As Hoda Kotb prepares to pass the baton to her successor on the 'Today' show, she’s sharing some valuable words of wisdom. In a candid interview with People, the beloved broadcaster opened up about what it takes to thrive in one of the most iconic seats in television. “Whoever steps into this role, they need to be 1000 percent themselves,” Hoda said, emphasizing the importance of authenticity. “That’s the real key to success.”
Why Authenticity Matters in Broadcasting
For Hoda, staying true to who you are isn’t just a career tip—it’s a life lesson. Over her 17-year tenure on 'Today,' she’s built a reputation for being genuine, warm, and relatable. She told People, “The magic of this job lies in appreciating the person next to you. It’s about letting them shine and giving everyone their moment. You don’t want to be the one at the cocktail party who talks nonstop, right?” Hoda’s advice reflects her own approach to hosting: creating connections through empathy and collaboration.
Hoda’s Emotional Farewell Announcement
On September 26, Hoda made headlines when she announced her decision to leave 'Today' after nearly two decades. Her co-hosts, including Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker, were visibly emotional as she shared the news live on air. “I realized it was time to turn the page at 60 and try something new,” Hoda explained during the broadcast. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “Standing outside and seeing those beautiful people with their signs made me realize this is the top of the wave for me. It doesn’t get better than this, so I decided it’s the right time to move forward.”
Read also:Craig Melvin Opens Up About Stepping Into Hoda Kotbs Shoes On Nbcrsquos Today
Who Will Step Into Hoda’s Shoes?
While NBC hasn’t officially announced Hoda’s replacement, speculation is already swirling. Fans are curious about who will fill her iconic role, but Hoda isn’t worried. She trusts that the right person will bring their unique energy to the show. For now, the focus remains on Hoda’s legacy and the impact she’s had on millions of viewers over the years.
Family Comes First for Hoda
Hoda’s decision to step away from 'Today' wasn’t easy, but it was driven by a desire to spend more quality time with her daughters, Haley and Hope, whom she shares with her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman. “I wanted this decade to be different,” she revealed. “I looked at my life like a pie chart. This is how much time I have, and how do I want to spend it? I wanted to carve out more time for them.” To give her girls the best possible upbringing, Hoda recently relocated to a serene suburban home where they can enjoy a peaceful, outdoor lifestyle.
“I want my kids to feel the grass under their feet, ride bikes down the street, and experience the joy of growing up in a beautiful little town,” she told People. “This house is perfect for them to grow into confident, independent women. It’s all about nurturing their spirits and letting them flourish.”
Lessons Learned from Motherhood
Becoming a mom has profoundly transformed Hoda’s perspective. “My daughters have taught me that I’m good enough just as I am—with all my flaws,” she said. “They’ve shown me that humor can be found even in the toughest moments. And most importantly, they’ve reminded me that I was always good enough to be a mom. Now, I get to embrace that role for the rest of my life.”
