In today’s episode, Mark shares a heartfelt devotional inspired by Proverbs 3:21-24, offering four key insights that can transform your approach to parenting. He emphasizes how a child’s behavior often reflects deeper, unseen struggles and encourages parents to look beyond surface actions to understand the root causes. Mark discusses how to cultivate a compassionate perspective, seeing with the eyes of your heart, and how to apply this wisdom in navigating the complex challenges of raising teens...
Jan 15, 2025•26 min•Ep. 1193
Having an angry teen in your home can be a constant source of chaos and strife — but parents have to remember that anger always has a deeper root. As we hear in today's show, those teens also need to realize that rage-filled outbursts won't get them where they want to go. Mark and Courtney chat with two teens who've struggled with anger, including Sebastian, who opens up about his struggles with destructive tendencies and how he's discovering healthier coping mechanisms. Check it out! Could Hear...
Jan 14, 2025•24 min•Ep. 1192
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the importance of truly connecting with your teen. They explore why teens may lose their way and outline three key steps parents can take to guide them back on track. Mark highlights the value of intentional parenting as your child’s needs change and reminds parents that what teens desire most is a strong, authentic relationship — something only you can offer. Join Mark at Heartlight Ministries for a weekend designed specifically for...
Jan 13, 2025•17 min•Ep. 1191
In today's episode, Mark Gregston shares thoughtful advice and practical wisdom as he discusses a variety of listener questions. From adjusting parenting styles and supporting college-aged children to navigating grandparent relationships and guiding teens through divorce, Mark provides empathetic insights on these common challenges. He also dives into strategies for managing kids' obsessions with popular culture and fostering open communication, even with busy schedules. Whether you're navigatin...
Jan 10, 2025•27 min•Ep. 1190
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share heartfelt excerpts from parents navigating the challenges of raising teens. These real-life accounts shed light on the emotional struggles families face daily. Mark and Wayne provide five practical steps you can implement immediately to improve the tone of your home and build stronger connections with your teen. Plus, they offer three additional actionable tips to create positive, lasting changes in your family dynamics. Whether you're look...
Jan 09, 2025•15 min•Ep. 1189
In this episode, Mark Gregston reflects on Proverbs 4:7 and shares a personal story about how a simple statement from his 5-year-old granddaughter shifted his perspective on a situation. This moment led him to realize just how vital perspective is for parents, especially when raising teens. Mark encourages us to stay focused on what truly matters in today’s world and to actively engage in understanding our teens' lives, helping them navigate their challenges while leading with wisdom and empathy...
Jan 08, 2025•19 min•Ep. 1188
Our culture moves so fast, and teens experience a lot of pressure. They see people who seem to "have it all figured out" — and it can lead to feeling purposeless. In today's show, Mark sits down with two teens from Heartlight, including Peter, who shares how the structure of the boarding school has been beneficial. He discusses his turbulent relationship with his parents, dealing with the fallout from their divorce, and how he grappled with depression and a lack of direction. Tune in now! Intere...
Jan 07, 2025•20 min•Ep. 1187
Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they share practical advice on effective discipline while fostering a strong parent-child relationship. They emphasize the importance of setting clear expectations, maintaining open communication and collaborating with your teen. Learn how to avoid disciplining out of anger and instead adopt a connection-based approach that builds trust and mutual respect. Do you have an adopted teen who’s struggling? Join us in Texas for a special weekend designed specif...
Jan 06, 2025•14 min•Ep. 1186
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses listener-submitted questions on how to foster deeper communication with teens who struggle to open up. He explores why kids often remain silent — whether it’s feeling that their words don’t matter or not having the right words to express their emotions. Mark offers actionable advice on recognizing parental influence, navigating family dynamics, and responding with love and understanding. From connecting with non-communicative teens to managing the impa...
Jan 03, 2025•31 min•Ep. 1185
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd offer heartfelt advice and encouragement for single parents. Acknowledging the strength and resilience it takes to parent alone, they share practical tips and emotional support to help you navigate this journey. They emphasize the importance of leaning on family, friends and mentors, and highlight the value of building a supportive community. Their uplifting message is clear: You are not alone. Is your adopted teen struggling? Join us for an even...
Jan 02, 2025•13 min•Ep. 1184
Happy New Year! In today’s episode, Mark Gregston shares a personal devotion, using scripture to inspire families as they prepare for the new year. He encourages reflection on the past to recognize obstacles and a forward-looking vision to identify what you truly want. Through thought-provoking questions and practical suggestions, Mark offers ideas to help you start conversations that could lead to transformative change within your family. Check it out! For Mark's newest daily devotional, visit ...
Jan 01, 2025•12 min•Ep. 1183
For a lot of teens, it's easier to express anger than it is to show others that they're sad, lonely or feeling lost. But anger always has a root. In this episode, Mark sits down with two more Heartlight teens, including a young lady who opens up about the challenges she's faced, from discovering her birth mother's lifelong prison sentence to battling depression and rage. She shares how Heartlight has helped her transform her life, work through trauma and begin to mend relationships. Tune in now!...
Dec 31, 2024•22 min•Ep. 1182
In today’s episode, Mark and Wayne delve into the tough truth that even the best parenting efforts don’t always lead to the results you hope for. They highlight the importance of staying adaptable and evolving as a parent, reassuring listeners that struggles don’t diminish the value of their efforts. They also challenge parents to avoid getting too comfortable in their approach, encouraging them to adjust as their children grow and their needs change. Would you like to partner with Mark to keep ...
Dec 30, 2024•12 min•Ep. 1181
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers your most pressing questions, tackling real-life dilemmas faced by parents just like you. From handling a disrespectful 19-year-old still living at home, to guiding a 16-year-old struggling with loneliness and over-reliance on video games, Mark offers practical advice grounded in his decades of experience. You'll also hear insights on managing a 20-year-old potentially involved in drug activity, navigating the complex emotions surrounding a grandchild's ...
Dec 27, 2024•26 min•Ep. 1180
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the impact of a world driven by appearances and superficiality on today’s teens. They discuss how kids crave genuine connections, yet often struggle to find them in a society full of facades. Mark and Wayne challenge parents to open up about their own struggles and hopes, rather than presenting a perfect, unrelatable image. Tune in now for practical advice on how to build a deeper, more genuine relationship with your teen! To see our f...
Dec 26, 2024•13 min•Ep. 1179
Merry Christmas! In today’s episode, Mark Gregston shares a personal devotion, using scripture to inspire families as they prepare for the new year. He encourages reflection on the past to recognize obstacles and a forward-looking vision to identify what you truly want. Through thought-provoking questions and practical suggestions, Mark offers ideas to help you start conversations that could lead to transformative change within your family. Check it out! For Mark's newest daily devotional, visit...
Dec 25, 2024•19 min•Ep. 1178
Every teen's journey at Heartlight looks different — and everyone learns, heals and grows at their own pace. In today's show, Mark talks with two young men in the program, including Jack, who's been at Heartlight for 16 months. He reflects on his time there, and shares how he was initially skeptical, but gradually shed these misconceptions. Eventually, he arrived at a place of growth and gratitude, realizing that his parents' actions were driven by care and responsibility rather than a desire to...
Dec 24, 2024•24 min•Ep. 1177
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the critical issue of teen drug use, offering insights on why some teens turn to substances and reminding parents that no one is immune to this challenge. They highlight key signs to watch for and emphasize the importance of NOT assuming it could never happen to your child. With compassion and practical advice, they guide parents on how to respond effectively if they discover their teen is using drugs, providing steps for both preventi...
Dec 23, 2024•13 min•Ep. 1176
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives into some of the most pressing questions sent in by listeners. He discusses the pitfalls of performance-based relationships and how conditional love can hinder your teen's growth. He also explores the importance of encouraging independence by letting teens face natural consequences while providing support when needed. From common concerns like curfews and phone use to your child's transition to college life, fostering a respectful and understanding relatio...
Dec 20, 2024•33 min•Ep. 1175
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore why teaching teens to navigate struggles effectively is essential. While it’s natural for parents to want to shield their kids from hardship, they explain how facing challenges builds resilience and character. With practical advice, they share the do’s and don’ts of guiding teens through tough times, encouraging parents to model healthy responses to adversity and trust that God’s presence will shine through even the hardest moments. If yo...
Dec 19, 2024•17 min•Ep. 1174
In this heartfelt episode, Mark Gregston opens up about the near tragedies he faced this year and the renewed gratitude they inspired in his life. Through these challenges, Mark discovered unexpected blessings that make Christmas feel especially meaningful. He invites us all to pause during this holiday season and reflect on the hidden gifts in our own lives, even amid difficult circumstances. Give your family the gift of daily hope! Check out Mark's devotional, Daily Hope for Families, at daily...
Dec 18, 2024•11 min•Ep. 1173
Trauma experienced in childhood has the potential to impact an individual's entire life — which is why it's so crucial to support a teen who's facing a painful past. In today's show, Mark talks with two teens from Heartlight, including one of our youngest residents, who opens up about his tumultuous childhood. It was marked by intense anger and traumatic events, including the murder of his biological mother. Despite it all, he's learning to communicate better and manage his emotions through musi...
Dec 17, 2024•23 min•Ep. 1172
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the essential skills every parent needs to raise resilient teens. They discuss setting clear, non-negotiable household rules, giving teens the space to learn from their mistakes, and maintaining flexibility in your parenting approach. Mark and Wayne also highlight the power of unconditional love and open communication, sharing practical tips you can use today to create a supportive and nurturing home environment for your teen. To learn ...
Dec 16, 2024•17 min•Ep. 1171
In this episode, Mark Gregston addresses real-life parenting dilemmas, including managing phone restrictions and substance use. He also discusses confronting identity issues shaped by societal norms and supporting kids through the highs and lows of high school relationships. With practical advice on setting boundaries, transitioning from teaching to training, and supporting teens through bullying and ADHD-related challenges, Mark provides thoughtful guidance to help parents lead with confidence....
Dec 13, 2024•31 min•Ep. 1170
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore how parents can respond thoughtfully when teens push against their values, reframing these moments as opportunities for growth. They share practical steps for building strong relationships, approaching challenges with hope and trusting God’s guidance. With reassurance that truth will prevail, Mark also answers a listener’s question, offering real-world examples of navigating these pivotal moments with care. Learn more about Heartlight Min...
Dec 12, 2024•15 min•Ep. 1169
In this episode, Mark Gregston shares why consistent, one-on-one time with your teen is crucial. These moments foster trust, improve communication and create a safe space for them to open up. Mark offers practical strategies, "rules of engagement" and four key insights to help you make the most of this time — free from opinions, criticism or unsolicited advice. Learn how to build a stronger, more meaningful relationship with your teen. For more, check out Mark's family devotional bundle at paren...
Dec 11, 2024•25 min•Ep. 1168
It's hard to ask for help at any age. Sometimes, it seems easier to just put on a brave face and keep others at arm's length — but as the teens in today's episode share, that only hurts more in the long run. Today, Mark and Courtney talk with two young ladies at Heartlight who reflect on their family conflicts and struggles with substance use. Ryan opens up about the pain of unresolved trauma and the facade of perfection she maintained. Her journey shows the courage it takes to confront one's vu...
Dec 10, 2024•25 min•Ep. 1167
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why helping kids develop independence is essential — and how doing too much for them can backfire. When parents constantly step in, it can foster a self-centered mindset, where kids expect others to handle everything for them. Mark and Wayne explore how well-meaning provision can unintentionally become enabling, stifling growth and resilience. Through relatable examples, they offer practical strategies to empower your children, encourage ...
Dec 09, 2024•15 min•Ep. 1166
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston discusses some of the most pressing questions from parents just like you. He dives into a range of topics, including how to handle a 17-year-old son with high-functioning autism and ADHD who is struggling with alcohol use, understanding when it’s time to involve psychiatry for a child displaying disruptive behavior and strategies to support a depressed teen who refuses counseling. Mark also discusses ways to help a 25-year-old daughter dealing with severe depres...
Dec 06, 2024•20 min•Ep. 1165
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the pitfalls of expecting perfection from teens. They discuss how holding teens to impossible standards can damage their mental and emotional health, and offer practical strategies for parents to foster a healthy, grace-filled environment. Discover how to celebrate progress over perfection and nurture a thriving relationship with your teen — tune in now! To purchase Mark’s devotional for families, visit https://dailyhopeforfamilies.com/ P...
Dec 05, 2024•17 min•Ep. 1164
