Obama, Robinson to Record 'IMO' Podcast Live at SXSW London
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- Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson are confirmed as keynote speakers at SXSW London's second edition, running June 1–6, where they will record a live episode of their podcast 'IMO With Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson' on June 2
- Craig Robinson serves as executive director of the National Assn. of Basketball Coaches, per the announcement
- SXSW London chief programming officer Katy Arnander framed the booking as aligning with the festival's mission of hosting 'influential voices shaping culture, business and society' in open conversation
- The 'IMO' podcast features the siblings tackling audience questions on dating, relationships, parenting, and financial planning, joined weekly by special guests, according to a statement
- Other 2025 SXSW London speakers include 'Avengers: Doomsday' directors Anthony and Joe Russo, Spice Girl Mel B, and British TV duo Ant and Dec
- SXSW London's inaugural year drew more than 25,000 attendees from over 85 countries, with a program split across Conference, Music, Screen, and Visual Arts strands
Why it matters: SXSW London is using a former First Lady's media platform to anchor its second-year credibility push — the live podcast taping on June 2 gives the festival a built-in audience beyond its 25,000-person inaugural attendance, while positioning Obama as a crossover draw bridging culture, business, and society programming strands.
