Hoda Kotb Reveals Relationship Insights in New Memoir

Hoda Kotb has opened up about her breakup with ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman in her new memoir, “Jump and Find Joy.” The 61-year-old journalist reflected on their seven-year relationship and what led to its end.

In an excerpt shared with a media outlet, Kotb described attending a week-long retreat at the Hoffman Institute, an organization aimed at helping people create positive changes in their lives. This experience, she noted, altered her perspective on her romantic involvement.

“Everything has changed,” she recalled, stating that they both felt their bond had shifted. Kotb mentioned standing in front of the retreat leader and fellow participants, sharing her reasons for being there—a moment where she felt compelled to speak her truth. “I admitted that I felt like a ‘total fake’ in my relationship,” she wrote.

In early 2022, Kotb publicly announced the end of her engagement. Despite the breakup, the two continue to successfully co-parent their daughters, Haley, 8, and another child.

In her interview, Kotb elaborated on her feelings towards Schiffman, saying, “I loved Joel back then, and I still love him; it’s just a different kind of love now.” She emphasized that it’s possible to hold affection and admiration for someone while recognizing that a long-term relationship may not be right anymore.

Reflecting on this realization, she described it as an “epiphany,” which required courage to voice. “When I finally said it, I felt, ‘Okay, there it is,'” she shared, expressing comfort in their current friendship and co-parenting dynamic.

As for moving forward, Kotb is optimistic about finding new love. She believes there’s someone meant for her out there, stating, “I have no doubt in my heart that it exists and that person is there.”

The couple got engaged in 2019, two years after welcoming their daughter, Haley, into the world. Kotb mentioned that they realized they were better suited as friends and co-parents than as an engaged couple.

Additionally, Kotb has made significant changes in her professional life, leaving her position at “Today” after nearly 30 years at NBC News to prioritize time with her daughter. She expressed a mix of gratitude and sadness in her announcement to colleagues, recognizing the difficult yet necessary nature of her decision.