Having Coffee with Al: A Heartwarming Chat with America’s Weatherman on The Grands Club Podcast

Al Roker cooking up life lessons and legacies for his precious granddaughter

There are few voices as familiar and comforting as Al Roker’s. For decades, he has been a steady presence in our homes, delivering the forecast with his signature warmth, humor, and undeniable charm. On a recent episode of The Grands Club Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with America’s favorite weatherman to talk about a new chapter in his life—being a grandfather.

Right from the start, I couldn’t help but exclaim, “Al, I feel like we’re good friends - I have coffee with you every morning!”—a sentiment shared by millions who start their day with his friendly smile and weather updates. But beyond the green screen and morning show banter, Al Roker revealed a personal side that touched my heart: his deep love and admiration for his grandchild, Skye.

Becoming ‘Pop-Pop’

When asked about his chosen grandparent’s name, Al didn’t hesitate. “I wanted to be called ‘Pop Pop’—just like my own dad.” It was a beautiful nod to family tradition, a way of honoring the past while stepping into this new role with enthusiasm and joy. He spoke with sheer delight about the moments he’s already cherished with Skye, from watching her tiny expressions change to the simple joy of holding her close.

Al’s love for his family has always been evident, but becoming a grandfather has added a new depth to his perspective. “It’s a love like no other,” he shared. “You think you know what love is when you have kids, but grandkids—it’s just a whole different level.”

Al’s Favorite Recipes—From the Forecast to the Kitchen

We all know Al as a man of many talents, and one of them is his love for cooking! He dished about some of his favorite go-to recipes, many of which have become family staples. From his famous slow-cooked short ribs to the ultimate comfort food—mac and cheese—Al believes that food is one of the best ways to create memories.  Al and his chef/daughter Courtney Roker Laga have recently released a legacy of family recipes with their cookbook, Al Roker’s Recipes to Live By which is packed full of family favorites.

 Now, as Pop-Pop, he’s excited to share his passion for cooking with the next generation. “Skye is a great eater – she has a wonderful palate just like her mom,” he said with a grin. “There’s something special about being in the kitchen together, making a mess, and creating something delicious.”

Life Lessons & Legacy

Beyond the kitchen and the camera, Al Roker is a man of wisdom. When asked about the lessons he hopes to pass down to his granddaughter, his answer was clear: kindness, perseverance, and the importance of showing up for the people you love. 

“I want Skye to know that no matter what, she has a family that loves and supports her,” he said. “I want her to grow up knowing that kindness matters, that hard work pays off, and that the best thing you can do in life is to be present for the people who mean the most to you.”  And, most importantly, Al adds it’s all about the Golden Rule.  “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Legacy is something Al has thought about often, especially now as a grandparent. “We all leave something behind,” he reflected. “I just hope that my legacy is one of love, laughter, and making the most of every single day.”

The Forecast? A Bright Future for Pop-Pop & Skye

As our conversation wrapped up, one thing was abundantly clear—Al Roker is embracing this new role with the same energy and warmth that has endeared him to audiences for years. Whether he’s delivering the forecast or making breakfast for his granddaughter, he does it all with heart.

For those of us lucky enough to have grandparents or to be grandparents ourselves, Al’s words serve as a beautiful reminder of the power of love, tradition, and showing up for family.

Here’s to Al, to Pop-Pops everywhere, and to the joy of grandparenting!

Did you catch the episode? What did you love most about Al’s reflections on being a grandfather? Share your thoughts in the comments below!