Hoda Kotb cherishes her role as a mother to her two daughters but acknowledges that she faced some challenges when they first joined her family. During a session at Today’s Making Space Wellness Weekend, the Today co-host, 60, discussed the issue of imposter syndrome alongside author Suzy Welch. “There are women who excel in their careers whom we admire, yet they might be at home questioning, ‘Am I really good enough?’” Kotb shared.
Reflecting on her early days as a mother, she recalled, “After welcoming my children, I thought to myself, ‘Do I truly deserve them?’ It’s a bizarre feeling, but that was my mindset. I resolved to work harder to prove myself because I wasn’t sure.”
Haley, Kotb’s seven-year-old daughter, thrives alongside her sister in their new home
Kotb continued, “Over time, I realized that I do deserve these kids. I am meant to be their mother. I believe many of us here experience similar feelings, but we must recognize our worth.”
The proud mother has two daughters: Hope, aged 5, and Haley, aged 7. In an October cover story for PEOPLE, the news anchor provided an update on Hope, who faced a sudden medical crisis in February 2023, leading the family into a long-term healthcare journey.
Kotb reported that in the past six months, “things have stabilized,” prompting them to relocate from New York City to Westchester. Since this change, she noted that Hope is “thriving” and “improving.”
“We’re in a place where Hope is doing well,” Kotb stated. “She’s showing improvement, and as time passes, I believe we’ll gain a clearer understanding of her situation. We’re already observing outstanding progress.”
She added, “We have exceptional care in place, and I have support around us. It feels like she is gaining a solid foundation.” This year also marked a remarkable transition for Kotb, who announced in September that she would be leaving the Today show after 17 years to dedicate more time to her family.
“My broadcasting career has been incredibly fulfilling, but I’m entering a new decade where my daughters and my mom need and deserve more of my attention,” she expressed in a letter to her NBC morning show staff shared on September 26. “I will miss you all dearly, but I am ready and excited for this next chapter.”
