If your teen throws a fit whenever you ask them to come home at curfew or to dress more appropriately, it can be incredibly frustrating. But do you ever pause to find the "why" behind your teen's anger? In this episode, Mark shares some common reasons for a teen's anger and how you can respond without getting caught in a shouting match. Tune in for tips on how to get to the heart of the real issue! For more on how to understand your child's behavior, check out "What's Happening To My Teen?" at b...
Jul 19, 2023•17 min•Ep. 803
When teens live in a house where there's a lot of conflict, wanting to get away from it comes as a pretty natural response. Whether that's through sneaking out at night or numbing the pain with drugs, the teen AND their parents need to work together to find healing. In this week's interview with Heartlight teens, Mark talks to two high schoolers, including one young lady who shares how a painful relationship with her father drove her into a downward spiral ... but now, reconciliation seems possi...
Jul 18, 2023•19 min•Ep. 802
When it comes to creating expectations for a teen's behavior, being too strict OR giving too much leeway can both backfire. So, how do you find the balance in the middle? In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss what it looks like to give your child more control and privileges at age-appropriate milestones and why teens often need to be given the chance to prove themselves. Tune in now! For more on navigating these tricky adolescent years, check out Mark's book, "Raising Teens i...
Jul 17, 2023•14 min•Ep. 801
Parenting takes on a new level of complexity when traditional family structures are disrupted. Disruptions can occur due to things like divorce, the loss of a loved one or the responsibility falling on grandparents. In this week’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from a variety of guardians who want to know the best ways to support and guide their teens through life’s turbulent seasons. Tune in to hear just how far boundary setting, quality time and unconditional love can go! Have a ques...
Jul 14, 2023•32 min•Ep. 800
Any good parent wants the best for their child, but beware: Overprotection leads to under-preparedness. If your kid is hidden away, they will never experience the necessary “iron sharpening iron” interactions with their peers that are crucial for maturity. Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they discuss the keys to raising well-rounded, confident individuals who are equipped to thrive in the real world. For more on how to navigate tough times with your child, check out "What's Happening To...
Jul 13, 2023•14 min•Ep. 799
It's great if you can get your teen to keep their room clean or always turn in their homework on time ... but at the end of the day, that's not what builds a close relationship. Do you invest enough time into bonding with your child? Or are you more focused on the things they "should" be doing? In today's episode, Mark shares the importance of outwardly expressing love to your teens and focusing on what truly matters. Whether you're a parent, grandparent or mentor to teens, don't miss this episo...
Jul 12, 2023•20 min•Ep. 798
When teens are acting out of hurt or desperation, they may try to cope by deflecting responsibility for poor choices onto anyone but themselves. But eventually, reality is bound to set in. In today's interview with teens, Mark talks to two Heartlight residents who reflect on why they were so angry toward their parents and got involved in toxic outside relationships. Don't miss these insightful stories! Interested in learning more about the Heartlight program? Visit heartlightministries.org Paren...
Jul 11, 2023•24 min•Ep. 797
The social media world where many of our teens spend their time is primarily focused on appearances — not real connections. Kids will do almost anything to feel seen, even if that means who they are online doesn't match who they are in real life. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why teens are missing out on real social interactions and how you can help them navigate today's shallow culture. Listen in! For more help understanding what our teens are facing today, check out...
Jul 10, 2023•10 min•Ep. 796
You are just as much tied to the hardships brought on by your child as they are. As a parent, it’s your job to develop your teen's foolishness into wisdom. In this week’s episode, Mark Gregston offers a wide variety of strategies for communicating effectively, fostering maturity and overcoming conflict. 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...
Jul 07, 2023•31 min•Ep. 795
As kids mature, their needs evolve, calling for different parenting styles. If you don’t adapt your approach in order to meet your teen where they are, you run the risk of losing them forever. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss practical and effective changes that you can implement with your coming-of-age teen that will benefit everyone — listen now! For more on how to navigate tough times with your child, check out "What's Happening to My Teen?" Order your copy at bit....
Jul 06, 2023•19 min•Ep. 794
Our teens walk around all day with access to any information they could possibly want in the palm of their hands. However, they need WISDOM to know what to do with it — and that's where parents come in. In today's devotional episode, Mark discusses why it's crucial to be honest with your teen, listen to them and build a strong relationship in order to pass down the wisdom they so desperately need. Tune in to hear some different ways you can engage with your teen! For more help preparing your tee...
Jul 05, 2023•23 min•Ep. 793
When you're walking through a season of grief or healing from trauma, being alone can be incredibly hard — and for many teens, numbing their pain with substances seems like the only option left. In today's show, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens, including a young lady who had lost both of her adoptive parents to a car crash, and several others who were close to her to suicide. She shares how she found herself alone in all this grief and turned to drugs, but is working hard to stay clean ...
Jul 04, 2023•19 min•Ep. 792
The digital world our teens live in continues to change and develop every single day, and while it offers great ways for kids to communicate with their friends, it's also something parents should take very seriously. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why parents need to be watchful and involved in their kids' lives — especially when it comes to the internet — without completely disregarding their privacy. Don't miss this important discussion! To learn practical ways to co...
Jul 03, 2023•15 min•Ep. 791
As children become teenagers, their thinking switches from concrete to abstract. While exploring the world they come to find that it’s not as perfect as they previously thought it was, which stirs up insecurity, anger and confusion. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston advises parents on how to adapt their parenting from teaching mode to training mode in order to raise up people who can function in the real world — listen now! Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com Parenting Tod...
Jun 30, 2023•28 min•Ep. 790
It’s not IF your teen makes a mistake, but rather a matter of WHEN. How we, as parents, choose to respond in those moments significantly impacts our relationship with our kids. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore practical ways to effectively discipline and enforce consequences while nurturing your child's character and maintaining their trust and respect. Tune in now! For more insight on walking with your teen through struggles, check out "Raising Teens in a Contrary Cultu...
Jun 29, 2023•18 min•Ep. 789
Trusting teens is tough — but if you want your child to learn how to make wise decisions on their own, you have to start transferring control to them. They won't do everything perfectly, but that's part of preparing for adulthood. In this devotional, Mark shares an example of how too much parental control can backfire and gives advice for parents who are nervous to start trusting their teens with making their own decisions. This is an important topic, so tune in now! To browse resources that wil...
Jun 28, 2023•23 min•Ep. 788
If you have a teenager, you're bound to get into arguments with them from time to time — it happens! But when the conflict turns into an ongoing pattern, it puts a strain on everyone involved, and it might be time to seek some outside help. In today's episode, Mark chats with two Heartlight teens who reflect on why they fought with their parents so much. For one young lady, the conflict stemmed from her unique adoption story. Listen in now! One of the most powerful things you can do for your chi...
Jun 27, 2023•20 min•Ep. 787
Teenage dating relationships come with a fair share of ups and downs, but as a parent, it's important for you to know when to step in if things are truly outside the norm. One such case is if your daughter is dating a guy who wants to control her every move. In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about why some young men want to control their girlfriends, what to do if your son seems to act this way and how to help your daughter steer clear of this situation. If your teen is dati...
Jun 26, 2023•13 min•Ep. 786
No man is an island — but what about teens? In this episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who want to know how to go about building bridges that reach their isolated kids. Through developing the skill of listening, learning which questions provoke thoughtful discussions and knowing how to encourage respect, Mark lights the path to connecting with your teen on a deeper level! Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com For more on how to navigate tough times with yo...
Jun 23, 2023•16 min•Ep. 785
Have you ever found yourself knee-deep in parenting books and podcasts only to have your best efforts fall flat? When it seems like all attempts to train up your teen are failing, what else is there to do? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd encourage overwhelmed parents to not grow weary in their journey, offering insight ranging from welcoming constructive criticism to knowing when to take a break. Don’t miss out on their advice — tune in now! Have you gotten your copy of Mark...
Jun 22, 2023•16 min•Ep. 784
Many parents spend their child's younger years telling them everything they're doing right but spend their teen years telling them everything they're doing wrong. This correction may come from the best intentions, but for teens, it may feel like you're asking for unattainable perfection. In today's devotional, Mark recalls some personal stories about how seeking perfection burned him out and shares thought-provoking comments from teens who felt like their parents demanded perfection. Don't miss ...
Jun 21, 2023•25 min•Ep. 783
Some teens arrive at Heartlight feeling prepared and knowing what to expect, while others didn't know they were coming to the boarding school until hours before they arrived. The transition holds its challenges, but many of these teens find value and healing in the experience along the way. Today, Mark chats with two high schoolers who initially had no idea they were coming to the boarding school, but reflect upon how counseling and the friendships they've made have helped them grow and plan for...
Jun 20, 2023•20 min•Ep. 782
Life can be full of obligations and packed schedules — we've all been there! But in our busyness, parents can often miss the best opportunities to connect with their kids and make a lasting positive impact. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd chat about why it's important to listen when opportunity knocks ... after all, the values you instill in your teens can affect generations. Tune in now! For more on making the most of time with your child, take our free e-course, "Bridging ...
Jun 19, 2023•12 min•Ep. 781
In this episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who are seeking out the cure for disrespectful and immature teens. From letting natural consequences take their course to being brave enough to let your kid go, Mark provides insightful advice on guiding your teen's journey toward adulthood successfully. Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: /markgregston.com For more successful strategies to build a strong relationship with your child, check out "Tough Guys and Drama Queens." Ord...
Jun 16, 2023•25 min•Season 1Ep. 780
The unfortunate reality of self-harm is that it is becoming increasingly prevalent in our culture today. From relieving stress and depression to creating excitement and fitting in, this destructive behavior is just a symptom, albeit a dangerous one. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd delve into the psychology of these tendencies and explore the importance of providing healthy alternatives for alleviating pressure and finding healing in teens. For more on how to navigate tough t...
Jun 15, 2023•14 min•Season 1Ep. 779
Whether you've stubbed your toe or had your heart broken, pain changes you — short term AND long term. So, when your teen is acting out or begins to hate things they once loved, it might be time to look at what pain could be behind that behavior. In today's episode, Mark recalls some personal stories of how pain impacted and changed the way he interacted with the world, and shares advice for how you can better understand how pain changes your teen. Would you like to be closer with your child? Ch...
Jun 14, 2023•21 min•Season 1Ep. 778
When teens first arrive at Heartlight, many of them struggle with anger, frustration or take the "fake it 'til you make it" approach to the program. But as time passes, these same kids begin to learn valuable things about themselves and find healing they never knew they needed. In this episode, Mark chats with two young ladies who both appeared on the show before when they first got to the boarding school. Tune in to hear them reflect on how Heartlight has changed their lives — so far! Is Heartl...
Jun 13, 2023•22 min•Season 1Ep. 777
Your child will only grow and mature into independence if you encourage and enable them to do it. They've got to flex those decision-making muscles! In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd are sharing specific ways you can help your teen begin their journey toward independence and think about their future in brand new ways. This topic is important for all parents, so listen in! For daily biblical parenting insight, check out Mark's newest devotional, "Daily Hope For Families." Order yo...
Jun 12, 2023•15 min•Season 1Ep. 776
In today's episode, join Mark Gregston as he tackles the pressing concerns of parents seeking guidance on how to guide their teenagers in the right direction. From addressing the delicate balance between screen time and fostering genuine connections to nurturing spirituality and handling disrespect, Mark provides invaluable insights and practical strategies that you don’t want to miss out on! Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com Have you checked out our grandparenting resou...
Jun 09, 2023•37 min•Season 1Ep. 775
It’s time to shine a light on the alarming trend of hopelessness among teenagers and the heartbreaking reality of suicide. Kids today live in an increasingly fragile social ecosystem where one word from their peers can make or break them. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd provide guidance on how parents can help their struggling teens by fostering connections, providing a safe space for open communication and assisting them in envisioning a future where they can find their pla...
Jun 08, 2023•13 min•Season 1Ep. 774
