Hoda Kotb Embarks on a New Journey Following Departure from NBC’s ‘Today’

After nearly three decades with NBC, Hoda Kotb is ready to turn the page and explore new horizons beyond her role on Today. Her announcement in September 2024 marked a significant milestone, as she revealed her decision to step away from the beloved morning show, citing personal growth and a desire for change.
Turning 60 was a pivotal moment for Kotb, prompting her to reflect on her life’s direction. During her emotional farewell on-air, she shared, “Reaching this age made me question what this decade will bring. It was a moment of clarity-time to embrace new opportunities and redefine my path.” Her heartfelt words resonated with viewers, highlighting her courage to embrace change at a stage when many consider slowing down.
Her role as a mother profoundly influenced her decision. “My children have been a central part of my life, and I realized they deserve more of my time,” she explained. “Life is finite, and I want to make the most of it while I can.” Kotb shares daughters Haley and Hope with her former fiancé, Joel Schiffman, emphasizing her commitment to family and personal fulfillment.
Her final Today broadcast aired on January 10, 2025, with a special celebration dubbed the “Hoda-bration.” Craig Melvin succeeded her as Savannah Guthrie’s co-anchor, while Jenna Bush Hager continues to host the fourth hour, Today With Jenna & Friends, featuring a rotating cast of celebrity guest hosts.

Many former Today hosts, such as Katie Couric and Tamron Hall, have transitioned to their own shows or moved on to other projects. Kotb has hinted that her future may involve a blend of responsibilities both on and off the screen, signaling a new chapter in her career.
Post-Show Career Plans and New Ventures
Will Hoda Kotb Continue with NBC?

Although Kotb confirmed her departure from Today, she emphasized her continued affiliation with NBC. In early 2025, she revealed to Today viewers that she would serve as a special correspondent, likening her role to a “supporting player” akin to Snoop Dogg’s cameo appearances at the 2024 Olympics. Her focus will include hosting her podcast, Making Space, and contributing to NBC’s programming on a flexible basis.
“I plan to stay within the NBC family, but in a capacity that allows me more freedom,” she explained. “I’ll be involved in projects that I genuinely love, like my podcast, and I’ll make occasional appearances on Today and other shows.”

Rumors about Kotb replacing Kelly Clarkson on The Kelly Clarkson Show were quickly dismissed by sources close to her, who confirmed she has a full schedule of personal and professional pursuits. Her investments include a rental property near her home in Bronxville, renovations by Joanna Gaines, and a variety of income streams from endorsements and her online platforms.
Addressing the speculation directly during her first post-Today interview, Kotb joked, “If I ever return to TV, it would be in a role that feels right-probably right here, where I started.”
Exploring New Passions Beyond Television

During an October 2024 episode of Today with Hoda & Jenna, Kotb shared her enthusiasm for venturing into the wellness industry. She expressed a desire to pursue a passion that had been calling her for some time, emphasizing how her personal health journey had transformed her outlook.
“I’ve always felt a pull toward wellness,” she said. “After focusing on my health, I noticed a calmer mind, fewer health issues, and a better connection with my family and friends. It’s become clear that I want to dedicate myself to this field.”
Her plans include launching a wellness app and retreat business, which she announced in early 2025. The platform, named Joy 101, aims to offer curated programs, guided meditations, sleep aids, and retreats, featuring collaborations with notable figures like Joanna Gaines, Emma Grede, and Maria Shriver.
Balancing Family and Personal Growth

Beyond her professional pursuits, Kotb is relishing her new life outside the spotlight. Since relocating from New York City in early 2024, she has enjoyed everyday moments with her daughters-walking them to school, trick-or-treating, and celebrating holidays in their suburban home.
“It’s wonderful to finally settle into a routine where I can be present for these milestones,” she shared in December 2024. “Decorating the house and creating traditions with my family has been incredibly fulfilling.”
Her decision to leave Today was also influenced by her youngest daughter Hope’s diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes, which prompted her to prioritize health and family over her previous commitments. “Balancing work and family is a constant challenge, but I’m learning to be a calmer, more present mother,” she reflected.
Future Endeavors and Personal Aspirations

Her first major project post-Today is a book titled Jump and Find Joy, scheduled for release in September 2025. The book explores themes of taking risks, embracing change, and finding happiness in new chapters of life. Kotb shared that her own leap of faith was inspired by stories of resilience from figures like Viola Davis and Sarah Jakes, emphasizing the importance of believing in oneself during transitions.
“This book is about daring to jump, even when fear holds you back,” she explained. “Everyone faces moments when they stand on the edge of something new-my hope is to inspire others to take that leap.”
Additionally, she has been collaborating with Joanna Gaines on a wellness venture, hinting at exciting developments ahead. “We’re working on something special that combines health, mindfulness, and community,” she revealed in early 2025. The project, expected to launch in spring, aims to help people cultivate a balanced, joyful life.
How Hoda Plans to Spend Her Time Moving Forward

In addition to her professional pursuits, Kotb is savoring her time with her children. Since moving to a quieter suburb, she has relished simple pleasures like school runs, holiday celebrations, and creating new family traditions. “Being present for these moments is priceless,” she said. “I want my children to remember me as a calm, supportive presence.”
Her departure from Today has opened space for personal growth, health, and family, all of which she values deeply. As she continues to explore new ventures and passions, Kotb remains committed to inspiring others to embrace change and pursue their dreams with courage and authenticity.