In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Dr. Ross Greene, clinical psychologist and creator of the Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS) model, to unpack why traditional rewards and punishments often make behavior worse — not better. We dive deep into why "because I said so" stops working, what your child's frustration is actually communicating, and how to shift from authoritarian control to collaborative leadership that builds trust, accountability, and critical thinking.

 

If you've ever thought, "Why is this not working anymore?" this episode will give you a radically different lens — and practical tools you can use immediately.

 

 

Timeline Summary

[0:00] Why power struggles are so common in parenting

[2:00] Introducing Dr. Ross Greene and the CPS model 

[6:17] Why rewards and punishments don't solve the real problem 

[8:33] Concerning behavior as a frustration response 

[12:04] The 3-step collaborative problem-solving process explained 

[16:19] Real-life example: solving teeth brushing battles with a 3-year-old 

[30:56] Curfew conflict and how to navigate teenage resistance 

[37:16] How collaborative parenting builds critical thinking 

[41:56] Why authoritarian parenting may cause long-term harm 

[47:06] Developmental variability — why every child is different 

[49:23] Why noncompliance is informative, not defiance 

[56:31] Accountability through collaboration — not punishment 

 

 

Five Key Takeaways

1. Concerning behavior is a signal, not a character flaw. It communicates an unsolved problem. 
2. Rewards and punishments modify behavior — they don't solve the underlying issue. 
3. The 3-step CPS process (Empathy, Define Adult Concern, Invitation) reduces conflict and builds trust. 
4. Noncompliance is information. It tells you an expectation may exceed your child's current skill set. 
5. Collaborative leadership builds accountability, emotional regulation, and critical thinking. 

 

 

Links & Resources

• Dad Edge Alliance Preview Call: http://thedadedge.com/preview
• Dad Edge Business Boardroom (Mastermind): https://thedadedge.com/mastermind
• Dr. Ross Greene — Lives in the Balance (Free Resources): https://livesinthebalance.org
• Episode Show Notes & Resources: https://thedadedge.com/1442

 

Closing Remark

 

If this episode challenged how you think about discipline, accountability, and leadership at home, don't just sit on it — put it into practice. Try the empathy step tonight. Lead with curiosity. Solve one unsolved problem.

 

If this conversation impacted you, please rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. The way we parent today shapes the leaders of tomorrow.

 

From my heart to yours — go out and live legendary.