Hoda Kotb Reveals the "Weird" Moment She Decided to Leave Today

As I delve into the lives of these remarkable women on television, I can’t help but marvel at their strength and grace. They have navigated the challenging world of live broadcasting while maintaining a balance between their careers and motherhood. Each one has her own unique story to tell, yet they all share an unwavering dedication to their families.

Hoda Kotb is ready for her new normal.

Approximately fortnight since the veteran host of Today announced her departure from the morning show, set for early next year, the journalist has provided fresh insights into her decision to step down following over sixteen years of service.

During my recent visit to The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, I shared that I’ve found myself in an unusual situation – akin to re-potting. You understand when you tug yourself up by the roots and are left dangling, questioning the madness and wondering what on earth is transpiring. But then, there’s this reassuring thought that I’m about to find myself firmly planted in rich, nourishing soil.

As a devoted admirer, let me share that Hoda’s September 26th declaration left many Today show enthusiasts like myself in a state of surprise. However, what truly astounded me was when she disclosed that the decisive moment for her departure had actually happened earlier this summer.

At the age of sixty, something extraordinary occurred, she shared. “Upon reaching sixty, we celebrated with a magnificent event at the Today show. As I surveyed the multitude of people gathered, their heartfelt signs and countless well-wishes, I felt in my soul, ‘This is it.’ It was as if I had never experienced such a feeling before – like standing on the summit of a mountain.

Meanwhile, Jimmy observed that Hoda is departing from NBC on a high note after spending 26 years there. However, what made Hoda particularly happy was the thought of not having to wake up at 3:15 a.m. for work anymore, something she hasn’t been able to avoid for close to two decades.

As for how her daughters Haley, 7, and Hope, 5, reacted to her decision?

She shared that she had told her children, “Mommy can take you to school,” and they replied, “Is it Wednesday?” To which she responded, “No, dear, not on Wednesday.” They then asked, “Next week then?” I said, “No, dear, not next week either. More likely in January or February.” They were shocked when she said, “January, February?!” It seemed to them as if she would never stop working, as if it would go on forever.

Once Hoda formally concludes her duties, she is eagerly looking forward to utilizing all the newfound spare time to be with her two children.

She shared that she said to them, “Mommy will be able to take you to school,” and they replied, “Is it on Wednesday?” To which she responded, “No, honey, not Wednesday.” They then asked, “Next week?” Again, she answered, “No, honey, not next week. More likely in January or February.” Upon hearing this, they exclaimed, “January, February?!” It felt like I might as well keep working forever for them, as it seemed that far away to them. Essentially, it’s like telling them it would be till the end.

Once Hoda wraps up for the day, I eagerly look forward to filling every spare moment with my two wonderful children, whom I share with my former partner Joel Schiffman.