Michelle Obama shared her perspective on relationships during a recent episode of her podcast, sparking mixed reactions.
On the podcast, Michelle Obama addressed a listener’s concern read out by her brother and co-host, Craig Robinson. The listener described her situation where she has been in a relationship for a year, and her boyfriend, whose lease is ending, proposed moving in together. The issue arose because he could only contribute $500 towards rent, leaving her to cover the rest.
The listener sought advice on managing a relationship with financial disparities so early on.
Obama acknowledged that her view might be seen as controversial, stating: “If it’s early in the relationship you shouldn’t be moving in, first of all. I don’t care how much money he has or doesn’t have; you don’t know him yet.”
She further elaborated, “Maybe this will be controversial, but I think you can have deep like at first sight; love, in most instances, takes time. For someone to reveal themselves to you over time to know whether or not your affections and feelings stand the test of time. My recommendation is always to take some time, make moving in like way down the line.”
While some Reddit users appreciated Obama’s advice, they pointed out that financial constraints often force people to make quick decisions about cohabitation.
One user remarked: “I get what she’s saying, but many people are having to make these types of rush decisions because of the insane cost of living and/or not being in good situations to start. Ideally, people would have the freedom of choice, but living as a couple in a one-bedroom is so much cheaper and can be less stressful than splitting rent and space with friends in a multiple-bedroom or renting with roommates you don’t know in communal living. The world she is giving advice on is outdated and not where most people are at today.”
Another added: “Yeah… the affordability crisis, especially rent, has really limited the freedom of young people’s lives… it’s like people have to make tough choices because of the economy and their financial situation. Sure would be nice if the govt could do something about that. Thanks Obama.”
A third wrote: “I agree and at the same time I don’t lol It’s nice to live alone for a few years after moving from family just to focus on yourself but at the same time moving in together shows things you can’t see even when you otherwise won’t see. Also, obviously it’s expensive to live alone so very rarely people can do that.”
Some users argued that moving in with a partner to save money could be unwise. However, they also acknowledged that living together is an important relationship milestone. Many shared experiences of gaining deeper insights into their partner’s habits and true personality after cohabiting, highlighting that living together doesn’t allow a partner to hide potential red flags as easily as dating might.