Hoda Kotb, a beloved and long-standing co-anchor of NBC’s TODAY show, has spent years bringing warmth, authenticity, and an infectious energy to millions of viewers every morning.

Now, as she embarks on a new chapter in her life, she candidly reflects on her incredible run on the show, her bittersweet departure, the fear that comes with major transitions, and her exciting plans for the future. Kotb, known for her heartfelt interviews and uplifting presence, has always been open about her personal and professional experiences, and her decision to move on from TODAY is no different. She describes the journey as both exhilarating and terrifying, acknowledging that change, even when it’s the right decision, is never easy. Leaving a position that has been such a fundamental part of her identity for so long is a leap into the unknown, but Kotb is determined to embrace it with grace, gratitude, and enthusiasm.

Kotb first joined TODAY in 2007 as a co-host for the fourth hour alongside Kathie Lee Gifford, where their chemistry quickly became a signature feature of the morning program. Over time, she worked her way up, eventually landing the co-anchor position alongside Savannah Guthrie in 2018. Her rise was not only a testament to her talent and work ethic but also her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. Whether she was sharing lighthearted stories about her daughters, Hope and Haley, or conducting deeply emotional interviews with newsmakers, she brought a unique blend of warmth and journalistic rigor that made her an irreplaceable part of the TODAY family. Kotb’s departure, while not entirely unexpected, still comes as a shock to many loyal viewers who have come to rely on her positivity and wisdom to start their day.

Stepping away from such a prominent and well-loved role is not a decision she took lightly. Kotb admits that the idea of leaving brought a mix of emotions—fear, excitement, uncertainty, and relief all wrapped into one. She explains that while she loved her time on TODAY, she reached a point where she felt an internal pull toward something new. “Sometimes, you just know when it’s time,” she says, adding that she has always trusted her instincts when making major life decisions. She recalls a moment of clarity when she realized that while she could continue in the same role indefinitely, she also had a growing desire to explore other aspects of her life and career. Change, she believes, is essential for growth, and she wants to embrace it rather than resist it.

One of the biggest challenges in making this decision was confronting the fear of the unknown. Kotb acknowledges that there is always a sense of security in sticking with what’s familiar, especially when it involves a career that has brought so much joy and fulfillment. However, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing when fear is simply a sign of stepping into something new rather than a reason to hold back. “Fear is part of the process,” she says. “It’s not a stop sign. It’s just an indicator that you’re stepping into something bigger than yourself.” Kotb hopes that by sharing her own experience with change, she can inspire others to take bold steps in their own lives, whether that means switching careers, pursuing a passion project, or simply making space for personal growth.

As she looks ahead to the future, Kotb is excited about the possibilities that lie before her. She plans to focus on projects that align with her values and passions, including writing, philanthropy, and spending more quality time with her daughters. She has already established herself as a successful author, with multiple bestselling books that inspire readers with messages of hope, resilience, and love. She envisions diving deeper into storytelling, perhaps through more books, a podcast, or even a television project that allows her to connect with audiences in new and meaningful ways. Additionally, she is passionate about mentorship and hopes to use her platform to uplift and support the next generation of journalists and media professionals.

Beyond her career aspirations, Kotb is also looking forward to simply enjoying life at a different pace. The demanding schedule of morning television has meant early wake-up calls and a relentless work routine for years. Now, she is relishing the idea of slow mornings with her daughters, more spontaneous adventures, and the freedom to be fully present in each moment. “I want to be the kind of mom who is there for every little milestone, who isn’t rushing through life but really soaking it in,” she shares. For Kotb, this transition is about more than just a career shift—it’s about realigning her life with what truly matters to her.

Still, she admits that saying goodbye to TODAY is emotional. The show has been her home for so long, and the relationships she has built with her colleagues and viewers are deeply meaningful. She expresses immense gratitude for the experiences, the lessons learned, and the unwavering support she has received from her audience. “I feel so lucky to have been part of something so special,” she says. “This show, this team, and the viewers—it’s all been such a gift.” While she is stepping away from the daily broadcast, she reassures fans that this is not a goodbye but rather a new beginning.

Kotb’s story is a reminder that change is both scary and necessary. It’s easy to stay where we feel safe, but true fulfillment often comes from embracing the unknown and trusting that the best is yet to come. Whether she’s writing, mentoring, or simply enjoying a morning cup of coffee with her daughters, one thing is certain—Hoda Kotb’s next chapter will be just as inspiring as the ones that came before. And for those who have followed her journey, her message is clear: Don’t be afraid to move forward, because the best is always ahead.