Legacy of a Grandpa

Connecting across generations,
one conversation at a time.

Digital Storyteller. Content Creator. Partner to Modern Brands.

Hi, I’m Rick Cognata!

I’m the creator of Legacy of a Grandpa! I help modern grandparents bridge the generational gap, embrace change, and build deeper connections with their families. Through relatable content, practical strategies, and meaningful conversations, I empower grandparents to understand today’s parenting dynamics, foster stronger bonds with their grandkids, and leave a lasting legacy.

In my full time career, I’m a leadership developer specializing in building strong partnerships and leadership initiatives, I bring a unique perspective that blends wisdom, empathy, and humor. My goal is to help grandparents adapt, connect, and thrive in today’s world-one conversation at a time.

Your Brand In Front of the Right Audience

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Audience Insights

My audience resonates with real life grandparent experiences, challenges and successes in boding with their grandchildren and adult children. They prefer clear, easy to implement strategies on how to improve relationships, staying active in their grandchildren’s lives and building lasting traditions.

Let’s Work Together

By now, you know that when you see me in front of my fireplace like this, it’s going to be something deep that I want you to think about. You can just gloss over it and go on with your day, or you can let it really sink in, look inward and think about how you can improve.

#grandpa #grandma #grandparents #parenting #family

This is the absolute best recipe for a healthy relationship with your grandchild.

Once all the ingredients are in a bowl, mix together with lots of love and laughter. Once you are sure it’s ready, serve it to them every single day because being a grandparent isn’t just a title. it’s a secret ingredient in a child’s life!!

#grandpa #grandma #grandparents #parenting #familyfirst #family #grandsons #granddaughters #wisdom #dadlife #momlife #dads #moms #lifelessons #naplesflorida #fathers #mothers #advice #legacy #inlaws #rolemodel #recipe #familyrecipe #food

I hope you have the relationship with your children where you can say, just give me one of them and we’re going out to dinner! Of course, you have to make it up to the others in the future. I’m sure you have a different relationship with each one. Make it unique and special for each one as well.
@redrobinburgers

#grandpa #grandma #grandparents #parenting #familyfirst #family #grandsons #granddaughters #wisdom #dadlife #momlife #dads #moms #lifelessons #naplesflorida #fathers #mothers #advice #legacy #inlaws #rolemodel

Here’s your very first glimpse at the cover of my upcoming book - just a sliver of the story, but packed with everything this journey means to me.
This isn’t just a book… it’s a piece of my heart.

Let this cover tease your curiosity…
The full reveal is coming and so is something powerful, beautiful, and deeply personal. Cannot thank these two below enough for all the hard work they’ve put in to this and helping me along this journey.
@jessarose_writes
@createyourblessings

#grandpa #grandma #grandparents #parenting #familyfirst #family #grandsons #granddaughters #wisdom #dadlife #momlife #dads #moms #lifelessons #naplesflorida #fathers #mothers #advice #legacy #inlaws #rolemodel #CoverTease #AuthorLife #WritersOfInstagram #BookLaunch #ComingSoon #ReadersOfInstagram #BookCommunity #WritingCommunity

Instead of just scrolling to the next video, turn your phone off, just sit there for a second, and think of a dream that you have. Then tell yourself “I’m going to go for this and do and stop making excuses!”

THEN GO DO IT!!

The last thing we want at the end of our life is regret❤️
@hltomlinson74

#grandpa #grandma #grandparents #parenting #familyfirst #family #grandsons #granddaughters #wisdom #dadlife #momlife #dads #moms #lifelessons #naplesflorida #fathers #mothers #advice #legacy #inlaws #rolemodel #regret #dream #live

I think we get so caught up, trying to get the newest, brightest, and shiniest thing for our grandchildren and we forget what matters most. Your grandchildren‘s age on this post doesn’t really matter. Make no mistake, still buy them toys or some really cool object that they want, but throw in an experience and watch the rewards!

#grandpa #grandma #grandparents #parenting #familyfirst #family #grandsons #granddaughters #wisdom #dadlife #momlife #dads #moms #lifelessons #naplesflorida #fathers #mothers #advice #legacy #inlaws #rolemodel #christmas #holidays #gifts

I know this is easier said than done and there’s nothing that I can say or create here on Instagram that is going to stop you from worrying.

However, what I can remind you is that worry often robs us of the moments we’re trying so hard to protect. Every smile, every little hand reaching for ours. That’s where life is happening. Not in our fear of what might come, but in our presence with what already is. So today, just try to be here now!

#grandpa #grandma #grandparents #parenting #familyfirst #family #grandsons #granddaughters #wisdom #dadlife #momlife #dads #moms #lifelessons #naplesflorida #fathers #mothers #advice #legacy #inlaws #rolemodel

Sponsored by GrandPad – I’ve partnered with them to share this message about simpler tech for older adults.

Not every grandparent wants the latest gadget.
They want connection.
They want simplicity.
They want to see their grandkids

That’s why I’m excited to share something I just tried: GrandPad. A tablet created specifically for older adults who didn’t grow up with today’s tech.

I just got mine — setup was simple, the screen is clear, and it just makes sense.

If you’re thinking about a gift for your parents or grandparents… this one’s worth checking out.

🎁 Use code LEGACY50 to get $50 off your GrandPad.
Link in my bio!
@grandpad_social

#grandpa #grandma #grandparents #parenting #familyfirst #family #grandsons #granddaughters #wisdom #dadlife #momlife #dads #moms #lifelessons #naplesflorida #fathers #mothers #advice #legacy #inlaws #rolemodel #grandpad #giftideas

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Collaborations

The Today show
More Than Grand
Kinsome
Caringgrandparents.com

Testimonials

Rick has been a guiding light on Kinsome’s Grandparent Advisory Council since day one. He brings a welcoming presence that puts everyone at ease and fosters a space where every voice feels valued. Whether he’s offering thoughtful insight or elevating someone else’s perspective, Rick has a gift for coaching others into confidence and meaningful discussion. His contributions don’t just move our conversations forward—they bring us together!

“Your guest blog that you wrote for us is an elegant expression of my beliefs and values of Grandparenting. Grandparents as enhancers as well as partners are a force for good. In addition to the excellent and valuable content in your message I have come to know that you have a good heart as well. Thanks for your contribution to our mission of enhancing the entire family by being the best Grandparents we can possibly be.”

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“Rick connects with his audience in a way few new creators do. His wisdom and encouragement are genuine and relatable, and it’s easy to see why his account has grown so quickly. What’s more, he’s a great collaborator, and I look forward to working with him again in the future!”