Almost every teen’s story holds a search for acceptance, even if that journey is sometimes disguised by rebellion or pain. In today's episode, Mark talks with two more Heartlight students who open up about the challenges they’ve faced. Jacob, who had only recently arrived at Heartlight, reflects on growing up with divorced parents, feeling disconnected from his father and the personal revelations that followed his time in a wilderness program.

Want to learn more about the Heartlight residential program? Go to 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. 

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Today, Mark Gregston, Courtney Lafleur and Wayne Shepherd remind parents that it’s normal for teens to wrestle with identity and appear different in various settings as they try to figure out who they are. They encourage parents to show patience and empathy, remembering their own journeys through adolescence. The hosts explore how this season of discovery can differ between boys and girls, and stress the importance of non-judgmental conversations to help teens build deeper relationships and a stronger sense of self.

In a tough spot with your teen right now? Visit familycrisisretreat.org to learn about our next Families in Crisis Conference, coming up July 24-26! 

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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Are you struggling to connect with your teens or set boundaries that really work? In today’s session, Mark Gregston shares practical advice on shifting from just teaching to truly training your teens — owning mistakes, building trust through genuine conversations and setting healthy boundaries around things like screen time and independence. He addresses what to do when teens don't respond to your invitations for feedback, and how to manage structure and discipline as your child grows. Packed with practical advice and genuine encouragement, this episode will leave you better equipped to connect with your teen and guide them 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

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In this episode, Mark Gregston shares a personal story about recovering from a kidney transplant and how it gave him insight into the appeal of pain-relieving drugs — especially for teens. Wayne Shepherd, Courtney Lefleur and Mark discuss the deeper reasons behind teen drug use, such as a desire to escape emotional pain, fit in socially or simply feel “normal.” They encourage parents to build a safe, judgment-free environment where teens feel comfortable opening up about difficult topics. They also urge parents to start conversations early, listen with empathy and seek professional help if drug use becomes a pattern.

If your teen is struggling, see if Mark's residential counseling ministry can help. 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.

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Today, Mark Gregston reflects on psychologist Jonathan Haidt’s article about how smartphones have “rewired” childhood. Though initially skeptical, Mark was struck by the evidence linking phone use to rising anxiety, depression and isolation in teens. He encourages parents to rethink screen time, set healthy boundaries and consider how technology is shaping their family relationships.

Is your family struggling right now? We encourage you to come to our next Families In Crisis Conference, July 24-26. Visit familycrisisretreat.com 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. 

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When teens act out or pull away, there’s often a deeper struggle beneath the surface — a longing for connection and a search for identity. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young women from Heartlight who share how feelings of isolation, whether from a sheltered upbringing or broken relationships, led them down challenging paths. For Megan, being surrounded by other teens working through similar issues created authentic friendships and a support system unlike anything she had at home. She shares how stepping back from outside influences — even social media — helped her gain confidence.

To find out if the Heartlight residential program would be beneficial for your teen, go to heartlightministries.org for more information. 

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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Today, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur share their list of 10 characteristics that show a teen may need intervention, addressing the questions many parents ask: "When should we act? How do we confront the issues? And what happens if we don’t?" Mark emphasizes that it takes boldness and strength to address these challenges head-on — but doing so can lead to healing and restoration in your home. Listen in as they share practical advice on how to help your teen when they need you the most!

Visit parentingtodaysteens.org for practical and effective resources for parents and grandparents as they raise their 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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In today’s heartfelt episode, Mark Gregston tackles some of the most complex and pressing questions submitted by listeners. From grandparents concerned about estranged grandchildren and families navigating grief after the loss of a loved one to teens facing ADHD, gender identity questions and substance abuse — Mark offers practical wisdom and compassionate advice. Drawing from decades of experience, Mark emphasizes the importance of affirming relationships, setting healthy boundaries and loving teens through their struggles, even when the path forward isn't clear. If you're seeking honest, faith-based guidance to deepen your relationship with your teen or help them through difficult times, this episode is for you. 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, Courtney LeFleur and Wayne Shepherd discuss a parent's role in navigating the often difficult topic of sex. Mark encourages creating a home atmosphere where teens feel free to talk openly. They share how and when to have these conversations, along with key cultural issues parents should be aware of. Listen in for practical advice on approaching this subject with your children.

Visit parentingtodaysteens.org for more practical and effective resources for parents and grandparents.

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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Mark shares a personal devotion from Hebrews 10:24, encouraging parents to focus less on correcting and more on connecting with their teens. He reminds parents to build in breaks from correction to allow teens space to rest. While correction may change behavior, connection reaches the heart. Tune in as Mark offers practical insights to help strengthen your relationship with your teen.

Visit parentingtodaysteens.org to explore all of Mark's past podcasts, articles, books and more designed to support you as you raise your 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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