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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

25:56

I Mustache Mark a Question: Disrespect, Drug Issues...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/27

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers your most pressing questions, tackling real-life dilemmas faced by parents just like you. From handling a disrespectful 19-year-old still living at home, to guiding a 16-year-old struggling with loneliness and over-reliance on video games, Mark offers practical advice grounded in his decades of experience. You'll also hear insights on managing a 20-year-old potentially involved in drug activity, navigating the complex emotions surrounding a

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13:02

Craving Realness: Why Teens Need Authenticity

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/26

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the impact of a world driven by appearances and superficiality on today’s teens. They discuss how kids crave genuine connections, yet often struggle to find them in a society full of facades. Mark and Wayne challenge parents to open up about their own struggles and hopes, rather than presenting a perfect, unrelatable image. Tune in now for practical advice on how to build a deeper, more genuine relationship with your teen!To see our full

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19:23

Reflect, Renew and Transform Your Family

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/25

Merry Christmas! In today’s episode, Mark Gregston shares a personal devotion, using scripture to inspire families as they prepare for the new year. He encourages reflection on the past to recognize obstacles and a forward-looking vision to identify what you truly want. Through thought-provoking questions and practical suggestions, Mark offers ideas to help you start conversations that could lead to transformative change within your family. Check it out!For Mark's newest daily devotional, visit

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24:13

Teen Stories: Healing Takes Time

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/24

Every teen's journey at Heartlight looks different — and everyone learns, heals and grows at their own pace. In today's show, Mark talks with two young men in the program, including Jack, who's been at Heartlight for 16 months. He reflects on his time there, and shares how he was initially skeptical, but gradually shed these misconceptions. Eventually, he arrived at a place of growth and gratitude, realizing that his parents' actions were driven by care and responsibility rather than

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13:27

The Reality of Teen Drug Use

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/23

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the critical issue of teen drug use, offering insights on why some teens turn to substances and reminding parents that no one is immune to this challenge. They highlight key signs to watch for and emphasize the importance of NOT assuming it could never happen to your child. With compassion and practical advice, they guide parents on how to respond effectively if they discover their teen is using drugs, providing steps for both prevention

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33:13

I Mustache Mark a Question: Are You Hindering Your...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/20

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives into some of the most pressing questions sent in by listeners. He discusses the pitfalls of performance-based relationships and how conditional love can hinder your teen's growth. He also explores the importance of encouraging independence by letting teens face natural consequences while providing support when needed. From common concerns like curfews and phone use to your child's transition to college life, fostering a respectful and understanding

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17:00

Teaching Your Teen the Art of Struggling Well

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/19

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore why teaching teens to navigate struggles effectively is essential. While it’s natural for parents to want to shield their kids from hardship, they explain how facing challenges builds resilience and character. With practical advice, they share the do’s and don’ts of guiding teens through tough times, encouraging parents to model healthy responses to adversity and trust that God’s presence will shine through even the hardest moments.If your

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10:38

The Gift of Perspective: A Christmas Reflection

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/18

In this heartfelt episode, Mark Gregston opens up about the near tragedies he faced this year and the renewed gratitude they inspired in his life. Through these challenges, Mark discovered unexpected blessings that make Christmas feel especially meaningful. He invites us all to pause during this holiday season and reflect on the hidden gifts in our own lives, even amid difficult circumstances.Give your family the gift of daily hope! Check out Mark's devotional, Daily Hope for Families, at

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23:16

Teen Stories: Facing Childhood Trauma

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/17

Trauma experienced in childhood has the potential to impact an individual's entire life — which is why it's so crucial to support a teen who's facing a painful past. In today's show, Mark talks with two teens from Heartlight, including one of our youngest residents, who opens up about his tumultuous childhood. It was marked by intense anger and traumatic events, including the murder of his biological mother. Despite it all, he's learning to communicate better and manage his

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16:31

How to Raise Resilient Teens: Essential Parenting Skills

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/16

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the essential skills every parent needs to raise resilient teens. They discuss setting clear, non-negotiable household rules, giving teens the space to learn from their mistakes, and maintaining flexibility in your parenting approach. Mark and Wayne also highlight the power of unconditional love and open communication, sharing practical tips you can use today to create a supportive and nurturing home environment for your teen.To learn more

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30:43

I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries, Bullying and...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/13

In this episode, Mark Gregston addresses real-life parenting dilemmas, including managing phone restrictions and substance use. He also discusses confronting identity issues shaped by societal norms and supporting kids through the highs and lows of high school relationships. With practical advice on setting boundaries, transitioning from teaching to training, and supporting teens through bullying and ADHD-related challenges, Mark provides thoughtful guidance to help parents lead with confidence

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15:29

When Teens Challenge Your Values: A Parent’s Guide

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/12

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore how parents can respond thoughtfully when teens push against their values, reframing these moments as opportunities for growth. They share practical steps for building strong relationships, approaching challenges with hope and trusting God’s guidance. With reassurance that truth will prevail, Mark also answers a listener’s question, offering real-world examples of navigating these pivotal moments with care.Learn more about Heartlight

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25:01

The Power of Intentional Time with Your Teen

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/11

In this episode, Mark Gregston shares why consistent, one-on-one time with your teen is crucial. These moments foster trust, improve communication and create a safe space for them to open up. Mark offers practical strategies, "rules of engagement" and four key insights to help you make the most of this time — free from opinions, criticism or unsolicited advice. Learn how to build a stronger, more meaningful relationship with your teen.For more, check out Mark's family devotional bundle

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25:06

Teen Stories: Cracks in the Armor

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/10

It's hard to ask for help at any age. Sometimes, it seems easier to just put on a brave face and keep others at arm's length — but as the teens in today's episode share, that only hurts more in the long run. Today, Mark and Courtney talk with two young ladies at Heartlight who reflect on their family conflicts and struggles with substance use. Ryan opens up about the pain of unresolved trauma and the facade of perfection she maintained. Her journey shows the courage it takes to confront

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14:21

The Danger of Doing Too Much for Your Kids

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/09

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why helping kids develop independence is essential — and how doing too much for them can backfire. When parents constantly step in, it can foster a self-centered mindset, where kids expect others to handle everything for them. Mark and Wayne explore how well-meaning provision can unintentionally become enabling, stifling growth and resilience. Through relatable examples, they offer practical strategies to empower your children, encourage

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20:15

I Mustache Mark a Question: Managing Mental Health

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/06

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston discusses some of the most pressing questions from parents just like you. He dives into a range of topics, including how to handle a 17-year-old son with high-functioning autism and ADHD who is struggling with alcohol use, understanding when it’s time to involve psychiatry for a child displaying disruptive behavior and strategies to support a depressed teen who refuses counseling. Mark also discusses ways to help a 25-year-old daughter dealing with severe depression

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17:28

The Harm of Pressuring Teens to Be Perfect

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/05

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the pitfalls of expecting perfection from teens. They discuss how holding teens to impossible standards can damage their mental and emotional health, and offer practical strategies for parents to foster a healthy, grace-filled environment. Discover how to celebrate progress over perfection and nurture a thriving relationship with your teen — tune in now!To purchase Mark’s devotional for families, visit

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16:09

Relationship First: Unlocking the Secret to Effective...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/04

In today’s episode, Mark explores how strong relationships are key to effective parenting. He shares how modeling God’s love provides teens with guidance and highlights the importance of connection and trust. Speaking to parents and grandparents, Mark discusses their distinct but vital roles and the risks of neglecting relational bonds during formative years.For more advice from Mark on strengthening your relationship with your teen, ask him a question at markgregston.com. Parenting Today's

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24:55

Teen Stories: Breaking the Cycle of Chaos

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/03

When you grow up with trauma or in a home full of conflict, that sense of chaos and turbulence can begin to feel like the norm. Before developing healthier coping skills, some teens will seek out chaos in order to deal with their struggles. In today's show, Mark sits down with two teens who reflect on why they came to Heartlight. Parker shares his struggle with drug use, dropping out of high school and confronting traumatic experiences, revealing how he tried to present a perfect image while

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15:24

Nurturing Leadership in Your Teen

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2024/12/02

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into practical ways to cultivate leadership skills in teenagers. Mark outlines five key strategies to help teens grow through responsibility and maturity, offering age-appropriate ways to empower them. The conversation highlights the essential traits of a true teen leader and they respond to a heartfelt listener letter, sharing actionable advice for a mom looking to guide her teen in becoming a leader.To learn more about Heartlight Ministries,

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