Hoda Kotb, the former co-anchor of NBC’s “Today” show, has embraced motherhood while navigating changes in her personal and professional life. Since becoming a mother through adoption, Kotb has celebrated numerous milestones with her two daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, all while co-parenting effectively with her ex-fiancé, Joel Schiffman.
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Kotb’s journey into motherhood began in 2017 when she adopted her first daughter, Haley Joy. The following year brought a new addition to her family with the arrival of Hope Catherine in 2019. Kotb frequently expresses admiration for Schiffman, who she describes as an exceptional father. The couple enjoyed nearly a decade together, getting engaged in 2019 but ultimately ending their relationship in 2022. Despite their separation, both remain committed to raising their children together.
In 2024, Kotb took a significant step for her family, relocating from her urban New York City apartment to a suburban home. This transition was accompanied by her decision to take a step back from her role at “Today” in order to focus on her daughters’ needs. In an interview with PEOPLE, she reflected on her choice, saying she wanted to be more present and involved in her children’s lives: “I’ve been watching my kids, and I was thinking to myself, I wonder what I’m missing?”
As the school year commenced, Kotb shared her experiences capturing precious moments with her daughters. Each new school year marked the beginning of new adventures. In September 2023, she made a point to leave her “Today” duties early in order to accompany her daughters to their first day of school. She shared her enthusiasm with co-host Jenna Bush Hager, recalling how excited her daughters were to start at the same school for the first time.
Both Haley and Hope responded positively to their new surroundings. Kotb described the day as a joyful experience. “Haley just went sprinting off with her friends,” she recalled, adding a humorous twist as she observed how quickly her daughter had embraced the day. Hope also appeared to handle her inaugural school experience well, managing to make new acquaintances during a phased entry.
Later in 2024, Kotb reflected on the changes that accompanied their move to the suburbs. On her show, she talked about the thrilling experience of walking her daughters to their new school, feeling content that they were finally living a lifestyle reminiscent of her own childhood. “I carried coffee and I had sneakers and I walked with my kids to school like normal people! It was awesome!” Kotb reminisced, drawing parallels to her upbringing in West Virginia.
Kotb’s excitement remained evident during the start of the 2025 school year, marking another first since her departure from “Today.” She took to social media to share joyful photographs of her daughters, showcasing their smiles and the anticipation that came with starting a new academic year. The images also included shared moments of laughter and the enjoyment she took in being a part of her daughters’ school journey.
In a discussion with the Wall Street Journal before the school year, Kotb conveyed how her pacing of life had shifted since leaving her broadcasting role. She indicated that she now spent quality time with her daughters, indulging in activities they enjoyed together, such as bike rides and tennis. “When I’m driving them around, they’re telling me stories that I wasn’t in the car to hear before,” she noted, highlighting the familial bonding moments she cherished.
The importance of family and shared experiences came to the forefront in September 2026 as Kotb and Schiffman joined forces again for their daughters’ first day of school. The co-parenting duo was seen walking hand-in-hand with their children. Kotb, visibly thrilled, shared a heartfelt caption on Instagram about the occasion, celebrating the transition into 4th and 2nd grades.
It is clear that amidst the changes and challenges of their journey, Kotb and Schiffman remain dedicated to providing a loving and supportive environment for Haley and Hope. As they navigate this new chapter together, Kotb continues to share her joyful parenting experiences, reminding her followers of the beauty of family and the cherished moments of childhood.