What if one simple change could transform the relationships inside your home? In this episode, Mark shares why listening may be one of the most powerful — and most overlooked — tools in parenting. In a world filled with interruptions, quick opinions and constant noise, many teens simply want someone who will slow down long enough to truly hear them. Mark unpacks common habits that damage communication, from interrupting and correcting to always trying to fix every problem. Listen in for practical encouragement on creating deeper conversations, stronger connection and a home where your teen feels genuinely heard.

Listening to your teen is great, but what if they don’t want to talk? Find six ways to get your child to open up at bit.ly/why-your-teen-wont-talk

When teens spiral into destructive behaviors, it's rarely just about "bad choices." There's usually deep pain pushing them there. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who share how they hit their lowest points with addiction, self-harm and rebellion. Both guests get real about what it’s like to hit rock bottom and realize you can’t do it alone. Listen in as they share how confronting the truth about themselves — and letting others in — became the first steps toward change, forgiveness and hope.

Interested in learning more about the Heartlight program? Go to heartlightministries.org today!

What happens when social media turns everyday teenage drama into nonstop emotional pressure? In this episode, Mark, Wayne Shepherd and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss the emotional toll of mean girls, online bullying, gossip, exclusion and comparison culture. You’ll hear practical insight on helping daughters navigate insecurity, friendship struggles and the pressure to fit in — while creating a home that feels safe, affirming and supportive. Plus, a Heartlight teen shares her story of addiction, self-hatred, healing and learning to see hope for her future again. Tune in for an honest conversation about helping teens face social pressure without losing themselves in the process.

It’s hard enough for kids during the awkward teen years, but what if your child struggles socially more than typical peers? Find help here: bit.ly/raising-socially-awkward-teens

On today’s Q&A episode, Mark tackles a variety of real issues families face with teens, including anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship struggles and the pitfalls of entitlement. We'll discuss healthy ways to set boundaries with older teens, how to handle issues of entitlement and responsibility, and the importance of maintaining strong relationships as your teens grow into adulthood. Remember — lasting change starts with connection, not control.

Courtney's Corner: Questions to Reflect On

1. Are you a place of calm or of more anxiety for your teen?

2. What would really happen if you let your teen fail now and then?

3. Where can you shift responsibility so your teen becomes more empowered and less dependent?

Send in your parenting questions at markgregston.com.

Why do some parent-teen relationships slowly drift apart — even when both sides still care deeply? In this episode, Mark and Wayne unpack some of the biggest barriers that can damage connection with teens, including misunderstanding, overly strict rules, constant correction, unrealistic expectations and discipline without relationship. You’ll also hear Andrew’s story of anger, isolation, drug use and how finally understanding his father’s perspective began restoring their relationship. If you’ve felt stuck, frustrated or unsure how to reconnect, this conversation is for you.

Arguments with your teen are rarely as simple as they seem on the surface. Find five truths behind arguing with a teen and practical advice on how to successfully engage in conflict at bit.ly/five-truths-behind-arguing-with-a-teen

Could one simple parenting skill completely change your relationship with your teen? In this episode, Mark shares why listening may be the most powerful way to connect with today’s adolescents. In a culture full of noise, opinions and constant reactions, many teens feel unheard — even in their own homes. Mark offers practical wisdom on how to listen without interrupting, correcting or rushing to fix everything. He also explains why understanding your teen’s heart matters more than winning an argument. Don’t miss this vital episode.

While listening to your teen is extremely important, what do you do when you don’t like what you hear? Find out here: bit.ly/when-you-hear-things-from-your-teen-that-shock-you

Sometimes, being surrounded by people isn’t enough to shake off the feeling of isolation. In this episode, Mark chats with two teens from Heartlight who know that struggle all too well. Despite their different backgrounds, both have battled feelings of being “not enough” — whether it’s from family issues, school stress or just trying to find their place in the world. You’ll hear how trying to keep up appearances and hiding their true emotions left them feeling even more disconnected. Listen in as these teens reflect on how Heartlight helped them drop the masks, build real relationships and start believing they actually matter.

Go to heartlightministries.org to learn more about our residential counseling program.

Could the biggest change in your relationship with your teen begin with simply listening better? In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore why today’s teens are desperate to feel heard, and why many stop talking when they believe no one is truly listening. You’ll learn practical ways to move from correcting and lecturing to understanding and connecting. Plus, a Heartlight teen shares her story of hidden pain, family conflict, anxiety and how finally feeling heard helped bring healing and restoration.

Find practical ways to create an atmosphere conducive to honest conversation with your teen at bit.ly/when-your-teen-wont-open-up

In today's episode, Mark addresses one of the most pressing concerns among Christian parents: what to do when teens begin to struggle with or question their faith. Many teens, especially those facing trauma or feeling like they don't fit in, may not respond to traditional spiritual approaches. Mark discusses the critical transition from concrete to abstract thinking during adolescence and emphasizes the importance of patience, relationship and modeling Christ’s love. Parents are encouraged not to shame or pressure their teens, but instead to offer ongoing support and authentic living that gently points them to Jesus.

Have a question for Mark? We want to hear it! Go to markgregston.com to send it in.

How do you help your teen build a faith that truly becomes their own? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss why parents must move from simply teaching faith to gradually transferring ownership of it to their teens. You’ll hear practical wisdom on creating safe conversations around doubt, church and spiritual questions without losing relationship or influence. Plus, a Heartlight teen shares his journey through addiction, anger toward God, and ultimately finding hope and purpose through faith. Listen and be encouraged today!

Have you been arguing with your teen about faith — or anything? Find five transformational truths here: bit.ly/5-truths-behind-arguing-with-a-teen

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.