Just weeks after stepping away from her long-standing role on the Today show, Hoda Kotb is already gearing up for her next exciting project.
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The former NBC host, who left the network to spend more time with her daughters and explore new ventures,
has teased a brand-new collaboration with a familiar face—HGTV icon and Magnolia Network founder Joanna Gaines.
A Sneak Peek at Hoda’s Next Chapter
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Kotb took to Instagram to share the first glimpse of what she has been working on, giving fans an inside look at her next endeavor.
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The post included several behind-the-scenes photos featuring her and Gaines, along with a dedicated production crew.
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One standout image showed the two women embracing with beaming smiles, while others captured them deep in discussion, working on a laptop, and collaborating with a camera team.
Captioning the post, Kotb referenced a recent personal reflection, writing, “Remember I was talking about repotting—gotta take first steps…” She continued by hinting at something exciting on the horizon, adding, “We have something fun cooking! Come along on the great adventure… Stay tuned.” The heartfelt message concluded with praise for her new collaborator: “I love @joannagaines.”
Support from Friends and Fans
The announcement was met with an outpouring of enthusiasm from both fans and Kotb’s former colleagues. Today show co-host Jenna Bush Hager, who recently rebranded 4th Hour with Hoda & Jenna to Jenna & Friends, showed her support in the comments, writing, “Missing you and loving this,” accompanied by a red heart emoji.
Gaines herself also chimed in, responding with excitement: “Let’s go!!! So incredibly proud of you.”
Fans of both Kotb and Gaines quickly expressed their eagerness for the upcoming project. Comments flooded in, including, “Hoda + Joanna?! I can’t wait!!!” and “New chapter looks good on you!” Others praised Kotb’s infectious energy and positive spirit, writing, “Can’t wait to see whatever you do next… Your beautiful energy & enthusiasm is so missed!”
A New Beginning After an Emotional Farewell
Kotb’s latest venture comes shortly after her emotional departure from Today in January. Having spent nearly two decades on the morning show, she made the difficult decision to step away, citing her desire to focus more on her daughters, Haley, 8, and Hope, 5.
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Her decision was largely influenced by her milestone 60th birthday, which prompted deep reflection on the next chapter of her life. Speaking about her departure, she explained, “It was such a monumental moment for me when I turned 60 years old because I started thinking about that decade—what does it hold, what’s it going to have for me?”
Kotb described the timing of her exit as feeling just right, stating, “This is what the top of the wave feels like for me, and I thought, ‘It can’t get better.'” More importantly, she emphasized her family’s role in the decision, adding, “[My kids] deserve a better piece of my time pie that I have.”
What’s Next for Hoda and Joanna?
While Kotb has yet to reveal specific details about her collaboration with Gaines, the project is already generating major buzz. Given Gaines’ expertise in design, home renovation, and storytelling, and Kotb’s background in journalism and heartfelt storytelling, the possibilities for their joint venture are endless.
Some fans speculate that the two could be working on a lifestyle show, a documentary series, or even a special project under Gaines’ Magnolia Network. Whatever the case, Kotb’s message of “taking first steps” suggests that she is embracing this next phase of her career with optimism and excitement.
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Embracing the Future
With an impressive career already behind her, Kotb is proving that life’s next chapter can be just as thrilling as the last. Whether this new endeavor is television-related, a podcast, or a creative passion project, one thing is certain—her loyal fanbase will be eagerly watching.
For now, as she continues to embrace change, Kotb’s words serve as an inspiration for anyone considering a bold new step in their own lives: “Repotting—gotta take first steps.”
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