In today's devotional, Mark Gregston reflects on the wisdom of 2 Peter 1:15, emphasizing the vital importance of creating meaningful memories with our families. He challenges you to consider how you want to be remembered and encourages you to build those lasting memories, no matter the stage of life. It’s never too late to start! Mark also shares practical and heartfelt ideas to inspire connection, foster memories and strengthen family bonds. Don’t wait — start making an impact on your children ...
Sep 11, 2024•19 min•Ep. 1103
Struggling teens sometimes push others away — often starting with their parents — because they don't feel like they're worthy of love and acceptance. If this sounds like your teen, don't stop trying! In today's show, Mark sits down with two young men at Heartlight who are working hard to rebuild bonds with their families. Caleb opens up about his struggles with impatience, reconnecting with his parents and learning to accept love, while Drew shares his battle with rejection, the pressures of fit...
Sep 10, 2024•20 min•Ep. 1102
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore why many teens drift away from church during their adolescent years. Often, it’s not a conscious decision — they simply lose interest or stop seeing its relevance. Mark shares insights on the importance of giving teens some autonomy in how they engage with church, while also considering their age and maturity in the decision-making process. Their discussion highlights how parents' attitudes towards church can greatly influence their teens...
Sep 09, 2024•15 min•Ep. 1101
In today's episode, Mark Gregston tackles some tough questions sent in by parents. He offers valuable insights on fostering integrity in a world where honesty sometimes feels optional, managing sibling dynamics and encouraging family time, and more. The episode also delves into coping with a teen's intense fears about the world, understanding and addressing feelings of exclusion and rejection, and navigating the complex terrain of gender identity and acceptance. Whether you're dealing with typic...
Sep 06, 2024•21 min•Ep. 1100
Are you struggling to help your teen deal with anger? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd read an email from a parent reaching out for advice on helping their daughter with this issue. The two remind us that what we see on the outside is just a symptom of what is actually going on, and that sometimes we need to help our teens discover the root cause of their anger. Mark tells us how to create a solutions-oriented environment and how to know when it's time to look for outside help. ...
Sep 05, 2024•14 min•Ep. 1099
In this episode, Mark shares a devotional from Philippians 2:3 about how humility and valuing others above ourselves leads to an expression of respect. This important lesson is further illustrated through the story of a Heartlight teen and how her experience there changed her heart. Mark explains how our teens' constant access and exposure to news and social media affects the way they handle respect, and four ways we can help in today’s culture. To learn more about the program at Heartlight, vis...
Sep 04, 2024•19 min•Ep. 1098
Watching parents get divorced can be incredibly challenging for teens to cope with. It can feel like the foundation of their life has been shaken — and it's critical to support them during this time. In today's show, Mark talks with two young men at Heartlight who share how the structure and support in the program is helping them to better understand their own family dynamics. Malcolm, whose life got off track after his parents got divorced, shares the lessons he's learned about resilience, fami...
Sep 03, 2024•21 min•Ep. 1097
Reconciliation is hard work — but worth it. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the process of reconciliation with our teens and how important it is to nurture those relationships. Mark reminds us that God calls us, as parents, to reconcile and clear the stage for restoration. The two also share what the true marks of reconciliation are and what to do when we are rejected. To learn more from Mark on reconciliation and how to protect your relationship with your teen, visit p...
Sep 02, 2024•18 min•Ep. 1096
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston tackles tough questions sent in by parents about managing teens' screen time. From managing social media boundaries to fostering deeper parent-child connections, Mark provides practical advice and heartfelt insights for navigating these challenges. He emphasizes the importance of adapting parenting techniques as kids grow and ensuring that teens feel affirmed and valued at home. Tune in now! Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com Parenting To...
Aug 30, 2024•12 min•Ep. 1095
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about the importance of forgiveness in our homes. It can be difficult and takes time, but it starts with you. Although it can be hard to let go, we must forgive and move forward to show our teens hope for the future of our family. Mark uses Matthew 26:28 to remind us that forgiveness is about acting upon God's love and loving like He does. For more on forgiveness, check out the article, Making It Right, at parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/m...
Aug 29, 2024•14 min•Ep. 1094
In this devotional, Mark talks about the expectations we set for our teens. He cautions us against setting expectations so high that our teens feel as though we won't love them if they fail. He reminds us that the most important thing is to show them unconditional love. As parents, you're encouraged to set high standards and challenge them — without letting those standards exclude them if they make a mistake — the same way nothing eliminates us from God's family. For more from Mark on this topic...
Aug 28, 2024•14 min•Ep. 1093
If you've ever dealt with an angry teen, you probably know there are layers behind that anger they don't want to talk about. A lot of hurt kids use anger as a shield for their pain. In today's show, Mark talks with two young ladies from Heartlight, including Amber, who opens up about her struggles with her temper. Her anger stems from her adoption story and the loss of significant people in her life, but today, she's working on healing those wounds. Listen in now! Is your teen struggling right n...
Aug 27, 2024•21 min•Ep. 1092
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd teach us that anger and disrespect may not always be a bad thing. These can serve as a "warning light" for us to look at the big picture to see what it is that's really going on. Your teens anger and disrespect can be a visible expression of an invisible issue. Mark and Wayne remind us of the role grace plays in our job as parents, and encourages us to engage with our teens to get to the root of the issue. For additional help, enroll in Mark's FR...
Aug 26, 2024•14 min•Ep. 1091
Ever feel overwhelmed by the challenges of raising teens in today's world? You're not alone! In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses a range of pressing questions submitted by concerned parents. Whether you're managing a tech-addicted 16-year-old, guiding a 17-year-old daughter who's considering a tattoo or navigating a 13-year-old’s behavioral spiral, Mark offers practical, compassionate advice. Remember, finding the balance between rules and relationships is key. Listen now! Have a questio...
Aug 23, 2024•28 min•Ep. 1090
In today's discussion, hosts Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd delve into one of the hottest and most debated topics for modern parents: teens and cell phones. From determining the right age for a child to receive their first phone to setting boundaries and fostering healthy relationships, this episode covers it all. They tackle common concerns such as managing app usage, addressing internet safety and balancing the need for connectivity with real-life interactions. Whether you're wondering how t...
Aug 22, 2024•16 min•Ep. 1089
In today's episode, Mark shares a devotional that encourages parents who may be feeling hopeless from continued conflict. He reminds us that some conflict is positive and helps our teens know how loved they truly are. It's important for us to remember that how we handle the conflicts we face is actually more important than simply "getting through" it. There is always hope! For more information and to see if we can help you through our Family Crisis Coaching program, please visit parentingtodayst...
Aug 21, 2024•17 min•Ep. 1088
Communicating with teens today can sometimes be a real challenge. Between family struggles and tech distractions, it's a tough landscape! But for your teen's sake, don't give up. In today's show, Mark talks with two young ladies at Heartlight who delve into their personal journeys of overcoming anxiety, depression and family conflicts. They discuss the importance of unconditional love and communication, and why sometimes it's helpful to take a step back from technology to foster deeper family bo...
Aug 20, 2024•20 min•Ep. 1087
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of creating and embracing an imperfect home. Mark believes imperfection attracts your teens and creates an atmosphere of hope. Together, they address the danger in creating the "perfect" home and share how being imperfect can show our kids we will love them through their own imperfections. Kids won't always make good choices, that's their nature. Mark says this is where grace plays a role in all of it; not excusing the beha...
Aug 19, 2024•15 min•Ep. 1086
In this insightful Q&A episode, Mark Gregston addresses a pressing question from a listener named David, who is struggling with his adopted daughter's disregard for consequences. Mark discusses the psychological implications of adoption and how feelings of abandonment and self-worth play crucial roles in shaping a teen's behavior. He offers practical advice on looking beyond the behavior to identify underlying issues and suggests ways for parents to engage with their teens to instill a sense...
Aug 16, 2024•4 min•Ep. 1085
Bad choices ... unfortunate events ... tough situations ... Could these be the very things that will strengthen your teen and teach them to look to God? Listen as Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd address the topic of helping your teen through the things that don't go their way — rather than rescuing them from it all. They discuss when and HOW to step in to help your teen. Learning to walk with our teens, rather than shield them from tough times, will more effectively teach them how to solve and ...
Aug 15, 2024•13 min•Ep. 1084
In this heartfelt episode, Mark opens up about his personal struggles with kidney disease and the life-changing journey he's about to embark on with a possible kidney transplant. He shares touching stories from his family's recent celebrations, including his granddaughter's high school graduation, offering deep insights into the power of community, faith and joyful celebration. Mark also reflects on the importance of affirming our loved ones and standing firm in our beliefs — even amid life's to...
Aug 14, 2024•22 min•Ep. 1083
Trauma can cause kids to have to grow up too quickly — and no matter how resilient a teen may seem, having a supportive family can make a huge difference. In today's episode, Mark talks with two more Heartlight teens, including Tiller, who opens up about her spiral into substance dependence. She used drugs and alcohol to cope with the pressures of growing up too fast and to mask her trauma. But now, she's working to heal the broken parts of herself, along with her relationship with her mom. List...
Aug 13, 2024•20 min•Ep. 1082
Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk with us about what happens when parents talk too much and listen too little. They share the importance of inviting your teen to speak while truly listening to them, and how timing and atmosphere can make all the difference! Mark encourages parents to add value to their relationships with their kids by NOT always trying to fix everything, but by simply being the listening ear they're longing for. Tune in now! To learn more from Mark about listening to ...
Aug 12, 2024•14 min•Ep. 1081
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives into a real-life issue: a 14-year-old spending thousands of dollars on video games using his parents' credit card. Mark discusses appropriate consequences, emphasizing the importance of balancing discipline with empathy. By addressing underlying issues and offering constructive solutions, this episode provides a roadmap for parents to navigate through similar challenging situations, all while fostering a stronger, more understanding relationship with their...
Aug 09, 2024•8 min•Ep. 1080
Conflict is inevitable, but how we handle it can make all the difference, especially when it comes to our teens. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the challenging topic of handling anger within the home. Whether you're dealing with yelling, frustration, or emotional outbursts, this episode will provide you with actionable advice on how to foster a healthy and respectful relationship with your teenager. Tune in now to be inspired and equipped with the tools you need t...
Aug 08, 2024•13 min•Ep. 1079
Adapting to your teen's world doesn't mean compromising your values. It means meeting them where they are, understanding their reality and guiding them in ways that are relevant to today's challenges. In this episode, Mark emphasizes the importance of parents sharing their wisdom through a genuine and intentional relationship with their children. He shares some personal stories and timeless truths, guiding us on how to navigate the evolving landscape of youth culture — without constantly critici...
Aug 07, 2024•28 min•Ep. 1078
Many parents make the mistake of focusing too much on correcting their teens — and not enough on actually connecting with them. It can make a huge difference in your relationship! In this episode, Mark chats with a couple more Heartlight teens, including Austin, who sheds light on how his family's creative discipline methods — such as a unique card-based system for punishment — caused more strife than success. Don't miss these insightful interviews! To learn more about the Heartlight residential...
Aug 06, 2024•21 min•Ep. 1077
Does it ever seem like your teen is avoiding you or doesn't want to talk about anything that matters? In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore 10 common parenting behaviors that push teens away. Drawing from personal anecdotes and expert insights, they emphasize the importance of fostering strong, positive relationships during the teen years. From avoiding constant negativity to the issues of overcorrecting and demanding perfection, Wayne and Mark offer practical advice to help ...
Aug 05, 2024•14 min•Ep. 1076
In today's engaging Q&A session, host Mark Gregston dives deep into one of the most common questions he gets from parents: How do I connect with my teen effectively? Drawing from his experience at Heartlight, Mark emphasizes the profound impact of asking thoughtful, genuine questions. He shares practical advice on fostering an environment where teens feel valued and understood, highlighting the importance of listening and creating meaningful dialogue without judgment. Learn how to move beyon...
Aug 02, 2024•28 min•Ep. 1075
As our society rapidly changes, parents must adapt their approaches to meet the ever-shifting needs of their teens. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the challenges of maintaining a solid foundation while adapting to the dynamic cultural shifts impacting today's youth. They offer practical advice on how to engage in meaningful conversations that resonate with your teenager and adjust household rules to foster an environment of open dialogue. Whether you're struggling w...
Aug 01, 2024•16 min•Ep. 1074
