Maria Shriver Shares Parenting Lessons and Life Reflections at TODAY’s Wellness Weekend

Maria Shriver, a renowned journalist and author, recently shared insightful parenting lessons and reflections on her life during TODAY‘s first-ever Making Space: A Wellness Weekend. The event, held at Miraval Austin from October 25-27, featured Shriver as a keynote speaker alongside Hoda Kotb.

Shriver, who is part of the prominent Kennedy family, discussed the challenges of growing up in a highly competitive and public environment. She emphasized the importance of finding her own identity and purpose, separate from her family’s legacy. “You either assumed it, or you had to leave,” she said, reflecting on her decision to physically and professionally distance herself from her East Coast origins by relocating to Los Angeles and pursuing a career in journalism rather than politics.

Shriver also highlighted the critical role of ensuring her children felt valued and prioritized in a public family. She stressed the need to protect their privacy and make them feel like the stars of their household, rather than mere political props. “Regardless of their father’s endeavors or mine, I wanted them to understand that their pursuits were significant,” she noted.

During the Wellness Weekend, Shriver addressed the audience about the necessity of cultivating a sense of purpose. She emphasized that transforming society and culture is achieved through how we live, express ourselves, and interact with others. Shriver also spoke about redefining aging, motherhood, and professional life, emphasizing the importance of living a meaningful existence.