"From the Front Lines to the Living Room: A Game Changer’s Reflection"
- Game Changers
- Apr 13
- 3 min read
A Letter from the Editor-in-Chief
Andreal Mallard Sr., Game Changers Magazine
Over the past six months, I found myself on a journey that reshaped my life, my household, and ultimately, my purpose. After the devastating loss of my son Aydin’s mother to Hurricane Helene, I was given the full responsibility and honor of bringing him into my home full time. After years of legal battles, pain, and prayers, The Supreme Architect of the Universe made it clear—it was time for change. A time for healing. A chance to raise my son and help mold him into the man The Most High has called him to be.
This season stretched me. It made me grow. It forced me to see life through a new lens. As a husband and father of two younger children, the shift in our family dynamic brought uncertainty—but also grace. We’ve had bumps along the way, of course, but through faith, the adjustment has been smoother than expected.
Balancing this new role of a full-time father while still serving the community through Game Changers Magazine and our Streetz of Gentlemen mentoring program was a challenge that required a deeper level of commitment. I was used to standing in front of a room full of young people, dropping motivation and punchlines, and delivering a passionate one-hour message. But this—this was different. This was a 24/7 mentorship. A real-time, in-the-trenches lesson in patience, discipline, and love.
Even in business, things shifted. My wife had always taken care of the day-to-day with our daughters while I was out building the brand and chasing purpose. But now, I had to pause. I had to sit in the presence of my son and build something stronger than a business—our relationship. A true father-son bond, forged not from visitation or weekend visits, but from raw, daily life. From silence. From awkward conversations. From love.
I’ve stood alongside fathers in this battle. I’ve heard the pain of men longing to be in their children's lives. I’ve become an ambassador for the Fathers Have Rights Too Initiative, advocating across the Southeast for men simply seeking to be present. But now, that fight—for me—is over. And a new one begins.
Country Fly-A Father Produced By BaybeLoBeatz
Now, I feel called to bridge the gap. To not only advocate for fathers but to support single mothers striving to co-parent in peace. As a certified life coach, I’ve learned that healing takes two. That bitterness must be replaced with grace, and misunderstanding with truth. No, I don’t have all the answers. But life has taught me that the greatest battles aren’t fought in courtrooms—they’re fought in the heart.
To the young men harboring pain—sit down with your fathers. Talk. Cry. Get clarity. One day, you may become a father and realize too late what you didn’t understand before. To the fathers—stand strong. Your consistency matters. Your presence matters. Joy does come in the morning. And to the single mothers—continue to love, pray, and protect your peace. Our children are gifts from God, and His will shall be fulfilled through them.
Join Henry County Sheriff Reginald B. Scandrett and Dr. Shaquille O'Neal: Get Registered Today
This issue of Game Changers Magazine is dedicated to the Family Unit—whatever shape or structure that may take. Stay strong. Stay the course. And keep the vision of elevation alive.
Thank you for tuning into another powerful edition of Game Changers Magazine. #EEEsUp
— Andreal Mallard Sr.
Country Fly Speaks On Violence In Schools & Father's Rights Initiative
Get Your Copy Of Game Changers 2025 Winter Edition featuring Author James C. Mays: "The Long Journey Home: A Black Man's Journey In Corporate America"
Comments