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Hoda Kotb recently opened up about the invaluable parenting advice she’s received from her cohosts Jenna Bush Hager and Savannah Guthrie. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE magazine, the 59-year-old TV personality shared insights into how both cohosts have influenced her parenting style.
Kotb, a mother of two daughters—7-year-old Haley and 4-year-old Hope—spoke highly of both Jenna and Savannah’s advice, making it clear she values their perspectives equally. “I do have a dead heat between Savannah and Jenna, and I’ll tell you why,” Kotb said. “Savannah has very thoughtful advice, she always gives very thoughtful advice.”
She elaborated on Savannah’s approach, highlighting her ability to break down complex ideas into manageable pieces. “She has a good way of explaining big concepts in palatable ways. So I usually take a page from her. She always gives good advice in that way, and she’s pretty good at reminding you, ‘You’ve tried that 10 times, it didn’t work, so why don’t you try this thing?’ She’s good at reminding you of the times you have repeated the same problem and tried the same solution. So she’ll offer up another one.”
Turning to Jenna, Kotb appreciated her optimistic outlook and realistic mindset. “I like Jenna because Jenna also assumes everything’s always going to work out. Her [advice], ‘They’re going to be fine,’ is really, really good.” This perspective, Kotb noted, is especially comforting and reassuring. “She’s kind of a realist about all of it,” Kotb added. “So I love that Jenna lives in the place where everything’s going to be all right. And she’s right. So I think that her parenting advice is good too.”
Kotb concluded by reflecting on a common goal shared by her and her cohosts: striving not to be overbearing as parents. “We’re all trying not to be overbearing,” she stated, emphasizing a balanced approach to parenting.
For those unversed, Hoda Kotb balances her demanding career with raising her two young daughters. Her candid reflections on the advice from Jenna and Savannah offer a glimpse into the supportive environment among the cohosts and how it helps Kotb navigate the challenges of motherhood. Their combined wisdom underscores the importance of thoughtful and optimistic parenting strategies in Kotb’s life.
