doi:10.7916/8pry-pn25Oral history interview with Leif Elsmo, 2021Elsmo, Leiforal historiesmixed materialPresidents--United StatesWork-life balance--United StatesCommunity development, Urban--United StatesCivil service--United StatesEconomic development--Citizen participation--United StatesElsmo, LeifObama, BarackObama, Michelle, 1964-Leif Elsmo discusses his career in community economic development and university and hospital administration, and reflects on his relationships with Michelle and Barack Obama. Elsmo focuses on his work at Public Allies and in various positions at University of Chicago Medicine (formerly the University of Chicago Medical Center), and speaks widely about Michelle Obama's attributes as a leader and their efforts to expand programming and engagement between the university and the Hyde Park community. Elsmo also shares memories of Barack Obama's local, state, and national political campaigns, and considers Michelle Obama's experience adapting to life in the national political spotlight. Also discussed are the growth of Public Allies and development of national public service programs; Elsmo's work with Public Allies in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Michelle Obama's balancing of family, professional, and political life