Parenting Today's Teens 311950

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 comionate 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 Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Loss can turn a teen’s world upside down — and sometimes, all that pain comes out in unexpected ways. On today’s show, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who share how the loss of their fathers shaped their choices, relationships and self-image. Both struggled to connect with their moms, acted out or withdrew, yet underneath it all was deep grief they didn’t know how to express. This episode explores how facing heartache — and learning to understand it — is the first step toward real healing. Listen in now! Interested in learning more about Heartlight? 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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mark Gregston, Courtney LeFleur and Wayne Shepherd explore the power of authenticity in parenting, and why it’s essential for building strong connections at home. As teens long for genuine relationships, the hosts challenge parents to let go of pretense and be real. By modeling authenticity, parents can foster deeper trust, stronger communication and healthier family dynamics.  Are you struggling with your teen? Our next Families in Crisis Conference is coming up July 24-26! Learn more at familycrisisretreat.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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston tackles some of the most pressing — and often tricky — questions parents are asking about their teenagers. He discusses how to navigate the shift in communication with increasingly independent 17- and 18-year-olds, as well as how to handle privacy and GPS tracking issues. Mark also dives into how to introduce godly sexuality to preteens, offering comionate, practical advice drawn from his years of experience. You'll hear insights on when to let consequences teach important life lessons and how to teens as they begin making their own choices.  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 Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On this episode, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney LaFleur debunk five common parenting myths that often mislead moms and dads during the teen years. They stress that teens don’t need perfect parents or best friends — they need relational, trustworthy guides who are willing to be vulnerable and adapt their approach. They encourage parents to remain teachable, relational and flexible as they raise their teens in a rapidly changing culture. If your family is struggling, see if Mark's ministry can help. Visit heartlightministries.org for more info.  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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Mark Gregston reflects on how today’s culture — especially among teens — is saturated with arguments as people fight to be heard, validated and valued. Drawing from Proverbs 17:28 and 2 Timothy 2, he urges parents to replace quarrels with comionate listening, emphasizing that not every disagreement needs to be voiced. Instead of criticizing your teen, he encourages building trust and waiting for an invitation to speak truth in love. Mark reminds us that genuine influence comes through relationship, not arguments. Choose love and grace over winning debates. Get Mark's newest devotional for your family by visiting 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Underneath teen rebellion and withdrawal, there’s often a deeper struggle for identity and a place to belong. In today's show, Mark talks with two young ladies from Heartlight, including Grace, who candidly opens up about the pain of abandonment and identity stemming from being adopted from China. She discusses how her journey through depression and self-isolation impacted her relationship with her parents. In these conversations, you'll hear the lessons both girls learned about empathy, love and being truly known. Do you long for more peace in your home? us in July for our next Families in Crisis Conference to learn practical tools that'll help you get there. Learn more at familycrisisretreat.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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney LaFleur explore the power of a sincere apology in strengthening parent-teen relationships. They encourage parents to model humility by saying “I’m sorry” when needed, showing their teens that mistakes are a normal part of life. A heartfelt apology can break down walls, foster trust and open the door to deeper connections.  To explore more resources Mark has designed to you as you raise your teen, please visit parentingtodaysteens.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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston tackles tough listener-submitted questions about raising teens in today’s culture. From discovering a child's vaping habit and managing sibling conflict to ing an adopted teen through promiscuity and responding to a daughter's mental health crisis, Mark offers practical wisdom framed by a relational approach. He addresses tough topics like setting boundaries in adolescent relationships, handling exposure to pornography, and finding the right balance between consequences and grace. Whether you're looking for tools to build trust, guidance on difficult conversations or simply reassurance that you're not alone, this episode is packed with honest insights to help you deepen your connection with your teen — no matter what season your family is in. 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 Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how today’s teens are growing up in an overwhelming and chaotic world, saturated with constant information, conflicting values, and social pressures that fuel anxiety and confusion. Mark emphasizes that teens deeply desire stability, security, and authentic relationships with their parents and grandparents, even if they don’t always show it. He urges parents to be present, listen well and offer calm, faith-rooted guidance — reminding them that they are a lifeline for their children in a stormy culture. Explore all of Mark's resources designed to help you as you raise your teens at parentingtodaysteens.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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this heartfelt episode, Mark Gregston reflects on his decades-long journey of working with teens and families, beginning with a single act of comion at age 19 that led to a lifetime of ministry. He shares a powerful story of reconciliation — after 40 years of silence — emphasizing the damage unresolved conflict can cause in relationships. Mark encourages listeners with a call to action: Don’t let unresolved issues steal time, connection or legacy — begin the healing process today. Do you have a question you would like Mark to answer? Ask him at 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Every parent wants the best for their teen, but what happens when the pressure to be perfect becomes too much to bear? In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young men from Heartlight who share their personal journeys through anxiety, depression and the crushing weight of high expectations. Both teens describe how striving to meet others’ standards led them to hide their struggles and withdraw into harmful behaviors. Tune in for a powerful look at the hidden battle many teens face, and discover how comion can make all the difference.  Is Heartlight the right answer for your struggling teen? Head to heartlightministries.org 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney LaFleur explore adoption as one of the greatest acts of love and sacrifice a family can make. Drawing from conversations with adopted teens and their families, they share insights that help parents understand the unique challenges these children face. They emphasize the need for parents to adapt their approach as their child grows and enters new developmental stages. In closing, they share some thoughtful questions to help parents navigate identity issues their adopted child may wrestle with over time. As Mark shared today, "Marriage Simplified" — a digital guide from Christian Parenting, which includes Mark's best marriage advice — is available at christianparenting.org/marriagesimplifiedguide 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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives into some of the most pressing issues facing parents of teenagers — from navigating adoption challenges and discussing sexuality, to setting boundaries with teens exploring relationships. He also addresses managing teen mental health and substance use, as well as ing those facing bullying and isolation. Mark offers heartfelt advice drawn from years of experience, reminding listeners of the importance of maintaining strong relationships, setting healthy boundaries and seeking community when needed. Whether you're struggling to connect with a withdrawn teen, worried about your child's choices or searching for faith-based guidance in complex situations, this episode is packed with practical insights for every parent. 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 Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into a question every parent wrestles with: What’s really behind my teen’s bad behavior? They remind parents that a teen’s identity is not defined by their actions — and that there’s always more beneath the surface. From peer pressure and unresolved emotions to complex family dynamics, Mark and Wayne explore the deeper influences that shape teen behavior. You’ll walk away with practical tools and fresh perspective to respond with wisdom, empathy and grace. Don’t miss these valuable insights! Looking for a meaningful gift this spring? Check out our curated Gift Guide for Moms, Dads and Grads at christianparenting.org/giftguide! 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mark Gregston as he reflects on Proverbs 22:6, offering heartfelt reminders for parents raising teens today. He encourages parents to train their children in every area of life, focusing on building independence rather than dependence. Mark emphasizes that true success comes when teens are prepared to make wise decisions on their own. He highlights the need for balance between providing and preparing teens for the real world. Is your teen struggling? us for our next Families in Crisis Conference coming up in July! Visit familycrisisretreat.com for more details.  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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Every parent hopes their teen feels loved and valued — but what happens when a teen’s pain goes unnoticed or unaddressed? In today's show, we reshare a couple of interviews that exemplify how invisible hurts can weigh on teens. For Heather, Heartlight provided the space to work on herself without the pressure of keeping up appearances. She shares her experiences navigating the pain of her parents’ divorce and struggling with self-worth, ultimately learning to accept herself and seek honest connections with her family. For more info on 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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the challenging seasons when your teen’s behavior feels overwhelming. They explore how parents can respond well to both the everyday frustrations and the bigger, life-altering moments that come with raising teens. Together, they offer insights on typical teenage behavior and how to know when it may be time to seek professional help. Listen in as they talk to Jackson, a Heartlight teen, about his journey to a better relationship with his parents. To find out more about Heartlight Ministries and to see if we can help your struggling teen, 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy