Hey there, friends! Let’s talk about a truly memorable moment. Hoda Kotb’s last episode of Today wasn’t just the end of an era—it was the beginning of a brand-new chapter. And you know what? She made sure to wrap things up in the most heartwarming way possible. Hoda, the beloved NBC personality, gave us all the feels when she shared a special moment with her daughters, Haley and Hope, driving off into the sunset in her shiny new minivan.
A Grand Finale with Family
So here’s how it went down: On Friday, January 10, Hoda didn’t just say goodbye to her loyal audience. She brought her two little treasures, Haley, who’s 8, and Hope, who’s 5, along for the ride—or should I say, the drive. They nestled into the backseat of her Toyota Sienna as Hoda took the wheel, ready to embark on this next big adventure.
With a big smile on her face, Hoda turned to her kids and said, “Alright guys, are you ready for the next adventure?” Their enthusiastic response? A resounding “Yeah!” That’s the kind of energy we all need to start a new chapter, right? Then, with a wave to the camera, Hoda declared, “Let’s go, let’s close the door. Bye,” before pulling away from the crowd gathered outside the Today plaza.
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The Perfect Goodbye Gesture
But wait, there’s more! Hoda didn’t just drive off—she did it in style. Tied to the back of her minivan were cans and streamers, making a joyful racket as she cruised away. And if that wasn’t enough, a clever sign reading “just repotted” hung below the back windshield. What a clever nod to her new life and new beginnings!
This isn’t the first time Hoda has talked about her love for her new ride. Late last year, she announced with excitement that she had traded in city life for the suburbs, and with that move came the need for a bigger, better vehicle. “Breaking news… I drove my minivan!” she exclaimed during an episode of Today With Hoda & Jenna in November 2024. “I got in the Toyota Sienna, which is, BAM — I love it! I got in there, I pushed the buttons… then I went to the grocery store.”
When Jenna Bush Hager asked if she actually needed groceries, Hoda admitted, “No, I didn’t. I just wanted somewhere to go.” Can you blame her? Sometimes, it’s all about the experience, and Hoda was clearly savoring every moment behind the wheel of her new ride.
Life in the Suburbs
Now that Hoda’s living in the suburbs with her daughters, whom she shares with her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman, the minivan has become an essential part of her daily routine. “It feels like you’re flying in a plane at 35,000 feet,” she joked. “My kids piled in, they want to sit in the way back, go ahead because this is a big old bus.”
And let’s not forget, Hoda’s not just enjoying the practicality of her minivan—she’s also embracing the community spirit. “Some of the neighbors are texting me, ‘Hey girl, saw your ride. You picking up the kids next time?’” she revealed. “Because I couldn’t drive the kids before—I had a little car.” It’s clear that Hoda’s new neighbors are just as excited about her minivan as she is!
Hoda’s transition to suburban life isn’t just about the minivan—it’s about creating a warm, inviting home for her daughters. “It’s all new—new kids, new school, new things, new everything,” she said in August 2024. “And it’s funny because all I could think of was I want my house for the kids to feel warm and cozy and a place where they want to hang. And that’s it.”
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Embracing the Next Chapter
Hoda’s just thrilled to be living out her dreams during this repotting phase of her life. “Me in a minivan is a dream. I’ve wanted it, and I haven’t had it,” she shared. “And also, I am sometimes a ‘Carpool Mom.’ I can only take three kids because there is no other room—not anymore! … I cannot wait for it.”
It’s clear that the minivan fits perfectly into Hoda’s new life in the suburbs. Now that she won’t be in the Today studio every morning, she’ll have more time to enjoy her new house and neighborhood. “It’s all about making this place feel like home,” she said. And if her farewell episode is any indication, Hoda’s ready to take on whatever comes next with the same warmth and grace that’s made her such a beloved figure.
