
Michelle Obama Gets Candid About Infertility & Gives Us The Ultimate Marriage Advice

Relationships take work, A LOT of work. When you are living a life that involves a partner, compromise, understanding, forgiveness, and love are all keys to a successful relationship. But what happens when you get married, the wedding and honeymoon are over, and you are faced with real life and its problems? With the divorce rate in America being the highest compared to the rest of the world, staying together 'til death do you part is a daunting task in and of itself. Former First Lady, Michelle Obama recently revealed that despite what we may think, not even she has been exempt from experiencing marital tribulations.
Michelle Obama recently sat down with Robin Roberts to discuss some of the topics in her highly-anticipated memoir Becoming, and during the prime-time special (airing November 11 at 9 p.m. EST), Mrs. Obama reminds us that politics is just a small part of her life.
Barack and Michelle exude couple goals. They are seemingly a match made in political heaven and a beacon of hope for what marriage can and should look like. But for those who think that this image comes without a lot of work, you are sadly mistaken. In a conversation with Robin Roberts, the former First Lady revealed that the couple sought marriage counseling in its early stages. Michelle said that during this time, she learned an invaluable lesson:
"What I learned about myself was that my happiness was up to me. I started working out more. I started asking for help, not just from him but from other people. I stopped feeling guilty. It's important for me to take care of myself. That's not on Barack."
It's easy to think that love conquers all. But like anyone who's ever been a long-term committed relationship can attest to, sometimes just being able to communicate effectively can come with its own set of challenges. Michelle told Robin:
"For those young people out there who think that marriage is supposed to be easy. Marriage counseling for us was one of those ways where we learned how to talk out our differences."
Learning how to love the other person in the way they desire to be loved can be a huge learning curve, and sometimes you need an outside perspective in order to learn how to do it right. Just like there is nothing wrong with getting the help you need when it comes to your mental health, there is absolutely no shame in talking to a counselor to preserve your marriage. Michelle had this advice for couples that may be struggling in their own relationships:
"I know too many young couples who struggle and think that somehow there's something wrong with them. And I want them to know that Michelle and Barack Obama, who have a phenomenal marriage and who love each other, we work on our marriage. And we get help with our marriage when we need it."
Perhaps one of the ultimate tests in a marriage is fertility issues. With more and more high-profile people coming forward with their own struggles with fertility, the veil is slowly being lifted on this very private and difficult subject. In the interview, Michelle also revealed that although the couple had everything going on externally, "It turns out that even two committed go-getters with a deep love and robust work ethic can't will themselves into getting pregnant."
She tells Robin Roberts that when she was struggling to get pregnant and subsequently suffered a miscarriage, she felt "broken". The 54-year-old goes on to reveal that she eventually enlisted the help of a fertility doctor and used IVF in order to conceive both Malia and Sasha. And while the "biological clock is real", the more women are willing to talk about what's happening with their bodies, the more we are able to heal from within.
It's so easy to say #RelationshipGoals from the images we see, but we don't get to see the real work that is put into keeping and maintaining that goal. Relationships are work, and it's a full-time, hard job. We praise the image without thinking about what it takes to get there. Let's start by praising the folks that take the time to focus on their problems while taking measurable steps to heal. While things haven't always been perfect between Michelle and Barack, they took the time to work through their issues and managed to come out stronger on the other side. Now THAT'S real relationship goals!
Michelle Obama's book Becoming will be released on November 13. She is also starting a nationwide book tour promoting the work, with tickets available here. Be sure to set your DVR or have your popcorn ready on Sunday, November 11 for the full interview with Robin Roberts at 9 p.m. on ABC.
To watch a preview of Michelle's exclusive interview with Robin Roberts, check out the video below:
Michelle Obama opens up about miscarriage, new memoir 'Becoming'youtu.be
- Michelle Obama reveals she had miscarriage 20 years ago, used ... ›
- Michelle Obama reveals she had miscarriage, used IVF to conceive ... ›
- Michelle Obama reveals miscarriage and IVF treatment in new book ... ›
- Michelle Obama Opens Up About Miscarriage, Going Through IVF ... ›
- Michelle Obama reveals daughters were conceived by IVF - BBC ... ›
- Michelle Obama and in vitro fertilization: What is IVF? ›
- Michelle Obama's book reveals she had a miscarriage and used IVF ... ›
- Dispelling taboos, Michelle Obama talks IVF and miscarriage - CNN ›
- Michelle Obama used IVF to have Malia and Sasha, struggled to ... ›
- Michelle Obama opens up about infertility - CNN Video ›
Michelle Schmitz is a writer and editor based in Washington, DC originally from Ft Lauderdale, FL. A self-described ambivert, you can find her figuring out ways to read more than her monthly limit of The New York Times, attending concerts, and being a badass, multi-tasking supermom. She also runs her own blog MichelleSasha.com. Keep up with her latest moves on IG: @michellesashawrites and Twitter: @michellesashas
From '106 & Park' To Prime Time, Rocsi Diaz Is Still That Girl
Rocsi Diaz is no stranger to the camera. From her iconic run on 106 & Park to interviewing Hollywood heavyweights on Entertainment Tonight, she’s been at the center of culture for years. Now, she’s back in the hosting chair alongside none other than Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders for We Got Time Today, a fresh talk show exclusive to Tubi.
The show is exactly what you’d expect when you put a media pro and a sports legend together—a mix of real talk, unfiltered moments, and guest interviews that feel like family kickbacks. As the duo wraps up their first season, Rocsi sat down with xoNecole to talk about teaming up with Deion, the wildest moments on set, and why streaming platforms like Tubi are shaking up the talk show world.
Scoring the Gig & Clicking Instantly with Deion
Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence
Deion Sanders had been dreaming of hosting a talk show, and when Tubi came calling, it was only right he made it happen. But before he found the perfect co-host, he held auditions with different women for the spot.
Lucky for us, Rocsi threw her hat in the ring, and the connection was instant. “You just can’t buy chemistry like we have,” she tells us. “We are legit like big brother, little sister—fighting, cracking jokes, telling each other off. When you watch the show, it’s like watching family.”
Mixing News, Culture & Sports—Minus the Snooze
With We Got Time Today, Rocsi and Deion cover everything from the latest headlines to celebrity tea and, of course, sports. But instead of stiff, rehearsed segments, the show keeps it loose and unpredictable.
“We’re not breaking the mold—it’s not rocket science,” Rocsi jokes. “We just bring our own flair, our authenticity, and our personalities to it. Deion has firsthand experience in sports, so when we talk about athletes, he brings a different perspective.”
And the best part? Unlike traditional talk shows that rush through quick interviews, We Got Time Today actually takes its time. “A lot of shows might give you one or two segments with a guest,” Rocsi says. “With us, we actually sit down and have real-life conversations.”
Her Top Guests (So Far!)
From music icons to relationship experts, the show has already had some unforgettable guests—but a few stand out for Rocsi.
“Ice Cube was our first guest, and he’s just legendary,” she says. “Kirk Franklin had us cracking up when he broke into a full choir freestyle for our Christmas special. And anytime we get Dr. Bryant on to put Deion in the hot seat? That’s my favorite!”
And of course, there’s Nick Cannon. “Nick was amazing,” she adds. “You already know he’s going to bring the energy and say something wild.”
Tag-Team Hosting with Deion: The Inside Scoop
While Deion Sanders is best known for his football greatness, Rocsi says he’s also one of the funniest people she’s ever worked with.
“He’s goofy—like, really goofy,” she laughs. “A lot of people didn’t know that side of him, but now they do. He can crack a joke, and if you’re too sensitive, good luck, because he will go in. But the best part? I throw it right back at him! Sometimes we just look at each other like, ‘Okay, that was a good one.’”
But beyond the laughs, she admires his insane work ethic. “Watching him juggle everything he does is just super admirable,” she says.
How "We Got Time Today" Brings That "106 & Park" Energy
Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images
For those wondering if We Got Time Today feels like 106 & Park 2.0, Rocsi says it’s a whole different vibe.
“The only comparison I’d make is that it’s a destination for the culture,” she explains. “It’s a platform where our people can come, feel safe, and have real conversations. But other than that, this is Deion’s world—we’re just having fun in it.”
The Talk Show Shake-Up: Why This Show Hits Different
Unlike traditional networks, We Got Time Today lives exclusively on Tubi, proving that streaming platforms are changing how we watch talk shows.
“Tubi is giving more people opportunities and making content more accessible,” Rocsi says. “Deion is a huge Tubi fan—he literally loves Black cinema—so it just made sense for him. And honestly? He’s got me watching it too!”
Real Ones Only: Women Holding Each Other Down
Rocsi credits her best friend, Chantelle, for always keeping her grounded. “She kept pouring into me, reminding me of who I am,” she shares. Even Deion Sanders makes sure to give her flowers, often calling her “the hostess with the most.”
In the industry, she’s built lasting bonds with women like Julissa Bermundez, Angie Martinez, and Angela Yee. “Julissa and I still kick it—her house is basically Sephora, so I just shop there,” she jokes. She also cherishes her friendships with Melyssa Ford and Robin Roberts, who have offered unwavering support. “Robin has always been there for me,” Rocsi says, reflecting on the wisdom she’s gained from the legendary journalist.
With the show’s first season wrapping up, Rocsi is grateful for the experience and excited for what’s next. “We’re having a good time, and the audience can feel that,” she says.
And if you haven’t tuned in yet? Well, Rocsi and Deion got time—so you might as well make some too.
Catch We Got Time Today now streaming on Tubi!
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Mid-Week Slump? Try These Motivational Quotes From Amazing Black Women
Never take for granted the power of a good motivational wordto speak life into your mind and spirit. I know things can get a bit corny and cliche when you see motivational speakers or quotes on social, and maybe you're on that de-motivation train. But sis, it's good to pour into ourselves with positive words, affirmations, and truths.
While I'm not too keen on self-help or the hell-fire preaching type of motivational speeches, I absolutely love wise, encouraging, and thought-provoking insights from women based on their experiences, education, training, relatability, or life stories. For me, it's all about who the message is coming from, the context and energy behind it, and the actual impact the women have made on the world. Here are a few motivational quotes that I often reference when I'm feeling that mid-week slump:
"I don't ever see myself in a position of controlling how other people think or how other people view me... What's most important is how I see myself." —Actress and Educator Phylicia Rashad
"That's how I go into every situation. I treat it as if nothing is impossible, so I don't let anything limit me, let anything stop me, let anything scare me." —Rapper and Producer Megan Thee Stallion
"I hate to lose, but I think losing is what brought me here today...And some of them are extremely painful, but I wouldn't take any of them away because every time I lose, it takes a long time for me to lose again because I learn so much from it. If you lose, learn from it. Don't live in the past. Live in the present. And don't make the same mistakes in the future." —Tennis champion Serena Williams
"We all have an idea of our plan, like, 'This is how it's going to work out.' And then we all see that the plan is not always what we think it will be. ... Never more have I learned to bet on myself. You have to bet on yourself." —TV Host and Journalist, Tamron Hall
"I believe that nobody can be the best you but you. So you might as well show up and show out." —Author, Host and Actress, Bevy Smith
"How I choose to affect change is by speaking up, by being a first, and by being a domino. ... Being the domino for me looks like speaking up and doing the things that are really difficult, especially when they're really needed, with the hope that others will follow suit." —Author and Entrepreneur, Luvvie Ajayi Jones
"And finally I said, 'God loves me.' It still humbles me that this force, which made leaves and fleas and stars and rivers and you, loves me—me, Maya Angelou. It's amazing. I can do anything and I can do it well...any good thing... because God loves me." —Author, Actress and Poet, Maya Angelou
"Give yourself a thousand second chances. Realize that you've got a thousand times to get it right. Life is about practicing and replaying... Life is not about perfection." —Author and Speaker, Lisa Nichols
"Don't hate on yourself. Don't speak negatively about yourself. Don't be your own worst enemy. It's about just having the courage and knowing who you are ... This is a gift. Have the courage. Just do it." —Singer, Author, and Actress, Mary J. Blige
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Originally published on May 10, 2023