The teenage years are full of pressures — big and small — everything from trying to do well on a test to figuring out your identity. In today's show, Mark chats with two young ladies from Heartlight, including Emily, who discusses her battle with anxiety, perfectionism and the lingering desire for validation. It's a powerful reminder of the pressure teens face to fit in and excel, and her journey at Heartlight shows the importance of navigating mental health challenges with empathy and support. Don't miss these interviews! Interested in learning 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Teen Stories: The Weight of Expectations

A daily podcast released every weekday, the Parenting Today’s Teens Podcast features Mark Gregston, a parenting expert who has worked with teens and parents for over 45 years. Enlightening, up-to-date, practical, and something every parent would enjoy listening to. Raw at times, challenging at other times, but always hopeful to get your family to a better place in an adolescent culture that is sometimes a little contrary to what you believe and want for your teen. Parenting Today&#39;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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Kids & Family

Parenting

Parenting has always been challenging, but today's teens encounter unique emotional and developmental hurdles shaped by societal shifts and the influence of digital communication. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses pressing questions from listeners,  from managing relationships and navigating the pitfalls of social media use among kids to addressing the psychological needs of those battling depression and ADHD. Whether you're struggling with tech-related issues or searching for the right time to discuss sensitive topics with your teenager, this episode has something for every parent — 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

I Mustache Mark a Question: Online Safety, Delayed Maturity and Sensitive Teen Topics

Are you struggling to connect with your teenager in a world crowded with texts, social media and generational gaps? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd tackle the often overlooked but essential art of effective communication with your kid. They discuss the importance of engagement, asking the right questions, and building relationships through consistent and sincere one-on-one time. Remember, it's not about lectures but about establishing a foundation of trust, valuing their opinion and, above all, showing them you care. Don't wait for a crisis to build bridges — tune in now! For more help understanding your teen's behavior, check out our free "Tough Guys and Drama Queens" e-course! Enroll today at bit.ly/3PtDGxl 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Bridging the Gap: Effective Communication Strategies with Teens

Parenting is never straightforward, especially when you're thrown curveballs you never saw coming. In today's episode, we’re diving into the struggles parents face when their children go through serious issues. Through personal anecdotes and stories from various families, Mark highlights the initial shock and eventual acceptance that parents experience upon discovering their child's poor choices. He also reflects on his own journey of misunderstanding and ultimately reconnecting with his son during a troubling time. Listen in! For more help navigating the ups and downs of parenting, check out our Teen Struggle Bundle at bit.ly/struggle-bundle 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Guiding Teens Through Their Darkest Times

So many teens today are battling anxiety and depression, leaving them vulnerable to self-destructive coping mechanisms. As shown by the impactful interviews in today's show, it's important to create a strong support system at home. Mark sits down with two young ladies from Heartlight, whose discussions shed light on the reasons behind their struggles with anger, depression and substance abuse, and how they are finding new pathways to healing and happiness. Listen in now! To find out 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Teen Stories: Managing Mental Health

Conflict with our teens isn't just a challenge — it’s an opportunity for growth and learning. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how facing these moments head-on can lead to a deeper understanding and a stronger relationship with your teen. They offer practical advice on engaging constructively with your teen during tough periods and working through your differences. Whether you're struggling with little day-to-day battles or trying to make big changes, this episode offers guidance on creating a supportive environment where every family member can thrive. Tune in! For more on effective communication, check out our FREE e-course, "Bridging the Gap With Your Teen," at bit.ly/bridging-the-gap-course 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 www.ChristianParenting.org

Teen Stories: The Weight of Expectations

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