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Parenting Today's Teens

Parenting Today's Teens

By Mark Gregston

A daily podcast released every weekday, the Parenting Today’s Teens Podcast features Mark Gregston, a parenting expert who has worked with teens and parents for over 45 years. Enlightening, up-to-date, practical, and something every parent would enjoy listening to. Raw at times, challenging at other times, but always hopeful to get your family to a better place in an adolescent culture that is sometimes a little contrary to what you believe and want for your teen.
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The Key to Connection: Listen More, Talk Less

Parenting Today's TeensAug 03, 2022

00:00
17:26
I Mustache Mark a Question: Freedom and Consequences

I Mustache Mark a Question: Freedom and Consequences

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." Order your copy today at bit.ly/3ZC9Yub

Jun 16, 202325:28
Understanding Self-Harm in Teens

Understanding Self-Harm in Teens

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 times with your child, check out "What's Happening To My Teen?" Order your copy at bit.ly/3zbI5hW

Jun 15, 202313:51
How Pain Changes Us

How Pain Changes Us

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? Check out our free e-course, "Bridging the Gap With Your Teen," today at bit.ly/3DWPwun

Jun 14, 202320:43
Teen Stories: How Far We've Come

Teen Stories: How Far We've Come

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 Heartlight the right option for your struggling teen? Learn more today at heartlightministries.org

Jun 13, 202321:30
Six Ways to Raise Independent Adolescents

Six Ways to Raise Independent Adolescents

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 yours at dailyhopeforfamilies.com

Jun 12, 202314:43
I Mustache Mark a Question: The Right Path

I Mustache Mark a Question: The Right Path

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 resource bundle yet? Get five great resources at a special price today at bit.ly/3jMe9DV

Jun 09, 202337:12
Hopeless Teens and Suicide

Hopeless Teens and Suicide

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 place.

Do you have a struggling teen? Heartlight may be the answer. Learn more here: heartlightministries.org

Jun 08, 202312:53
Sharing Wisdom With Your Kids

Sharing Wisdom With Your Kids

One of the biggest challenges you will likely face as a parent is figuring out how to pass down wisdom to your teens in a way that is applicable to today's culture. It's no easy task, but your teens will be grateful for it one day. In this episode, Mark explains why you can't share wisdom without first fostering real connection and showing interest in your child's world. Tune in now for this insightful devotional!

Have you visited our Parenting Today's Teens online store? Check out our full catalog today at resources.parentingtodaysteens.org

Jun 07, 202328:16
Teen Stories: Fighting Alone
Jun 06, 202320:56
Do You Have a Selfish Teen?

Do You Have a Selfish Teen?

We have a selfishness epidemic among our teens, and, unfortunately, parents probably play a role in it. If you're not careful, provision can quickly move to enabling your teen — which can lead to a selfish and entitled young adult. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss what to look out for if you have a self-centered teen and share some tips to help your child move past an entitled mentality. Listen in for this important topic!

For more help with the tough teen years, check out our Teen Struggle Bundle. Visit bit.ly/42IcWhC to get these resources!

Jun 05, 202315:59
I Mustache Mark a Question: Parental Intervention
Jun 02, 202325:18
Why Is My Teen So Angry?
Jun 01, 202315:56
Why Mentorship Matters
May 31, 202315:14
Teen Stories: Trying to Escape Our Problems

Teen Stories: Trying to Escape Our Problems

Whether it's drugs, video games or social media, teens often get engulfed in things they see as an escape from the problems of everyday life. But what happens when they inevitably realize escapism has gotten them nowhere? In today's interview with Heartlight teens, Mark sits down with two young men who tried to avoid their issues, like RJ, who used video games to avoid his troubles — and his parents. Listen to these insightful interviews now!

Need some help navigating a crisis with YOUR teen? Check out our Families in Crisis online course! Visit parentingtodaysteens.thinkific.com/courses/families-in-crisis

May 30, 202319:05
Let's Talk Video Games

Let's Talk Video Games

Many teens are crazy about video games, and that's not always a bad thing, but it's important for parents to uphold some rules and expectations around gaming time. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss WHY kids love this technology so much and share some practical tips for parents who are navigating boundaries with their teen's video game habits. Don't miss this great topic!

Looking for more practical ways to guide your child through the challenging teen years? Check out our free e-course, "Five Ways to Stay Engaged With Your Teen," at bit.ly/3ObygbF

May 29, 202315:60
I Mustache Mark a Question: Teen Autonomy

I Mustache Mark a Question: Teen Autonomy

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who are aiming to foster independence, nurture faith and navigate the influence of friends. He delves into the importance of allowing teens to make their own choices while providing guidance that can shape their future decisions. Don’t miss out — tune in now!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: https://markgregston.com/

For more on how to navigate tough times with your child, check out "What's Happening To My Teen?" Order your copy at bit.ly/3zbI5hW

May 26, 202325:49
Is There Still Hope for My Kid?
May 25, 202315:26
Raising a Responsible Teen

Raising a Responsible Teen

The high school years are important for many reasons, but a huge one is that this time is the primary season to be preparing your teen to be a responsible young adult. So, how do you find the balance of knowing when to be hands-off and when to help them through challenges? In this episode, Mark explains what can happen when a parent's provision turns into enabling a spoiled teen and why you need to find a healthy level of involvement in your child's life. Listen in now!

For more resources on guiding your teen, check out our Teen Struggle Bundle. Order yours today at bit.ly/42IcWhC

May 24, 202320:57
Teen Stories: Finding Strength in Vulnerability

Teen Stories: Finding Strength in Vulnerability

Many teens — and adults — struggle with opening up and sharing their hearts and struggles with others. Vulnerability can be scary, but very beneficial in healing. In today's show, Mark talks with two Heartlight high schoolers who've learned this firsthand, including Jake, who shares how he was finally able to take off his "mask" and talk about his depression to counselors and friends at the boarding school. Don't miss these great interviews!

To learn more about how the Heartlight program works, visit heartlightministries.org

May 23, 202319:47
Becoming a Trainer — Not a Teacher

Becoming a Trainer — Not a Teacher

Teens today don't need their parents to just share more information with them — they have all the information they could need in the palm of their hand! What our teens DO need is wisdom. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why you need to be a "trainer" for your teen, not just a teacher. Tune in now for this timely topic!

For more tools to better communicate with your teen, check out the free "Bridging the Gap With Your Teen" e-course at bit.ly/3DWPwun

May 22, 202314:48
I Mustache Mark a Question: Adult Kids
May 19, 202306:46
Encouragement for Emotionally Drained Parents
May 18, 202312:17
How Great Is Your Impact?

How Great Is Your Impact?

Adolescents and young adults soak up comments and info like a sponge, so never underestimate the power your words — positive OR negative — can hold. In this episode, Mark re-shares how the mentors who spoke positivity into his life and goals still impact him today and how they helped him overcome all the naysayers. Don't miss his insights!

Have you checked out our full catalog of Parenting Today's Teens resources? Visit the online store today at resources.parentingtodaysteens.org

May 17, 202317:08
Teen Stories: A Cry for Help

Teen Stories: A Cry for Help

If a teen gets to a point where they feel like their life doesn't have a clear purpose and no one is there to listen to them, they can arrive at a very dark place quite quickly. In today's show, Mark talks with two young ladies who struggled with hopelessness and guilt. One reflects on why she turned to self-harm while battling an eating disorder, while the other, a Heartlight alumna, shares her story of surviving a suicide attempt. These stories are honest, emotional and important for all parents to hear!

Could the Heartlight program be right for your teen? Learn more today at heartlightministries.org

May 16, 202323:58
Five Ways to Connect With Your Teen Grandchildren

Five Ways to Connect With Your Teen Grandchildren

If you're a grandparent, maintaining a close relationship with your teen grandkids can be a truly wonderful thing — for you AND them! But sometimes, it's hard to know where to start when it comes to connecting to today's teens. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share five specific ways you can show your teen grandchildren they're loved and understood. Listen in for these insightful tips!

Have you checked out our Grandparenting Bundle yet? You can get these five great resources at a special price at bit.ly/3jMe9DV

May 15, 202311:55
I Mustache Mark a Question: Effective Communication
May 12, 202318:22
Building Character in Your Teen
May 11, 202314:53
Are You Ready to Go Beyond the Small Talk?

Are You Ready to Go Beyond the Small Talk?

Asking good questions has a special way of creating real connections between people — it shows you're genuinely interested in their lives. The same is true for your teen. If you want to go deeper in your conversations with them than just the same old small talk, ask questions! In today's episode, Mark Gregston explains why questions are the key to unlocking a connection with your teen and shares tips on how to ask them in a way that doesn't feel judgmental. Tune in now!

Looking for some new tools for your parenting (or grandparenting) toolkit? Check out our curriculum bundle today! Visit bit.ly/3Vamxvf

May 10, 202318:05
Teen Stories: Kicking Addiction

Teen Stories: Kicking Addiction

Whether it's due to the impact of trauma or a battle with mental health, plenty of teens turn to drugs thinking they'll find a temporary escape from the pain in their lives ... but soon find themselves unable to get through life sober. In today's show, Mark Gregston sits down with two Heartlight teens who share their journeys out of drug addiction and reflect on their growth at the boarding school. These are two great interviews you don't want to miss!

To learn more about how the Heartlight program works, visit heartlightministries.org

May 09, 202319:45
Why You Need Clear Rules and Boundaries

Why You Need Clear Rules and Boundaries

Making sure your teen understands their role and what is — and is not — expected of them can help your entire home run smoother. Have you taken the time to sit down and hold a family meeting about rules and consequences recently? In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share tips on how to set effective rules and boundaries that will help your teen mature while protecting your peace and privacy. Don't miss these helpful insights!

For more on how to navigate tough times with your child, check out "What's Happening To My Teen?" Order your copy at bit.ly/3zbI5hW

May 08, 202314:53
I Mustache Mark a Question: Restoring Trust

I Mustache Mark a Question: Restoring Trust

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who are exhausted and downright hurt by their teen’s constant lying. He explains why you should expect your kids to break your trust, and to look at those instances as teaching opportunities. By letting teens make their own choices and face the consequences of those decisions, they can learn to appreciate wisdom and good judgment. Don’t miss out on this life changing advice— tune in now!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: https://markgregston.com/

For a deep dive into how you can help guide your teen through hard times and into maturity, check out the Teen Struggle Bundle. Order yours today at http://bit.ly/419kd9p

May 05, 202318:24
Navigating Privacy in the Digital Age

Navigating Privacy in the Digital Age

The internet isn’t just a way for your kid to reach out into the world, it’s also a way for the world to reach into your home. The need to monitor your teen’s phone activity is valid — but how are you to simultaneously grant them the privacy necessary to mature? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd provide practical tips to help parents strike the right balance between freedom and safety. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on teen privacy and the internet!

For more successful strategies to adapt your parenting to today’s culture, check out "Tough Guys and Drama Queens." Order your copy today at http://bit.ly/3ZC9Yub

May 04, 202312:08
Does Your Love Come With Conditions?

Does Your Love Come With Conditions?

It's great to want and encourage your teen to perform well in school, work, sports and more, but if they fail, do they feel like they'll lose your love? Conveying your unconditional love to your teen is crucial to their wellbeing. In this episode, Mark Gregston shares a personal story of a teen that struggled with feeling like her value was performance-based and emphasizes why you should communicate your teen's value to them — no matter what.

For more on how to help your teen work through the challenges they face in life, read "Raising Teens in a Contrary Culture." Order yours at bit.ly/38Dy7eq

May 03, 202315:43
Teen Stories: Behind a Happy Face

Teen Stories: Behind a Happy Face

It's not uncommon for hurting teens to develop methods of masking their pain from others — which means that even the happiest and bubbliest kids may be hiding how they really feel. In this episode, Mark Gregston talks to some Heartlight teens, including a young lady who was often all smiles, but behind the scenes, she was self-harming. Don't miss these insightful interviews!

Do you have a struggling teen? Heartlight may be the answer. Learn more here: heartlightministries.org

May 02, 202321:16
Intentionality Is the Key to Grandparenting

Intentionality Is the Key to Grandparenting

The role of a grandparent in the life of a teen can be a very special one indeed — if they're willing to intentionally maintain the relationship. Remaining a relevant figure in a teenage grandchild's life is challenging, but not impossible! In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why grandparents are so important in a teen's life and share encouragement for the ones who live far away from their grandchildren. Tune in for their advice!

For more insights on grandparenting, check out the "Leaving a Legacy of Hope" curriculum series! Order yours at bit.ly/3gQv7z1

May 01, 202315:36
I Mustache Mark a Question: Screentime

I Mustache Mark a Question: Screentime

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from mothers who want to know how to get their daughters off of their phones and out into the real world. He dives into the heart of screen time issues — connection. The desire of any teen’s heart is to be seen, validated and affirmed through relationships; if they aren’t finding adequate affirmation at home, they’ll seek it out just about anywhere else. Tune in now!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: https://markgregston.com/

For more successful strategies to build a strong relationship with your child, check out "Tough Guys and Drama Queens." Order your copy today at http://bit.ly/3ZC9Yub

Apr 28, 202311:57
The Purpose of Pain

The Purpose of Pain

A parent’s role is not to eliminate the pain in their child’s life, but to prepare them for the real world. Teens will choose their inappropriate behavior over and over until the pain that results from their choice surpasses the pleasure that it brings them. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of not rescuing your kids so they might experience the pain of their actions, forcing them to think in new ways, and ultimately learn from their mistakes. Listen now!

For more help with setting appropriate boundaries for your child, check out "Developing Rules and Consequences." Order your copy today at bit.ly/3BLttp4

Apr 27, 202315:01
Helping Your Child Navigate a Negative Culture

Helping Your Child Navigate a Negative Culture

There seems to be no end to the negativity in today's culture — teens are exposed to it through the news, their peers and social media every single day. So how can you, as a parent, teach them how to navigate this storm? In this special devotional, Mark Gregston shares his insights on how social media is impacting our teens' ways of communicating and why the negative culture can strain your relationships at home. Listen in now!

For more on adjusting your approach to be effective in today's teen culture, check out the Families in Crisis Course at familycrisisretreat.com/families-in-crisis-course

Apr 26, 202324:14
Teen Stories: How Porn Impacts Young Minds

Teen Stories: How Porn Impacts Young Minds

Because of the internet and social media, today's teens have easier access to pornography than ever before. But do they realize the negative impact watching explicit content has on how they view the world? In today's show, Mark Gregston sits down with a couple more Heartlight teens, including a young man who speaks from the heart about how watching porn affected his life and skewed his view of women. Don't miss today's teen stories!

Interested in learning about the Heartlight boarding school? Check out heartlightministries.org

Apr 25, 202323:26
Battling the Busyness

Battling the Busyness

In order to have a close relationship with your teen, you have to know what's going on in their world — and to do that, you need to make time for them! In today's show, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss when it's time to change your parenting approach and why it's important to carve out time in your family's busy schedule to spend one-on-one with your child. Tune in to hear how these small changes can make a huge difference!

Have you gotten your copy of Mark's newest devotional, "Daily Hope For Families," yet? Order yours today at dailyhopeforfamilies.com

Apr 24, 202315:35
I Mustache Mark a Question: Growing Pains

I Mustache Mark a Question: Growing Pains

No one is ever fully prepared to be a parent; just when you think you’re getting the hang of it, everything changes. Like it or not, you should be growing and changing right alongside your kid. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who either want or need to learn how to engage with their teen in new ways. Don’t miss out, tune in now!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: https://markgregston.com/

For more successful strategies to build a strong relationship with your child, check out "Tough Guys and Drama Queens." Order your copy today at http://bit.ly/3ZC9Yub

Apr 21, 202324:30
Why Doesn’t My Teen Listen to My Advice?

Why Doesn’t My Teen Listen to My Advice?

Part of our job as parents is to find a way to effectively pass our wisdom on to the next generation. In today’s world, however, kids have an overwhelming amount of access to content, making it hard for them to differentiate between information and wisdom. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd review tactics for successfully presenting wisdom to teens in a way that's interesting, applicable and personable. Listen now!

For a deep dive into how you can help guide your teen through today's culture, check out the Teen Struggle Bundle. Order yours today at http://bit.ly/419kd9p

Apr 20, 202314:21
Through the Lens of Legacy

Through the Lens of Legacy

How do you want your kids to remember you? What about your grandchildren? It's important to keep in mind that the relationship you build with your teen today will also impact future generations. In today's episode, Mark Gregston shares why you should keep a big-picture perspective when it comes to the legacy you'll leave behind. Don't miss these thoughtful insights!

To dive deeper into this topic, take our "Leaving a Legacy of Hope" e-course. Enroll for free today at parentingtodaysteens.thinkific.com/courses/leaving-a-legacy-of-hope

Apr 19, 202318:50
Teen Stories: Understanding the Impact of Drugs

Teen Stories: Understanding the Impact of Drugs

In the cases of many teens who get into drugs at a young age, hindsight is definitely 20/20. Looking back, they often regret doing drugs in the first place. In today's episode, Mark Gregston talks with two high schoolers who are examining how substance abuse impacted their lives, including one young man who reflects on how his whole life spiraled in just two years because of drug use. Listen in now!

If you think Heartlight might be the right choice for your child, visit heartlightministries.org to learn more!

Apr 18, 202319:58
Seven Ways to Argue Effectively

Seven Ways to Argue Effectively

There's no doubt about it, most teens love to argue. But the good news is that there ARE ways to have these difficult discussions with your teens that result in a good outcome. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share seven ways to argue effectively with your teen — not with the goal of winning but reaching a mutual understanding. This is a great topic for all parents of teens, so tune in!

For more on shifting your communication style, enroll in our FREE "Five Ways to Stay Engaged With Your Teen" e-course! Visit parentingtodaysteens.thinkific.com/courses/five-ways-to-stay-engaged

Apr 17, 202314:59
I Mustache Mark a Question: When to Hold Your Tongue

I Mustache Mark a Question: When to Hold Your Tongue

Parents have spent their lives acquiring wisdom, and any good parent has the desire to share their valuable lessons with their kids — but is there such a thing as too much advice? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who aren’t sure where to draw the line with their input. Tune in now to hear his advice!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: https://markgregston.com/

Is Heartlight the right fit for your teen? Learn more today at heartlightministries.org

Apr 14, 202324:00
Balancing Rules and Relationships

Balancing Rules and Relationships

The purpose of rules and consequences is to guide teens to where they want to go and to keep them from where they don’t want to end up. They do not serve to bring peace to our lives, but rather to build up a child’s character. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why parents must establish a relationship with their teen before successfully implementing authority, and how rules should be simple, relevant, attainable and beneficial.

For more practical counsel on building a meaningful connection with the teens in your life, check out Mark's 365-day devotional, "Daily Hope For Families." Order yours today at dailyhopeforfamilies.com

Apr 13, 202314:46
What's Driving Your Child's Behavior?
Apr 12, 202326:35
Teen Stories: Unexpected Connections

Teen Stories: Unexpected Connections

When many teens arrive at Heartlight, they're apprehensive about making new friends with other kids who come from very different backgrounds and locations. But these new friendships often grant them a fresh perspective on life and relationships. In today's episode, Mark Gregston chats with two Heartlight teens who both struggled with drug use and got into trouble with their friends back home, but found surprising depth in their new connections at the boarding school. Check out their stories!

To learn more about the Heartlight residential program, visit heartlightministries.org

Apr 11, 202320:03
Teens Want to Be Prepared, Not Protected

Teens Want to Be Prepared, Not Protected

When it comes down to it, you can't protect your teen from everything — as much as you might like to! In order to be ready for adulthood, teens need to be exposed to the challenges of culture and the real world. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about how you can shift your mindset to PREPARING your teen, instead of just protecting them. Don't miss this great discussion!

Want to learn some tried-and-true parenting principles that will help your struggling teen? Check out the online Families in Crisis Course! Sign up today at familycrisisretreat.com/families-in-crisis-course

Apr 10, 202314:10