In this episode of Dad Lab RGV by RGV Dads hosts Jesus Pena and Mauricio Pina tackle a topic every father understands in theory but many struggle to practice in real life self care. They speak directly to the reality that a lot of dads are running on empty and calling it normal. This conversation is about changing that mindset and building simple habits that help fathers show up healthier for their families.

Jesus frames the episode around a key idea self care is not about escaping your family it is about showing up better for them. Mauricio adds that ignoring yourself does not make you stronger it only delays the crash. They discuss how burnout is real and how it can show up in work life and especially in fatherhood. Many dads hesitate to admit it because of pride or because the word burnout can feel like weakness. The hosts push back on that and remind listeners that taking care of yourself is not weakness it is leadership.

The episode turns practical as they break down what self care can actually look like in daily life. Mauricio shares that gaming helps him decompress and reset his mind. He tells a story from a past workplace where the team would map out their Call of Duty strategy after meetings and how that mix of teamwork and fun created a healthy culture. Jesus shares what has been working for him lately including disc golf in Edinburg and walking the dogs. He explains that those moments help him focus on one thing and step away from the stressors of work family and responsibilities long enough to return feeling refreshed.

From there the conversation expands into physical health and medical checkups. Mauricio explains how his experience as a disabled veteran keeps him on a regular schedule with medical appointments and how that structure helps. He encourages dads to schedule checkups even when nothing feels wrong because prevention matters and early detection makes a difference. Jesus admits it has been over a year since his last visit and talks about the need for discipline. They address a common joke among men that they avoid doctors because they do not want to find something wrong but they explain that putting it off only increases risk. They also mention how dads in the group have been encouraging each other by sharing real examples like getting a colonoscopy and taking that first step.

The hosts highlight an important regional reality for dads in the Rio Grande Valley that there are additional healthcare options including crossing the border for dental or medical work when insurance is limited. They emphasize finding reputable providers and leaning on the dad community for recommendations. Mauricio shares his own honesty about delaying dental care due to lack of insurance and discusses alternative models like subscription based plans that make care more accessible.

A powerful theme throughout the episode is modeling. Kids watch how we treat ourselves. Both hosts reflect on how their childhood experiences shaped their health habits and why it matters for their children to see parents taking care of their bodies and mental health. They talk about advocating for kids in medical settings and teaching children confidence and maturity through involvement in their own appointments. Over time Jesus describes how his daughters began checking themselves in and speaking up which made him proud because it builds life skills and responsibility.

As the episode closes they recognize the local talent behind the show and thank Raymundo Garza of Brownsville Texas for the intro and outro music. Then they leave listeners with a simple challenge choose one self care commitment. It could be a walk a hobby a doctor appointment ten minutes of quiet or learning to say no. Mauricio explains why saying no is difficult but necessary and reminds dads that time and energy are valuable. The final message is clear you matter not just as a provider but as a person and fatherhood is a lab where we test adjust learn and grow.