Parenting Today's Teens
767 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 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
Perspective Vs. Opinion: Know the Difference
January 13, 2023 08:00 - 5 minutes - 4.92 MBIn this episode, Mark Gregston answers the top question of the week, which comes from a parent who wonders how to properly share their perspective with their teen — not just their opinion. While opinions can come across as judgemental, perspective can impart wisdom. Listen in for Mark's thoughts! Want to ask Mark a question? Submit it at markgregston.com
Fight, Flight or Freeze
January 12, 2023 08:00 - 17 minutes - 16.3 MBWhen teens are confronted with hurts or challenges in life that they're not prepared for, they typically react in one of three ways: Fight, flight or freeze. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss what each of these coping mechanisms looks like and how you can help your child move past them in healthy ways. Listen in for this important discussion! Ready to learn some new strategies to better communicate and connect with your teen? Check out the Parenting Toolbox! Y...
How Loss Can Impact Behavior
January 11, 2023 08:00 - 17 minutes - 15.8 MBCruel words, abuse and trauma that occur in our adolescent years can impact us for our entire lifetimes — sometimes whether we're aware of it or not. In today's special devotional, Mark Gregston shares why it's important to really understand your teen's heart and how their behavior might be stemming from loss or pain. Tune in now! To find more powerful, practical help for you and your teen, check out our in-person Families in Crisis Conferences! To see the upcoming schedule, visit family...
Smiles Don't Tell the Whole Story
January 10, 2023 08:00 - 23 minutes - 21.9 MBSome of the teens who smile and laugh all the time are also the ones who are struggling the most on the inside. Behind the happy, bubbly exterior, these teens desperately hope someone will see what's going on in their hearts. In this episode, Mark Gregston chats with two Heartlight residents, including a young lady who is known around campus for being fun and outgoing, but on the inside, she struggles with anxiety and self-esteem issues. Tune in to hear her insightful interview! For mor...
Keeping Your Parenting Priorities Straight
January 09, 2023 08:00 - 12 minutes - 11.9 MBNo matter what ups and downs you may encounter while raising your teen, your top priority should always be to build and maintain a healthy relationship that will last into adulthood. It's not easy, but it is worth it! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about why the ability to handle conflict with your child is part of a healthy relationship and share encouragement to stay focused on the issues that truly matter. Listen in now! Ready to take the next step in strengthe...
Balancing Video Game Time With Responsibility
January 06, 2023 08:00 - 6 minutes - 5.54 MBIn today's show, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a parent who wants to know how to enforce screen time limits when that's their child's way to relax. Video games, music and texting with friends may be a teen's way of finding rest and entertainment, but it's important to balance this time with age-appropriate responsibilities! Got a parenting problem you just can't figure out? Ask Mark! Send in questions at markgregston.com
How Do You Know When It's Time to Take Action?
January 05, 2023 08:00 - 16 minutes - 15.4 MBIf your teen has started acting out or behaving differently, it may be time to take serious action to prevent it from getting worse. But how can you know for sure? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share a list of assessment questions that will help you decide the right course of action to help your teen. Don't miss these helpful questions! For more advice on creating a healthy home for your whole family, check out "Raising Teens in a Contrary Culture." Order your copy a...
Your Teen Shouldn't Be Defined By Their Mistakes
January 04, 2023 08:00 - 13 minutes - 12.6 MBMany kids who were brought up in Christian families and youth groups make a pledge to remain abstinent until marriage, and there are plenty who stick to this pledge — but also many teens who fail. In this episode, Mark Gregston explains that the fallout from mistakes like this is often enough to drive teens away from the church or their families ... unless they're met with grace and forgiveness first! Listen in now for Mark's insights. For more help guiding your child through the tough ...
Finding Healing Away From Home
January 03, 2023 08:00 - 23 minutes - 21.5 MBWhen kids start having issues early on in life, it can be hard for them to unravel their problems in the same environment they started in. Hard as it may be, sometimes being sent away to a program to find help is the best route. In this episode, Mark Gregston talks to two teens with similar backgrounds — both girls were sent to a wilderness camp program before coming to Heartlight to finish their healing journeys. Listen in to hear their stories! Have you heard about our Families In Cris...
Starting the New Year Off Right
January 02, 2023 08:00 - 14 minutes - 13.3 MBHappy 2023! The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on how relationships grew — or grew apart — in your family, and assess changes you'd like to make in the new year! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share advice for how to start the new year off right and discuss why now is a good time to hold a family meeting to explain expectations. Tune in now! Is it time for a fresh devotional to start off the new year? Check out Mark's new 365-day devotional, "Da...
Is Bribing a Teen Always a Bad Thing?
December 30, 2022 08:00 - 3 minutes - 3.39 MBIn today's episode, Mark Gregston addresses two of the top parenting questions of the week: One from a family who is concerned about their daughter's online activities and another from a parent who wants to know how to get a child to go to counseling. In a situation like the latter, sometimes it's okay to motivate your child with money or something else they want if you know it'll ultimately get them to a better place! Got a question for Mark? Visit markgregston.com to send it in!
Conflict: It Has a Silver Lining
December 29, 2022 08:00 - 14 minutes - 13.2 MBHave you ever seen conflict on the horizon with your teen and simply wanted to run the other way? Practically every parent knows this feeling! But conflict can provide some of the best teaching opportunities you'll experience with your teen. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about why you should view conflict as an opportunity to understand your child better and share the reasoning behind your own values. Don't miss this important discussion! For more on how to help ...
The Dangers of a Performance-Based Relationship
December 28, 2022 08:00 - 15 minutes - 13.7 MBMany teens today feel like their parents' love is conditional, and whether or not it's actually true, they think their parents will stop loving them if they make too many mistakes. And often, the parents have no idea their teen feels this way! In this episode, Mark Gregston shares his insights on how parents can unwittingly get stuck in a performance-based relationship with their child, and why they should focus on communicating unconditional love instead. Tune in for this great devotional! ...
Hiding the Problem Never Solves It
December 27, 2022 08:00 - 19 minutes - 18.1 MBWhen teens are dealing with internal turmoil, they often try to hide their problems from their families — but they can only bury hurt for so long. In this episode, Mark Gregston sits down with two young ladies from Heartlight, one of whom is an only child and the other the youngest of seven, to find out why they tried to hide their problems and what they've learned since being at the boarding school. Don't miss these great interviews! To learn more about the Heartlight program, visit hea...
What's Your Vision for Your Family?
December 26, 2022 08:00 - 15 minutes - 14.5 MBImproving the dynamics of a family is never an instant makeover. But little changes over a long period of time can make all the difference! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share an encouraging message about why you should never give up on your vision for your family, and talk about what you can do to foster real change. Tune in now! "Prayers For My Teen," is a carry-along daily devotional designed with moms in mind — and it makes a great gift! Order yours today at resou...
Going Beyond the 'Yes' or 'No' Questions
December 23, 2022 08:00 - 9 minutes - 8.36 MBIn this episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting problem of the week, which is how to approach a teen who hates being asked questions. A great place to start is examining if you're asking the RIGHT questions — ones that will prompt a thought-provoking discussion. Mark shares a list of great conversation-starters for you to try with your teen! Don't miss today's show! If you have a pressing parenting question, send it in to Mark at markgregston.com
How to Have a Peaceful Christmas With Your Teens
December 22, 2022 08:00 - 14 minutes - 13.5 MBLet's face it, no matter how hard we may try as parents, Christmas with teenagers rarely ever looks like the beautiful Hallmark holiday we hope for. But you can still have a Christmas full of joy and peace no matter what! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why it's a good idea to take the pressure off yourself and your teens over the holidays, ways you can have a unique Christmas with your family and more! For more advice on reducing Christmas drama, download the ...
It's Never Too Early to Think About Legacy
December 21, 2022 08:00 - 18 minutes - 16.7 MBWhether you're a parent or grandparent, it's never too soon to begin considering the legacy you'll leave behind for your family when you're gone. And legacy is about so much more than just material items you'll hand down — it's about memories and relationships! In today's episode, Mark Gregston shares his thoughts on why legacy is so important and how you can work toward leaving a truly special one. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode! If you're a grandparent and want to learn more...
Teens and Depression: Behind the Mask
December 20, 2022 08:00 - 23 minutes - 22 MBSome of the teens who struggle the most with their mental health are the ones who seem the happiest on the outside. That's why it's so important to be vigilant for the tiny warning signs that a child is struggling. In this episode, Mark chats with some Heartlight teens, including Carson, who has always felt like the odd one out in his family and battles severe depression every day — but you'd never know it. Tune in for these powerful interviews! For more on how to help a teen in crisis,...
Don't Grow Weary of Doing Good
December 19, 2022 08:00 - 15 minutes - 14 MBWhen your teen is out of control, it can feel overwhelming for the entire family. But don't stop searching for answers! There is always hope to mend your relationship with your child. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share advice for parents who are at their wits' end dealing with their teen. Don't miss this encouraging discussion! For more on supporting and praying for your teen through whatever challenges they're facing, check out Mark's devotional, "Daily Hope For ...
Consequences Don't Have to Ruin the Relationship
December 16, 2022 08:00 - 7 minutes - 6.86 MBIn today's episode, Mark Gregston answers a question from some distraught parents whose son stole hundreds — possibly thousands — of dollars to spend on video games. In a situation like this, it's important to dig deeper and find out the WHY behind the behavior, but also determine appropriate consequences so it doesn't happen again. Tune in now for Mark's answer! To submit your own parenting question, visit markgregston.com
Reaching Your Teen's Heart When They've Hurt Yours
December 15, 2022 08:00 - 14 minutes - 12.9 MBPart of raising a teen is accepting that they will hurt you at times — whether it's by disobeying you, making poor decisions or choosing not to believe in the same things you do. But your teens need you to keep fighting for the relationship, even when you disagree. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how to approach your teen when they've hurt you and why it's important to pick your battles. For more practical advice and wisdom on raising teens, check out the ENGAG...
Every Parent Has a Story to Tell
December 14, 2022 08:00 - 27 minutes - 25.6 MBWhen your teen comes to you with questions about life, they're not looking for more facts and information, they're looking for REAL wisdom. Info can be found anywhere and shared by anyone, but as a parent, you have the ability to share insights your kids can actually use — and one of the best ways to share it is through stories. In this devotional episode, Mark Gregston explains why you should use a combination of heart and humor to share wisdom with your teens. Don't miss this great topic! ...
Finding a Fresh Start
December 13, 2022 08:00 - 26 minutes - 24.6 MBKids seek out drugs for various reasons, but whether it's to cope with pain at home or to fit in with a group of friends, drug use can kickstart a slew of other problems. Teens often view drugs as an escape, but in reality, they're a pitfall that's hard to get out of. In this episode, Mark Gregston talks to a couple of Heartlight teens who both did drugs but found that a fresh start at the boarding school was what they really needed to get their lives back on track. Listen in for these incre...
Are You Ready to Go From Lecturer to Coach?
December 12, 2022 08:00 - 13 minutes - 12.2 MBPractically every parent would agree that they wouldn't want to grow up in the culture that today's teens live in. With social media and the neverending growth of technology, it's a totally different world! In today's discussion, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about why you MUST switch from a teaching to a training model in order to help your teens learn to make good choices in today's turbulent world. Tune in now! For more tips on how to build a strong relationship with your tee...
Not Every Mistake Requires Punishment
December 09, 2022 08:00 - 6 minutes - 6.35 MBIn today's episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a family whose 15-year-old recently confessed to their parents about drinking for the first time. In times like these, it's important to take into account a teen's willingness to admit their mistakes — but help them make better choices in the future. Listen in for Mark's advice! Want to send in a parenting question? Visit markgregston.com
Teens Are Smoking More Pot Than Ever — But Why?
December 08, 2022 08:00 - 14 minutes - 33.6 MBAs more states legalize the use of recreational marijuana, it's also, unfortunately, becoming increasingly accessible to teens. And for many kids, smoking pot isn't just about looking cool or fitting in, it's a way to self-medicate their anxiety. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about WHY teens are seeking out weed, how you can help your kids find rest at home instead, and more! Tune in now for this timely topic! For more advice on creating a restful household, che...
Teens Are Smoking More Pot Than Ever — But Why?
December 08, 2022 08:00 - 14 minutes - 13.4 MBAs more states legalize the use of recreational marijuana, it's also, unfortunately, becoming increasingly accessible to teens. And for many kids, smoking pot isn't just about looking cool or fitting in, it's a way to self-medicate their anxiety. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about WHY teens are seeking out weed, how you can help your kids find rest at home instead, and more! Tune in now for this timely topic! For more advice on creating a restful household, che...
The Impact of Pain Shouldn't Be Ignored
December 07, 2022 08:00 - 20 minutes - 18.4 MBWhen you're in pain, whether it's physical or emotional, it has a way of changing the way you interact with and respond to the outside world. Pain can cloud your judgment... and teenagers often struggle mightily with this! In today's devotional, Mark Gregston shares why pain is important, both as a reason for your teen's behavior and as a tool God sometimes uses to mold us. Listen in for Mark's insights! If you're a mom seeking to parent your teen in a biblically-based way, check out "Pr...
When Teens Have to Own Up to Dishonesty
December 06, 2022 08:00 - 19 minutes - 17.4 MBIn today's episode, Mark Gregston sits down with two young ladies from Heartlight who both found themselves caught in a mess after lying to their parents about their activities. For 15-year-old Elizabeth, it was easier to lie to her adoptive parents than risk disappointing them and confronting deep wounds of abandonment from not having her biological parents in her life. Tune in now to hear these stories of transformation! For more on the Heartlight residential program, visit heartlight...
Eight Keys to Better Communication With Your Teen
December 05, 2022 08:00 - 11 minutes - 10.8 MBIn today's teen culture, it may seem like ALL of their communication takes place over texts, but don't lose hope. It's still possible to have meaningful discussions with your child — and they may enjoy it more than you think! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share eight tips that'll help you communicate more effectively with your teen. Listen in now for this great advice! Looking for more practical advice to help you parent during the turbulent teen years? Mark your cal...
Asking the Right Questions at the Right Time
December 02, 2022 08:00 - 29 minutes - 26.8 MBIn today's episode, Mark Gregston answers the most pressing parenting question of the week, which is all about ... questions! Do you know how to effectively ask your teen questions that will get them to open up about what's going on in their heart? Or are your questions just a way to insert your own opinions? Tune in to hear Mark's tips for how to ask your teen great questions — and get them to take an interest in you, too! Need Mark's advice? Send in your questions at markgregston.com
Single Parents: Holding the Line
December 01, 2022 08:00 - 12 minutes - 11.1 MBBeing a single mom or dad is one of the toughest roles out there, and if your teen is acting out, it's easy to feel totally overwhelmed! That's why it's so important for single parents to hold tight to the standards they've set for their household and find a support system. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share tips to help single parents and discuss how you can still have a close relationship with your teen even with limited time. Listen in now! Interested in learning ...
Steer Clear of Nagging and Lecturing
November 30, 2022 08:00 - 16 minutes - 15.1 MBIf you constantly nag or lecture your teens, they probably feel like you don't trust them or you believe they're incompetent. This is one of the quickest ways to dissolve your relationship with your kids! In this episode, Mark Gregston shares his insights, gathered from decades of working with teens, about why you should steer clear of nagging and lecturing. This is an important topic, so don't miss out! Mark's new book, "Daily Hope for Families," is full of devotionals tailored just for...
Finding That "Lightbulb" Moment
November 29, 2022 08:00 - 24 minutes - 22.7 MBIn many cases, teens have to hit rock bottom before they realize they have to deal with the big issues in their lives, whether it's addiction, insecurity or anything in between. In today's episode, Mark Gregston sits down with a couple of Heartlight teens who both had to accept that they needed help if they wanted to get their lives back on track. Listen in to hear their stories! If you want to learn how to pass wisdom and insight on to a teen grandchild in your life, then the new e-cour...
"I Can Do This On My Own, Mom!"
November 28, 2022 08:00 - 17 minutes - 16.4 MBWhen kids hit the middle of their teen years (or sometimes younger), you'll usually start to hear them say things like "I don't want your help," or "I wish I lived by myself." Often, parents interpret those statements as rude or rebellious — but look deeper! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the indicators that your teen is craving more independence and share why parents need to give kids more chances to be responsible. Tune in for this great talk! For more on rea...
"I Can Do This On My Own, Mom!"
November 28, 2022 08:00 - 17 minutes - 41 MBWhen kids hit the middle of their teen years (or sometimes younger), you'll usually start to hear them say things like "I don't want your help," or "I wish I lived by myself." Often, parents interpret those statements as rude or rebellious — but look deeper! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the indicators that your teen is craving more independence and share why parents need to give kids more chances to be responsible. Tune in for this great talk! For more on rea...
How Do You Support Your Teen During a Divorce?
November 25, 2022 08:00 - 4 minutes - 3.69 MBIn this episode, Mark Gregston shares his thoughts on the biggest parenting question of the week: How do you support a teen through the process of a high-conflict divorce? When parents split up, it can be really hard on a teenager, especially if they feel like they're losing a relationship with one of their parents. Listen in now for Mark's advice! Have a parenting problem you just can't solve? Ask Mark about it! Submit your question at markgregston.com
How Do You Support Your Teen During a Divorce?
November 25, 2022 08:00 - 4 minutes - 9.21 MBIn this episode, Mark Gregston shares his thoughts on the biggest parenting question of the week: How do you support a teen through the process of a high-conflict divorce? When parents split up, it can be really hard on a teenager, especially if they feel like they're losing a relationship with one of their parents. Listen in now for Mark's advice! Have a parenting problem you just can't solve? Ask Mark about it! Submit your question at markgregston.com
No Matter What, Keep Speaking Wisdom
November 24, 2022 08:00 - 11 minutes - 10.9 MBWhen your child becomes a teen, you can no longer make all their decisions for them — but you CAN ask them questions about what's going on in their heart and speak wisdom into their lives. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how you can effectively share wisdom and why you need to be patient if your teen doesn't accept it immediately. Tune in now! God's Word has a lot to say about parenting, and that's why Mark wrote his new book, "Daily Hope For Families." Order y...
Be the Listening Ear Your Child Needs
November 23, 2022 08:00 - 20 minutes - 19.2 MBToday's teens are DESPERATE for someone to listen to them — but all too often, their parents or grandparents shut them down with harsh or judgmental comments. Do you find yourself quickly telling your teen they're wrong when they talk to you? Or do you practice participatory listening? In today's devotional, Mark Gregston shares the importance of being a great listener for your teen and how to do it effectively. For more on this topic, check out Mark's article, "The Greatest Gift to Give...
When Teens Can't Make Decisions With a Clear Head
November 22, 2022 08:00 - 19 minutes - 18 MBIn today's episode, Mark Gregston chats with a couple of Heartlight teens who both struggled with drug use and felt like their lives were totally off track. For one young lady, her substance abuse escalated to the point that she was caught with drugs in her car and subsequently expelled from school. Tune in now to hear these stories of transformation! Looking for more info about the Heartlight residential program? Check out heartlightministries.org
No Pain, No Change
November 21, 2022 08:00 - 14 minutes - 12.8 MBFor most kids, the first 12 or 13 years of their lives are relatively pain-free, but things change when they enter middle and high school. They begin to experience more real hardships and pain — sometimes as a consequence of their own choices! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the difference between helping and rescuing your child, and why it's important to let them go through consequences. Tune in for this great discussion! For more on how to support your teen...
Stumbling Through Social Norms
November 18, 2022 08:00 - 7 minutes - 6.83 MBIn today's episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a couple who is trying to encourage their 13-year-old son to take on more responsibilities — especially when it comes to brushing his teeth without being nagged! At this age, kids often need to bump into some natural social consequences before they realize being responsible is in their best interest. Listen in now for Mark's advice! If YOU have a parenting question for Mark, we'd love to he...
Do You Lead a Grace-Based Home?
November 17, 2022 08:00 - 11 minutes - 10.7 MBIf your relationship with your teen consists of nothing but rules, chances are that your child will continue to pull away from you as they get older. However, combining proper consequences with GRACE toward your child can lead to a truly meaningful, engaged relationship. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why you need to communicate unconditional love to your teen and what it means to have a grace-based home. For more on how you can create healthy expectations ...
The Power of Practicing Introspection
November 16, 2022 08:00 - 16 minutes - 15.1 MBNo parent is perfect, and your past experiences with YOUR parents can have an impact on how you view the world and interact with your own kids. That's why it's so important to reflect on what lingering issues from your past might still be plaguing you today. In this devotional episode, Mark Gregston shares how he coped with his own past traumas and why you should embark on a journey of genuineness. For more on how you and your teen can form a deeper relationship, check out the free e-co...
When One Bad Choice Becomes a Pattern
November 15, 2022 08:00 - 21 minutes - 19.2 MBThe vast majority of teenagers will experiment with alcohol at least once during their high school years, and this experimentation can quickly turn into a downward spiral of bad decisions. In this week's interview with Heartlight teens, one young lady shares with Mark Gregston that she got sent to the boarding school after her drinking habit got so bad she experienced alcohol poisoning. Tune in now to hear how she's healing — both physically and emotionally! If you think your teen might ...
Keep Your Welcome Mat Out for Your Teens
November 14, 2022 08:00 - 15 minutes - 14.5 MBAs teens develop into adulthood, they'll inevitably take some wrong turns — and maybe get totally lost — along the way. If your teen makes poor choices and gets lost, don't write them off! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why it's important to ensure your teen knows that no matter what they do, they can always come home to your love and support. Tune in for more on this great topic! For more on helping teens find their way, check out Mark's article, "Teenagers Se...
Kick Back and Relax (With Your Teen!)
November 11, 2022 08:01 - 4 minutes - 4.31 MBIn this episode, Mark Gregston answers the top parenting question of the week, which comes from a single mom who's trying to figure out how to create more enjoyable times with her son. One of the best ways to build a lasting relationship with your child is to simply have fun together! Listen in now for Mark's advice! If you have a parenting question for Mark, we'd love to hear it! Send it in at markgregston.com
Changing Your Teen's Heart Through Connection
November 10, 2022 08:00 - 14 minutes - 12.8 MBToday's teens are constantly interacting with their friends through texting and social media, but that doesn't mean they are forming actual connections. In fact, many of our kids are lonely and desperate for real relationships! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share advice on how you can begin to build — or rebuild — a genuine, meaningful relationship with your teen. Tune in now! For more on the importance of forming a real connection with your kids, read Mark's article...