‘Today’ Hoda Kotb Highlights Her ‘Privilege’ in a ‘Whole New’ World

Lately, the Today hosts Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie have been absent from the show. Despite their absence, Hoda recently provided a significant life update. Upon her return, she highlighted the “privilege” of navigating a “whole new” world she is experiencing.

As Hoda Kotb enters her sixties, she cherishes each moment deeply. She has faced significant challenges and emerged stronger, learning to appreciate life’s blessings, especially during times of major transitions. Currently, Hoda is experiencing a huge shift with her daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 5. In recent weeks, their lives have changed significantly.

During the September 4 episode of Today With Hoda & Jenna, Hoda shared her thoughts on entering a new phase. “Everything changed like that,” she said, snapping her fingers. Reflecting on moving her daughters to the suburbs, Hoda explained, “We went for our first day of school, I carried a coffee and I had sneakers [on], and I walked my kids to school like normal people.” She expressed her excitement for this new “norm,” stating, “It was awesome.” Walking her daughters to school, however, underscored the “privilege” she feels, recognizing that many working parents don’t get such an opportunity.

Hoda Kotb celebrates getting to walk with her kids on the first day of school.

Although Hoda loves her job, she prioritizes her kids and the precious moments of watching them grow. Despite numerous demands on her time, she chose to be present for her daughters. “Sometimes chapters change and you miss things,” she said. “And I was like, ‘I’m gonna do it.’” She enjoyed watching the kids walking to school in a safe, free environment. This new suburban lifestyle connects her to memories of her own childhood.

Hoda Kotb wants a good life and home for Hope and Haley to grow up in.

Hoda shared a conversation with her sister about how wonderful it is for her kids to enjoy simple joys like running in the yard and hunting for acorns. Although the adjustment is significant, she isn’t reluctant to embrace it for the benefit of her daughters. She’s excited for the new memories they will create in their suburban home.

Jenna Bush Hager supports Hoda through this transition, acknowledging the significant adjustments involved. “Every time I moved in my life, and you moved in yours, it was like, all of a sudden, it was a huge adjustment. But the stories I tell about growing in my life come from those,” Jenna said. Hoda fondly recalled moments in their old home, such as her daughters learning to crawl and climb stairs.

Thinking back to those precious moments, Hoda added, “And I was thinking about the very first time we brought them home and carried them up those stairs in that car seat and placed them in a little thing and all the things that happened there.”

Undoubtedly, the significant move comes with bittersweet feelings. Hoda reminisces, “I was looking through old videos of them, when they were so little, and it’s like you want to hold onto things and you want to let go. … There were so many things that we have built there.” However, she looks forward to new experiences and memories in their new community.

What do you think about Hoda Kotb sharing how valuable and even “privileged” she feels for being present with her daughters? Do you get to enjoy these types of treasures? Have you been through a big move like Hoda is experiencing? Are you enjoying the Today show? We invite you to continue the conversation in the comments below.