Kids & FamilyParentingReligion & SpiritualityChristianityEducationSelf-Improvement

Parenting Today's Teens

Mark Gregston

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 Professional Counselor) and on-staff counselor at Heartlight, adding professional counseling insights to the conversation. Together, Mark and Courtney provide expert tips and real-life solutions to help you build stronger relationships with your teen and navigate the complexities of today’s adolescent culture.

If you’re looking for guidance on how to connect with your teen, improve family dynamics, and raise a confident, well-adjusted teen, this podcast is for you.

For more parenting tools and expert advice, visit www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

Play

Open in

93 episodes
daily
Avg 21 min
English

Episodes 93

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

#1670
Today · 19 min
I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries, Blame and Becoming an Adult
In this Q&A episode, Mark tackles some more listener questions, including what to do when a senior starts checking out of school, ways to respond when parents can’t agree on boundaries around substance use and how to know if it’s too late to seek outside help for a struggling child. Mark also addresses concerns about teens who can’t seem to keep friends, how to rebuild connection after divorce, and what to do when a child is pushing back on church and finding their identity online. With his signature mix of empathy and practical wisdom, Mark reminds parents to focus on keeping the relationship strong while walking alongside teens as they search for purpose and belonging. Facing a tough parenting problem? Send in your question and it may be featured on a future episode! Go to markgregston.com today.
#1669
Yesterday · 24 min
3 Parenting Mistakes That Push Teens Away
Could your efforts to raise a responsible, well-adjusted teen actually be driving them away? In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss three common parenting mistakes that can damage relationships with teens. Mark explains why approaches that worked during childhood often backfire during adolescence and how parents can communicate expectations, maintain authority and uphold their values without creating resentment or distance. You'll also hear from Heartlight teen Josh, who shares how the pressure to meet others' expectations contributed to anxiety, depression and substance abuse — and what he's learned about accepting his imperfections and taking responsibility for his life. Tune in to discover how small changes in your parenting approach can help you rebuild trust, reduce conflict and draw your teen closer instead of pushing them away. How do you know if you need outside help with your teen? Learn 10 characteristics of a teen who needs intervention here: bit.ly/does-your-teen-need-intervention
#1668
Wednesday · 17 min
When Your Parenting Methods Stop Working
Have you ever wondered why the parenting strategies that worked so well when your children were younger suddenly seem ineffective? You're not alone. In this episode, Mark explores how today's rapidly changing culture is influencing adolescents and creating new challenges for families. He explains why parents must adapt their approach as children mature, balancing appropriate boundaries with greater independence while providing a safe haven from the pressures teens face every day. He also challenges parents to reconsider their priorities, embrace their teen's perspective and bridge the growing gap between generations. Tune in to discover why staying connected to your teen's heart matters more than ever. Learn the biggest wedge-builders between you and your child and how to fix them at bit.ly/addressing-the-wall-between-you-and-your-teen
#1667
Tuesday · 20 min
Teen Stories: Looking for Acceptance in the Wrong Places
Ever wonder why some teens push the limits, break rules or slip into risky choices like substance use? It’s not always about rebellion — sometimes, it’s about wanting to fit in or just find relief from pain. In this episode, Mark talks with two Heartlight residents whose stories echo the same deep need to be seen and accepted. Both struggled with family misunderstandings, the challenge of changing environments and the temptation to escape through drugs. They open up about how their search for connection — and the feeling of being misunderstood at home — set them on a rough path, and how honest conversations and newfound trust have started to shift things. Listen in as these teens get real about what belonging truly means. To learn more about the Heartlight residential program, visit heartlightministries.org
#1666
Monday · 23 min
Is Your Teen Ready to Start Dating?
Dating can be an exciting milestone for teens, but it can also raise plenty of questions and concerns for parents. When should dating begin? What boundaries are appropriate? And how involved should parents be? Mark and Wayne discuss how parents can guide their teens through dating while helping them develop healthy relationship skills. Mark shares practical advice on communicating expectations, adjusting boundaries as teens mature and staying involved without becoming overbearing. You'll also hear from a Heartlight teen, who shares how loneliness and a longing to feel loved led her to become overly attached to her first boyfriend — and what she's learned about friendship, emotional dependence and her own self-worth. Tune in for practical guidance on helping your teen navigate dating, recognize unhealthy relationships, and make wise choices about love and commitment. When and how should you talk to your teens about sex? Get Mark's tips here: parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/how-to-talk-to-your-teen-about-sex
#1665
November 6 · 11 min
I Mustache Mark a Question: Social Media Boundaries, Connection and Healthy Communication
In this episode's Q&A, Mark dives into the ever-evolving topic of teens and technology, responding to parent questions about social media limits, setting boundaries around phone time, and navigating flirty or inappropriate online conversations. He focuses on strategies to balance healthy boundaries without damaging the parent-teen relationship, and the importance of shifting approaches as kids move from preteen to teenage years. Mark also offers practical advice on what rules to set around device use, how to address risky online behaviors and why fostering responsibility — rather than just enforcing rules — prepares teens for greater independence. If you're wrestling with how to keep your teen safe online without pushing them away, this episode is packed with great stories and wisdom. Facing a parenting puzzle you can't solve? Ask Mark! Go to markgregston.com to submit your questions.
#1664
November 5 · 24 min
Is Your Teen Lazy or Struggling with Something Deeper?
Does your teen seem uninterested in school, unwilling to take responsibility or content to spend the day doing nothing? Before you label them lazy, consider what might be happening beneath the surface. Mark and Wayne explore the reasons teens lose motivation, including emotional overwhelm, depression, substance use and family conflict. Mark shares ways to identify the underlying issues, establish appropriate expectations and help teens develop the internal drive they need to move forward. You'll also hear from a Heartlight teen who shares how family struggles, declining grades, depression and substance use contributed to his downward spiral — and what has helped him begin making positive changes. Tune in to discover how to move beyond nagging and frustration to help your teen take responsibility, regain a sense of purpose and become more engaged in life. Chances are your teen has motivations — they just may not be the same as yours! In this article, you learn what really motivates your teen and how to move them toward productivity: bit.ly/5-things-to-know-about-your-unmotivated-teen
#1663
November 4 · 16 min
The Power of Encouragement in Your Teen's Life
The words you speak to your teen today may stay with them for a lifetime. Will they remember criticism and discouragement — or the encouragement and wisdom that helped shape who they became? In this episode, Mark reflects on the people whose words and guidance profoundly influenced his life, including those who believed in him when others doubted his abilities. Drawing from those experiences, he shares 10 lessons about building relationships that allow parents and grandparents to pass along wisdom, offer encouragement and make a lasting difference. Learn some barriers that get in the way of healthy communication and nine practical steps you can take to overcome them: bit.ly/9-ways-to-get-your-teen-to-talk-to-you
#1662
November 3 · 21 min
Teen Stories: Finding Yourself When Life Falls Apart
Sometimes, life throws more at you than you think you can handle — and it’s easy to lose sight of who you are. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who open up about what drove them to the edge, from battling depression and losing a brother to numbing pain with drugs and alcohol. Both share honestly about what happens when you start living for everyone else — or try to escape your hurt instead of facing it. Through stories of loss, fractured families and hard-won moments of hope, these teens talk about what it’s like to truly begin the journey back to yourself. Want to learn more about the Heartlight residential program? Go to heartlightministries.org today.
#1661
November 2 · 15 min
Helping Your Teen Resist the Pressure of Substance Use
With alcohol and marijuana becoming increasingly accessible and socially accepted, how can parents prepare their teens to make wise choices? In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore why teens experiment with substances, from the desire to fit in to the need to escape anxiety, depression and other emotional struggles. Mark explains why parents must look beyond the behavior to understand what's driving it, while keeping communication open, establishing boundaries and responding with love rather than anger. Tune in for guidance on having honest conversations about substance use, strengthening your relationship with your teen and helping them navigate a culture filled with temptation. The key to understanding your teen’s attraction to drugs is uncovering the why behind their choices. Learn more here: bit.ly/what-is-the-attraction-of-drugs
#1660
October 30 · 27 min
I Mustache Mark a Question: Respect, Relationships and Helping Struggling Kids
In this week’s Q&A episode, Mark tackles your pressing parenting questions, from navigating the heavy topic of teen suicide and supporting teens with depression to setting healthy boundaries when it comes to dating. The conversation focused on practical ways to approach issues like teens attending events held in clubs, managing disrespectful behavior and not letting your own past mistakes influence your parenting. Mark also shares thoughts on the unique role of grandparents, the importance of relational connection and how parents can reflect on their own behavior to foster better relationships with their kids. With stories, actionable advice and a dash of humor, Mark offers guidance for building strong bonds with your teens during their toughest moments. Have a question for Mark? We'd love to hear it! Send it in at markgregston.com
#1659
October 29 · 24 min
Don't Ignore the Warning Signs of Teen Drug Use
Discovering that your teen is using drugs or alcohol can be frightening. But how you respond could make all the difference in helping them turn their life around. In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss the dangers of teen substance abuse and why many adolescents turn to drugs or alcohol to escape anxiety, depression and other emotional struggles. Mark offers guidance on getting your teen out of danger, understanding what's driving their behavior, establishing boundaries and knowing when to seek professional help. You'll also hear from Heartlight teen Robert, who shares how drinking and marijuana use affected his emotional well-being and relationships — and why he wishes his parents had connected with him on a deeper level. Find out why Mark urges parents not to ignore substance use in their child. Explore new ways to restore peace and joy in your home as you better understand your child. Order Mark's book, "What's Happening to My Teen?" here: bit.ly/whats-happening-to-my-teen
#1658
October 28 · 18 min
How Will Your Children Remember You?
When your children look back on their lives, what will they remember most about you? Your rules, your advice and your accomplishments — or the relationship you built with them? Mark reflects on how becoming a grandfather changed his perspective on parenting, relationships and the legacy he wants to leave behind. He explains why listening, staying connected and loving your teen unconditionally matter far more than raising a child who always thinks and acts like you. Tune in for a thoughtful reminder that the most meaningful legacy you can leave isn't measured by what you accomplish, but by the lives you touch through loving relationships. You may not say you demand perfection from your teen, but are your actions sending a different message? Visit bit.ly/three-ways-to-let-your-teen-be-imperfect for more.
#1657
October 27 · 21 min
Teen Stories: Pushing People Away
When teens push others away, there’s usually more going on beneath the surface than meets the eye. Whether it’s anger, a need for independence or past hurts, these defensive walls can signal a deep need for connection. In today’s show, Mark sits down with two teens from Heartlight who’ve struggled to let their families truly get close to them. For Joey, growing up adopted left a lasting impact on his ability to trust others — even when he longed for close relationships. Both teens are learning what it takes to break down barriers and reconnect. Listen in now! Interested in learning more about the Heartlight residential program? Go to heartlightministries.org today.
#1656
October 26 · 24 min
Don't Miss Your Teen's Silent Cry for Help
Teen depression doesn't always look the way parents expect. Sometimes the warning signs are obvious, but other times a teen may be struggling deeply without showing any outward signs at all. Mark and Wayne discuss the growing concern of teen depression, including changes in behavior, withdrawal, hopelessness, self-harm and other warning signs parents shouldn't ignore. Mark also explains how to start meaningful conversations, take your teen's feelings seriously and recognize when professional help is needed. You'll also hear from a Heartlight teen who shares how depression and anxiety contributed to conflict at home and unhealthy coping behaviors — and how he's learning to understand his emotions, ask for support and find healthier ways forward. Tune in to this important conversation today! Learn what signs of depression to look for and the hopeful bottom line here: bit.ly/teens-depression-and-its-consequences
#1655
October 23 · 24 min
I Mustache Mark a Question: House Rules, Heartbreak and Hard Conversations
In this Q&A episode, Mark tackles some more parenting dilemmas you’re facing with your teens. He shares insight on navigating disagreements over values and lifestyle with adult children — especially when financial support is on the line. He also dives into how to set house rules for teens who are nearing adulthood but still living at home, and how step-parents and significant others can build trust with reluctant teens. Other questions cover handling a teen’s exposure to pornography, responding to grief and anger after the loss of a parent, and what to do when a child seems unmotivated at school. Throughout the episode, Mark’s advice centers on staying present and meeting teens where they are as they grow, stumble and find their own path. Has your teen's behavior left you stumped? Ask Mark! Go to markgregston.com to submit your question.
#1654
October 22 · 25 min
Are You Preparing Your Teen to Leave the Nest?
Every parent wants their teen to become a responsible, independent adult. But could doing too much for your child actually be holding them back? Mark and Wayne discuss why preparing teens for adulthood needs to begin long before they turn 18. Mark shares ways to gradually transfer responsibility, teach essential life skills, encourage employment and establish expectations that help young adults become self-sufficient. You’ll also hear from Heartlight teen Eli, who shares how his desire for control led to defiance, substance use and conflict with his parents — and how learning to accept responsibility has changed his outlook and relationships. Tune in for practical guidance on helping your teen develop the maturity and independence they'll need to thrive beyond your home. Is your teen spending too much time on screens, struggling to find motivation or expecting you to provide everything without lifting a finger? Mark offers a simple prescription: bit.ly/your-teen-needs-a-job
#1653
October 21 · 17 min
Helping Your Teen Manage Anger
When your teen lashes out in anger, it's easy to focus on their behavior. But what if their frustration is telling you something deeper? Mark explores three common reasons teens become angry: feeling controlled, feeling judged or shamed, and not getting what they want. He explains why parents need to look beyond angry outbursts to understand what's happening in their teen's heart. Drawing on James 1:19, Mark also shares practical ways to defuse conflict, ask better questions, listen without becoming defensive and model healthy responses to frustration. Tune in to discover how understanding your teen's anger can help you turn heated confrontations into opportunities for growth, trust and stronger relationships. Find out two of the most common ways parents drive a wedge between themselves and their teens, and practical tools to close that gap before it grows any wider: bit.ly/how-not-to-drive-a-wedge-between-you-and-your-teen
#1652
October 20 · 18 min
Teen Stories: Searching for Connection in a Disconnected World
Behind every rebellious choice often lies a longing to belong. In today’s episode, Mark talks with two teens from Heartlight about the complicated reasons behind their struggles with drugs, running away and broken relationships. Both guests open up about learning independence at an early age and the risky paths they chased in hopes of being noticed and feeling loved. Their stories reveal how the search for acceptance and validation can lead teens down dangerous roads — and how honest conversations, second chances and the right support can spark real change. Listen in as these teens reflect on what it takes to mend family bonds and find true connection. Interested in learning more about the Heartlight residential program? Visit heartlightministries.org today.
#1651
October 19 · 23 min
Teen Dating: Stay Involved Without Taking Over
Dating can make parents nervous, but it can also give teens valuable opportunities to learn about relationships, communication and what they may eventually want in a spouse. Mark, Wayne and Courtney discuss the benefits and risks of teen dating, when to allow greater interaction with the opposite sex, and how parents can establish healthy boundaries without creating shame or pushing their teen away. Above all, they encourage parents to stay involved as their teen’s relationships become increasingly important. You’ll also hear from a Heartlight teen who shares how an abusive relationship contributed to alcohol abuse, anxiety and broken family relationships — and how healing has helped her take responsibility and reconnect with the people she loves. Learn when and how to broach the subject of sex with your teen at bit.ly/how-to-talk-to-your-teen-about-sex

Showing 1–20 of 93 episodes