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PODCAST

Parenting Today"s Teens

The Parenting Today's Teens Podcast is a daily resource for parents raising teenagers. Hosted by Mark Gregston, a renowned parenting expert with over 45 years of experience, this podcast provides practical, expert advice for navigating the challenges of parenting teens. Whether you're struggling with defiance, emotional issues, or just want to understand your teen better, Mark’s guidance is raw, real, and always hopeful.Some episodes are co-hosted by Courtney LaFleur, LPC (Licensed

kids & family parenting

All Episodes

28:27

I Mustache Mark a Question: Identity, Influence and...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/08/01

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston discusses real-world issues that parents are facing with their teens today. He covers everything from guiding teens through questions of gender identity and same-sex attraction to helping them with struggles like dyslexia, anxiety and anger, navigating the music they listen to, and even tackling tricky situations like an 18-year-old dating a much older partner. With a firm belief that strong, healthy relationships are the key to weathering any parenting storm, Mark

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26:17

What’s Driving Today’s Teen Radicalization?

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/31

In this eye-opening episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into why so many teens today are passionately embracing social or political causes. While some are motivated by strong convictions, many are simply searching — for identity, belonging, independence or even just a way to stand out. Mark shares practical, heartfelt advice for parents facing this challenge: stay calm, keep the lines of communication open, avoid jumping to judgment and lead with love while setting clear

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20:08

Raising Responsible Teens

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/30

Join Mark Gregston for a devotional as he reflects on Galatians 6:5, emphasizing the importance of teaching teens to carry their own responsibilities rather than parents doing everything for them. He shares the story of a young woman named Rachel, whose immaturity and lack of real-world readiness stemmed from a father who overprotected and overprovided. Mark urges parents to gradually transfer responsibility, helping teens build good character while preparing them for independence and real-life

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21:10

Teen Stories: The Masks We Wear

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/29

Almost every parent knows the worry that comes when a teen starts to change — pulling away, making risky choices or hiding behind a version of themselves that’s hard to recognize. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who share honestly about how desperately they wanted to fit in, and what it cost them. Each tells their story of putting on a mask to please friends, avoid disappointing their parents or simply escape the pressure of being “the good kid.” Now, they’re learning

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24:55

Making the Most of Summertime with Your Teen

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/28

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd encourage parents to make the most of summer with their teens by creating intentional and meaningful experiences. They share five tips for parents to try out, and Mark stresses the importance of balancing productivity with rest while building lifelong memories through shared activities. The goal is to use summer as a valuable season for connection, growth and joy within the family.If you need help with your struggling teen, our residential counseling

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26:36

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screen Time Struggles

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/25

In today’s episode, Mark tackles one of the biggest challenges modern parents face: navigating screen time, smartphones and developing healthy boundaries with technology. Responding to a heartfelt question from a mom of three boys, Mark shares thoughtful advice on how parents can encourage responsibility, set effective house rules around technology and move their teens from external controls to developing crucial internal boundaries. From the right age to hand over that first phone, to making sure

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26:14

A Mental Health Checkup for Teens

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/24

Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how many teens today silently struggle with anxiety, depression and loneliness, often due to overwhelming cultural pressures and a lack of meaningful connection. Mark urges parents to recognize the signs — withdrawal, irritability or substance use — and not dismiss them as just a “phase.” He emphasizes the importance of creating a peaceful home environment, engaging in regular conversations and being an active, empathetic presence in a teen’s life. When

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20:53

The Power of Listening

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/23

Join Mark Gregston as he shares his heart with parents and grandparents. Today, Mark emphasizes that listening is one of the most powerful tools adults can use to build strong relationships with teens. He encourages us to set aside judgment, withhold immediate correction and engage in active, empathetic listening to truly understand a child’s heart. When teens feel heard, they’re more likely to open up and less likely to act out for attention. He reminds us that meaningful connection starts by

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22:21

Teen Stories: What Really Drives Rebellion

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/22

Every teen has a story behind the choices they make — sometimes, it's not about simple rebellion, but about a deeper search for belonging and understanding. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with two teens whose journeys might sound familiar to many parents. For Andrew, who came to Heartlight from Toronto, frequent moves and underlying anger led him toward rebellion and drug use. He shares honestly about how being at Heartlight is helping him discover healthier ways to cope and communicate,

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26:34

Why Do Teens Act Recklessly?

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/21

Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they discuss how teens often act recklessly or impulsively due to underlying emotional needs such as curiosity, a desire to escape or low self-worth. Mark emphasizes that such behavior is a visible sign of invisible struggles in a teen’s heart. Parents should seek to understand the root causes by asking questions and staying engaged, rather than just trying to control behavior. Building trust, setting boundaries and focusing on heart transformation, not just

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36:47

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screentime, Structure and...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/18

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses some of the most pressing questions sent in by parents just like you. From managing screen time addiction and understanding the difference between boundaries and rules, to helping teens open up and dealing with challenging behaviors in single-parent households, Mark draws from decades of experience to deliver practical, heartfelt advice. He addresses issues like spiritual disconnect, friendships with LGBTQ+ peers and when to step back with adult children

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26:57

Phones, Teens & Boundaries: How to Stay Connected...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/17

Is your teen glued to their phone? You’re not alone. In this episode, Mark Gregston, Courtney LaFleur and Wayne Shepherd dive into the tricky world of teen phone use. They explore how smartphones impact relationships, focus and family dynamics — and what you can do about it. Discover practical tips on setting healthy, age-appropriate boundaries, fostering trust and encouraging more face-to-face connections. Feeling overwhelmed? Join Mark in Texas from July 24–27 for the Families in Crisis Conference

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13:18

Are We Good Enough?

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/16

Today, Mark Gregston reminds parents of their powerful role in affirming a child’s worth in a world flooded with self-help messages that often imply we’re not enough. Kids are longing for validation — not just recognition — and parents must take intentional time to invest in their children’s hearts. Through consistent love, listening and presence, parents can communicate the unshakable truth that their kids are enough just as they are. This message, rooted in God’s grace and unconditional love, can

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21:30

Teen Stories: Taking a Step Back

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/15

When a teen is really struggling, it can sometimes be hard for them to see the situation clearly — whether it's poor choices they're making or why their parents are concerned. But taking a step back from the situation can make all the difference. Today, Mark talks with two teens who open up about what led them down difficult paths. Both teens reveal the ways that broken communication at home, unmet emotional needs and risky decisions shaped their journeys. At Heartlight, they're

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26:58

Supporting Your Teen with ADHD

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/14

In this episode, Mark Gregston, Courtney Lafleur and Wayne Shepherd explore how parents can better support teens with ADHD by adjusting expectations and parenting styles. They highlight the value of shorter conversations, academic flexibility and activities that match the teen's energy. While ADHD presents challenges, it can also bring strengths like creativity and verbal skills. Parents are encouraged to affirm these traits and avoid shame-based approaches.Join Mark in Texas at our next

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27:33

I Mustache Mark a Question: Culture, Connection and...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/11

In this episode, Mark Gregston dives into some of the most pressing concerns parents face — from navigating your teen’s reluctance to attend church to dealing with monitoring apps for their phones. He also addresses communication breakdowns and the heartbreaking reality of teen mental health and suicide. Mark offers practical advice on building trust, fostering open conversations and giving your teen the responsibility they crave, all while maintaining strong family connections. Whether you’re

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25:15

The Silent Struggle — Your Teen And Divorce

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/10

In this episode, Mark Gregston, Courtney LaFleur and Wayne Shepherd explore how divorce deeply impacts teens, often in ways parents don’t fully realize. Teens may internalize blame and struggle with trust, especially when parents speak poorly of each other or set conflicting rules. The three urge divorced parents to put aside personal hurt, communicate respectfully, maintain consistency and be present in their teen’s life. Ultimately, they emphasize seeing divorce from the teen’s perspective and

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14:06

Reflecting on a Health Journey

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/09

Today, Mark Gregston talks about updates on his health after a near-drowning incident revealed a chronic lung infection and led to a kidney transplant due to polycystic kidney disease. Thanks to his son Adam, who was a donor match, Mark received a new kidney and is recovering well despite some complications, including a rare allergic reaction. He reflects on the challenges with gratitude, humor, and a renewed perspective on life and ministry.Do you have a question you would like to ask Mark? Visit

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18:31

Teen Stories: Running From Reality

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/08

Behind every “reckless” or withdrawn teen is a journey they’re struggling to navigate. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who open up about the hidden battles fueling their choices. One young man, Will, shares how his struggle with depression drove him towards rebellion and poor decisions, impacting his home life and especially his bond with his younger sister. Depression and anxiety were at the heart of his behavior — not a desire to hurt others, but a desperate

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24:18

How Loss Can Change a Teen

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/07/07

In this episode, Mark Gregston, Courtney Lafleur and Wayne Shepherd discuss how teens experience loss — not just through death, but also through breakups, rejection and life changes. The three stress the importance of creating a safe space for teens to express their grief without rushing to fix it or offer easy answers. Grief is personal and often confusing, so being present and listening matters more than finding the right words. Ultimately, loss can shape us, and God remains present even when we

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