President Donald Trump appeared on Second Lady Usha Vance’s “Storytime with the Second Lady” podcast, where he read a children’s book and shared lighthearted reflections on American presidents, personal interests and life in the White House.
Eko Hot News reports that the special episode, released on Friday, featured Trump reading Presidents Play!, a picture book published by the White House Historical Association. The book highlights the recreational activities and hobbies of former U.S. presidents.
The episode was recorded in mid-June inside the Oval Office. The setting featured decorative touches including gold accents, a bald eagle plush toy, stacks of oversized books and a globe made from Lego bricks.
During the conversation, Usha Vance asked Trump whether he finds time to read for leisure while serving as president. Trump replied that he mainly reads newspapers and joked that he often reads stories written about himself.
As he turned the pages of the book, Trump offered comments on several former presidents. He described Lyndon B. Johnson as a determined leader and praised Ronald Reagan, calling him a person of high character.
While discussing President John F. Kennedy, Trump described him as one of the most handsome presidents in American history. His remark added a humorous tone to the reading session.
Looking at a page featuring Richard Nixon, Trump briefly noted that the former president faced challenges during his time in office. He then commented on Herbert Hoover’s “Hoover Ball,” joking that the game was more successful than Hoover’s handling of the economy.
The children’s book also included an illustration of former President Barack Obama playing basketball. Trump questioned Obama’s basketball skills before noting that golf is one of Obama’s preferred sports.
Trump later reached a page showing former President Bill Clinton jogging on the White House track. While saying he had no plans to take up jogging there himself, he added that he has always liked Clinton.
A picture of Abraham Lincoln riding a horse prompted Trump to reflect on horseback riding. He said he would enjoy riding a calm and slow horse but expressed concern about the possibility of falling.
When the book showed John Quincy Adams swimming in Tiber Creek, Trump used the moment to mention plans for a new ballroom on the White House grounds, describing it as a beautiful addition.
The reading also led Trump to reflect on fitness and health. Seeing an illustration of Gerald Ford swimming, he joked that he had not worn a bathing suit in a very long time.
Trump also referred to William Howard Taft, historically known as the heaviest U.S. president. With a smile, he said he hoped not to surpass that record and encouraged viewers to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Throughout the episode, Trump mixed storytelling with personal observations, creating an informal and conversational atmosphere designed for young audiences and families.
The podcast aims to encourage children to enjoy reading while learning about American history through engaging stories and illustrations.
As the session drew to a close, Usha Vance asked Trump what message he would like to share with children ahead of America’s Independence Day celebrations.
Trump encouraged young viewers to appreciate their country and expressed confidence about its future. He said the nation has significant opportunities ahead and voiced optimism that it would continue to grow stronger.
The appearance offered viewers a different side of the president, blending history, humour and personal reflections while introducing children to stories about America’s former leaders.
The episode has attracted attention online, with many viewers highlighting its family-friendly format and Trump’s unscripted comments during the reading.
The White House Historical Association’s Presidents Play! continues to serve as an educational resource that introduces children to presidential history through fun illustrations and stories.
Trump’s participation reflects ongoing efforts by the White House to promote literacy, civic awareness and educational engagement through accessible content for young audiences.
