AUSTIN – Hoda Kotb has decided to part ways with the “Today” show, embracing the change with excitement and positivity.

In our discussion back in March concerning her children’s Hoda Kotb, in her book “Hope is a Rainbow,” revealed her intention to move into the wellness field. Eight months later, shortly after announcing her exit from “Today,” she kicked off this new phase by hosting a wellness retreat at Miraval Austin Resort and Spa for 150 attendees last weekend.

When Kotb shared her decision to leave “Today” on September 26, Savannah Guthrie offered her congratulations to the co-anchor.

While enjoying some downtime at Miraval, Kotb reflected on her path and mentioned that she didn’t have to summon bravery for this new venture. She described it as feeling like the only feasible choice at that time.She shared, ‘I have everything I could ever want. There’s nothing at stake for me. I’m surrounded by the love of my family and the support of wonderful colleagues who will always be my friends. I truly have it all, so there’s no feeling of loss.’

On October 24 and 25, Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager, the hosts of NBC’s “Hoda & Jenna,” engaged with their audience live from Austin.

Kotb reminisces about a gentle inner voice that began to emerge: ‘At first, the whispers were soft, but over time they grew louder until they became almost too much to handle.’ She reflects on these messages she received during a difficult period in her life.The messages expressed various thoughts, highlighting her adventurous nature, the significance of cherishing time with her daughters, Haley Joy (7) and Hope Catherine (5), and prompting reflections on what the future holds for her. They encouraged her to consider if she had truly taken advantage of all the opportunities before her.

In 2018, “Today” appointed Kotb as Matt Lauer’s replacement after his departure from NBC due to serious allegations of sexual misconduct. Having been part of NBC News for 26 years and contributing to the investigative program “Dateline,” Kotb shared anchoring duties with Guthrie, making history as it was the first time two women co-anchored “Today.”since its inception in 1952. The festivities for Kotb’s 60th birthday in August solidified her decision to take a step back.

“I was in tears for most of the celebration, primarily because I felt a deep awareness,” she recalls, describing a moment that provided her with relief. “It’s much like when you share something personal with your closest friend.

Once you uncover the truth about any situation, it can bring about a sense of calm throughout your entire being. This is how I’ve been feeling lately. The love I have is immense, and while there are also moments of sadness tied to it, I’m prepared to move ahead.

Kotb intends to resign from her usual position early next year but will remain an NBC contributor and continue working on the Making Space podcast.

Kotb will primarily miss the “daily therapy sessions” she has with Guthrie and co-host Jenna Bush Hager on their late-morning show. While their friendship will continue, Kotb feels she will particularly yearn for those intimate moments they share.

“You can only truly open up when you’re feeling vulnerable, tired, and close to someone. That’s when your heart just spills out.”

As she goes through this transformative time, Kotb clings to an optimistic vision of her future—a valuable lesson she’s learned from Sarah Jakes Roberts, a writer.er walk, I’ll be okay.’ Taking small steps led to significant changes in my life,” she explains.

She emphasizes the importance of connection with her loved ones and how it has impacted her well-being. “Realizing how interconnected everything is really opened my eyes,” Kotb reflects.

Furthermore, Kotb is excited about a new project focused on encouraging women to put their health first, which will include a mobile app and wellness retreats. Her awareness of wellness issues began in her 50s when fatigue became more pronounced.

“I started thinking that if I choose healthier foods like salmon and incorporate more walks into my routine, I’ll feel better.”her run, I felt renewed,’” she shares. “It worked for a little while, but then I understood that there’s more to nourishment than just veggies and fitness.”

Using a Peloton bike involves more than simply exerting yourself physically; it requires an added layer to fully immerse in the experience.

Kotb is looking forward to her next chapter, which she hopes will be centered on “giving back.” She states, “I’ve been fortunate enough to receive so much that I didn’t deserve. Now it’s my turn to give back, support others, mentor them, and hopefully leave a positive mark in someone’s life.”

Kern Lima notes that “Her choice to step away at the height of her ”Career inspires individuals to contemplate their true aspirations. It fosters self-belief and encourages them to chase the life that resonates with their inner selves.

She expressed a sense of comfort in her choice to depart from “Today,” reinforcing her conviction that it was the correct path.

“I believe this validated what I had always thought,” she stated. “It genuinely felt like home. This is what it signifies when something is right.”