you know, the summers are. We're in summer countdown at 61. Right. It's not so tragic, you know, if something happens to you and you're 80. Right?

Right.

So I, you know, now is the time for me to start asking myself these hard questions of who do I truly want to be every day? And that changes. So who do I want to have a lunch with? How long do I want to stay in a place? Do I want to travel? If a girlfriend calls and says, let's go here, I can say, yes, I can. And I'm trying to do that more and more. So what does it look like? It looks like whatever I want it to look like. And I still find time to, you know, give speeches, to be out there in the world to work on projects. I still care about girls, education. We, you know, the library is opening in a year from now. Certain things I am and am not doing with the library, but. And the interesting thing is that when I say no, for the most part, people are Like, I get it, and I'm okay. Right. And that's the thing that we, as women, I think we struggle with, like, disappointing people.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Michelle Obama]

You know, I mean, so much so that this year, people were, you know, they couldn't even fathom that I was making a choice for myself, that they had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing. You know, this couldn't be a grown woman just making a set of decisions for herself. Right, Right. But that's what. That's what society does to us. We start actually, finally, like, going, what am I. What am I doing? You know? Who am I doing this for? And if it doesn't fit into the sort of stereotype of what people think we should do, then it gets labeled as something negative and horrible.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. Well, there's always got to be drama if it doesn't look like other people's choices.

[Michelle Obama]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

And I think for you, really, for both of you, as a. As a, you know, viewer from the outside, but a person who's been honored to know you for a long time, I'm just like, God, look at them being happy. I love this. You're back and forth to Hawaii. Please let my life be so dramatic on my 61st birthday. Can I just tell you, speaking of life choices, and the irony is you reminded me of my own. You are telling so many amazing stories. You're producing so much beautiful content. The books are gorgeous. I can't wait to come to the library. I will sob. You know this about me, and you will be like, it's not even your library. Calm down. But I will cry. But one of the things that has tickled me and touched me so immensely in the last year is one of your many projects. It's the Later Daters.

[Michelle Obama]

Oh, my God.

[Podcast Host]

I sobbed every episode. And let me tell you something. It's because it takes what we should do and gives us what we could do. It is a story turning love on its head. And I did the thing that we do as women, and I did everything I was supposed to do for everybody else, and I did the checklist that Steve Harvey told me to make, and I showed up, and I did the coaching and I did the classes, and I did the therapy, and I built the life. And I got to the end of the list, and I was like, I am so sad and miserable. I'm going to exit my own life stage left, and I'm going to start over. And I was like, can I do this at 40?

[Michelle Obama]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

And then you're out here making this show about people in their elder years finding love. And I was like, we can do it anytime.

[Michelle Obama]

And how fly are these people?

[Podcast Host]

I mean, they're amazing.

[Michelle Obama]

They are just, you know, and. And full of confidence. Especially the women.

[Sophia Bush]

Yes.

[Podcast Host]

What made you want to do this?

[Michelle Obama]

Well, you know, higher ground, Our production company. You know, we are all things. You know, that's the whole point of storytelling, is embracing all types of storytelling. Not just sort of the tearjerker, serious kind of documentary things, which are very important. We've done some amazing stuff in that category, but it's about touching everyone in every way. And unscripted programming is an important genre now. Reality TV is a part of life, and I'm a fan of reality tv. And so it was very important for our company to reflect not just my husband's taste, but mine as well. But I said to our team, but there's a way that I want to do it, you know. Yeah, it's gotta be about learning. It's gotta be about adding value. And at my age, my friends who are not married, they are the later daters. And we spend a lot of time sitting around talking about, how do you get back out there? What do you do? You know? And so I'm just so pleased with the production team. We worked with the folks who create Love on the Spectrum and another Netflix unscripted show. And it's one of my favorites, that Queer album.

I love it too.

So when I talk to my team about the kind of unscripted stuff that I love, you know, I wanted to walk away crying and feeling whole. Right. I talked about Queer Eye. You know, that was. Those were the models. I talked about Love on the Spectrum, and I think that our team, you know, delivered with later daters. And it's such a fun show for everyone to watch. I mean, I've sat around watching it with my girlfriends. I've sat around watching it with my girlfriends and their daughter. Daughters, and it just sparks the kind of conversation, and it reminds us that life goes on. We are we in our 50s and 60s plus. We are entering our best years. And I want women in particular to embrace that part of themselves. So I'm very excited. I'm. We're hoping that Netflix will renew it. You know, we're in conversations now for what a second season is. So I will tell all the listeners, let Netflix know if you like it. It's up to them to whether we do a second season.

[Podcast Host]

Okay, let's. Let's get the people listening to the podcast posting about this. That's a good side of social media.

[Michelle Obama]

Yes.

[Podcast Host]

And now a word from our sponsors that I really enjoy and I think you will too.

[Sophia Bush]

Hey friends, let's talk about simplifying our beauty routines. I know we have all been there feeling overwhelmed by 12 steps, skincare regimens and palettes with 50 eyeshadows. Here's the thing, I don't have time for that and I'm pretty sure you don't either. That's why I am so excited that Merit is sponsoring this podcast. Merit is all about a less is more approach. Their makeup and skincare products are designed to enhance your natural beauty, not cover it up. From their minimalist foundation and concealer all in one to their incredible flush balms, it's like Blush, but better. With their simple products, I can get my whole routine done in under five minutes. If you are looking to simplify your morning, head to Merit Beauty.com and get their signature makeup bag free with your first order. That's Merit Beauty.com oh friends, am I.

[Michelle Obama]

Excited to tell you about one of the brands that I just can't stop recommending. It's my friends at Tomboy X. They are a true go to for everything. Underwear, bras, loungewear. They're just amazing. And they happen to be a queer founded Queer Run and Queer Designed company. They're actually the makers of the original boxer briefs for women and their boxer briefs now come in the cutest sets with matching bras in a variety of cuts. I'm super super into them. Tomboy X creates sustainable size and gender inclusive underwear, swimwear and loungewear for all bodies to help customers feel comfortable in their own skin. It's all day comfort in sizes extra small through 6x. They have been in business for over 10 years so they know a thing or two about making the perfect pair.

[Laura Kim]

Tell them Sophia sent you and use.

[Michelle Obama]

Code progress for 20% off your first purchase [e-mail] from prioritizing time to keep.

[Cleveland Clinic Representative]

Our bodies active to simply creating space to check on our well being happiness Lab listeners take their health very seriously. But when it comes to treating complex issues like heart disease, neurological disorders or even cancer, the right care can make all the difference. That's why Cleveland Clinic has been elevating world class patient care for over a century. Whether they're raising the bar in heart care, uncovering the mysteries of the brain, or researching new treatments for cancer, Cleveland Clinic continues to redefine what's possible for every breakthrough in health for every care in the world. Explore a wide array of health and wellness information by visiting clevelandclinic.org today.

[Laura Kim]

There's nothing more pleasant than the discovery of unexpected beauty in everyday objects. And what's more unexpected than a beautiful toilet? An elegant, sleeked, curved, beautiful toilet. And you see this toilet is the Kohler Veil Smart toilet in honed black. Its unique shape and color are so stunning that they actually inspired fashion designer and creative director Laura Kim to design a couture dress. Beauty inspires beauty. The sleek curved honed black veil, Smart toilet from Kohler and the long, flowing black chiffon dress that Kim designed were born from the belief that design can transform how we live and feel. The Vailsmart toilet, with its bold design, intuitive touchscreen remote control and customizable cleansing features, creates an experience that is far beyond the expected. It can transform your everyday routine into something that is extraordinary. And don't we all deserve extraordinary, like a gorgeous Laura Kim design dress? And if you don't know Laura Kim, you should. Design changes everything. Vail Smart toilet in honed black only from Kohler. Discover the Vail Smart toilet and go behind the scenes of Kohler's partnership with.

[Lifelock Representative]

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[Podcast Host]

This is a perfect segue into a few rapid fires. I want to ask you what is, and it can be a guilty pleasure or just a pleasurable TV show. Is it reality?

[Michelle Obama]

Oh, oftentimes it is reality, you know, because when I go to tv, I just want to turn off. I'm, I am a, you know, well, White Lotus is not reality, but I am A White Lotuser. I am a Real Housewives person. I love the dating shows, you know. Okay. I don't agree with them all, but, you know, I love to watch. My kids will have me watching the girls. What's the one where they're all in a. I'm forgetting the name of it. But I only watch it with them when the couples are on an island. Is it Love Island?

[Podcast Host]

Love Island, Yeah.

[Michelle Obama]

Where they have the British version and the American version.

[Podcast Host]

Yes.

[Michelle Obama]

I watch that only with them because I'm as amused at their feedback and their commentary as I am with what's going on.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, that's so fun.

[Michelle Obama]

I'll go to reality tv. But I loved what was this is my Menopause Brain Running point. The new basketball.

[Podcast Host]

Yes. So good.

[Michelle Obama]

And what was the one about the. See, I'm so bad with names.

[Podcast Host]

It's okay.

[Michelle Obama]

Nobody wants this.

[Podcast Host]

Fabulous. And the resurgence of Adam Brody. I mean, oh, my God. Our early aughts boyfriend. That felt really, really nice. Yeah, for me, for sure.

[Michelle Obama]

And I love shrinking. My favorite. Favorite with Harrison Ford. That whole cast is amazing. I love that showrunner. I'm a Ted Lasso fan, too.

[Podcast Host]

Me too. Me too.

[Michelle Obama]

So those are. That's the kind of. I need light. And Barack and I, we sometimes argue over what can we watch jointly. Because he likes death and darkness. And then every. I said, you know, you like the plots where everybody's sad and then they die.

[Podcast Host]

Wait, but this is like Ashlyn and I. I want to watch a rom com because I'm exhausted, and all she wants to watch is murder. Dateline documentaries about murder. I'm like, this is a trauma response. I don't know what we're doing.

[Michelle Obama]

I need a break.

[Podcast Host]

I want to have a cocktail, laugh while we watch tv.

[Michelle Obama]

And I'm also, like, a big HGTV fan because that's like my golf. Okay. Barack puts on golf. Like to have the sound off if I just need the TV on.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, I At home.

[Michelle Obama]

Renault. I love all of them.

[Podcast Host]

Do you watch in with the Old on hbo, Max?

[Michelle Obama]

No, I haven't seen that. Tell me about that.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, it is a home renovation show. But the whole thing is that in every episode, they go to some different city in the country. And you watch a couple, a family, parent and child, renovate an old historic property.

[Michelle Obama]

I've seen the previews. I have to watch one of those.

[Podcast Host]

I'm obsessed.

[Michelle Obama]

Okay, all right.

[Podcast Host]

I'm obsessed with it. Okay. We've stayed on TV for a bit.

[Michelle Obama]

Sorry.

[Podcast Host]

Okay. Are you coffee or tea?

[Michelle Obama]

Tea. Caffeinated or chamomile in the morning every now and then. Like once a week, I'll do an espresso.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, oh. She spices it up a little bit.

[Michelle Obama]

I'm not. I'm not a big. I don't eat caffeine. I don't. You know what I will do is, like, if I'm doing a speech or I need a pick me up, I literally take a sip of a diet Dr. Pepper or a diet Coke. I can't drink a whole one, so I don't need caffeine or sugar that much. I don't find that I drag in the morning, you know? So, yeah, I drink tea because it's. I put honey in it and it's like, it's a little treat.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, that's that. That you don't need coffee in the morning. That's that Robinson motivation, early alarm clock training. She's got it.

[Michelle Obama]

I'm up.

[Podcast Host]

What is your go to cocktail? Or is it a glass of wine?

[Michelle Obama]

Oh, vodka martini. Dry, straight up, olives, very cold.

[Podcast Host]

My girl.

[Michelle Obama]

Barely any vermouth.

[Podcast Host]

I love it.

[Michelle Obama]

Very dry. Barack introduced me to that drink. I was. I didn't drink drinks until I started dating him. And then he dated or ordered a martini in one of states, and I thought, ooh, so fancy. He's a man about town.

[Podcast Host]

No, martini is also such a sexy date drink.

[Michelle Obama]

It is. And it's so clean, and I love the glass. And the olives aren't bad if you're hungry.

[Podcast Host]

They're really not. It's nice to have a snack in a cocktail.

[Michelle Obama]

That's right.

[Podcast Host]

Just before the pandemic started, I was on this trip. I went to Paris for a week with my best gay. With my best gay guy friend. And we were like, having a time being like, oh, wouldn't it be cute if we were in love with each other? We are. But not like that. And we were having martinis, and we were like, should we move here this summer? Are we going to meet the loves of our lives in Paris? And then the world shut down. We were like, well, oh, well, we'll. We'll always have Paris. Like in the movies. If there were to be a museum about you and your life, what would the merch in the gift shop be? Oh, you know, other than a nice martini shaker.

[Michelle Obama]

It would be. Well, you know, it's too soon. But there will be a gift book in our museum, especially from me. But really too soon to announce it. But okay, at some point, we'll. We'll talk about It. But okay, it would probably be. Be something wearable. Right. I mean, I'm a fashion girl, and I think that everybody would. Everybody loves a cute T shirt that's kind of. With a. With a nice saying that was kind of cool and edgy, you know, that. That was fitted. You know, it was something that I would want to wear. Right? Yeah, it'd probably be a T shirt.

[Podcast Host]

Speaking of. Speaking of the fashion girlies, did you see that collab that Mickalene Thomas did with Marfa Stance, that jacket company?

[Michelle Obama]

Yes.

[Podcast Host]

I was like, well, I'm ordering myself two trench coats. Good stuff. Okay. I want to talk to you forever. I also want you to go to the beach because you're doing whatever you want and you deserve it, but right.

[Michelle Obama]

Now, I want to talk to you. So.

[Podcast Host]

Well, but this has just been absolutely lovely until I can take you for a martini somewhere where we're in the same city. I will let you go back to your day, but not before I get to ask you my favorite question. To ask everyone who graces me with their time. As you look at the world ahead, the year ahead, for you, what feels like your work in progress.

[Michelle Obama]

Oh, for me personally, it can be.

[Podcast Host]

Personal, professional, anything you want.

[Michelle Obama]

I think I'll stick with personal, because right now, that's what I think I have control over. Right. And that's what the work is. It's me focusing on being the best me that I can be. Because when the world feels out of control, when the problems seem big, as I've said in the light, the best thing is to go a little small and to start with what. What you can control. And for me, it's my health, it's my mental health, it's my choices, my decisions in life. I think I will continue to offer my advice, my direction to people. I will tell people to vote. I will express what I think when the time comes. But I've learned that I really can only control me. And if we all kind of do that, control me, my orbit, the girls that I brought into the world, my daughters, helping them become amazing people who are thoughtful and empathetic and not afraid. You know, if we all just did that, we'd be. We'd be in a good place. So I'm gonna keep. Keep working on the me that is always the work in progress, because we are always still becoming, and that won't change.

[Podcast Host]

So, yeah, I mean, that's the hope, right? If we. If we stop becoming, we're probably dying.

[Michelle Obama]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

So how lucky are we to be on the adventure.

[Michelle Obama]

Let's. Let's continue to be blessed, to feel blessed and grateful for that and find our happiness and joy there and not rely on things that are external that we don't have control over. Got to redefine what happiness is these days, right? And I'm having a lot of those conversations with the young people in my life as well. It's like, I think we've kind of gotten out of whack. And when Craig and I were growing up and your mom was growing up, happiness was. You got ice cream, you know, every now and then. Right. You got maybe one birthday party your entire life. We were happy because we got three toys at Christmas, you know, and we were happy. So I'm trying to teach my girls how to right. Size their happiness and not to base it on. On external stuff and likes and influencing and money. It's steering us in the wrong direction, and it's. It's not making us kinder and more empathetic. And. And I. I want to lead with that. And for the people in my orbit, I want them to practice that. So. Yeah, I got to keep working on it, too.

[Laura Kim]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

That's beautiful. Thank you.

[Michelle Obama]

Thanks for having me, babe.

[Podcast Host]

An absolute joy. It's so nice to see you, too.

[Michelle Obama]

Now you have to reciprocate, so you got to come hang out with me and Craig.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, my God, I'd love to.

[Michelle Obama]

And make sure you're. We want listeners. We want your. Your folks to listen in and.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, yeah.

[Michelle Obama]

In questions and tell us what they think. And, you know, if for no other reason, they're making me happy because I get to talk to them. So it keeps me connected. So I'm. I'm looking forward to it.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, well, we can't wait.

[Michelle Obama]

We'll play. We'll do more things. All right.

[Podcast Host]

Indeed. I'm here.

[Michelle Obama]

Thanks so much.

[Podcast Host]

Thank you.

[Michelle Obama]

It's great to be with you.

[Sophia Bush]

Hey, friends, let's talk about simplifying our beauty routines. I know we have all been there feeling overwhelmed by 12 step skincare regimens and palettes with 50 eyeshadows. Here's the thing. I don't have time for that, and I'm pretty sure you don't either. That's why I am so excited that Merit is sponsoring this. This podcast. Merit is all about a less is more approach. Their makeup and skincare products are designed to enhance your natural beauty, not cover it up. From their minimalist foundation and concealer all in one to their incredible flush balms, it's like blush, but better. With their simple products. I can get my whole routine done in under five minutes. If you are looking to simplify your morning, head to meritbeauty.com and get their signature makeup bag free with your first order. That's meritbeauty.com Guys, I'm so excited to.

[Michelle Obama]

Tell you about one of the brands we love at work in progress and we cannot stop recommending our friends at Tomboy X. They are a true go to for me and our whole staff here for everything. Underwear, bras, loungewear and more. Their materials are so comfortable, their colorways are so cute and it's nice to have gear that just feels good on your body. Tomboy X creates premium underwear for progressive people. They just drop new prints in their best selling underwear collection plus every bra on their site 100% wire free.

[Laura Kim]

Tell them Sophia sent you and use.

[Michelle Obama]

Code progress for 20% off your first purchase [e-mail] Imagine a toilet so striking.

[Laura Kim]

It inspired a couture dress.

[Sophia Bush]

The Kohlerville Smart Toilet in Honed Black actually inspired creative director and fashion designer Laura Kim to create a stunning black chiffon dress.

[Laura Kim]

The Veil Smart Toilet with its curved design, deep rich textural color, touchscreen remote control and customizable cleansing features can transform your routine into something extraordinary. And we all deserve extraordinary. Design changes everything. Veil Smart Toilet in Honed Black only from Kohler Discover the Vail Smart Toilet and go behind the scenes of Kohler's partnership with Laura [e-mail] when it comes.

[Cleveland Clinic Representative]

To your health and well being, the right care can change everything. That's why Cleveland Clinic has been elevating world class patient care for over a century. From the latest in heart neurology and cancer care to advanced diagnostics and beyond, Cleveland Clinic is here for every care in the world. Explore a wide variety of health and wellness info by visiting clevelandclinic.org today.

[Jenice Torres]

Hey Jenice Torres here and I'm Austin Hankwitz. We're the hosts of Mind the Business Small Business Success Stories produced by Ruby Studio and Intuit QuickBooks. Catch up on seasons one and two and join us for a brand new season of the podcast as we talk to small business owners about how they manage and grow their businesses with the help of platforms like Intuit QuickBooks.

[Podcast Host]

Listen to mind the Business Small Business Success Stories on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast.