Making Space with Hoda Kotb

Viola Davis on finding herself. It’s hard to imagine the Academy Award-winning actress survived the childhood she did. Bullied at a young age for being different, Viola now realizes the power — and the potency — of those differences. Viola joins Hoda for an intimate conversation on overcoming trauma and how to shape your own future, one leg of the relay race at a time.

Bravo star, author, and fellow podcaster Bevy Smith had it all: A powerful career, financial success, and a strong sense of self-worth. But at 38, she quit her job to pursue a brand-new career… one she knew would fulfill her calling and sense of purpose. How did she do it, and what advice does she have for other “late bloomers” out there? A master negotiator and firm believer in her own value, Bevy Smith is living proof that it gets greater later.

The last 20 years of Kim Kardashian’s life have been a whirlwind. From busy schedules to booming businesses and ever-present paparazzi, life for Kim is hectic. So, how does she find what she calls a “sense of inner calmness”? Kim is taking a break from keeping up with everything… and making space for Hoda. They talk transitioning out of relationships, lessons learned from Kim’s famous family, and her idea of a perfect afternoon.

It’s been more than five years since country superstar Thomas Rhett has made space for an alone day. So how would the devoted husband and father of four spend time off the grid? And when was he happiest? Hoda finds out. We also hear from Thomas on the impact of his parents’ divorce, the beautiful decision to adopt their oldest daughter and why he never made it prom. As Thomas tells Hoda, that’s just life.

On this episode of Making Space, Hoda sits down with comedian Amy Schumer as she prepares to host the Academy Awards. Amy touches on everything from growing up as class clown to the famous names who gave her advice before this year's awards. Equal parts funny and genuine, Amy also opens up about motherhood, that headline-grabbing plastic surgery announcement, and what makes her own mom most proud.

On this episode of Making Space with Hoda Kotb, when Hoda stumbled upon a clip of singer and pastor Wintley Phipps performing “Amazing Grace,” she was immediately drawn to his voice and presence and knew she wanted to connect with him for Making Space. In this episode, Wintley shares who inspires him and how he’s found his life’s most fulling work. And his wisdom and guidance will have you seeking your own highest purpose.

Hoda sits down with former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho, creator of Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man. Emmanuel shares how he found his calling – not in his strength on the football field – but with the power of listening and sharing the stories of others, first online and then with a best-selling book. Released by five pro teams in five years, Emmanuel learned the true meaning of perseverance. And just like all of us, he’s faced rejection, criticism, and moments of uncertainty. But as Emmanuel puts it, having a setback isn’t failing, it’s falling: and if you can get back up, you win.

On this special episode of Making Space, Hoda sits down exclusively with Matt Hutchins, whose wife Halyna died after a gun discharged on the set of the film Rust in October 2021. Matt opens up about loss, legacy, moving forward, and how he’s making space to heal.

You probably know Jenna Bush Hager as Hoda’s co-host on TODAY with Hoda & Jenna. As you’ll hear, they’re so friendly on air because they’re real friends off-air — and their friendship has only grown and deepened over the years. And because this podcast has been about friendship and wisdom, there’s no better way to bring it all home than with a girlfriend. For our last episode of Season One, we invite you into an intimate conversation, touching on everything from lessons learned by example during childhood to what it means for Jenna to turn 40. Together, Hoda and Jenna talk about birth, love, loss and the importance of work ethic. Plus, a special look back at the highlights and moments that touch on what Hoda is finally making space for.

Nine-time Grammy Award-winner Sheryl Crow has spent the last three decades performing for sold-out crowds and festivals. But rarely do we get a glimpse into her very private personal life. Today, as Sheryl approaches sixty, she sits down with Hoda for a very intimate conversation. They connect over experiences they’ve both endured – like surviving breast cancer and the dissolution of a relationship. They also share a deep joy in simple things like the honor of motherhood later in life and the fulfillment that comes with reaching this stage in the game. Sheryl shares what she’s learned – perspective she’s gained from her own mother, her sons and thirty years in the music industry.