In today’s episode, Mark Gregston tackles some of the toughest questions sent in by parents, ranging from anxiety over grades and skipping school to concerns about dating, lack of motivation in college, strained relationships with an absent parent and even the discovery of pornography on a teen’s phone. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the real issues behind teens’ behaviors, keeping communication open and setting healthy boundaries while maintaining unconditional love. With personal stories, practical advice, and an emphasis on maintaining a strong parent-teen relationship, this episode offers real-world wisdom and encouragement for parents seeking to guide their teens through today’s unique challenges. Tune in now!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Stride K12: https://K12.com/TEENS


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur explore how counseling can be a life-changing tool for teens — not just those in crisis. They discuss why unresolved struggles during adolescence often resurface later in life with even greater consequences. Proactive counseling can offer hope, healing and a brighter future for the whole family. Tune in to hear practical advice for helping your teen open up, finding the right counselor and building trust in a safe, supportive environment.

Struggling to connect with your teen? Heartlight offers a safe, Christ-centered residential program that helps teens heal and families find hope. Learn more at heartlightministries.org.

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Stride K12: https://K12.com/TEENS


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston reflects on the true treasures in life and how parents and grandparents can leave lasting legacies for the next generation. Drawing on biblical wisdom, poignant family experiences and the story of a cherished friend, Mark challenges us to invest our time and resources where our hearts truly are — our relationships. He reminds us that memories, love and shared experiences far outweigh any material possessions we might pass on. Tune in for inspiration on making the most of every moment and giving your best to the ones you love, today.

Want to dive into more biblically based insights for your parenting journey? Check out Mark's devotional, "Daily Hope For Families," at bit.ly/daily-hope-for-families

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Stride K12: https://K12.com/TEENS


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sometimes, the hardest moments in a teen's life are what finally reveal the need for real change. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who share their journeys through deep struggles — including negative thought patterns, depression and feeling disconnected from family. Eighteen-year-old Jake discusses his battles with substance use and isolation, along with the eventual turning point that came not from punishment, but from a moment of compassion and honest conversation with his family.

Is the Heartlight residential program the right choice for your struggling teen? Find out more today at heartlightministries.org

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org. 

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Stride K12: https://K12.com/TEENS


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

When teens won’t open up, building trust takes time and consistency. Today, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur stress creating a safe, judgment-free space where kids feel valued. Casual, agenda-free conversations about everyday topics are a great starting point. Parents should invest in the relationship without pushing for quick results, letting connection develop before addressing deeper issues. Over time, this trust allows teens to share openly, knowing they’ll be heard without fear of criticism.

Is your family struggling? Join us for our next Families In Crisis Conference for parents on October 2-4. To learn more or register to attend, visit familycrisisretreat.com 

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org. 

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Stride K12: https://K12.com/TEENS


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston takes on the real-life questions and struggles sent in by parents just like you. He offers practical wisdom on handling anxiety, depression, substance use, entitlement, the pull of technology and the unique dynamics of split households. Mark stresses the importance of shifting responsibility to teens as they near adulthood, focusing on relationships over authoritarian control, and finding gratitude even in the midst of personal and family struggles. Listeners will find encouragement, perspective and actionable advice along with a reminder that, above all, genuine connection is the key to navigating family crises and guiding teens toward healthy independence. Listen now!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Stride K12: https://K12.com/TEENS


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd, and Courtney Lafleur discuss the growing issue of socially awkward teens and the cultural forces contributing to it — especially isolation caused by screens, gaming and social media. They emphasize that kids today are missing out on crucial face-to-face experiences that develop emotional intelligence, social cues and resilience. Parents are encouraged to gently push their teens out of isolation by modeling healthy interactions, creating opportunities for real-world engagement and refusing to rescue them from every uncomfortable situation.

Is your teen struggling? Mark's residential ministry may be able to help! Visit heartlightministries.org to learn more.

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Stride K12: https://K12.com/TEENS


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today, Mark Gregston shares a devotional from Matthew 7:7, as he emphasizes the power of asking questions as a means of deepening our connection with our teens. Rather than lecturing or interrogating, parents are encouraged to engage their children through thoughtful, nonjudgmental inquiry — asking, seeking and knocking to access their hearts and minds. Questions help teens feel valued, spark critical thinking and lead them on a personal journey of discovery. In an age full of noise, curiosity and listening can be powerful tools for relational growth and lasting influence.

Are you struggling with your teen and want to ask Mark for his advice? Your question may be answered on a future Friday episode. Visit markgregston.com to ask him today!

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org. 

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Stride K12: https://K12.com/TEENS


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

So many teens today struggle with feeling isolated. It becomes hard — even scary — to open up to others and learn to trust. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who open up about the emptiness and insecurity that fueled their destructive choices, from substance use to pushing family away. Both teens share how feeling unworthy of love or belonging left them feeling alone — even as they craved acceptance. At Heartlight, they're beginning to see their own value and experience genuine connection with others. 

Know a young adult who has a heart for working with teens? They may be a great addition to our residential staff at Heartlight! Learn more today at heartlight.jobs 

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Stride K12: https://K12.com/TEENS


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur talk about the powerful impact fathers can have on their children’s lives — especially during the teen years. The three discuss how dads can connect with their teens by being present, listening well, engaging in their children's interests (even outside their comfort zone) and communicating unconditional love. They emphasize that the sacrifice of time now is far better than the regret of missing meaningful moments later. Ultimately, dads who validate, support and bless their teens give them the foundation they need to thrive and resist seeking affirmation elsewhere.

Is your family in crisis? Join Mark in Texas from October 2-4 for a retreat designed for specifically to help parents. Please visit familycrisisretreat.com to learn more and register.

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Stride K12: https://K12.com/TEENS


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy