In this episode of Name What Works, Ashley Radzat talks with Dr. Cameron Caswell about parenting teenagers with more understanding, less fear, and a stronger focus on connection.

Dr. Cam explains that teenagers often get labeled as disrespectful, lazy, unmotivated, or difficult when parents are only seeing the behavior and not understanding what is happening underneath it. She encourages parents to stop treating their teen like a problem to fix and instead get curious about what their child is trying to communicate.

A major theme of the conversation is learning to let go. Ashley and Dr. Cam discuss how parents often feel pressure to protect their teens from mistakes, but stepping in too much can prevent teenagers from building responsibility, confidence, and independence.

They also talk about creating a relationship where teens feel safe being honest. Dr. Cam shares her “I see you, I get you, I got you” approach, which helps parents communicate understanding, validation, and unconditional support.

The conversation also explores boundaries, respect, emotional regulation, and the shift from managing a child to guiding a growing adult. The goal is not to control every decision, but to build a relationship your teen wants to return to. In this episode:

• Why teens are often misunderstood
• Why parents should stop trying to “fix” their child
• How letting go helps teens step up
• Why connection matters more than control
• The “I see you, I get you, I got you” approach
• How to separate behavior from character
• Why respect has to go both ways
• How parents can become a trusted first call
• Why mistakes are part of becoming independent

This episode is a reminder that raising teens is less about controlling behavior and more about building trust, understanding, and a relationship strong enough to grow with them.