Parenting Today's Teens

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepard speak directly to parents about the essential role they play in guiding their children through today’s challenging cultural landscape, especially regarding online content. With easy access to the internet, it's more important than ever for parents to proactively support and engage with their children. The conversation emphasizes teaching redemption, forgiveness, and healthy perspectives, while sharing practical advice for fostering open, honest and ongoing conversations with teens.

If your teen is struggling, see if Mark’s ministry, Heartlight Ministries, can help by visiting 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.

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In this episode, Mark Gregston delves into how parents, even with the best intentions, can unintentionally place unrealistic expectations on their children, often leading to misunderstandings and frustration. Mark emphasizes that while striving for greatness is valuable, expecting perfection can create lasting harm for both parents and teens. Mark also reminds us of the gentle invitation from Matthew 11:28-30, where Jesus offers rest and relief from the burdens of perfectionism. You don't want to miss this!

For more on understanding your teen’s heart and insights for how you can lead them through their unique challenges, check out Daily Hope For Families at parentingtodaysteens.org/product/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.

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Teens struggling with depression may find it very hard to keep up with the pressures of life — they feel weighed down, and they're not sure how to talk about it. In today's show, Mark talks with two teens who both struggled with depression and suicidality. Ian, Heartlight’s first resident from Vermont, opens up about his struggle with anxiety and substance abuse. We hear how he found hope and purpose at Heartlight, and is now looking forward to a bright future, including attending college. Tune in now!

To learn more about the Heartlight program, go to 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.

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

Parenting teens often means pushing past our comfort zones to tackle tough moments with wisdom and resilience. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into why stepping outside of your parenting comfort zone is not just necessary ... but transformative. They discuss practical ways to meet your teen where they are, helping them navigate struggles that build maturity and resilience. Alongside listener letters, Mark and Wayne offer real-life advice to help you make meaningful connections, support your teen’s growth and prepare them for adulthood.

As Mark shared today, visit parentingtodaysteens.org to explore a full range of resources for parents of teens.

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.

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

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston reviews a variety of listener questions, tackling tough issues from teen anger and addictions to grief and the challenges of blended families. Mark shares powerful insights on fostering genuine connections, setting intentional boundaries and preparing our kids for real-world success. Tune in to learn the importance of allowing children to learn from natural consequences, adjusting parenting strategies as teens mature, and maintaining a balance between discipline and empathy.

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

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the vital role grandparents play in a teenager's life. As teens face challenges, grandparents can offer wisdom and a safe space, providing a broader perspective. While it’s essential not to undermine parents, your support can strengthen family bonds and deepen your relationship with your grandkids. Join us to learn how to be a comforting and empowering presence in their lives.

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.

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

In this episode, Mark reflects on Joel 1:3 and encourages parents to consider the legacy they leave behind. He asks, "What stories will your children share about you?" Mark distinguishes between wisdom and information in parenting teens, warning against shame-based comments that can harm relationships. As teens seek answers, Mark reminds us of the importance of parents sharing personal experiences and biblical insights, highlighting their vital role in connecting scripture to their teens' lives today.

For Mark's devotional for families, visit parentingtodaysteens.org/product/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.

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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

It can be tough at ANY age to confront the "why" behind your behaviors. But as these teens show us in today's episode, being honest with yourself about what you're going through can lead to big changes. Mark and Courtney talk with two teens, including Jack, who admits his use of drugs and alcohol masked deeper issues, including trauma and anxiety. He shares how his stay at Heartlight has helped him confront his past and learn foundational tools to handle life's challenges without resorting to substance abuse. Listen in!

Is Heartlight the right choice for your struggling teen? Go to heartlightministries.org to find out 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.

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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

Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they share five key ways to nurture your teen's soul. With insights on seeing behavior as a reflection of underlying challenges, they encourage viewing struggles as temporary. This episode offers practical guidance on fostering future-focused hope, offering steady love and support, praying consistently and expressing appreciation to uplift your teen. Tune in for heartfelt encouragement to strengthen your connection and support your adolescent's growth.

To learn more about the Heartlight residential counseling center, visit 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.

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses some of the most complex challenges parents face, from managing frustration and anger with teens to navigating the sensitive topics of custody battles, gaming addiction and gender dysphoria. He offers practical advice and compassionate insights, including how divorced parents can find common ground and how grandparents can provide support and wisdom — 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

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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