Hoda Kotb Opens Up About What She Misses Most After Leaving Today (Exclusive)
Hoda Kotb, the beloved broadcaster and former co-anchor of the Today show, recently sat down for an exclusive discussion, revealing her thoughts on life after her departure from the iconic morning program. This insightful cover story in PEOPLE offers fans a glimpse into her personal transitions and evolving priorities since she stepped down from her role five months ago.
A New Chapter: Focus on Family
Since leaving the fast-paced environment of live television, Kotb has prioritized spending quality time with her two daughters, Haley, 8, and Hope, 6. This shift has allowed her to embrace motherhood with renewed vigor, an experience she finds fulfilling and rewarding. “When you erase your schedule, it’s a strange feeling,” she admitted, reflecting on the sudden change in her daily routine. “I often find myself wondering, ‘What am I supposed to be doing right now?’”
Her daughters have been an anchor during this transition, providing the love and laughter that fuel her new way of life. A particularly touching moment happened when Haley reminded her that she was genuinely home now that she could be present in their lives without the competing demands of her broadcasting career.
Creating Joy 101: A New Venture
In addition to spending time with her family, Kotb is also channeling her passions into exciting new projects. She is in the process of launching a wellness brand named Joy 101, which aims to inspire themes of joy, mindfulness, and overall wellness. This journey not only reflects her personal growth but also serves as a way for her to help others find happiness and balance in their lives.
Her new venture allows her to merge her love for storytelling with her commitment to promoting well-being, something that resonates deeply with her followers. While she remains enthusiastic about her new endeavors, she continues to grapple with the emotional pull of her past role on the Today show.
The Bonds of Friendship: Maintaining Connections
Kotb’s departure has not severed the strong bonds she holds with her former co-workers. Savannah Guthrie, her long-time co-host and friend, expressed how much she misses sharing the studio with Kotb. Their camaraderie was a hallmark of their on-screen chemistry, and Guthrie fondly reminisced about the laughter and support they shared as co-anchors.
Despite their busy lives, the duo has made an effort to stay connected through coffee meet-ups and personal catch-ups, ensuring that their friendship remains a priority. Kotb’s recent visit to Rockefeller Center to host her podcast “Making Space” allowed her to reunite with former colleagues, reminding her of her broadcasting roots while also showcasing her new passions.
Reflections on What Was Lost
As Kotb navigates her new life, she often reflects on the daily interactions that characterized her years at the Today show. The spontaneous banter, the shared experiences, and the instant connectiveness with her colleagues are aspects she finds herself missing the most. While she is adapting well to her post-Today world, the absence of those heartfelt moments is palpable for her.
In this new chapter, Kotb continues to embrace change, focusing on family, personal growth, and new ventures while cherishing the memories of her past. As she forges ahead, her multi-faceted journey serves as an inspiration to her audience, encouraging them to find joy amidst life’s transitions.
For more insights into Hoda Kotb’s life after the Today show, readers can dive deeper into her exclusive story featured in PEOPLE magazine.
