In today’s episode, Mark and Wayne delve into the tough truth that even the best parenting efforts don’t always lead to the results you hope for. They highlight the importance of staying adaptable and evolving as a parent, reassuring listeners that struggles don’t diminish the value of their efforts. They also challenge parents to avoid getting too comfortable in their approach, encouraging them to adjust as their children grow and their needs change. 

Would you like to partner with Mark to keep his podcast on the air? Support Parenting Today’s Teens by giving at parentingtodaysteens.org/eoy.

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 today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers your most pressing questions, tackling real-life dilemmas faced by parents just like you. From handling a disrespectful 19-year-old still living at home, to guiding a 16-year-old struggling with loneliness and over-reliance on video games, Mark offers practical advice grounded in his decades of experience. You'll also hear insights on managing a 20-year-old potentially involved in drug activity, navigating the complex emotions surrounding a grandchild's gender transition, and finding common ground in parenting styles between more authoritarian and lenient approaches. Tune in for wisdom, support and actionable solutions to help you navigate the journey of parenting today’s teens.

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

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In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the impact of a world driven by appearances and superficiality on today’s teens. They discuss how kids crave genuine connections, yet often struggle to find them in a society full of facades. Mark and Wayne challenge parents to open up about their own struggles and hopes, rather than presenting a perfect, unrelatable image. Tune in now for practical advice on how to build a deeper, more genuine relationship with your teen!

To see our full collection of parenting resources, check out our online store. Go to parentingtodaysteens.org/shop 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.

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Merry Christmas! In today’s episode, Mark Gregston shares a personal devotion, using scripture to inspire families as they prepare for the new year. He encourages reflection on the past to recognize obstacles and a forward-looking vision to identify what you truly want. Through thought-provoking questions and practical suggestions, Mark offers ideas to help you start conversations that could lead to transformative change within your family. Check it out!

For Mark's newest daily devotional, visit dailyhopeforfamilies.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.

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Every teen's journey at Heartlight looks different — and everyone learns, heals and grows at their own pace. In today's show, Mark talks with two young men in the program, including Jack, who's been at Heartlight for 16 months. He reflects on his time there, and shares how he was initially skeptical, but gradually shed these misconceptions. Eventually, he arrived at a place of growth and gratitude, realizing that his parents' actions were driven by care and responsibility rather than a desire to send him away. Don't miss these great interviews!

For more on the Heartlight program, 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.

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In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the critical issue of teen drug use, offering insights on why some teens turn to substances and reminding parents that no one is immune to this challenge. They highlight key signs to watch for and emphasize the importance of NOT assuming it could never happen to your child. With compassion and practical advice, they guide parents on how to respond effectively if they discover their teen is using drugs, providing steps for both prevention and intervention.

If your teen is struggling, we invite you to learn more about Heartlight Ministries 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 today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives into some of the most pressing questions sent in by listeners. He discusses the pitfalls of performance-based relationships and how conditional love can hinder your teen's growth. He also explores the importance of encouraging independence by letting teens face natural consequences while providing support when needed. From common concerns like curfews and phone use to your child's transition to college life, fostering a respectful and understanding relationship is key. 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

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In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore why teaching teens to navigate struggles effectively is essential. While it’s natural for parents to want to shield their kids from hardship, they explain how facing challenges builds resilience and character. With practical advice, they share the do’s and don’ts of guiding teens through tough times, encouraging parents to model healthy responses to adversity and trust that God’s presence will shine through even the hardest moments.

If your teen is using self-harm to cope, be sure to read Mark's article on the subject here: bit.ly/self-harming-help.

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 heartfelt episode, Mark Gregston opens up about the near tragedies he faced this year and the renewed gratitude they inspired in his life. Through these challenges, Mark discovered unexpected blessings that make Christmas feel especially meaningful. He invites us all to pause during this holiday season and reflect on the hidden gifts in our own lives, even amid difficult circumstances.

Give your family the gift of daily hope! Check out Mark's devotional, Daily Hope for Families, at dailyhopeforfamilies.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.

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Trauma experienced in childhood has the potential to impact an individual's entire life — which is why it's so crucial to support a teen who's facing a painful past. In today's show, Mark talks with two teens from Heartlight, including one of our youngest residents, who opens up about his tumultuous childhood. It was marked by intense anger and traumatic events, including the murder of his biological mother. Despite it all, he's learning to communicate better and manage his emotions through music and counseling. Tune in now!

For more info on the Heartlight residential 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.

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