After more than two years, Hoda Kotb opened up about why she and Joel Schiffman ended their engagement: “I tried to see the best in him…”

Hoda Kotb, the beloved Today show co-anchor, has long been a figure of warmth and positivity, sharing her life’s journey with her audience. 

However, in a candid revelation, Kotb opened up about one of the more difficult chapters in her personal life—her breakup with longtime fiancé, Joel Schiffman. 

The couple, who had been together for several years and were engaged for a portion of their relationship, have since gone their separate ways.

In a recent interview with E! News, Kotb shared her thoughts and feelings on the breakup, shedding light on the challenges and the lessons learned during the process.

A Bittersweet Chapter

The breakup between Hoda Kotb and Joel Schiffman was a shock to many who had followed their relationship over the years. 

The couple had been together for nearly a decade, with Schiffman often appearing in the public eye alongside Kotb, particularly during moments of joy and celebration. Their relationship had even garnered attention for its longevity and stability, particularly in the world of celebrity relationships.

However, despite their close bond and shared experiences, Kotb revealed that their decision to part ways was not an easy one. “It’s been a difficult time, but sometimes, relationships just run their course,” Kotb explained during the interview. “Joel and I had a beautiful relationship, and I will always treasure the years we spent together. But at the end of the day, we realized that we were in different places in our lives.”

While Kotb didn’t go into detail about the specific reasons behind the breakup, she acknowledged that the decision was mutual and made with respect for each other’s needs and feelings. “We both came to the conclusion that we needed to take different paths, but it was done with understanding and care,” she shared. Despite the end of their romantic relationship, Kotb made it clear that she and Schiffman would remain on good terms, particularly because of their shared commitment to raising their two daughters, Haley and Hope.

Focus on Personal Growth

Following the breakup, Kotb has spent considerable time reflecting on her personal growth and how the end of her engagement has shaped her. In her interview, Kotb emphasized that she is in a period of self-reflection, focusing on her own happiness and well-being. “I’m taking this time to really focus on myself,” she explained. “I’m learning how to be independent and find joy in my own company. It’s an important journey, and I’m grateful for the lessons it’s taught me.”

While Kotb’s fans are used to seeing her as a beacon of positivity and light, she acknowledged that navigating this personal chapter has been challenging. “It’s not easy. No one wants to go through a breakup, especially after so many years together. But I’m trying to embrace the process and move forward in a healthy way,” she shared. Kotb also mentioned that she’s been leaning on her support system, including her close friends, family, and her co-workers, to help her through this transition. Her openness about the emotional toll of the breakup resonated with fans, who appreciated her honesty and vulnerability during a difficult time.

Co-Parenting with Joel Schiffman

A key aspect of Kotb’s life post-breakup is her role as a mother. Kotb has been open about her deep love and devotion to her daughters, and even in the midst of personal challenges, her priority remains their well-being. “Joel and I are both fully committed to being the best parents we can be for Haley and Hope,” Kotb said, referring to their two young daughters, whom they adopted. “We’re focused on making sure they feel loved and supported, and we’re doing everything we can to co-parent in a way that’s healthy for them.”

While the breakup was undoubtedly difficult for Kotb, she has been determined to maintain a positive and supportive environment for her children. The Today show anchor has always been incredibly protective of her children’s privacy and has prioritized their happiness above all else. In her interview, Kotb mentioned that her daughters have been a great source of strength and joy for her during this time of change. “They’re my everything, and they remind me daily of what truly matters,” she said.

Moving Forward

As Kotb continues to navigate this new chapter in her life, she has made it clear that she is not in a rush to jump into another relationship. Instead, her focus is on personal healing, growth, and spending time with her loved ones. “I’m taking things day by day. There’s no rush to figure it all out,” Kotb shared. “Right now, I’m just trying to enjoy the present moment and trust that things will unfold as they’re meant to.”

The end of Kotb’s engagement marks a major turning point in her personal life, but it is also a reminder of her resilience and ability to adapt to change. Throughout the ups and downs, Kotb’s dedication to her family, her career, and her own well-being remains steadfast. Fans of the television host will undoubtedly continue to support her as she embarks on this new journey, knowing that her strength and positivity will carry her through whatever comes next.

In conclusion, Hoda Kotb’s breakup with Joel Schiffman has been a deeply personal and transformative experience for the Today anchor. While it has not been an easy road, Kotb has remained focused on moving forward with grace and gratitude. As she continues to prioritize her family and personal growth, Kotb’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing change and finding strength through life’s challenges.

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