Al Roker, the beloved journalist and weatherman, has opened up about the origins of his signature catchphrase "Here's what's happening in your neck of the woods" on the Today show.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the 46th Annual News Emmy Awards, where he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Honor, Roker revealed that the phrase is an homage to his grandfather.

"My grandfather used to say that, yeah. So that was kind of an homage to him," Roker said.

The repeated use of the phrase began as a practical move, Roker explained. "I've got to say the same thing, so that the local stations know when to cut away."

Roker Honored with Lifetime Achievement Honor

Roker described the feeling of receiving the Lifetime Achievement Honor as "very humbling" and attributed a portion of his success to the talented individuals he's had the chance to work with along the way.

He also expressed his love for being a journalist, saying, "I think it's more the cumulative effect of just being able to see, being able to witness history both in front of and behind the camera — to watch things, how things have changed."

Roker's Wife, Deborah Roberts, Honored with Silver Circle Honor Society Induction

Roker attended the event with his wife, ABC News anchor Deborah Roberts, who was also honored with an induction into the Silver Circle Honor Society, a recognition reserved for those whose careers span 25 years or more.

Roberts told PEOPLE that she wasn't even aware of this particular honor until recently and was "really pleasantly surprised, and shocked and honored" when she received the news.

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