Parenting Today's Teens

In this episode, Mark shares a deeply personal devotional about the challenges parents face when their teens make decisions that go against family values or wound their hearts. Mark explores how parents can maintain meaningful relationships with their children even amid conflict, disappointment and cultural changes. He emphasizes the importance of listening, asking thoughtful questions and loving unconditionally, rather than leading with criticism or cutting off connection. If you’re navigating disagreements with the teen in your life, this episode is for you!

To better understand why teens do the crazy things they do — and how to protect your relationship while still teaching them a valuable lesson — visit bit.ly/teens-inappropriate-behavior-2

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.

Most struggling teens hold a story inside their hearts: a story of searching, hurt and hope. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who open up about their personal battles with loneliness, depression and not feeling “good enough.” Both teens carried the weight of fractured relationships and unmet needs — one longing for a father’s involvement, the other wrestling with feelings of isolation and the pain of not being seen. Now, at Heartlight, they’re learning that true belonging and healing begin with understanding their own stories, and discovering they’re not alone on the journey.

Want to learn more about the Heartlight residential program? Visit heartlightministries.org 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.

In this episode, Mark and Wayne talk about the profound impact that tough parenting decisions can have on a family's future. Through personal stories — including Mark's life-saving decision for his daughter decades ago — they explore how setting boundaries, having hard conversations and trusting God's plan can rewrite the story for generations to come. Plus, a Heartlight teen opens up about his journey through rebellion, struggles with addiction and lessons learned at Heartlight. This episode is a powerful reminder that the choices we make with our teens today can echo far into the future. Listen now!

What makes sharing your perspective — versus your opinion — with your teen so powerful? Read about it at parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/the-power-of-perspective-2

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.

In today's Q&A episode, Mark tackles some more tough questions submitted by listeners about raising teens and young adults. From dealing with a disrespectful 19-year-old living at home, to concerns about a grandson's lack of motivation, to navigating the complexities of drug use and family dynamics, Mark offers practical advice rooted in years of experience. He addresses the importance of launching teens into independence, building healthy grandparent relationships, and finding balance between authoritative and lenient parenting styles. He encourages parents and grandparents to prioritize strong relationships, communicate effectively and aim for growth — for their kids and themselves.

Have a question for Mark? We'd love to hear it! Go to markgregston.com to submit your parenting questions.

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.

In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur tackle teens and dating, exploring what it means for parents to set realistic boundaries and stay involved as their children begin to experience romance.

They share relatable stories about early dating experiences, practical advice on age-appropriate guidelines and the importance of open communication to help parents guide teens through relationship challenges. The conversation is enriched by Hunter, a guest teen who candidly talks about his journey through personal struggles and the positive changes brought about by increased communication with his parents. Tune in today!

When is it time to talk to your teen about sex? Find out in this article from Mark at bit.ly/talking-to-your-teen-about-sex

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.

In this eye-opening episode, Mark dives deep into a common parenting dilemma — striking the right balance between guidance and control as teens seek independence. Drawing from a real-life story of a family whose well-intentioned rules backfired, Mark highlights the negative impact that excessive control can have on teenagers. He shares practical wisdom, anecdotes and biblical insights, encouraging parents to loosen their grip and empower their kids to make choices, learn from mistakes and build trust. Don’t miss this vital episode!

If your family is struggling with the transition from teen years to adulthood, be sure to check out this April retreat at parentingtodaysteens.org/event/adulting-past-the-teen-years

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.

When life feels unpredictable, teens often seek control in unexpected ways. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young women at Heartlight who share how loss and longing for independence shaped their choices. One opens up about the impact of losing her father and the turbulent relationship with her mom that followed, while the other reflects on her drive to grow up too fast and how that influenced her actions. Both stories reveal how the struggle for control can lead to risky decisions — and how stepping back can spark new growth. Don’t miss this honest conversation about grief, self-discovery and what it means to heal together as a family.

Know a young adult who's great with teens? They may be a perfect fit for our Heartlight staff! Go to heartlight.jobs 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.

In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur explore ways parents pass down bad habits to their teens — from being overly critical and avoiding conflict to setting unrealistic expectations. They offer practical advice for recognizing these patterns, reversing their impact and healing parent-teen relationships. We also hear from a Heartlight teen, who bravely shares her journey through addiction, family trauma, and the lessons she's learned about self-worth and breaking cycles. Don't miss these relatable stories and actionable steps for parents to leave a positive legacy for their teens.

Did you know Heartlight offers counseling and experienced residential staff as a resource to help parents walk through challenging times? Learn more at parentingtodaysteens.org/coaching

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.

In this episode, Mark tackles some more tough questions parents are asking about raising teens in today's rapidly changing world. From navigating conversations about sexuality and social media's impact on relationships, to setting boundaries around concerts, vaping and modesty, Mark offers practical wisdom and heartfelt advice. You'll hear insights into why teens struggle with connection, how the cultural landscape influences their choices and the importance of maintaining open dialogue — even when topics feel uncomfortable.

Have a parenting problem? Ask Mark about it — your question may be featured on the show! Go to markgregston.com to submit it.

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.

In this episode, Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur joins Mark and Wayne to tackle the issue of "mean girl" culture and the impact of social media on teenage girls. They discuss how bullying, exclusion, gossip and unrealistic online standards can deeply affect a teen's mental health and self-worth. The episode features a candid interview with a teen who opens up about her personal struggles with substance abuse, coping with pain and how Heartlight provided the supportive environment she needed to turn her life around. Be sure to tune in!

Another issue many girls face online is overexposure to seductive lifestyles. Learn four ways parents can address immodesty with their teen at parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/modesty-and-my-daughter-2

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.