Parenting Today's Teens

Is school only about grades — or is there something more important your teen is learning there? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur explore the bigger purpose of school. From social development and resilience to responsibility and real-world skills, education goes far beyond academics. They also discuss what to do when your teen resists school, how to uncover what’s really behind the struggle and when alternative paths may be a better fit. Because helping your teen thrive isn’t just about report cards — it’s about preparing them for life.Do you know what's behind your teen's aversion to school? Read more here: bit.ly/how-important-is-schoolParenting 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.

Many of today’s teens are searching for where they fit in. Sometimes they pull away from family, dive too deep into the digital world or don't know how to reach out for help. On this episode, Mark sits down with two young ladies from Heartlight who get honest about feeling misunderstood and cut off — whether that came from changing schools, substance use or hours spent glued to a phone. They reveal how their search for belonging led them down difficult paths, but with time and honest conversations, they’ve discovered the importance of rebuilding real connections — with their families and with themselves. Know a young adult who loves working with teens? We may have a spot for them among our residential staff! Go to heartlight.jobs 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.

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 you're navigating the challenges of a rebellious 15-year-old or supporting an adult child through a crisis, this episode offers wisdom and reassurance for any parent seeking to strengthen their family.Have a parenting question for Mark? We'd love to hear it! Go to markgregston.com to send in your question.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.

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 you’ve ever wondered how to be the person your teen looks up to, this episode offers inspiration and insight to help you become the influencer your child needs. Listen in and learn how thoughtful engagement can change a teen’s destiny!Want more insights on how to encourage your teen versus criticize? Check out Mark’s article, “How to Motivate an Underachiever” at bit.ly/motivate-an-underachieverParenting 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.

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 hope. Join us as we discuss what it really takes for parents and teens to break the cycle of worry and build trust.Most parents overestimate the value of their words and underestimate the effectiveness of their actions. Find advice for the best ways to effectively influence your teen at bit.ly/more-caught-than-taughtParenting 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.

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 game-changing episode!Does your parenting style draw your teen in or push them away? Learn how to change your communication style, create a restful home and more through our free e-course: bit.ly/five-ways-to-stay-engagedParenting 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.

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 most important relationships. Listen in now!For more on the Heartlight residential program, visit heartlightministries.orgParenting 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.