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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

35:59

I Mustache Mark a Question: Handling Teen Drama and...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/04/10

In this Q&A episode, Mark dives into more pressing questions from parents grappling with the realities of raising teens today. From concerns about vaping, toxic relationships and sibling conflicts to heavy issues like depression and adoption struggles, Mark provides practical advice rooted in experience. He emphasizes the importance of relationship-building, setting respectful boundaries and fostering open conversations — all while reminding parents not to take themselves too seriously. Whether

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27:28

Searching for Connection: Why Your Teen Turns to Drugs

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/04/09

If you’ve ever wondered why some teens turn to risky behaviors, there’s usually a story beneath the surface. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with Jack, a Heartlight resident who shares his journey through family trauma, isolation and struggles with substance use. Though Jack’s path has been challenging, the common thread is his search for belonging and meaningful relationships. Today, he's working to heal his relationship with his mom and learning the value of opening up in a safe community

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19:34

The Power of Influence: Overcoming Negativity

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/04/08

What shapes a teen’s path through life? So often, it’s the quiet influence of people who stand by them, offering wisdom, encouragement and an open ear. In today’s episode, Mark shares personal stories about the adults who made a difference in his life and reflects on how their positive influence helped him discover purpose and overcome negativity. Drawing from years of experience and heartfelt conversations, Mark reveals the impact of investing in small moments and building trust that lasts. If

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25:20

Teen Stories: When You Don't Feel Worthy

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/04/07

Risky behavior is often more than just "acting out." For many teens, it’s a desperate attempt to fill an inner void or prove themselves to their peers. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young men from Heartlight who share their journeys through confusion, addiction and broken trust. They reveal how struggles with perfectionism and feeling "not enough" led them toward unhealthy choices, and how their time at Heartlight helped them confront the real roots of their pain. Tune

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27:14

Addressing the Fear Factor

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/04/06

Many teens today carry invisible burdens of fear and anxiety — sometimes not even fully understanding where those feelings come from. On this episode, Mark sits down with Abby, a Heartlight resident, who candidly shares how growing up in a community plagued by danger and uncertainty shaped her outlook on life. As she talks about overcoming trauma, anxiety and the expectations placed on her by those she loves most, Abby reveals how addressing these fears with the right support has brought healing and

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23:59

I Mustache Mark a Question: Setting Rules, Seeking...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/04/03

Every teen has a deep need to belong — and sometimes that longing drives them to choices and behaviors that leave parents frustrated and confused. In today's Q&A episode, Mark addresses questions about teens who don’t seem to learn from consequences, navigating tough cell phone rules and how to cultivate calmness even when parents' buttons are pushed. With practical wisdom and a compassionate approach, this episode equips parents and grandparents with tools and perspective shifts to

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16:15

Shut Your Mouth, Open Your Ears

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/04/02

In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss one of the most overlooked parenting tools: listening. They explore why teens often tune out when parents talk too much, how today’s digital world has transformed family communication and why creating a listening atmosphere is more crucial than ever. Mark shares practical advice on valuing your teen’s heart over short-term corrections, the importance of timing and simple shifts you can make to invite your teen into meaningful conversation. Don’t miss this

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18:52

Understanding the ‘Why’ Behind Teen Outbursts

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/04/01

Every parent is bound to face a moment when their teen’s anger seems to explode out of nowhere. But as Mark explains in today’s episode, there’s always more beneath the surface. Whether it’s a struggle for control, a response to feeling judged or just sheer frustration from not getting what they want, teens’ anger is almost always tied to deeper needs and hurts. In this episode, Mark unpacks practical ways for parents to dig beneath the anger with empathy and wisdom — helping teens open up instead

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23:01

Teen Stories: Finding Yourself Again

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/31

What happens when your life starts to spiral and you lose sight of who you are? For many teens, struggles with identity, relationships and loss can lead them down difficult paths. In today's show, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who open up about feeling lost and disconnected — from themselves and from those they love. For Tiller, losing her sense of purpose led to addiction and a broken relationship with her mom. Both are on a journey of healing, self-discovery and rebuilding their

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15:47

Rescuing or Preparing: Are You Robbing Your Teen?

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/30

In this episode, Mark and Wayne tackle the hard truth of “rescuing” teens from life’s painful moments and why this well-intentioned instinct can actually do more harm than good. Through real-life examples and candid discussion, they explore how shielding teens from consequences prevents crucial learning and growth. Listeners will hear practical wisdom on allowing kids to face challenges, holding compassionate relationships during tough times, and knowing when it’s time for parents — and grandparents

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22:42

I Mustache Mark a Question: Setting Boundaries With...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/27

Does any of this sound familiar? Your college-age daughter wants to move in with her boyfriend against your wishes. Your son fights you on doing his chores and threatens to run away. Your teen is using their phone inappropriately. In this episode, Mark breaks down these real scenarios sent in by listeners and gives practical advice on dealing with disrespect, entitlement and mental health struggles. Whether you’re grappling with technology issues, defiance or emotional challenges in your family,

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29:09

9 Things Boomers Do to Drive Away Their Children &...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/26

It’s easy to fall into the trap of criticizing “kids these days.” But how you view the younger generation will shape the kind of relationship you have with them. In this episode, Mark and Wayne are joined by Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur to talk about how parents and grandparents can move beyond criticism and toward meaningful connection with teens. Instead of lectures and assumptions, they encourage sharing stories, asking questions and learning about the world teens are growing up in

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25:46

When Your Child's Choices Hurt

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/25

In this episode, Mark shares a deeply personal devotional about the challenges parents face when their teens make decisions that go against family values or wound their hearts. Mark explores how parents can maintain meaningful relationships with their children even amid conflict, disappointment and cultural changes. He emphasizes the importance of listening, asking thoughtful questions and loving unconditionally, rather than leading with criticism or cutting off connection. If you’re navigating

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27:31

Teen Stories: Looking For Answers

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/24

Most struggling teens hold a story inside their hearts: a story of searching, hurt and hope. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who open up about their personal battles with loneliness, depression and not feeling “good enough.” Both teens carried the weight of fractured relationships and unmet needs — one longing for a father’s involvement, the other wrestling with feelings of isolation and the pain of not being seen. Now, at Heartlight, they’re learning that true belonging

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28:55

Decisions That Shape Generations

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/23

In this episode, Mark and Wayne talk about the profound impact that tough parenting decisions can have on a family's future. Through personal stories — including Mark's life-saving decision for his daughter decades ago — they explore how setting boundaries, having hard conversations and trusting God's plan can rewrite the story for generations to come. Plus, a Heartlight teen opens up about his journey through rebellion, struggles with addiction and lessons learned at Heartlight. This

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27:02

I Mustache Mark a Question: Respect, Rebellion and...

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/20

In today's Q&A episode, Mark tackles some more tough questions submitted by listeners about raising teens and young adults. From dealing with a disrespectful 19-year-old living at home, to concerns about a grandson's lack of motivation, to navigating the complexities of drug use and family dynamics, Mark offers practical advice rooted in years of experience. He addresses the importance of launching teens into independence, building healthy grandparent relationships, and finding balance

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27:02

Navigating Teen Romance

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/19

In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur tackle teens and dating, exploring what it means for parents to set realistic boundaries and stay involved as their children begin to experience romance. They share relatable stories about early dating experiences, practical advice on age-appropriate guidelines and the importance of open communication to help parents guide teens through relationship challenges. The conversation is enriched by Hunter, a guest teen who candidly

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24:27

Stop Controlling and Start Trusting Your Teen

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/18

In this eye-opening episode, Mark dives deep into a common parenting dilemma — striking the right balance between guidance and control as teens seek independence. Drawing from a real-life story of a family whose well-intentioned rules backfired, Mark highlights the negative impact that excessive control can have on teenagers. He shares practical wisdom, anecdotes and biblical insights, encouraging parents to loosen their grip and empower their kids to make choices, learn from mistakes and build

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23:43

Teen Stories: Out of Control

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/17

When life feels unpredictable, teens often seek control in unexpected ways. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young women at Heartlight who share how loss and longing for independence shaped their choices. One opens up about the impact of losing her father and the turbulent relationship with her mom that followed, while the other reflects on her drive to grow up too fast and how that influenced her actions. Both stories reveal how the struggle for control can lead to risky decisions — and

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28:57

Are You Passing on Bad Habits to Your Teens?

Parenting Today"s Teens ·

2026/03/16

In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur explore ways parents pass down bad habits to their teens — from being overly critical and avoiding conflict to setting unrealistic expectations. They offer practical advice for recognizing these patterns, reversing their impact and healing parent-teen relationships. We also hear from a Heartlight teen, who bravely shares her journey through addiction, family trauma, and the lessons she's learned about self-worth and breaking

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1,459 results

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