Parenting Today's Teens 5j3639

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston tackles some of the most pressing — and often tricky — questions parents are asking about their teenagers. He discusses how to navigate the shift in communication with increasingly independent 17- and 18-year-olds, as well as how to handle privacy and GPS tracking issues. Mark also dives into how to introduce godly sexuality to preteens, offering comionate, practical advice drawn from his years of experience. You'll hear insights on when to let consequences teach important life lessons and how to teens as they begin making their own choices.  Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com 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 Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On this episode, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney LaFleur debunk five common parenting myths that often mislead moms and dads during the teen years. They stress that teens don’t need perfect parents or best friends — they need relational, trustworthy guides who are willing to be vulnerable and adapt their approach. They encourage parents to remain teachable, relational and flexible as they raise their teens in a rapidly changing culture. If your family is struggling, see if Mark's ministry can help. Visit heartlightministries.org for more info.  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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Mark Gregston reflects on how today’s culture — especially among teens — is saturated with arguments as people fight to be heard, validated and valued. Drawing from Proverbs 17:28 and 2 Timothy 2, he urges parents to replace quarrels with comionate listening, emphasizing that not every disagreement needs to be voiced. Instead of criticizing your teen, he encourages building trust and waiting for an invitation to speak truth in love. Mark reminds us that genuine influence comes through relationship, not arguments. Choose love and grace over winning debates. Get Mark's newest devotional for your family by visiting dailyhopeforfamilies.com 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Underneath teen rebellion and withdrawal, there’s often a deeper struggle for identity and a place to belong. In today's show, Mark talks with two young ladies from Heartlight, including Grace, who candidly opens up about the pain of abandonment and identity stemming from being adopted from China. She discusses how her journey through depression and self-isolation impacted her relationship with her parents. In these conversations, you'll hear the lessons both girls learned about empathy, love and being truly known. Do you long for more peace in your home? us in July for our next Families in Crisis Conference to learn practical tools that'll help you get there. Learn more at familycrisisretreat.com 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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney LaFleur explore the power of a sincere apology in strengthening parent-teen relationships. They encourage parents to model humility by saying “I’m sorry” when needed, showing their teens that mistakes are a normal part of life. A heartfelt apology can break down walls, foster trust and open the door to deeper connections.  To explore more resources Mark has designed to you as you raise your teen, please visit parentingtodaysteens.org 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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston tackles tough listener-submitted questions about raising teens in today’s culture. From discovering a child's vaping habit and managing sibling conflict to ing an adopted teen through promiscuity and responding to a daughter's mental health crisis, Mark offers practical wisdom framed by a relational approach. He addresses tough topics like setting boundaries in adolescent relationships, handling exposure to pornography, and finding the right balance between consequences and grace. Whether you're looking for tools to build trust, guidance on difficult conversations or simply reassurance that you're not alone, this episode is packed with honest insights to help you deepen your connection with your teen — no matter what season your family is in. Listen now! Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com 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 Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how today’s teens are growing up in an overwhelming and chaotic world, saturated with constant information, conflicting values, and social pressures that fuel anxiety and confusion. Mark emphasizes that teens deeply desire stability, security, and authentic relationships with their parents and grandparents, even if they don’t always show it. He urges parents to be present, listen well and offer calm, faith-rooted guidance — reminding them that they are a lifeline for their children in a stormy culture. Explore all of Mark's resources designed to help you as you raise your teens at parentingtodaysteens.org 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this heartfelt episode, Mark Gregston reflects on his decades-long journey of working with teens and families, beginning with a single act of comion at age 19 that led to a lifetime of ministry. He shares a powerful story of reconciliation — after 40 years of silence — emphasizing the damage unresolved conflict can cause in relationships. Mark encourages listeners with a call to action: Don’t let unresolved issues steal time, connection or legacy — begin the healing process today. Do you have a question you would like Mark to answer? Ask him at markgregston.com 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Every parent wants the best for their teen, but what happens when the pressure to be perfect becomes too much to bear? In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young men from Heartlight who share their personal journeys through anxiety, depression and the crushing weight of high expectations. Both teens describe how striving to meet others’ standards led them to hide their struggles and withdraw into harmful behaviors. Tune in for a powerful look at the hidden battle many teens face, and discover how comion can make all the difference.  Is Heartlight the right answer for your struggling teen? Head to heartlightministries.org 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney LaFleur explore adoption as one of the greatest acts of love and sacrifice a family can make. Drawing from conversations with adopted teens and their families, they share insights that help parents understand the unique challenges these children face. They emphasize the need for parents to adapt their approach as their child grows and enters new developmental stages. In closing, they share some thoughtful questions to help parents navigate identity issues their adopted child may wrestle with over time. As Mark shared today, "Marriage Simplified" — a digital guide from Christian Parenting, which includes Mark's best marriage advice — is available at christianparenting.org/marriagesimplifiedguide 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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives into some of the most pressing issues facing parents of teenagers — from navigating adoption challenges and discussing sexuality, to setting boundaries with teens exploring relationships. He also addresses managing teen mental health and substance use, as well as ing those facing bullying and isolation. Mark offers heartfelt advice drawn from years of experience, reminding listeners of the importance of maintaining strong relationships, setting healthy boundaries and seeking community when needed. Whether you're struggling to connect with a withdrawn teen, worried about your child's choices or searching for faith-based guidance in complex situations, this episode is packed with practical insights for every parent. Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com 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 Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into a question every parent wrestles with: What’s really behind my teen’s bad behavior? They remind parents that a teen’s identity is not defined by their actions — and that there’s always more beneath the surface. From peer pressure and unresolved emotions to complex family dynamics, Mark and Wayne explore the deeper influences that shape teen behavior. You’ll walk away with practical tools and fresh perspective to respond with wisdom, empathy and grace. Don’t miss these valuable insights! Looking for a meaningful gift this spring? Check out our curated Gift Guide for Moms, Dads and Grads at christianparenting.org/giftguide! 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mark Gregston as he reflects on Proverbs 22:6, offering heartfelt reminders for parents raising teens today. He encourages parents to train their children in every area of life, focusing on building independence rather than dependence. Mark emphasizes that true success comes when teens are prepared to make wise decisions on their own. He highlights the need for balance between providing and preparing teens for the real world. Is your teen struggling? us for our next Families in Crisis Conference coming up in July! Visit familycrisisretreat.com for more details.  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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Every parent hopes their teen feels loved and valued — but what happens when a teen’s pain goes unnoticed or unaddressed? In today's show, we reshare a couple of interviews that exemplify how invisible hurts can weigh on teens. For Heather, Heartlight provided the space to work on herself without the pressure of keeping up appearances. She shares her experiences navigating the pain of her parents’ divorce and struggling with self-worth, ultimately learning to accept herself and seek honest connections with her family. For more info on the Heartlight residential program, go to heartlightministries.org today! 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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the challenging seasons when your teen’s behavior feels overwhelming. They explore how parents can respond well to both the everyday frustrations and the bigger, life-altering moments that come with raising teens. Together, they offer insights on typical teenage behavior and how to know when it may be time to seek professional help. Listen in as they talk to Jackson, a Heartlight teen, about his journey to a better relationship with his parents. To find out more about Heartlight Ministries and to see if we can help your struggling teen, visit heartlightministries.org 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Mark Gregston addresses the ever-evolving challenges of parenting in the digital age. Diving into questions about the impact of internet and video game usage on teenagers, Mark offers insight into balancing technology with meaningful relationships. He discusses strategies for managing tech use at home, including setting boundaries, fostering real-world connections and encouraging healthy independence in our kids. Highlighting key points from David Murrow's book "Drowning in Screen Time," Mark presents fascinating statistics and trends affecting today's youth and emphasizes the critical role parents play in guiding their children through a tech-saturated environment. the conversation as Mark empowers listeners to rethink their approach to technology and teen relationships. Listen now! Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com 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 Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney LaFleur Mark to discuss teen daughters and the impact of mean girls and social media on their lives. Together, they aim to raise awareness and help parents understand what their daughters may be facing — and why they might be acting out. This conversation explores how social media has intensified the pressure to fit in. Tune in for practical advice on how to navigate this complex and emotional topic with your teen. Visit parentingtodaysteens.org to explore all of Mark’s resources designed to help you as you raise your teen. 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. Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Drawing from Proverbs 13:20, Mark Gregston shares a personal devotion as he reflects on his adolescence and how that time differs so much from today. He reminds us of how every generation of youth has brought its own troubling times. He encourages parents to seek to understand the teens in their lives so they can help their kids navigate this ever-changing world. Mark challenges parents to better connect with their teens — and shares some practical ways to do so. Tune in! Visit christianparenting.org/giftguide to view the Gift Guide Mark mentions in today's episode.  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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In the quest to be accepted and liked, many teens only form surface-level connections with their peers. They're missing out on what a genuine relationship looks like — and as parents, that's where we can set a good example. In today's show, Mark chats with two young men from Heartlight, including Jack, who opens up about his battle with peer pressure, expressing how his desire for acceptance led him down a path of drugs and alcohol. Through his time at Heartlight, Jack has uncovered the roots of his struggles and the significance of forming real friendships. Want to learn more about the Heartlight residential program? Go to heartlightministries.org today! 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.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns: https://acornsearly.com/teens Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd emphasize the importance of truly listening to your teen rather than lecturing, correcting or constantly giving opinions. When teens don’t feel heard at home, they’ll seek connection elsewhere. They encourage parents to set aside intentional, judgment-free time to simply listen and ask thoughtful questions. The goal isn’t to fix or respond, but to build trust and deepen understanding by being fully present. Visit parentingtodaysteens.org to explore all of Mark's podcasts, books, blog posts and more designed to you as you raise your teens. 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.   Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy