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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

23:42

Teen Depression and Its Consequences

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/04/10

Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about depression among adolescents and how it is rising at an alarming rate, with many teens experiencing major depressive disorders and persistent sadness or hopelessness. Suicide rates have increased and many families struggle to recognize the signs, which can range from mood changes and social withdrawal to risky behaviors and eating disorders. Parents are encouraged to maintain open communication, take their teen’s feelings seriously and seek professional

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11:37

Trusting God Through Life’s Hardships

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/04/09

Mark Gregston shares his story of facing rejection and loss after being fired from a ministry 36 years ago. Despite the pain and confusion, he reflects on how God's presence remained constant and how hardships shaped his faith. Mark encourages us to trust God through life's struggles — even when the purpose isn’t clear — believing that He works all things for good.Visit parentingtodaysteens.org/shop to shop Mark's books written to help guide you as you raise your teen.Parenting

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20:24

Teen Stories: Rebuilding Broken Connections

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/04/08

In a world where communication often falls short, many teens find themselves craving meaningful connections that feel elusive. In today's episode, Mark sits down with two teens who share their journeys from fractured family relationships and troubled pasts, rooted in miscommunication and unmet emotional needs, towards a path of healing. One young lady opens up about how an emotional disconnect with her father led her to search for validation and understanding in different places. Tune in now to

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24:29

Does Your Teen Smile Anymore?

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/04/07

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of paying attention to a teenager's smile as an indicator of emotional well-being. The two emphasize that when a teen stops smiling, it often signals underlying issues that parents should not ignore. Mark advises parents to approach their teens with empathy and understanding, acknowledging their own role in the problem if necessary. He encourages open conversations in neutral settings, offering support rather than judgment

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13:03

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screentime, Social Media...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/04/04

It's normal for teens to want to connect, especially with the rise of social media — but how do we balance connection and boundaries? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives into the challenges of parenting in the digital age. He discusses how teens naturally crave connection and how technology has shifted their communication style away from face-to-face interactions. Mark emphasizes the need for parents to set appropriate boundaries with social media, while maintaining a strong, affirming

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23:55

Motivating Your Unmotivated Teen

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/04/03

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the challenges of motivating teens who seem to have lost hope. Mark explains that a lack of motivation can stem from issues like depression or feeling overwhelmed. He stresses that shaming teens isn't the answer and encourages parents to identify the root causes and support teens in finding a way forward.Visit parentingtodaysteens.org for more resources and advice from Mark as you raise your teens. Parenting Today's Teens is a part of

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19:20

Making Memories Before You Lose Yours

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/04/02

In today's heartfelt episode, Mark draws wisdom from 2 Peter to encourage parents and grandparents to create lasting memories with their families. He emphasizes the importance of not waiting until it's too late to invest in the next generation. Mark reminds listeners that a true legacy is not just about what you leave behind, but the meaningful moments and memories you share along the way.For Mark's book on leaving a legacy for the teens in your family, visit:

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20:04

Teen Stories: Finding Hope in the Darkness

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/04/01

Trauma — and the sense of loneliness that often follows — can leave teens feeling hopeless about their futures. That hopelessness can lead to some dark places, but finding help and support makes all the difference. Today, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who reflect on their stories. From grappling with depression and substance abuse to confronting family challenges, Hayden shares the heartache of losing a brother and dealing with his parents' divorce. Meanwhile, Tiller opens up about

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24:16

Your Teen in a World of Alcohol and Marijuana

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/31

Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how easy it is for teens to access alcohol and marijuana today, and why they may engage in these behaviors. They remind parents that no teen is immune to exposure. Mark stresses the importance of creating a supportive home environment that meets teens’ needs in healthy ways, offering advice for parents and grandparents. He also provides guidance for those whose teens are already involved with substances, including when to seek professional help.Visit

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33:58

I Mustache Mark a Question: Addressing Anxiety,...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/28

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers listener-submitted questions from parents navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. From technology use and teen relationships to anxiety and personal expressions like dressing as a 'furry,' Mark offers thoughtful, biblically grounded advice. He also discusses how to maintain strong relationships with your children and the importance of staying engaged in their lives, while emphasizing that good parenting is rooted in fostering solid

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23:44

Reconnecting the Disconnected Relationships at Home

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/27

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the challenges of parent-teen disconnection and the importance of restoring relationships. They discuss how negativity, lack of quality time and excessive phone use contribute to disengagement. By setting boundaries, creating a positive home environment and actively listening, parents can rebuild trust. For more advice from Mark and to see all the resources he offers to support you as you parent your teen, visit

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16:37

A Journey to Genuineness

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/26

Join Mark as he shares his journey of founding Heartlight after unexpected job losses left him feeling lost. Through reflection, he recognized personal shortcomings that shaped him into a more authentic leader. He challenges parents to confront their own struggles rather than just focusing on their child’s behavior. Mark emphasizes that hardships, though painful, can lead to growth, authenticity and deeper connections.See if Mark's ministry, Heartlight, can help you and your struggling teen by

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20:59

Teen Stories: Finding Clarity Through Struggle

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/25

An unfortunate reality is that many teens today turn to harmful behaviors as coping mechanisms for their deeper struggles. So, it's more important than ever that parents support their teens when they're walking through a tough time. Today, Mark sits down with two more teens from Heartlight who share their stories of hardship and growth, addressing challenges such as family dynamics, addiction and self-acceptance. Kate, adopted from Russia, opens up about her early struggles with self-harm

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16:39

Be Intentional This Spring Break

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/24

Does your teen get time to truly rest over spring break? Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd emphasize that rest is not laziness, and kids need time to refresh and reset from their busy routines. They encourage parents to be intentional about how they spend this time, focusing on connection, open conversations and understanding their teen’s needs rather than simply filling the schedule. Ultimately, spring break can be an opportunity to strengthen relationships and create a more restful,

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25:54

I Mustache Mark a Question: Church Changes, Digital...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/21

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives into real questions from parents and grandparents just like you. From dating non-believers and navigating church changes to setting tech boundaries and discussing sexual identity, Mark offers practical wisdom to strengthen your bond with your teens. Tune in for honest advice and hope-filled guidance to help you thrive through every season of parenting!Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.comParenting Today's Teens is a part of the

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23:28

Why You Shouldn't Always Rescue Your Teen

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/20

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the role of pain as a powerful motivator in a teen's development. They emphasize the importance of allowing young people to experience natural consequences rather than rescuing them from every hardship. Through personal stories and real-life examples, they highlight how overprotection can hinder growth, while strategic parental guidance can foster responsibility. They also explore the balance between allowing beneficial struggles and

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17:15

Is Conflict Avoidance Hurting Your Relationships?

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/19

Join Mark Gregston as he reflects on how his generation’s tendency to avoid conflict led to broken relationships and a generation of children who fear abandonment. He emphasizes that true peace is not the absence of struggle but the presence of hope, encouraging parents to face challenges head-on. Through personal experiences with grieving families and troubled teens, he reassures parents that they can endure difficulties, trusting that God will walk with them. He urges parents to trust in God's

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21:49

Teen Stories: Embracing Real Change

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/18

Typically, change in a family doesn't happen overnight — it takes humility and a willingness on everyone's part to learn how to do things differently. Today, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who have both been on the show before and are nearly ready to graduate. Eli shares why he used to struggle with defiance, and how his time at Heartlight has helped him develop a deeper understanding and improved communication with his parents, especially in the wake of their divorce. Tune in

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24:07

Your Authoritative Parenting Style Doesn’t Work

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/17

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explain why authoritarian parenting no longer works, as kids today are more skeptical of authority. Instead of demanding obedience, parents should build relationships, avoid perfectionism and be less judgmental. To parent effectively, you need to create open lines of communication while addressing issues with love and genuine concern. A supportive environment — one that still maintains boundaries — will help guide children down a healthy path. Join

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28:17

I Mustache Mark a Question: Vaping, Drinking and...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2025/03/14

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston discusses a variety of difficult scenarios that parents like you are navigating with their teens. From adoption-related challenges and teenage substance use to complex family dynamics in blended families, Mark offers profound insights and guidance. No matter the challenge, one truth remains: Teens are wired for connection, belonging and a strong sense of identity. Tune in for insights that will equip you to meet your teen’s deepest needs with understanding and

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