Parenting Today's Teens
753 episodes - English - Latest episode: 5 days ago - ★★★★★ - 279 ratingsA 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'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
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Episodes
I Mustache Mark a Question: Tough Talks
December 15, 2023 08:00 - 20 minutes - 19 MBThose heart-to-heart talks that might feel like a challenge, are usually the glue that bonds parents and teens. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers pressing questions from parents about how to successfully navigate hard conversations. He addresses topics from racism and politics to porn sexuality. Listen now to hear his advice! 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 a...
Addressing Teen Sexuality
December 14, 2023 08:00 - 15 minutes - 14.2 MBTalking to our kids about sex can be uncomfortable and challenging, but as parents, it's crucial to understand our teens when it comes to sexuality, especially in today's culture. In this insightful episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of engaging with our teens about this topic. Whether they are experimenting or are already sexually active, this episode provides valuable guidance on maintaining a positive parent-child relationship and influencing their choices in...
Offering Certainty in a World of Doubt
December 13, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 23.7 MBTeens may like to act like nothing phases them, but for many of our kids, the turmoil and uncertainty of the world today really does weigh on them. In today's show, Mark reflects on the theme of uncertainty and its profound impact on teenagers. Using scripture from the book of Luke, he underscores the vital role that parents play in providing a sense of stability for their teens amid a world that is often rife with doubt and confusion. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode! For more in...
Teen Stories: Calming the Storm
December 12, 2023 08:00 - 18 minutes - 17.4 MBIf you have an angry teen in your home, it can sometimes feel like trying to dodge a hurricane. But coming alongside them and helping them develop healthy ways to deal with their frustrations will benefit them for the rest of their lives. In this episode, Mark has powerful conversations with two teens from Heartlight, including Sam, who talks about her journey from explosive behavior and frustration to a more calm and respectful approach in her relationships. Listen in now! To learn more a...
Understanding Destructive Parenting Behaviors
December 11, 2023 08:00 - 15 minutes - 14.5 MBAre you noticing destructive patterns in your relationship with your teen? Our own habits have a big impact on our kids — but it's never too late to make positive changes. On today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the types of behaviors that parents exhibit that can make their teens rebel. They discuss the detrimental effects of overprotective parenting, performance-based dynamics, avoidance of conflict and more. Tune in for this important discussion! For more help devel...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Where Do I Draw the Line?
December 08, 2023 08:00 - 20 minutes - 18.9 MBHave you ever struggled to know where, or how, to put your foot down? In today's episode, Mark Gregston tackles questions from parents who are wrestling with setting some serious boundaries. From a daughter expecting parental funding for her and her boyfriend's apartment to a son stacking up fake accounts as a means of trading explicit content, Mark provides insights, wisdom and actionable advice — listen now! Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com Parenting Today's T...
The Art of Letting Go
December 07, 2023 08:00 - 13 minutes - 12.4 MBParenting is tough, especially when it comes to giving teens the space they need to grow! It goes against our parental instincts to “back off,” but if we don't, we risk raising an adult who's not prepared to face the real world. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the importance of maintaining a strong connection with your teen while letting them navigate their own path. Tune in for valuable insights on how to achieve this delicate balance, such as making yourself ...
Living Out Our Faith
December 06, 2023 08:00 - 10 minutes - 9.97 MBThe impact we have on our teens goes far beyond what we say. While it's crucial to have meaningful conversations about faith, it's equally important to live out our principles in our day-to-day lives. In today's episode, Mark Gregston shares a personal devotional that addresses a question from a listener about the presence of Jesus in our conversations with teens. This is a thought-provoking episode, so tune in now! For more biblical insights on parenting teens, check out our Family Devoti...
Teen Stories: Seeking Acceptance
December 05, 2023 08:00 - 18 minutes - 16.7 MBMany parents can probably look back on their own teen years and remember some crazy things they did in the name of fitting in or being liked. As much as things have changed, today's teens aren't much different. In this episode, Mark sits down with two teens from Heartlight, including Sam, who shares his journey of rebellion, cheating and substance abuse, which stemmed from feelings of depression and a need for acceptance. There's a lot to learn from these conversations, so tune in! Interes...
Rethinking Parenting in a Changing Culture
December 04, 2023 08:00 - 9 minutes - 8.95 MBAre you struggling to navigate the challenges of parenting in today's chaotic world? In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd tackle the topic of traditional parenting — and why it no longer works. Letting go of trying to be a "perfect parent" can actually foster a healthier relationship between you and your teen. If you want to adapt your parenting style and learn how to create an environment of understanding and respect, don't miss this episode! For more on building a thrivin...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries & Screen Time
December 01, 2023 08:00 - 11 minutes - 10.4 MBWe were created as relational beings with a desire to connect with others — and that's no different for teenagers. But how can you know your teens are learning how to properly engage with others in a digital world? In today's episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents about setting appropriate boundaries with your teen and the reason they might be so intent on being on their phones. Times are changing and we can no longer use the same tools that may have been effective during a ch...
The Anatomy of Anger
November 30, 2023 08:00 - 14 minutes - 13.1 MBAre you struggling to understand your teen's anger? It seems like everywhere we look, we see young people expressing their angst through violence, disrespectful behavior and heated arguments. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how anger is often a symptom of deeper issues and share valuable insights on how parents can understand and address their teen's anger in a constructive and supportive way. Discover how to look beneath the anger, uncover the root causes and cr...
Behind the Filter
November 29, 2023 08:00 - 23 minutes - 21.4 MBTeens long to be validated, but today's social media environment often leaves them seeking that validation by comparing themselves to others. It's a vicious cycle that will never leave them fulfilled. In today's episode, Mark revisits some examples and insights that will help parents better understand why teens are so susceptible to comparison and creating unhealthy expectations for themselves due to social media. This is an important topic for all parents to consider, so listen in! For mo...
Teen Stories: The Odd One Out
November 28, 2023 08:00 - 23 minutes - 21.2 MBSome teens go through their high school years feeling like they never quite fit in or that other kids are able to do things that they can't. Eventually, that'll take a toll on anyone's self-esteem! In today's episode, Mark talks with two teens who've both felt like the odd one out at different times in their lives. For one young lady, her social anxiety and negative thoughts led her to lash out at her family, but she's working on seeing her true value while at Heartlight. Listen in! Is Hea...
Changing Along With Your Teens
November 27, 2023 08:00 - 11 minutes - 10.9 MBWhen your kids are elementary school age, it's easy to get settled into a particular parenting style. But when the middle and high school years come along, your child is going to change — and you have to be open to changing along with them. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how to adjust when good parenting seems to yield bad results and share why it's important to be able to admit when you've made a mistake. Don't miss this great discussion! For more on parenting s...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Balancing Love and Limits
November 24, 2023 08:00 - 31 minutes - 28.7 MBAs parents, we have the responsibility to guide our teens toward adulthood with care and intention. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents grappling with the challenges and joys of that process. From video game and drug addictions to gender issues and piercings, the importance of effective communication, maintaining loving relationships and setting appropriate boundaries cannot be understated. Tune in now! Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com...
Navigating Your Teen's Online Life
November 23, 2023 08:00 - 14 minutes - 13.2 MBAs technology becomes an integral part of our daily lives, it's crucial for parents to engage with and understand their teen's digital experiences. If you're struggling to navigate your kid's online life, you're not alone. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the relevance, impact, challenges and opportunities that come with social media. They provide five healthy, effective and practical ways to handle your teen's online life. Listen now! For more info on how to ad...
Connecting with Your Child's Heart
November 22, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MBWhen your teen acts out, how do you react? Do you punish the behavior and move on? Or do you pause to find out what's going on in their heart? In today's episode, Mark talks about the importance of understanding your teen's behavior by looking beyond the surface and identifying the underlying motivations. He explores various drivers of teen behavior, such as loss, performance, appearance and anger, and explains how these can impact a teen's actions. Don't miss this great devotional episode! ...
Teen Stories: Caving Under Pressure
November 21, 2023 08:00 - 18 minutes - 17.4 MBMost parents would probably agree that they wouldn't want to grow up in the culture our teens live in today. The social pressures they face and the constant barrage of social media can be overwhelming! In today's episode, Mark speaks with two more students from Heartlight, including one young lady whose desire for acceptance and friendship at a new school led her to make poor choices. Mark's candid conversation with these teens sheds light on the importance of creating a stable and supportiv...
Five Markers for a Meaningful Relationship with Your Teen
November 20, 2023 08:00 - 13 minutes - 12.3 MBNurturing a strong relationship with your teen takes intentionality, but sometimes it's tough to know where to begin. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the markers of a healthy relationship. They explore the importance of spending meaningful time together, engaging in real conversations, continually learning from each other and more! Tune in as they share insights to help you deepen your relationship with your teenager. Is your teen starting to date? This can be ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Abandonment Issues
November 17, 2023 08:00 - 30 minutes - 28 MBAll behavior is goal oriented, so what’s motivating your teen? Oftentimes bad behavior is a means of protection. In this week's Q&A episode, Mark Gregston unravels the hidden thread that connects a granddaughter's rebellion, a son's isolation and a daughter's self-hate: abandonment issues. Whether it's due to birth parents, divorces or failed friendships, your teen’s guard is up! Tune in now to discover how to provide essential support for your lonely, struggling teen. Have a question for ...
When to Give Grace
November 16, 2023 08:00 - 15 minutes - 14.2 MBIs your teenager pushing you away, leaving you feeling frustrated and helpless? When you’ve been shut out, grace can open the door! In this insightful episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the powerful combination of consequences and unconditional love. Discover how this dynamic duo can pave the way for your teen to grow through their mistakes while deepening your bond. Listen now! For more inspiration and encouragement, check out Mark's newest devotional, "Daily Hope For Fam...
Creating a Place of Refuge for Teens
November 15, 2023 08:00 - 27 minutes - 24.8 MBGrandparents, what do your grandkids feel when they first walk in your front door? Do they feel welcomed and safe? Or like they can't be themselves? In today's episode, Mark talks about how grandparents can create a place of rest for their teenage grandchildren, who are under so much pressure from the culture we live in. They need a place to recharge! Listen in for this thought-provoking topic! For a deeper dive into grandparenting, check out our e-course, "Leaving a Legacy of Hope." Enrol...
Teen Stories: Numbing the Pain
November 14, 2023 08:00 - 19 minutes - 17.8 MBDrug use in teens often starts because it seems like a way to relax, but often, they begin to rely on substances just to get through the day. For many, it becomes a way to silence inner turmoil. In today's show, Mark sits down with some Heartlight teens, including a young lady who felt isolated and overlooked, so she turned to drugs to take the pain away. Eventually, this behavior got her expelled from school. Listen in to hear her story! Want to learn more about the Heartlight program? Vi...
Teen Drug Use: Signs, Signals and Solutions
November 13, 2023 08:00 - 13 minutes - 12.2 MBIt's easier for teens to get their hands on drugs than it ever has been, and the accessibility coupled with teens' natural curiosity often spells trouble. So, do you know what signs to look for that might point to drug use? In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the underlying issues that drive teens to use drugs and share examples of indicators that your teen might be going down this path. Don't miss this important episode! For more resources to help you understand your...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Conflicting Values
November 10, 2023 07:00 - 29 minutes - 27 MBYour teenager is well aware of your beliefs; they don't need a constant reminder. What they do need is a strong, supportive relationship with you during this confusing time in their lives. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents dealing with teens who have adopted values that differ from their own. Tune in to discover the art of influencing without control, maintaining a strong connection with your teenager and approaching difficult conversations with a touch of humo...
Embracing Failure
November 09, 2023 07:00 - 11 minutes - 10.8 MBWhen you give teens the opportunity to make their own decisions, they WILL eventually fail, and that’s okay! Avoiding giving them control out of fear of failure will hinder their ability to learn how to cope with setbacks. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how taking risks and allowing your teen to stumble along the way can pave the road to their success and resilience. Listen now! For more on engaging with your grandkids, check out our free e-course, "Leaving a ...
Supporting Your Kids (and THEIR Kids) in Word and Deed
November 08, 2023 07:00 - 12 minutes - 11.1 MBIf you're a grandparent, you might have times when you're tempted to try to step in and parent your grandchildren, but in most cases, you can leave that to YOUR kids! Your role is to support them and be a source of wisdom and fun for your grandchildren. In today's show, Mark shares some insightful pointers for grandparents who want to have a great relationship with their own adult children and their grandkids. For more on this topic, check out our special Grandparenting Bundle! Visit bit.l...
Teen Stories: Running From Pain
November 07, 2023 07:00 - 18 minutes - 16.9 MBWhen teens are carrying around a lot of hurt inside, they often look for any way to numb it or escape it — even if that means physically running away from home. In today's episode, Mark chats with two Heartlight teens, including one young lady whose struggles with mental health and drug use led her to pack her bags and be on the run for an entire week. Tune in to hear these stories! Interested in the Heartlight program? Learn more at heartlightministries.org Parenting Today's Teens is a ...
Looking for Love in the Wrong Places
November 06, 2023 07:00 - 14 minutes - 13.3 MBToday's culture is more permissive of sexual activity in the teen years than ever before, and for many teens, this behavior may seem like an easy way to find the sense of connection they crave. This is why we, as parents, NEED to be aware of what's going on in our kids' culture. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss what drives teens to be sexually active and how you can confront the situation without inflicting shame or losing the relationship with your child. This is a ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Unlocking Real Conversations
November 03, 2023 07:00 - 17 minutes - 16.3 MBWe all share the universal desire for deep, genuine connections with our teenagers. In today's episode, Mark Gregston tackles questions from parents striving to balance maintaining that essential connection while providing much-needed guidance and structure. He explains the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in nurturing these bonds, and the necessity of creating a safe space for them to open up in return. Listen now! Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com P...
Punishment vs. Discipline
November 02, 2023 07:00 - 13 minutes - 11.9 MBAs our society moves from a fear-based parenting model to a relationally centered one, our methods need to adapt accordingly. Punishing out of anger, frustration or hurt is easy to do, but it won’t help your teen learn from their mistakes, and it certainly won't grow your relationship. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the benefits of making the shift from punishment to discipline, challenging parents to consider how their teens' mistakes today can grow them into h...
Looking in the Mirror
November 01, 2023 07:00 - 16 minutes - 15.2 MBIf you've ever experienced rejection from your teen, it can feel a lot like you've been "fired" as a parent. None of the baseball games or dance recitals you diligently took them to when they were little seem to matter anymore. But, as Mark discusses in today's show, this is a great time to take a look in the mirror and examine why your teen might be pulling away from you. He shares things for you to think about that'll help you understand yourself and your parenting style better, so don't m...
Teen Stories: When Trust Is Broken
October 31, 2023 07:00 - 18 minutes - 17.2 MBWhen a teen has broken your trust, it can be hard for parents to take that leap of faith again ... and our kids know this too. In today's episode, Mark talks to a couple of Heartlight students who are working on reconnecting with their parents and rebuilding trust. For one young man who used to steal money from his family to buy drugs, he knows he needs to prove himself to his parents again — and he's up for the challenge. Tune in for these interviews! Is the Heartlight program right for y...
Are You Willing to Reconcile?
October 30, 2023 07:00 - 18 minutes - 16.6 MBMany of us fall into the habit of allowing the issues in our family to reach a breaking point before we address them. Sitting down and seeking reconciliation early is tough, but it can make your family stronger. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share stories of reconciliation and discuss why unmet expectations can be a source of resentment that we don't always recognize. Listen in now! Interested in improving your communication style? Check out our e-course, "Five Ways to ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Finding Balance in the Digital Age
October 27, 2023 07:00 - 28 minutes - 26 MBThe digital age has undeniably transformed our world, revolutionizing the way our children socialize, ushering in new norms, opportunities and possibilities — for better or worse. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses questions from those walking the line between protecting their kids and preparing them for the real world. He delves into why, as parents, it's our responsibility to navigate this ever-evolving landscape with our teen’s best interest in mind. Tune in now! Have a questio...
Recognizing and Responding to Suicidal Thoughts
October 26, 2023 07:00 - 10 minutes - 9.36 MBIn today's culture, self-harm and suicidal ideation are more prevalent among teenagers than ever before. As parents, being informed and prepared is a matter of life and death. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the telltale signs that your child may be struggling. From changes in eating and sleeping habits to talking about death frequently and engaging in risk-taking behaviors, discover when and how to intervene. Listen now for essential guidance on how to provide t...
The Blessing of Gray Hair...
October 25, 2023 07:00 - 23 minutes - 21.2 MBProverbs 16:31 tells us, "Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness." So, as you get older and watch your kids grow into teens and then into adults, don't worry about those grays that start to come in. As Mark shares in today's episode, it's a sign of wisdom! He also talks about how you can be an intentional grandparent from the get-go and how to be a great example for your teen grandchildren. If you're a grandparent or might be soon, you don't want to miss...
Teen Stories: Ready to Reconcile
October 24, 2023 07:00 - 16 minutes - 15.3 MBFor many of the teens that come to Heartlight, their stay at the boarding school is the longest they've been away from their parents — and that time apart can help all of them begin to see things more clearly. In today's show, Mark talks to two young ladies who both got caught up in drinking and doing drugs to self-medicate deeper issues, which led to lots of conflict with their parents. Now, the families are working toward healthier, more understanding relationships. To learn more about t...
Do You Ask Your Teen Good Questions?
October 23, 2023 07:00 - 13 minutes - 12.6 MBQuestions have an amazing way of stirring up things in your child's heart and helping them sort through what they believe about the world. They also help YOU get to know your teen better! In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd are discussing why asking your teen good, thoughtful questions is so important and helps them feel valued. Tune in for this great topic! Want to learn how to effectively encourage your teen to make wise choices? Check out our "Developing Rules and Conse...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Turning the Tide
October 20, 2023 07:00 - 21 minutes - 19.5 MBAddressing issues head-on while your child is still living at home is crucial given that unresolved problems during the teenage years can easily spill over into young adulthood. In today's episode, Mark Gregston shares valuable guidance for parents who are uncertain about their next steps when dealing with children grappling with issues like alcoholism, explosive behavior, depression, the inability to regulate emotions and more. Tune in and learn how to redirect behavior before it’s too late...
Modifying Behavior vs. Solving Behavior
October 19, 2023 07:00 - 14 minutes - 13.4 MBParents are often quick to correct their teen’s bad behavior, but hesitant to uncover the motivations fueling it. Let's face it, if you're not getting to the heart of the matter, you're just slapping a band-aid on a much deeper wound. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss behaviors ranging from disrespect and anger to poor grades and video game obsessions. They offer possible explanations for such behavior and stress how crucial it is to show love, even when it feels l...
The Mission Field of Family
October 18, 2023 07:00 - 10 minutes - 9.67 MBWhen you think of going out to "the mission field," do you picture traveling somewhere far away? Oftentimes, there are important mission fields right in our own backyards — even in our own families. In today's episode, Mark shares a personal story of how God showed him that the mission projects at home are just as important as the ones across the globe. Tune in for this inspiring episode! For more inspiration and encouragement, check out Mark's newest devotional, "Daily Hope For Families,"...
Teen Stories: Perils of Peer Pressure
October 17, 2023 07:00 - 19 minutes - 17.9 MBHaving close, meaningful friendships during the teen years is so important for kids' mental and emotional health — but unfortunately, finding those real friendships can sometimes be a rocky road. In today's episode, Mark Gregston talks with two Heartlight residents about why they succumbed to peer pressure and started getting into drugs and alcohol to fit in. Tune in to hear their perspectives! Interested in learning about the Heartlight program? Visit heartlightministries.org Parenting ...
Do You Know When to Let It Go?
October 16, 2023 07:00 - 13 minutes - 12.6 MBA key part of parenting well — for your child's sake AND yours — is knowing when to pick your battles. Nitpicking at everything your teen does or constantly trying to correct them will only drive them further from you and damage the relationship. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why it's important to know what issues are really important to you and what things you're able to let go of. If you're hoping for a little more peace in your home, tune in to this episode! ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Understanding the Why
October 13, 2023 07:00 - 27 minutes - 25.2 MBEffective parenting goes beyond behavior management; it's all about uncovering the underlying motivations that drive your teen's actions. In today’s Q&A episode, Mark Gregston dives into real-world challenges submitted by concerned parents. Listen in as he discusses setting realistic boundaries, navigating church aversion, connecting with a grieving teen, seeking help when faced with extraordinary challenges and more! Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com Parenting T...
Navigating the Pervasive Presence of Pornography
October 12, 2023 07:00 - 11 minutes - 10.2 MBOne of the most crucial conversations about modern parenting in the digital age is addressing the pervasive presence of pornography in our children's lives. The harsh truth is that no teen is safe from the influence of porn regardless of whether it is sought out or not. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the dangers of easy access to explicit content, how it's affecting our teens and how we can best protect them by building up internal boundaries in the absence of e...
The One Thing That Could Change Your Family...
October 11, 2023 07:00 - 11 minutes - 10.7 MBIf there was one thing you could do to foster a sense of value and belonging for every member of your family, you'd almost certainly jump at it! But this simple answer can actually be quite challenging: Just listen. In this episode, Mark explains why being an engaged, active listener is one of the most powerful things you can do to connect with your teen, and shares some behaviors YOU might be unintentionally doing that are conversation-killers. Listen in now! Our Teen Struggle Bundle feat...
Teen Stories: Facing Your Issues
October 10, 2023 07:00 - 18 minutes - 16.8 MBWhen teens experience trauma, they oftentimes don't have the coping skills they need to work through it in a productive way. Trying to get rid of the hurt they feel can leave them spinning out of control. In this episode, Mark chats with two teens who addressed deep issues while at Heartlight, including one young man whose mom tragically passed away from cancer. Desperate to control something, he started using drugs, but soon, the drugs controlled him. Tune in to hear these stories! Want t...
Protecting Our Teens From Pitfalls
October 09, 2023 07:00 - 16 minutes - 15.1 MBToday's culture offers so many harmful temptations and pitfalls for our teens. Whether it's drugs, social media addiction or exposure to pornography, we need to try our best to protect and prepare them. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd list some common pitfalls that affect teens, share why they're important to pay attention to and offer a closing prayer of protection for our kids. This is a great episode, so check it out! To explore more of our helpful parenting resourc...