Michelle Obama opened up about the secret to her and Barack Obama’s strong marriage, and it involves turning to a famous power couple for guidance. On the latest episode of her “IMO” podcast, Michelle praised Bruce Springsteen and his wife Patti Scialfa as “couple mentors” she and Barack lean on for relationship advice.
“I marvel at you and Patti and the work that you all have done,” Michelle told Springsteen during the interview. “You and Patti have been couple mentors for me and Barack for quite some time. [We are] watching you guys do the work, getting advice on how to keep those lines of communication open.”
The Obamas’ admiration for the pair comes as no surprise given Bruce and Patti’s long-lasting partnership, the couple have been married since 1991 and share three children. Springsteen, 75, and Scialfa, 71, are known not only for their music careers but also for balancing a personal life.
Michelle described them as “powerhouses in [their] own right … merging those lives together.” Michelle’s appreciation for their relationship dynamics was a central theme of the episode, also touching topics like how childhood trauma can affect adult relationships.
Springsteen appreciated the praise but responded with a laugh, “Whoa, alright!” Michelle reassured him, explaining why she invited him on the podcast. “You were the perfect person to be here to discuss this wonderful question from one of our listeners,” she said.
The friendship between the Obamas and Springsteen dates back years. Bruce was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Barack in 2016, and they co-created the podcast and book series 'Renegades: Born in the USA.'
Michelle even joined Springsteen on stage during his 2023 tour in Barcelona, performing backup vocals and tambourine on the classic hit “Glory Days.” Bruce complimented her performance, saying, “You did an excellent job as a backup singer and tambourinist.”
Bruce and Patti have faced tough challenges too, in 2018 Patti was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare form of blood cancer. Bruce has spoken openly about the difficulties, sharing that while the illness causes intense fatigue, Patti continues to perform with the band when she can.
Meanwhile, the Obamas recently celebrated over three decades of marriage since tying the knot in October 1992. The couple shares two daughters, Malia, 26, and Sasha, 24. Despite rumors about their relationship, Michelle has consistently shut down divorce speculation.