From New Mom to Co-Anchor: Hoda Kotb's Remarkable Journey
Let me tell you, 2017 was quite the year for Hoda Kotb. She welcomed her first child, a beautiful baby girl named Haley Joy Kotb, into her life through adoption. At the same time, she stepped into the spotlight as the co-anchor of the Today show's first two hours after Matt Lauer's departure due to sexual misconduct allegations. It’s no small feat to juggle motherhood and a high-pressure career, but Hoda makes it look effortless. “She’s a powerhouse, managing it all with grace and determination,” an insider told Closer Weekly.
Hoda, now in her early 50s, might not have planned to take on such a demanding role while raising an infant. “Adopting Haley Joy was a deeply personal and emotional commitment,” the insider explained. Yet, she's not about to shy away from the opportunity she’s worked so hard to achieve in her nearly two decades with NBC News. “Hoda is respected and admired by everyone on the Today team. She’s equally comfortable interviewing global leaders as she is discussing the latest fashion trends,” a source added. “This moment has been building for years, and she knows it’s the pinnacle of her career.”
Savannah Guthrie, Matt, and Hoda on Today. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
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Support System: Hoda's Partner and Work Family
Hoda isn’t tackling this challenging chapter in her life alone. She has the unwavering support of her live-in boyfriend, Joel Schiffman, who plays a crucial role in helping care for Haley Joy. “Hoda says she couldn’t do it without Joel by her side,” the insider shared. “Having someone to rely on makes all the difference.” Not only does she have a strong support system at home, but at work, Hoda has been a stabilizing force for her colleagues during a tumultuous time. “She’s been instrumental in keeping morale high and bringing the team together,” the source noted. “I don’t know what they’d do without her leadership during this crisis.”
A Career Built on Kindness and Hard Work
Hoda’s rise to the top hasn’t come at the expense of others. She believes in climbing the ladder with integrity and kindness. “When I joined NBC, I expected a cutthroat environment, but I learned that you can be both kind and ambitious,” she once said. “You don’t need to step on others to succeed.” This philosophy has guided her throughout her career, earning her respect and admiration from her peers.
As Hoda and her family prepare to celebrate their first holiday season together, she’s eager to share her values with Haley Joy. “She jokes that Haley won’t remember her first Christmas, but Hoda and Joel will cherish every moment,” the source revealed. “They’re taking countless photos to document this special time.” Always thinking of others, Hoda has extended her care to her close friend Kathie Lee Gifford, who is grieving the loss of her husband, Frank Gifford. “Kathie Lee has had a tough year, and Hoda is there for her, spending time with her in Connecticut over the holidays,” the source added. “It’s a beautiful friendship.”
Hoda’s ability to focus on others, even during her own busy season, speaks volumes about her character. “Sometimes, shifting the focus from yourself to someone else reveals how much strength you truly have,” she reflects. “It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you lift others up.”
View this post on InstagramChristmas spirit — check! Tree— check! Haley Joy’s first Christmas on the way ! 🌲❤️👶🏼
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