176 - Gaming, Confidence, and Inclusion: Helping Kids Belong with Coach Yana

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host Aaron sits down with Coach Yana, a children’s confidence coach using video games like Roblox and Minecraft to build social skills, confidence, and belonging. Together, they explore what true inclusion really means, why many kids feel pressure to “fit in,” and how safe, intentional spaces can help children thrive—especially neurodivergent kids. Coach Yana shares her personal journey, the power of gaming as a connection tool, and simple ways parents and caregivers can nurture confidence, emotional intelligence, and inclusion in everyday moments.

Key Takeaways:

Inclusion Is Belonging - Inclusion means feeling seen, safe, heard, and valued exactly as you are.

Gaming With Purpose - Video games can be powerful tools for building confidence and social skills when guided intentionally.

Be Who You Needed - Coach Yana’s work is rooted in becoming the adult she wished she had growing up.

Presence Matters - Even short, focused moments of undivided attention can deeply impact a child’s confidence.

Let Kids Lead - Allowing children to make decisions builds leadership, trust, and self-belief.

Coach Yana’s definition of inclusion:

Inclusion is giving everyone the space to feel seen, safe, heard and welcomed.

Coach Yana’s Bio:

Coach Yana is a virtual confidence coach for children, celebrated for her imaginative and heart-centered approach that transforms how children see themselves. With the uplifting spirit of a former cheerleader, she creates a vibrant atmosphere where every child feels seen, encouraged and empowered to rise into their own leadership.

Her vision is deeply rooted in community, service, and legacy. As a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.and a former Girl Scout, Yana carries forward the values of sisterhood, leadership, and social impact in her work.

Through WeUnik World, the natural hair care company she co-founded with her mother, she partners with Girl Scout councils and foster care agencies, providing workshops that nurture cultural pride, self-expression, and resilience in children and families.

Through The Laptop Life Coach, she extends this mission online, offering interactive clubs, self- paced courses, and confidence- building resources that children can access anywhere. From playful storytelling adventures to challenges that stretch resilience, every experience is designed to meet children where they are— transforming learning into an adventure filled with joy, creativity, and empowerment.

Her passion also flows into the Healed and Chilled Podcast, a soft space for cycle breakers,

confidence seekers, and conscious caregivers. It’s where parents and guardians can ground themselves in clarity and calm, so they can model courage and confidence at home.

Coach Yana doesn’t just teach confidence—she creates spaces where children can see it, hear it, feel it, and ultimately, live it.

Connect with Coach Yana:

Website: https://thelaptoplifecoach.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thelaptoplifecoach

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelaptoplifecoach

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healed-and-chilled/id1825381230

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

Yes

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 79

No - 95

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