LifeaccordingtoRick is a personal podcast hosted by Rick Tejeda about his life and experiences. He talks about being a single parent and later becoming a husband while raising a toddler after the age of 40. The show offers an informal, first-person look at family life, relationships, and the challenges and rewards of parenting later in life.
Episodes
Ep. 50 "Thank you"
🎙️ EPISODE 50: THANK YOU | 50 EPISODES IN, AND I'M JUST GETTING STARTEDWuz poppin, everybody! Welcome back to Life According to Rick!FIFTY EPISODES! 🙌🏽🔥 Man, when I think about the journey from that first episode to where we are today, it's honestly surreal.In this special milestone episode, I'm taking a moment to reflect on the journey, the lessons, the challenges, and the growth that
Ep. 49 Enjoy the Journey, Not Just Chasing the Destination
We're always chasing something. The next goal, the next milestone, the next version of ourselves. But what happens when we're so focused on what's next that we forget to appreciate what we already have?In Episode 49 of Life According to Rick, we're talking about ambition, social media comparisons, personal growth, and learning to enjoy the journey while still working toward somethi
Ep. 48 Protecting Them vs. Preparing Them
Episode 48: Protecting Them vs. Preparing ThemAs parents, we want to give our children the world. But what happens when protecting them from disappointment keeps them from learning the lessons they need for life?This week on Life According to Rick, we're talking about the difference between giving our kids what they want and teaching them what they need. From Harlem learning that everything ca
Ep. 47 Are We Living Or Just Existing?
Episode 47: Are We Living or Just Existing?What's poppin, everybody! 👋🏽Have you ever felt like you're just going through the motions? Wake up, go to work, handle your responsibilities, take care of everybody else, go to sleep, and repeat. Before you know it, another week, another month, and another year have passed.In this episode of Life According to Rick, we're talking about how easy
Ep. 46 What Men Deal With Silently
What's poppin! 🎙️In Episode 46 of Life According to Rick, we're talking about things men deal with silently: the pressure to provide, the guilt of feeling like you're falling short, the emotions we sometimes struggle to express, and the habit of pushing through even when we're running on empty.We talk about fatherhood, accountability, using work as a distraction, and why being stro
Ep. 45 Daddy All Over Again
Being a dad to a toddler in your 40s is a whole different experience. 😂In this episode, I’m talking about my little man Harlem — the sweet, funny, superhero-loving kid everybody sees… and the same kid who can have your nervous system at a thousand before 7 AM.From the morning chaos, bath negotiations, arguing over T-shirts, and trying to get out the door, to our “great adventure,” grabbing our “it
Ep. 44 At What Point Does Convenience Become Dependency?
Technology has come a long way.From Big Wheels and Nintendo cartridges to dial-up internet, AIM, cell phones, GPS, electronic records, and now AI — I’ve lived through a pretty wild evolution of technology.But somewhere along the way, I started thinking about a bigger question:At what point does convenience become dependency?Technology has made our lives easier in countless ways. We have access to
Ep. 43 Marriage With a Threenager: Send Help
What happens to your marriage when you go from being husband and wife to Mom and Dad… and then your kid turns three and decides they run the house? 😂In this episode of Life According to Rick, I’m joined by my wife, Julez, for a conversation about what marriage really looks like while raising a threenager.We talk about how our relationship has changed since having Harlem, finding time for each othe
The 3rd Take Pilot (LATR Bonus Ep)
Welcome to The 3rd Take.Three friends. Three perspectives. One conversation.In the pilot, Rick (@Lifeaccordingtorick), Craig (@singledadreboot), and Flor (@_dadstyle99_) talk about something a lot of men experience but don't always say out loud: why is it so damn hard for us to open up to our friends?We talk about keeping the “I'm good” mask on, not wanting to be a burden, avoiding the dre
Ep. 42 "Dear Summer"
Episode 42 — Dear SummerDear Summer,I thought we'd do more together.More adventures. More beach days. More spontaneous trips. More of those moments that make you look around and think, yeah… this is what summer is supposed to feel like.But if I'm being honest… I didn't really do shit. 😂I worked. I parented. I handled life. And somewhere along the way, I started feeling like I wasn'
Ep. 41 Grief Doesn't Have an Expiration Date
Episode 41 — Grief Doesn't Have an Expiration DateFive years ago, I lost my mother.This episode is a little different. It's personal, it's vulnerable, and it's a conversation about grief—not just what it means to lose someone, but what it means to learn how to live with that loss.I've lost a lot of people I love throughout my life, and at one point, I became numb. Loss had beco
Ep. 40: 9 Months Later
Episode 40 — 9 Months LaterNovember 28th, 2025, I pressed record.I didn't have a master plan. I didn't know what Life According to Rick was going to become, who would listen, or whether I'd even still be doing this nine months later.And somehow… here we are.40 episodes later.In this episode, I take a step back and reflect on what these last nine months have taught me—not just about pod
Ep. 39 "90 Day Probation"
Three months ago, Craig @Singledadreboot joined me on Life According to Rick as he prepared to become a dad again at 49. Now Isabella is here, and the 90-day probation period is almost up. 😂👶🏽We check in on life with a newborn, sleep deprivation, daycare, self-care, marriage, and the crazy differences between raising kids now and 18 years ago.We also talk about second chances, finding love later i
Ep. 38 Taking Care Of Rick
What does self-care actually mean?For me, it's taken years to figure that out.I've spent most of my life having a complicated relationship with food, my weight, fitness, and the way I see myself. From being the chubby kid who heard that he needed to lose weight, to discovering the confidence that came with working out, to years of falling on and off with the gym, my health journey has neve
Ep. 37 "The Spider-Man That Raised Me"
What started as a conversation about Spider-Man became something much deeper.In this episode, I’m closing out my Spider-Man trilogy by looking back at the different versions of Peter Parker that grew alongside me — from the cartoons I watched as a kid, to Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man, Andrew Garfield’s emotional journey, and Tom Holland bringing Spider-Man into a new generation.But this episode isn’t ju
Ep. 36 The Little Moments Become The Big Memories
Spider-Man has always been more than just a movie to me. It’s childhood, imagination, and the stories that stay with us long after the credits roll.But this weekend reminded me that the biggest memories aren’t always created during the biggest moments.From a spontaneous beach trip with my family, watching Harlem overcome a fear, Family Fun Day at Canobie Lake Park, a family cookout, and the simple
Ep. 35 The Geek That Never Left
In this episode of Life According to Rick, we take a trip down memory lane and talk about something that has always been a part of me: the love for movies, storytelling, and superheroes.Before I was a husband and a father, I was a kid waking up on Saturday mornings, grabbing a bowl of cereal, watching cartoons, and exploring different worlds. That love for stories grew into a passion for movies, f
Ep. 34 Metamorphosis: Becoming Rick
In this episode, Rick takes a look back at the journey that shaped him into the man he is today.From his younger years, becoming a father, learning through mistakes, facing difficult chapters, and growing through life’s challenges, Rick reflects on the different versions of himself that all played a part in creating who he is today.Rick also celebrates his daughter Kiana’s birthday, reflects on ha
Ep. 33 Family Isn't A Free Pass
Family is supposed to be where we feel loved, supported, and safe. But what happens when the people closest to us are also the people causing the most pain?In Episode 33 of Life According to Rick, I dive into the uncomfortable conversation nobody wants to have: toxic family.Why do we cut off toxic friendships and relationships but give family members a free pass? Why do we confuse loyalty with ign
Ep. 32 Consistency Vs. Burnout
Episode 32 is all about Consistency vs Burnout.Life has been moving fast lately—work, responsibilities, family, everything stacking at once. In this episode, I talk about what it really looks like trying to stay consistent while life shifts around you.I also get real about a season of adjustment at home, stepping up more with responsibilities, and learning how burnout can creep in even when you’re
Ep. 31 Summer Just Doesn't Feel the Same Anymore
Summer used to feel like it lasted forever.In Episode 31, I reflect on childhood summers, traveling to spend time with my mom, and how different life looks now as a father raising kids in completely different stages of life. We also talk about how quickly summer seems to fly by, parenting during school break, and why I'm excited for our upcoming family trip to Miami—where Harlem will experienc
EP 30: My Daughter Turns 17 — A Real Father & Daughter Conversation
Father’s Day weekend hits a little different.In this episode of Life According to Rick, I sit down with my daughter Layla on her birthday for a real conversation about growing up, change, and the journey into adulthood. We talk about senior year, college pressure, independence, mental health, and what it means to be becoming your own person while still figuring life out.But more than anything, thi
Ep. 29 Fatherhood, Distance & Breaking Cycles (Father’s Day Special)
In this Father’s Day special, I sit down with my oldest son Andhy for an honest conversation about fatherhood, distance, and growth.We talk about his childhood, being raised between homes, what he’s learned becoming a father himself, and how perspective changes when you grow up and start your own family.A real conversation about parenting, patience, emotional intelligence, and breaking generationa
Ep. 28 "The Matriarch"
What started as a casual conversation between cousins turned into something neither of us expected—a heartfelt tribute to the woman who helped shape our family.In this episode, we share stories, memories, and lessons from the life of our grandmother, known to many as La Marquesa. From her wisdom and resilience to her humor, generosity, and unconditional love, we reflect on the impact she had on ev
Ep. 27 Imperfectly Perfect
Episode 27 of Life According to Rick is a special one.This episode is called “Imperfectly Perfect” — a reflection on 10 years together and 5 years of marriage with my wife.I talk about what real marriage looks like beyond the highlight reels. The growth, the communication struggles, the therapy, the blended family journey, and learning how to keep choosing each other through every season of life.M
Ep. 26 Near Breakdowns & Life Wake-Up Calls
In Episode 26, I sit down with Lil Ricky for a real, unfiltered conversation about life, growth, and the lessons you don’t always learn the easy way.We talk about mistakes, money decisions, growing up, and how life experiences shape the way you move today. From driving stories and near breakdown moments to deeper conversations about family, responsibility, and legacy—this episode covers it all.No
Ep. 25 Family Isn't Always Blood
In Episode 25 of Life According to Rick Podcast, we dive into a powerful conversation about family — and how it’s not always defined by blood.This episode explores chosen family, loyalty, and the people who become your support system through life’s ups and downs. We talk about the bonds that are built, not given, and why sometimes the strongest family connections come from unexpected places.Real t
Mother's Day Special
A special Mother’s Day episode dedicated to all the moms — present and past, bonus moms, new moms, and every woman who carries that role.I reflect on my mom and grandmother who are no longer here, and what their presence still means in my life today. I also talk about my wife and her journey into motherhood as we raise our son together.Me and Harlem open this special episode with a real family mom
Ep. 24 He Carried Us
Episode 24 is a little different.This time, the host takes a backseat as my wife Julez takes over the podcast to share her perspective on the man behind Life According to Rick.From fatherhood and marriage to mental health, postpartum, sacrifice, and the unseen pressure men carry, this episode is one of the most personal and heartfelt conversations we’ve shared on this platform.Sometimes the strong
Ep. 23 Daddy With The Microphone
This week life didn't slow down at all. ER visits, no sleep, work pressure, stepping up at home, and still finding small moments of peace with Harlem in between it all. But even in chaos... life keeps moving forward. New promotion, new responsibilities, same mission-keep going. Appreciate y'all for listening. More life, more real moments. -LifeAccordingToRick Ep. 23Follow on Socials:Instagram: @Li
Ep. 22 Through Her Eyes: Growing Up With My Dad
This episode is different. Me and Kiana sit down for a real father-daughter conversation that goes deeper than surface-level memories. We talk about what it was really like raising kids as a young single dad, the moments she saw that I thought I hid well, and the emotional weight of doing everything alone while still trying to show up. We also get into growth — how we both process emotions now, br
Ep. 21 Parent Vs Friend... Where Do You Stand?
In this episode, I open up about parenting, discipline, and the difference between being a father first versus trying to be a friend. I reflect on my own upbringing, how I was raised, and the lessons I carried into raising my older kids- including the structure, discipline, and values passed down from my grandmother. Now as a father to my son Harlem, I see parenting differently in real time- focus
Ep. 20 Harlem's World... We Just Live In It
Episode 20 is a real-life look into a hectic but meaningful weekend of parenting, family, and growth. From reviving old Marvel opening night traditions, to a Mario Galaxy move night with Harlem, to a very real Saturday of food shopping and toddler chaos-this episode captures the balance between exhaustion and joy as a parent. Harlem is growing fast, finding his personality, and showing us the worl
Ep. 19 Preparing for Fatherhood at 49
My friend Craig @Singledadreboot joins me to share his journey starting fatherhood again at 49. From expecting his daughter around Memorial Day, to juggling preparations styles with his wife Natalia, we talk about the joys, challenges, and surprises of welcoming a newborn later in life. Highlights include:Balancing emotional prep vs planner prep for pregnancyNewborn classes, swaddling, and modern
Ep. 18 Viva Las Vegas
Vegas, family, and unforgettable vibes- that's what Episode 18 of Life according to Rick is all about. From landing in Sin City, late-night In-N-Out runs, exploring the Strip, Fat Tuesday drinks, and the Linq Promenade, to hitting the High Roller and sharing moments with family- this episode takes you along for the full ride. Hear the laughs, the chaos, the surprises, and the heartwarming reun
Ep. 17 Vegas Bound & Birthday Reflections
Join me as I reflect on last week's wild birthday, from a gas leak that interrupted dinner to celebrating with the kids and family. Then, get a glimpse into the excitement of heading to Vegas with my wife for a long-overdue trip, complete with a hilarious "mobile pharmacy" pill box she packed for us. We'll also touch on family, roots, and past trips to Miami-moments that shaped h
Ep. 16- 44 Spins Around the Block
Join me as I celebrate turning 44 and take you on an unforgettable 48-hour trip to Miami. From sunrise on South Beach to cruising the Miami River, catching the World Baseball Classic, and vibing with family and Dominican culture, this episode is all about moments that make life feel alive. We laugh, reflect, and soak in the energy of the city, reconnect with roots, and celebrate family, culture, a
Ep. 15 When Life Doesn't Pause for You
Life doesn't stop when you're overwhelmed. It doesn't pause when work is stressful, your kid is sick, or your partner needs you to step up. It just keeps moving. In this episode, I open up about one of those weeks- balancing work, a sick child, a sick wife, and still choosing to show up. Marriage isn't always romance. Sometimes it's teamwork. Sometimes love looks like surviving
Ep. 14 Seasons We Rushed
What does it mean to grow up too fast? In this episode of Life according to Rick, we dive into childhood memories, Dominican household weekends, and the lessons we learn when we rush through life's seasons. From shoveling snow and shoulder pain to sneaker confessions and parenting reflections, Rick shares the laughs, the chaos, and the hard-earned wisdom of adulting. Tune in for nostalgia, hum
Ep. 13 Presence Over Perfection
Parenthood is messy, chaotic, and hilarious- and sometimes, it's about showing up, even when you don't feel like it. In this episode, I share the little moments with Harlem that make it all worth it: from living room jam sessions and car rides with one song on repeat, to celebrating his Dominican and Puerto Rican roots, to the tiny victories that remind us what presence over perfection rea
Ep. 12 Parent Guilt
This week on Life According to Rick, I'm keeping it real- from heartbreaks and parent guilt to laughs and sweet moments with the kids. We recap Harlem's Sweetheart Dance, dive into Super Bowl highlights (and commercials that didn't quiet hit), and share some laughs over Reese's PB&J pretzels. Parenting isn't perfect, and neither am I- but showing up, repairing, and loving t
Ep. 11 "Nobody Prepares You for This Part of Parenting"
Sometimes surviving the week is the real win. This Week, I get real about parenting toddlers, running on fumes, and how work, stress, and home life collide- all while trying not lose your sanity. Plus, laughs about Punxsutawney Phil, Florida temps, and Super Bowl vibes. I want to hear from YOU- how are you handling the chaos of parenting? DM me or drop a comment and let's start the conversation. F
Ep. 10 Double Digits
This is a quick reflection on the journey so far, the growth behind the scenes, and the realities of balancing work, parenting, and family life. I talk about showing up through heavy moments, navigating pressure, and giving yourself grace when things don't go as planned. Thank you to everyone who's been rocking with me- your support means more than you know.Follow and connect:Instagram: Li
Ep. 9 Repair, Boundaries, and Growth
Episode 9 is all about growth, patience, and real-life parenting challenges. This week, I get honest about work stress, staying consistent with gym, supporting my wife while she's going through a rough patch, and navigating Harlem's big emotions. I share how I'm learning to pause before reacting, set boundaries, and catch myself when frustration rises - and I invite you to reflect on y
Ep. 8 What Help Actually Looks Like for Men
Piggybacking off last week's conversation, I talk about why so many men struggle to ask for help, carrying the load in silence, and what real support actually looks like. Follow me on Social Media:IG: LifeaccordingtoRickTiktok: LifeaccordingtoRick03
Ep. 7 Functional but Not Okay
Showing up every day doesn't mean you're fine. In this episode, I talk about survival mode, the pressure to provide, and why so many men are functioning while quietly falling apart. Follow me on social media:IG: LifeaccordingtoRickTiktok: LIfeaccordingtoRick03
Ep. 6 New Year, New Reflections
In this New Year's episode, I reflect on growth, accountability, and the real work behind marriage. I talk honestly about challenges my wife and I have faced, including struggles with fidelity, why we chose marriage counseling, and my commitment to showing up better for my marriage, myself and our son Harlem.This isn't about resolutions. It's about progress, honesty, and doing the work
Ep. 5 Christmas Special
Merry Christmas everyone, I hope that you enjoy this quick holiday special. Wanted to lighten the tone from my previous episodes. I hope that you enjoy this special day with your loved ones and make those special memories. I want ya to leave some comments on some of your traditions and what you do on Christmas. God bless and thanks for tuning in. Follow me on social media:IG: LifeaccordingtoRickTi
Ep. 4 Trauma, Loss & the parent I'm becoming
Today's episode is very personal, I'm going to speak on my parent's divorce, my mother's trauma, and my father's upbringing has shaped me. I'm going to talk about being the angry, bullied kid. My grandmother being my safe space, and how grief led me to fall into depression and going to therapy. I also share how these experiences continue to affect my parentiing, the trigger
Ep. 3 Parenting over 40
Today's episode, I open up about what parenting over 40 has really been like. From meeting my wife, to her becoming a bonus mom, to our journey trying to get pregnant. I hope that ya really enjoy this story. Let me know what ya think in the comments. Follow me on social media: IG: LifeaccordingtoRick, Tiktok: LifeaccordingtoRick03
Ep. 2 Instructions not Included
When you become a parent, we don't know if we're going to do right by our children. We just know that we want the best for them and love them the best way possible. We're not given an instruction manual to help guide us in parenting. We learn as we go. Follow me on social mediaIG: LIfeaccordingtoRickTiktok: lifeaccoringtorick03YT: LifeaccordingtoRick
LifeaccordingtoRick Pilot
Welcome to the LIfeaccordingtoRick pilot episode. This is just an introduction of myself and my story and what i'm trying to do. I hope ya enjoy and hope that you come back. You can find me on social media IG: LifeaccordingtoRick and tiktok: Bxbossofbosses.
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