A Father's Day Reflection

A Father's Day Reflection

On June 21st, I'll celebrate my first Father's Day as a dad. I'll also celebrate my 34th birthday. What makes it even more special is that I was born on Father's Day in 1992, the same day my dad, Rocky, celebrated his very first Father's Day. A full circle moment in my life that holds a ton of meaning.

During and after my battle with cancer, there were plenty of times when I wasn't sure fatherhood would ever be in the cards for me. cancer and infertility have a way of making you appreciate things that many people understandably take for granted. That's why the arrival of my daughter feels like such a blessing.

This year, as I sit here looking at my daughter, I find myself thinking a lot about my Dad.

Many people know Rocky Pagliarulo as the founder of Not Your Mother's Haircare, a company that grew from an idea into a multimillion-dollar brand. What I remember most, though, is a father who never missed a game, a school event, or an important moment in my life or my brother's life. Despite building a successful company, he was always present. His example is an inspiration for the type of father that I want to be.

When I started Game7 Men's Grooming, I wanted to honor the legacy my Mom and Dad created in the beauty and personal care industry. But I also was inspired to create something for the fathers who show up every day for their families. The dads who work hard, keep their word, and make time for the people who matter most.

As I begin my own journey as a father, I feel blessed to know what kind of dad I hope to become. I hope my daughter sees in me the same things I see in my Dad: love, presence, and a willingness to show up no matter what.

To all the fathers who lead by example and put their family first—thank you.

And Dad, thank you for showing me what matters most.

Happy Father's Day.