Hope For Parents With Struggling Teens

Leading Without Losing Yourself

Brandon Joffe, LCSW

Brandon assesses what it means to lead your family without losing yourself in the process. He challenges the traditional view of parental leadership as control, offering instead a grounded, emotionally intelligent approach rooted in humility and discernment. Brandon explores the difference between emotional leadership and emotional control, emphasizing that leadership isn't about reacting from fear or ego but about staying steady and present—even when everything feels chaotic. He highlights how parents often unintentionally create more disconnection when trying to manage behavior through urgency or condescension and how small shifts in tone, self-awareness, and timing can make a world of difference in family dynamics. Through real-life examples, he encourages parents to reflect on their motivations, create safe spaces for failure without shame, and lead with a calm, consistent presence. Ultimately, Brandon offers a compelling case for leading with love—not control—reminding parents that the goal isn’t perfection but connection.