Former First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, has shared personal insights into the early days of her relationship with former President Barack Obama, revealing the financial challenges they faced as a young couple.
Speaking candidly on the latest episode of the IMO Podcast, which she co-hosts with her brother, Craig Robinson, Michelle reflected on her decision to pursue a relationship with a man who, at the time, was not financially stable. During their conversation, Craig posed a thought-provoking question: “Would you be attracted to a guy who’s not financially sound when you meet him?”
Michelle’s response was both honest and heartfelt: “Uh, I married one.”
Now 61, Michelle recounted how she left her well-paying job at a corporate law firm after meeting Barack, choosing instead to follow a different path one that was far less financially secure. She emphasized that Barack’s belief in her and his unwavering emotional support far outweighed any concerns about money.
“I had someone who said, ‘I’ve got your back.’ He made me feel that the risks I thought I was taking weren’t so scary because he was going to be there with me,” she explained.
According to Michelle, this kind of partnership based on mutual support and trust was more important than having a partner with a high income. “I would rather have someone who’s willing to go through the ups and downs with me than someone who simply brings in more money. I needed a teammate who could take on life’s challenges with me,” she said, acknowledging that she also had to be ready to offer the same support in return.
Michelle went on to encourage women to look deeper when choosing a life partner. She warned against focusing solely on external factors like wealth, appearance, or status, noting that true compatibility lies in character, values, and emotional connection.
“We shouldn’t make assumptions or rely on superficial criteria when it comes to relationships. You have to get out there, be authentic, and really see people for who they are,” she advised.
Her remarks serve as a powerful reminder that the strength of a relationship is built on shared purpose, resilience, and emotional commitment qualities that helped shape the Obamas into one of the world’s most admired couples.
