Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-anchor of NBC’s “Today” show, recently opened up about her personal life and shared a heartfelt revelation as she approaches her 60th birthday. In a candid interview, Hoda reflected on her journey to motherhood, her relationship with her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman, and the profound impact of her faith.
Hoda, who is a devoted mother to her two daughters, Haley and Hope, revealed that her decision to adopt was significantly influenced by her relationship with Joel. She shared with Good Housekeeping magazine, “I don’t think I would have adopted if it hadn’t been for Joel. Having a stable relationship in that moment was really important.” This stability gave her the courage to take the leap into motherhood, a decision that has brought immense joy and fulfillment to her life.
The TV star also mentioned how she found inspiration in actress Sandra Bullock, who had adopted children around the same age Hoda was considering it. “I called her, and we talked. She said adopting was the most important thing she’d ever done,” Hoda recalled. This conversation provided Hoda with the reassurance she needed. “Sometimes all you need is a model before you realize, ‘I can handle it,'” she added.
As Hoda prepares to celebrate her 60th birthday, she has been reflecting on her life and the path that led her to where she is today. She shared a poignant revelation, saying, “God made me this way.” This statement encapsulates her acceptance and gratitude for the life she has been given, including the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her journey.
Hoda’s relationship with Joel Schiffman, although no longer romantic, remains a significant part of her life. She described him as a brilliant father and emphasized the importance of their co-parenting relationship. “They’re [Haley and Hope] going to have each other forever, and that’s what really fills me to the top,” Hoda said, expressing her contentment in knowing her daughters will always have each other.
Balancing her demanding career with motherhood has not always been easy for Hoda. She admitted to having moments of self-doubt and guilt, especially when she feels she has fallen short as a parent. “I have some nights where I really messed up and I know I did, and I come in the next morning thinking, ‘I feel terrible for what I did. What was I thinking?'” she confessed. However, she finds solace in the support system she has with her co-anchor Savannah Guthrie. “She’ll say, ‘That was my Wednesday,’ it makes you feel less alone,” Hoda shared.
Hoda’s bond with Savannah extends beyond the studio. The two have formed a strong friendship, supporting each other through the ups and downs of their personal and professional lives. Savannah recently showed her support for Hoda by buying multiple copies of a magazine featuring Hoda and her daughters on the cover. “I bought the rest of the copies that Sami didn’t grab lolz,” Savannah wrote on Instagram, referring to Hoda’s mom.
In the interview, Hoda also opened up about her fears as an older mother. She adopted her oldest daughter, Haley, at the age of 52 and has since been mindful of the potential challenges that come with being an older parent. “Any older parent knows one of our secret fears is that we won’t be there for milestones,” she said. Despite these fears, Hoda finds peace in knowing that her daughters will always have each other. “Super sisters save the day!” she recalled them saying while playing, a moment that filled her with a sense of peace and fulfillment.
Hoda’s early morning routine, which sees her going to bed most nights at 7:30 pm, aligns closely with her daughters’ schedules. This routine allows her to spend quality time with them, despite the demands of her job. She cherishes these moments and finds joy in the simple, everyday interactions with her children.
As Hoda approaches her milestone birthday, she continues to embrace her journey with gratitude and faith. Her revelation, “God made me this way,” is a testament to her acceptance of herself and her life. It is a reminder that every experience, every challenge, and every joy has contributed to the person she is today.
Hoda Kotb’s story is one of resilience, love, and faith. As she celebrates her 60th birthday, she does so with a heart full of gratitude for the life she has been given and the people who have supported her along the way. Her journey is a powerful reminder that with faith and support, we can navigate the challenges of life and find joy in the journey.
Source: Good Housekeeping, NBC
