What do Navy SEAL training, an arranged kidnapping, and children’s books about self-worth have in common? Today’s guest, Gina, has one of the most unexpected journeys into understanding resilience, teamwork, and the power of belonging. Growing up, she was constantly trying to “fit in with the boys,” but what she really needed was to belong. She trained with a Navy SEAL, learning firsthand how shifting your focus from yourself to others can transform your mindset. Now, she’s on a mission to help kids build confidence and emotional resilience through storytelling. If you’re raising a child—or just trying to figure out this thing called life—you don’t want to miss this conversation!

In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code:ALL ABOUT BOYS!, we’re joined by Gina Casazza. In this powerful and eye-opening episode, Gina shares how her unconventional life experiences—including signing up for an arranged kidnapping and later training with a Navy SEAL—helped her understand resilience, confidence, and the true meaning of belonging. Now an author and speaker, she teaches kids self-worth through storytelling, mindset strategies, and creative engagement. Together, we dive into the challenges kids (especially boys) face today and how parents can help their children develop emotional strength, confidence, and a deep sense of belonging.

Key Topics:

The Battle Between Fitting In vs. Belonging: Growing up as a competitive, determined girl in a male-dominated space.

Lessons from Training with a Navy SEAL:  Why Gina originally signed up for an arranged kidnapping (yes, really) and how that led her to Navy SEAL training.

The Pressure on Men & Misconceptions About Masculinity: Men in their 20s often face immense pressure as providers and protectors, yet societal shifts have changed traditional roles.

Awareness is Everything: Boys are not being taught about their emotions or even their hormones, like testosterone, which play a huge role in behavior and confidence.

The Power of Storytelling in Building Confidence & Resilience: Children absorb the world without the filters that adults have—what parents say about them shapes their self-perception.

Guest Bio

Gina Casazza is a children’s author, podcast host, and speaker dedicated to helping kids and adults build resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging. As the creator of the beloved Cosmo the Alien book series, she inspires young readers with stories of self-worth, courage, and transformation.

Through her podcast, Mindset Lessons from the Field, she dives deep into mental toughness, personal growth, and the mindset shifts needed to overcome life’s biggest challenges. Drawing from her own journey in a Navy SEAL prep program, she speaks on stage, empowering audiences to embrace discipline, push past fear, and unlock their full potential. 

Links:

Www.ginacasazza.com

https://www.instagram.com/ginamcasazza/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-casazza-97b82226/

https://www.facebook.com/gna.casazza.1

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cosmothealien/you-really-truly-are-enough-an-empowering-childrens-book?ref=user_menu&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYFuRiFcY6idQBX5iNubHtRche2X9P-YihK7LUI7Vgqp7eBX9n3BInu9AY_aem_jhEyW3bcAoAgRlJKnj8brQ

#Parenting #RaisingBoys #BuildingBelonging #HealthyMasculinity #NavySEALMindset #UnlockingTheParentingCode #Sonhoodcoaching #YouReallyTrulyDoBelong 

This episode is packed with jaw-dropping stories and deep insights into what it really takes to build resilience—both in ourselves and in our kids. If you want to raise a confident, emotionally strong child, don’t miss this one. And if you’ve ever wondered how Navy SEAL training and children’s books go together… well, press play and find out!

Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys

Welcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys

This season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.

What to Expect

In Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.

Each episode offers:

*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.

*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.

*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.

Join Us!

Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!

About Sonhood Coaching

Sonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.

Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.