CULTURE

Barack Obama and Tom Hanks discuss books, parenting and family in Audible podcast

Barack Obama’s latest Audible series examines books that have influenced him, including works by James Baldwin and John le Carré. Tom Hanks is the first guest on the six-part show, joining Obama for a discussion of parenting and family prompted by Marilynne Robinson’s Pulitzer-winning novel “Gilead.”

Barack Obama’s latest podcast series for Audible focuses on books that have inspired him, including works by James Baldwin and John le Carré.

The six-part show is released through Higher Ground, the company founded by Obama and Michelle Obama. Tom Hanks appears as the first guest, speaking with Obama about parenting and family in a conversation prompted by Marilynne Robinson’s Pulitzer-winning novel Gilead.

The series is available on Audible.

THE QUESTIONS THIS EVENT LEAVES BEHIND

What choices shaped the selection of books and guests for the series?

How might the show’s connection to Higher Ground affect its editorial approach?

What perspectives on parenting and family are absent from the conversation?

How could a former president’s role influence the way listeners interpret literary discussions?

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28 September 2026 · 09:10 · 1 sources

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