Brianna Wiest on Her Inspiring Books and Messages of Hope

Bestselling author Brianna Wiest has touched millions of readers with her books and quotes featuring messages of empowerment, self-reflection and hope. She found healing and growth in the written word while overcoming personal struggles, and now, she hopes to help others through her writing. In this beautiful conversation from March 2024, Brianna sat down with Hoda Kotb to discuss her own journey inward, the impact she hopes her words have and her latest book “The Pivot Year: 365 Days to Become the Person You Truly Want to Be”. 

Dr. Wendy Suzuki, world renowned Neuroscientist and Dean of Arts and Sciences at New York University, joined Hoda Kotb live at the Making Space Wellness Weekend in Austin, Texas for an enlightening conversation on the brain-changing effects of exercise and movement. Dr. Suzuki breaks down the science of how exercise can boost your mood and memory, and protect your brain against disease, sharing her personal experiences and stories on the impact of these practices. Her practical tips and fascinating insights will empower us all to take control of our mind, and focus on ways we can improve brain function. (Event sponsored by Miraval Resorts & Spas, furniture and florals provided by our sponsors CORT and Bouqs)

For years, TODAY Contributor Jill Martin has been lighting up our TV screens with her optimism, her joy and her open heart. In June 2023, Jill’s life changed when she was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer, after she learned she had a BRCA gene mutation. Now, with a clean bill of health, Jill has a new perspective on life. She’s living her life with more intention than ever before, and realigning with her purpose. Jill sat down with Hoda Kotb to talk about her journey, and her mission to spread awareness, encourage genetic testing and help others.

Arthur C. Brooks is a bestselling author, acclaimed public speaker and professor at the Harvard School of Business, where he teaches courses on leadership and happiness. Earlier this year, Arthur joined Hoda Kotb for a conversation on the art and science of getting happier, and how to build the life you want. The two discuss practices to increase happiness, how to get unstuck, how to parent and why happiness is not a destination, but a direction. Arthur will join Hoda at the upcoming Making Space Wellness Weekend as a featured speaker. 

Hey Making Space fans! As a bonus, we’re giving you a special preview of Jenna Bush Hager’s new podcast, ‘Open Book with Jenna’.  In the podcast’s debut episode, Jenna sits down with “Late Show” host Stephen Colbert and his wife of over 30 years, Evie McGee Colbert.  Stephen and Evie recently partnered on a new cookbook, “Does this Taste Funny” and sat down with Jenna to share their favorite family recipes, funniest memories cooking together, and why humor is the key ingredient in their marriage. They also reveal who holds the title of ‘best chef’ and who they’d love to invite to one of their famous dinner parties.  To listen to the full conversation, just search ‘Open Book with Jenna’ wherever you’re listening to follow now, or click here: https://link.chtbl.com/obwj\_lw

Ina Garten is undoubtedly one of America’s most beloved cooks, known and adored for her approachable style and comforting, attainable recipes. And while Ina has a gift for making everything seem effortless, her many accomplishments have been the result of hard work, bold choices and of course, an exquisite attention to detail. Now, Ina is opening up like never before, in her new memoir, “Be Ready When the Luck Happens”, sharing her remarkable story for the very first time. Ina sat down with Hoda Kotb, reflecting on her difficult childhood, her trailblazing career, and of course, the love of her life, Jeffrey.

Throughout her career, singer and songwriter Rachel Platten has used her voice to lift others up. Her music has touched the hearts of millions around the world, with messages of strength, hope and love, in anthems like “Fight Song”. But despite being known for one of the most empowering songs of all time, Rachel has lived through her own struggles with depression, anxiety and moments of self-doubt. Now also a mom and a mental health advocate, Rachel is back with new music and a fresh perspective, using her voice in a new way, on her latest album, “I Am Rachel Platten”. Rachel sat down with Hoda Kotb to talk about the next chapter in her life, her music and her career. 

Jonathan Haidt is a bestselling author and social psychologist at New York University’s Stern School of Business. In his latest book, “The Anxious Generation”, Haidt investigates the collapse of youth mental health, exploring the alarming effects of excessive screen time on children and what he calls “the great rewiring” of children's brains as they move from a play-based childhood to a phone-based childhood. Haidt sat down with Hoda Kotb to talk about his plan for a healthier, freer childhood, and steps that parents, teachers and schools can take to end the epidemic of mental illness and restore a more humane childhood.

Taraji P. Henson is an actress, producer and mental health advocate. Taraji has shined in roles like “Hidden Figures”, “Empire”, and her latest project, “Fight Night”. Throughout her life and career, Taraji has overcome naysayers, proving who she is and what she has to offer. Taraji joins Hoda Kotb for season 6 of Making Space to talk about the importance of using your voice, speaking your truth and fighting for what you deserve.

Grammy-award-winning and multi-platinum singer-songwriter Lainey Wilson has taken the music industry by storm with hits like “Heart Like a Truck” and “Watermelon Moonshine”, solidifying her status as a next-generation icon. Lainey has broken records and reached new milestones, all without compromising her voice. And while it may seem like Lainey is an overnight sensation, she’ll be the first to tell you that her success took time - she faced years of rejection and heartbreak before making it big, but she never gave up on her dreams. Lainey joined Hoda Kotb on Making Space earlier this summer, reflecting on her career, her music and her love of storytelling, marking a milestone as Hoda's 50th guest. To celebrate the release of Lainey's new album "Whirlwind", Hoda is revisiting this very special conversation.