The podcast will debut exclusively on Spotify on Wednesday, 29 July. The series will be available to free and premium users globally.

"My hope is that this series can be a place to explore meaningful topics together and sort through so many of the questions we're all trying to answer in our own lives," says Michelle Obama.

"Perhaps most of all, I hope this podcast will help listeners open up new conversations — and hard conversations — with the people who matter most to them. That's how we can build more understanding and empathy for one another," adds Obama.

Episode subjects will focus on the relationships that shape us — from siblings and close friends to partners, parents and mentors. The series will also aim to look at our relationship with ourselves and our health.

Joining the First Lady will be an array of guests including:
  • Marian and Craig Robinson
  • Conan O’Brien
  • Valerie Jarrett
  • Michele Norris, and
  • Dr. Sharon Malone MD.
Salesforce and Procter and Gamble brands Dawn and Tide will serve as the first season's presenting sponsors.

"At Spotify, we seek to connect listeners with the world's most authentic and compelling voices," says Spotify chief content and advertising business officer, Dawn Ostroff.

"We believe that audiences across the globe will be inspired by these most candid, most human and most personal conversations between First Lady Michelle Obama and her guests," concludes Ostroff.

For more information, visit www.spotify.com. You can also follow Spotify on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram