Making Space with Hoda Kotb: Elle Macpherson on Her Celebration Phase
Release Date: March 26, 2025

Introduction

In this inspiring episode of Making Space with Hoda Kotb, host Hoda Kotb engages in a heartfelt and candid conversation with the legendary Elle Macpherson. Renowned as a supermodel, actress, entrepreneur, and author, Elle delves deep into her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and transformation. This discussion offers valuable insights into overcoming personal struggles, embracing wellness, and finding joy in the later stages of life.

Career and Personal Struggles

Elle Macpherson opens up about the pressures of her illustrious career and the personal challenges she faced behind the scenes. Despite appearing to have it all—success, family, and acclaim—Elle struggled with perfectionism, self-image issues, and addiction.

Elle Macpherson [04:09]: "A lot of the time, I was... a people pleaser... Until I became a pleaser of my own dreams."

She reflects on the relentless drive to perform and excel, which often left her feeling disconnected from herself. This relentless pursuit of perfection took a toll on her mental and emotional well-being, leading to substance abuse as a means to cope.

Journey to Recovery

Elle candidly discusses her battle with alcoholism and the path to sobriety. Recognizing the destructive patterns in her life, she sought help and ultimately found a pathway to healing and spiritual awakening.

Elle Macpherson [07:42]: "When go, go, go wasn't working... I realized that I needed to take a beat, take a breath... connect to my heart."

Her admission of being an alcoholic and the subsequent steps she took to reclaim her life highlight the importance of addressing personal demons to achieve true well-being.

Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Holistic Approach

In 2017, Elle was diagnosed with breast cancer, prompting her to make unconventional treatment choices. Opting for a holistic approach over conventional methods, she emphasizes the significance of listening to one’s intuition and trusting oneself during critical health decisions.

Elle Macpherson [19:11]: "You have to check in with yourself and listen to your heart, because your heart will never lead you astray."

Elle's decision to undergo a holistic treatment regimen led to her being in clinical remission. She underscores the profound impact this experience had on her, fostering a deeper respect for her body and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

Founding WellCo: Embracing Wellness

Motivated by her personal health journey, Elle founded WellCo in her 50s—a wellness company focused on plant-based nutrition. She recognized the vital connection between beauty and wellness, especially during menopause, and aimed to provide tools and knowledge to support women’s health.

Elle Macpherson [25:07]: "Wellco is a plant-based nutritional collection of powders that you can add to water or to milk to supplement your body."

Through WellCo, Elle shares her insights on nutrition as a foundation for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, advocating for holistic self-care practices.

Motherhood and Nurturing Relationships

Elle shares her approach to motherhood, emphasizing the importance of quality time over quantity. Balancing a demanding career with parenting, she adopted a philosophy of focused attention, ensuring her children received undivided love and presence.

Elle Macpherson [13:29]: "No phones. I'm not trying to do business... I'm actually just with them."

She also discusses the influence of her own upbringing, highlighting the lessons learned from her mother about multitasking and the value of being present.

Philosophy on Thoughts and Self-Acceptance

Elle offers profound insights into managing thoughts and fostering a positive mindset. She likens thoughts to passing clouds and emphasizes focusing on what one desires rather than obsessing over fears and doubts.

Elle Macpherson [26:37]: "Thoughts are just like clouds. They come and they go."

This perspective encourages listeners to cultivate self-awareness and redirect their focus towards positive intentions, thereby shaping their reality through conscious thought management.

Embracing Love and Relationships in Later Years

Discussing love and companionship in her 60s, Elle highlights the importance of entering relationships as complete individuals rather than out of necessity. She values unconditional love, mutual support, and the freedom to grow together without the constraints of traditional expectations.

Elle Macpherson [36:02]: "There is complete allowance. Allow him to be who he is. Allow me to be who I am."

Her relationship philosophy centers on autonomy, shared joy, and authentic connection, serving as a testament to the enduring power of love built on mutual respect and understanding.

Living a Celebration Phase: Embracing Each Day

Elle describes her current phase of life as a continual rebirth, filled with joy, freedom, and the willingness to step out of her comfort zone. Whether launching a book, engaging in new ventures, or simply celebrating daily moments, she embodies a life of gratitude and presence.

Elle Macpherson [39:35]: "Every day feels like it is a ceremony and a celebration of life... It's dependent on the attitude I have and the gratitude."

Her approach serves as an inspiration for embracing life’s transitions with positivity and an open heart, encouraging listeners to find beauty and meaning in each moment.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Elle Macpherson’s conversation with Hoda Kotb is a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity, embracing holistic wellness, and finding fulfillment in the later stages of life. Her journey underscores the importance of:

• Self-Acceptance: Embracing one’s unique self and trusting personal intuition.
• Holistic Wellness: Prioritizing physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
• Mindful Relationships: Building connections based on mutual respect and unconditional love.
• Positive Mindset: Managing thoughts to focus on aspirations rather than fears.
• Continuous Growth: Viewing each day as an opportunity for renewal and celebration.

Elle’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of making space for growth and change.

Notable Quotes:

• Elle Macpherson [07:42]: "When go, go, go wasn't working... I realized that I needed to take a beat, take a breath... connect to my heart."

• Elle Macpherson [19:11]: "You have to check in with yourself and listen to your heart, because your heart will never lead you astray."

• Elle Macpherson [26:37]: "Thoughts are just like clouds. They come and they go."

• Elle Macpherson [36:02]: "There is complete allowance. Allow him to be who he is. Allow me to be who I am."

• Elle Macpherson [39:35]: "Every day feels like it is a ceremony and a celebration of life... It's dependent on the attitude I have and the gratitude."

This episode of Making Space serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement, illustrating that with resilience, self-trust, and a commitment to wellness, one can navigate life’s challenges and emerge stronger and more vibrant.