Michelle Obama sparked fresh discussion this week after revealing she’s in a “transition” phase as she approaches 60, speaking candidly about therapy, identity, and moving into a new stage of independence as an empty nester. In a conversation with Jay Shetty, the former first lady shared, “Every decision I am making is entirely my own,” noting that she no longer defines her choices by the needs of her family or country.

Her remarks come as she also addressed ongoing speculation about her marriage to former President Barack Obama, firmly denying any issues and attributing the rumors to public misunderstanding of her private decisions.

Now 61, Obama says she’s reevaluating who she is and what matters most. She also voiced fears about racial injustice and immigration under Donald Trump’s policies, saying they leave her “deeply unsettled” and worried for the safety of marginalized communities.