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Parenting Today’s Teens — Kids & Family
Parenting Today’s Teens

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.

Copyright: © Mark Gregston

Latest Episodes:

Trusting God and Finding Thanks: Encouragement for Parents of Teens Nov 28, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the real challenges of raising teens while sharing a powerful reminder: Gratitude can make all the difference. During tough times, they emphasize the importance of leaning on God, trusting in His guidance to see you through to brighter days. They encourage parents to find something they genuinely appreciate about their teen and express it. This small act of gratitude can help bridge the gap, bringing you closer to your teen and offering support until you’re through the trial.

If your teen is struggling, be sure to check out the Teen Struggle Bundle at parentingtodaysteens.org/product/teen-struggle-bundle

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.

A Path of Gratefulness Nov 27, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Mark Gregston reflects on 1 Thessalonians 5:18, exploring the transformative power of thankfulness in everyday life. He delves into the essential connections we share with family and friends and reveals how our expectations can sometimes prevent us from fully experiencing each moment. Mark reminds us that it’s okay not to have all the answers — embracing the mystery can deepen our appreciation for life’s beauty. Ultimately, he shows how contentment fosters a heart of gratitude, helping us live with greater fulfillment and thankfulness.

Read more about living a fulfilling life and leaving a lasting legacy in Mark's article, The Importance of Living Your Life With Impact and Significance, at parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/devo-2.

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 http://parentingtodayteens.org/.

Teen Stories: What Sparks Self-Destructive Behavior? Nov 26, 2024

Show notes

Some teens act impulsively because they're seeking adventure — for others, it's a cry for help. In today's show, Mark and Courtney sit down with two teens from Heartlight who engaged in self-destructive behaviors because they weren't sure how to deal with the pain they were feeling. One teen, Katie, opens up about how her parents' divorce at a young age set off a chain of reckless behaviors and substance abuse, ultimately leading her to Heartlight where she found self-worth and motivation to turn her life around. Tune in now!

To learn more about the Heartlight program, go to 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.

How to Help Your Teen Cope Without Self-Medicating Nov 25, 2024

Show notes

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the growing trend of self-medication among teens, often fueled by anxiety and depression. While many may think of self-medication as substance use, it can also involve other unhealthy coping behaviors. Mark and Wayne explain the reasons behind these choices and how you, as a parent, can offer support and guidance. They also share practical, hands-on advice you can start using today to help your teen find healthier ways to manage their emotions. Be sure to tune in!

To learn more about Mark’s ministry for struggling teens, 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.

I Mustache Mark a Question: Preparing Teens for Adulthood Nov 22, 2024

Show notes

In this insightful Q&A episode, Mark Gregston addresses some of the most pressing concerns parents have about their teens on the cusp of adulthood. Covering a range of topics from managing disrespect and aggression to dealing with major depressive disorder and lack of motivation, Mark provides thoughtful advice and actionable steps for parents. Whether your child is struggling with independence, battling anxiety or simply lacking direction, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom to help you guide them towards a successful adulthood. 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

Helping Your Teen Navigate Today’s Online Challenges Nov 21, 2024

Show notes

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepard speak directly to parents about the essential role they play in guiding their children through today’s challenging cultural landscape, especially regarding online content. With easy access to the internet, it's more important than ever for parents to proactively support and engage with their children. The conversation emphasizes teaching redemption, forgiveness, and healthy perspectives, while sharing practical advice for fostering open, honest and ongoing conversations with teens.

If your teen is struggling, see if Mark’s ministry, Heartlight Ministries, can help by visiting 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.

The Pain of Perfectionism: How Unrealistic Expectations Can Hurt Our Kids Nov 20, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Mark Gregston delves into how parents, even with the best intentions, can unintentionally place unrealistic expectations on their children, often leading to misunderstandings and frustration. Mark emphasizes that while striving for greatness is valuable, expecting perfection can create lasting harm for both parents and teens. Mark also reminds us of the gentle invitation from Matthew 11:28-30, where Jesus offers rest and relief from the burdens of perfectionism. You don't want to miss this!

For more on understanding your teen’s heart and insights for how you can lead them through their unique challenges, check out Daily Hope For Families at parentingtodaysteens.org/product/daily-hope-for-families.

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.

Teen Stories: The Weight of Depression Nov 19, 2024

Show notes

Teens struggling with depression may find it very hard to keep up with the pressures of life — they feel weighed down, and they're not sure how to talk about it. In today's show, Mark talks with two teens who both struggled with depression and suicidality. Ian, Heartlight’s first resident from Vermont, opens up about his struggle with anxiety and substance abuse. We hear how he found hope and purpose at Heartlight, and is now looking forward to a bright future, including attending college. Tune in now!

To learn more about the Heartlight program, go to 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.

Embracing the Uncomfortable in Parenting Teens Nov 18, 2024

Show notes

Parenting teens often means pushing past our comfort zones to tackle tough moments with wisdom and resilience. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into why stepping outside of your parenting comfort zone is not just necessary ... but transformative. They discuss practical ways to meet your teen where they are, helping them navigate struggles that build maturity and resilience. Alongside listener letters, Mark and Wayne offer real-life advice to help you make meaningful connections, support your teen’s growth and prepare them for adulthood.

As Mark shared today, visit parentingtodaysteens.org to explore a full range of resources for parents of 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.

I Mustache Mark a Question: Anger Issues, Academic Struggles and Navigating Grief Nov 15, 2024

Show notes

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston reviews a variety of listener questions, tackling tough issues from teen anger and addictions to grief and the challenges of blended families. Mark shares powerful insights on fostering genuine connections, setting intentional boundaries and preparing our kids for real-world success. Tune in to learn the importance of allowing children to learn from natural consequences, adjusting parenting strategies as teens mature, and maintaining a balance between discipline and empathy.

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

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