Kristina
Hoda Kotb, a well-known journalist and beloved television personality, is preparing to embrace a new chapter in her life as she steps away from her role on Today. On Friday, January 10, 2025, Hoda will bid farewell to the show that has been a significant part of her career. While this change marks the end of a remarkable journey, Hoda is excited about the opportunities it brings to her personal life, especially with her daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 5.
Prioritizing Family and a New Routine
At 60 years old, Hoda is looking forward to experiencing what she calls a “normal rhythm of life” with her family. In an interview, she shared her enthusiasm about settling into a new routine. For years, her demanding work schedule dictated much of her family’s day-to-day life. Now, she is eager to focus on the small yet meaningful moments with her daughters.
“I’m going to let them find the voice inside them,” Hoda said, reflecting on her parenting goals. She also explained how her early bedtime often led to early bedtimes for her daughters. “I used to tell them, ‘Goodnight, everyone’s going to bed,’ and they’d look at me like, ‘It’s only 6:30!’ Now, I can give them more freedom to just be kids.”
The idea of letting her children explore their individuality and enjoy a more relaxed routine brings Hoda immense joy. For her, this change is about creating a nurturing environment where her daughters can thrive.
Moving to the Suburbs for a Better Life
In recent years, Hoda made the decision to move her family out of New York City and into a quieter suburban neighborhood. She explained that she wanted her daughters to experience a simpler, more grounded childhood.
“I want my kids to feel grass under their feet, play in the yard, ride bikes, and run up and down the stairs,” she said. For Hoda, the move was about giving her children the freedom to explore and grow in a safe, wholesome environment. She envisions her daughters blossoming into strong, independent women in their new home.
The decision to relocate was not just about her children; it was also a part of Hoda’s personal journey. She described this phase of her life as a “repotting phase,” drawing an analogy to a plant that needs a larger pot to grow.
“It’s like my roots need more space,” she said. “When a plant is moved to a bigger pot with fresh soil, it can grow bigger and stronger. That’s the journey I’m on right now.”
Embracing Change and Growth
While leaving her role on Today is bittersweet, Hoda recognizes that this transition is essential for her growth. She admitted that stepping out of her comfort zone is not easy, but she believes it is necessary for her and her family to flourish.
“This change is going to hurt a little because I’m leaving something so familiar,” she explained. “But in the end, it’s exactly what we need to grow stronger.”
Hoda’s focus is on being present for her daughters and building a life that allows them to explore their potential. She is excited about simple joys like family dinners, bedtime stories, and spending weekends together.
Overcoming Challenges as a Parent
Parenting hasn’t always been easy for Hoda. She has openly shared her struggles with self-doubt, especially when she first became a mother. Reflecting on her experience, she said, “I used to wonder, ‘Am I really good enough for this?’ But then I realized that being a mom isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present and loving your kids unconditionally.”
Her journey as a mother has taught her valuable lessons about resilience, patience, and the importance of creating a loving, supportive home.
Looking Ahead
As Hoda steps into this new chapter, she is optimistic about what lies ahead. She sees this as an opportunity to strengthen her bond with her daughters and create a life filled with meaningful memories.
For Hoda, this transition is not just about leaving her career behind; it’s about fully embracing her role as a mother and finding joy in the everyday moments.
“We’re going to figure out what a normal rhythm of life looks like for us,” she said. “I can’t wait to see what we become as a family.”
