Parenting Today's Teens
Episodes
The Conversation Parents Can’t Avoid
15 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
If parents don’t talk to their teens about sex, someone else will. In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss ho...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Phones, Friendships and Finding Trust with Your Teen
12 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's Q&A episode, Mark explores how to gradually transfer control to teens as they get older while maintaining healthy boundaries and co...
Correcting Common Communication Mistakes With Your Teen
11 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Do your teens feel heard … or just managed, corrected and talked at? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur explore ...
The Parenting Skill That Changes Everything
10 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What if one simple change could transform the relationships inside your home? In this episode, Mark shares why listening may be one of the most powerf...
Teen Stories: Turning Rock Bottom into a Turning Point
09 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
When teens spiral into destructive behaviors, it's rarely just about "bad choices." There's usually deep pain pushing them there. In this episode, Mar...
The Hidden Damage of Social Media Drama
08 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What happens when social media turns everyday teenage drama into nonstop emotional pressure? In this episode, Mark, Wayne Shepherd and Heartlight Coun...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries, Loss and Letting Go
05 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
On today’s Q&A episode, Mark tackles a variety of real issues families face with teens, including anxiety, depression, substance use, relationsh...
What’s Standing Between You and Your Teen?
04 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Why do some parent-teen relationships slowly drift apart — even when both sides still care deeply? In this episode, Mark and Wayne unpack some of th...
Why Teens Need Someone Who Will Listen
03 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Could one simple parenting skill completely change your relationship with your teen? In this episode, Mark shares why listening may be the most powerf...
Teen Stories: Alone in a Crowd
02 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes, being surrounded by people isn’t enough to shake off the feeling of isolation. In this episode, Mark chats with two teens from Heartlight...
What Your Teen Wishes You Would Hear
01 Jun 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Could the biggest change in your relationship with your teen begin with simply listening better? In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore why today’s...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Church Disconnection and Being an Example of Christ
29 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark addresses one of the most pressing concerns among Christian parents: what to do when teens begin to struggle with or ques...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Church Disconnection and Being an Example of Christ
29 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark addresses one of the most pressing concerns among Christian parents: what to do when teens begin to struggle with or question...
Teaching, Training and Transferring Faith
28 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
How do you help your teen build a faith that truly becomes their own? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss w...
When Parenting Feels Like Rejection
27 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What if your teen’s struggles are also revealing something deeper in you? In this episode, Mark shares a deeply personal devotional about rejection,...
Teen Stories: When Life Feels Too Heavy
26 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes, the pain teens carry becomes so overwhelming that they feel there’s no way out. In today’s show, we share Mark's interviews with tw...
Don’t Panic When Teens Question God
25 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What should parents do when teens begin questioning faith, church or even God Himself? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Self-Esteem, Scary Shows and Communication Struggles
22 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
On today’s episode, Mark tackles some more real struggles parents face with their teens — from communication breakdowns and self-esteem issues to ...
Why Teens Stop Talking to Parents
21 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Why do some teens shut down? And what can parents do to help them open up again? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleu...
Raising Teens in a World Working Against Them
20 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Why does parenting teens today feel harder than ever before? In this episode, Mark shares a devotional about raising teens in a culture that often pul...
Teen Stories: Longing to Belong
19 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Every teen craves a sense of belonging — sometimes even more than they realize. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who sh...
Does Your Teen Need Counseling?
18 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What if counseling could become one of the greatest gifts you give your teen? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur d...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Social Struggles, Risky Texts and Self-Expression
15 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Ever feel like you're on the outside looking in? For lots of teens, fitting in feels like a full-time job — and sometimes, the pressure to belon...
Raising Financially Responsible Teens
14 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Are you preparing your teen to handle money — or unintentionally making them dependent on you? In this episode, Mark and Wayne tackle one of the mos...
The Damage of Perfectionistic Parenting
13 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Could your teen feel like they have to be perfect to earn your approval? In this episode, Mark shares a devotional on how well-meaning parents can uni...
Teen Stories: Getting a Fresh Start
12 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes, the hardest battles teens face happen silently — loneliness, insecurity and the pressure to escape pain. On this episode, Mark sits down ...
Teen Runaways: What Parents Need to Know
11 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Few things shake a parent more than realizing their teen has run away. In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore the deeper reasons teens leave home. Of...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Grief, Guardianship and Growing Up Too Soon
08 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
When family life gets complicated, teens can feel lost, misunderstood or pushed away. In today's show, Mark answers questions from listeners facin...
How to Get Your Teen to Actually Listen
07 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Do your conversations with your teen turn into debates, shutdowns or eye rolls? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur...
Relationship Is Your Greatest Legacy
06 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What will your teen remember most about you years from now? In this episode, Mark shares a devotional on legacy, influence and the power of relationsh...
Teen Stories: From Hiding Hurt to Finding Healing
05 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Pushing parents away or being disrespectful usually isn’t about just being rebellious. Sometimes, it’s a defense — a way to survive when trust h...
When Your Teen Doesn’t Want to Go to School
04 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Is school only about grades — or is there something more important your teen is learning there? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselo...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Family Friction, Fearful Teens and Finding Respect
01 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's show, Mark tackles some more of the most pressing and complex questions parents face with their teenagers today. From addressing issues...
What Your Teen Needs Most from You, Dad
30 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What kind of impact does a father really have on a teen’s life? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur talk about th...
A Parent’s Greatest Challenge
29 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Are you trying to guide your teen? Or just frustrated by the culture they’re growing up in? In this episode, Mark shares what may be the greatest ch...
Teen Stories: The Battle to Be Understood
28 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Behind every broken rule or secret kept, there’s often a story of a teen who just wants to be seen. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two yo...
Raising Socially Awkward Teens
27 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Is your teen struggling to connect with others or retreating into screens instead of real relationships? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight C...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Respect, Identity Struggles and Building Real Relationships
24 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Every teen faces tough questions about who they are, but for some, the journey is especially complicated. In today's Q&A episode, topics range...
When Your Teen Thinks Differently Than You
23 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What’s shaping your teen’s beliefs, and why do they sometimes latch onto ideas that create tension at home? In this episode, Mark and Wayne unpack...
When Helping Hurts: Teaching Teens to Carry Their Own Load
22 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Are you helping your teen — or holding them back? In this episode, Mark shares a powerful story about a young adult unprepared for real life, and th...
Teen Stories: Feeling the Pressure
21 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
When teens seem to have it all — good grades, bright smiles, great families — it's easy for parents to assume things are fine. But what if tha...
Breaking Patterns, Building Trust & Beating Boredom
20 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
As summer break draws closer, we’re revisiting an episode with Mark and Wayne about setting your teen up for success. Boredom isn’t harmless — i...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Parenting Older Teens, Independence and Consequences
17 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s Q&A episode, Mark tackles some more pressing parenting questions — covering everything from keeping tabs on your teen’s whereabou...
Quit Correcting. Start Connecting.
16 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
If you feel like you’re losing connection with your teen, you’re not alone and you’re not without hope. In this episode, Mark and Wayne unpack o...
Influenced by Encouragement
15 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Behind every teen's story is a series of voices that shape the way they see themselves — either building them up or tearing them down. In today&...
Teen Stories: The Disconnection Dilemma
14 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Many of today’s teens are searching for where they fit in. Sometimes they pull away from family, dive too deep into the digital world or don't k...
The Cost of Fitting In
13 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Every teen wants to belong somewhere, but for some, the journey to find acceptance comes with a heavy price. In today's episode, Mark visits with ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Handling Teen Drama and Risky Choices
10 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this Q&A episode, Mark dives into more pressing questions from parents grappling with the realities of raising teens today. From concerns about...
Searching for Connection: Why Your Teen Turns to Drugs
09 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
If you’ve ever wondered why some teens turn to risky behaviors, there’s usually a story beneath the surface. On today’s episode, Mark sits down ...
The Power of Influence: Overcoming Negativity
08 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What shapes a teen’s path through life? So often, it’s the quiet influence of people who stand by them, offering wisdom, encouragement and an open...
Teen Stories: When You Don't Feel Worthy
07 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Risky behavior is often more than just "acting out." For many teens, it’s a desperate attempt to fill an inner void or prove themselves to t...
Addressing the Fear Factor
06 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Many teens today carry invisible burdens of fear and anxiety — sometimes not even fully understanding where those feelings come from. On this episod...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Setting Rules, Seeking Connection and Staying Calm
03 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Every teen has a deep need to belong — and sometimes that longing drives them to choices and behaviors that leave parents frustrated and confused. I...
Shut Your Mouth, Open Your Ears
02 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss one of the most overlooked parenting tools: listening. They explore why teens often tune out when parents talk...
Understanding the ‘Why’ Behind Teen Outbursts
01 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Every parent is bound to face a moment when their teen’s anger seems to explode out of nowhere. But as Mark explains in today’s episode, there’s...
Teen Stories: Finding Yourself Again
31 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What happens when your life starts to spiral and you lose sight of who you are? For many teens, struggles with identity, relationships and loss can le...
Rescuing or Preparing: Are You Robbing Your Teen?
30 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark and Wayne tackle the hard truth of “rescuing” teens from life’s painful moments and why this well-intentioned instinct can...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Setting Boundaries With Teens & Young Adults
27 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Does any of this sound familiar? Your college-age daughter wants to move in with her boyfriend against your wishes. Your son fights you on doing his c...
9 Things Boomers Do to Drive Away Their Children & Grandkids
26 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
It’s easy to fall into the trap of criticizing “kids these days.” But how you view the younger generation will shape the kind of relationship yo...
When Your Child's Choices Hurt
25 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark shares a deeply personal devotional about the challenges parents face when their teens make decisions that go against family val...
Teen Stories: Looking For Answers
24 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Most struggling teens hold a story inside their hearts: a story of searching, hurt and hope. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight ...
Decisions That Shape Generations
23 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark and Wayne talk about the profound impact that tough parenting decisions can have on a family's future. Through personal stor...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Respect, Rebellion and Raising Responsible Kids
20 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Q&A episode, Mark tackles some more tough questions submitted by listeners about raising teens and young adults. From dealing with ...
Navigating Teen Romance
19 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur tackle teens and dating, exploring what it means for parents to set realistic b...
Stop Controlling and Start Trusting Your Teen
18 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this eye-opening episode, Mark dives deep into a common parenting dilemma — striking the right balance between guidance and control as teens seek...
Teen Stories: Out of Control
17 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
When life feels unpredictable, teens often seek control in unexpected ways. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young women at Heartlight wh...
Are You Passing on Bad Habits to Your Teens?
16 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur explore ways parents pass down bad habits to their teens — from being overly ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Balancing Boundaries and Building Trust
13 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark tackles some more tough questions parents are asking about raising teens in today's rapidly changing world. From navigating ...
Mean Girls, Social Media and Building Resilience
12 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Heartlight counselor Courtney Lafleur joins Mark and Wayne to tackle the issue of "mean girl" culture and the impact of socia...
Helping Teens Process Pain and Heal
11 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark shares a personal devotional about the impact of loss on teens and families. Drawing from personal stories and experiences at He...
Teen Stories: What's Left Unsaid
10 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Even the most loving families can struggle to truly hear one another. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who share their e...
How to Share Spiritual Values with Today’s Teens
09 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore the challenges and opportunities parents face in sharing their faith with teenagers in a rapidly changing worl...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Vaping, Drinking and the Search for Acceptance
06 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
On today's Q&A episode, Mark shares some more insights into the struggles families are facing while raising teenagers today. He answers questi...
Navigating Radicalization and Acceptance in Today’s Teens
05 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this insightful episode, Mark and Wayne explore what drives today's teenagers to embrace radical ideas, delving into the underlying motives of ...
Helping Teens Heal from Unresolved Hurt
04 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this heartfelt episode, Mark addresses the complex world of adolescent loss and its impact on behavior and emotional well-being. Drawing from real-...
Teen Stories: Shedding the Mask
03 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Many teens wrestle with the challenge of fitting in — sometimes at the cost of losing themselves. On today's show, Mark sits down with two Heart...
Unpacking Reckless & Impulsive Behavior in Teens
02 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore what drives teens to risky behaviors — often in search of adventure, escape or affirmation. The conversation...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Rebuilding Trust, Navigating Loss and Encouraging Independence
27 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's Q&A episode, Mark dives into the real-life struggles parents are dealing with right now. From trying to convince your teen to go to...
How a Divorce Affects Your Teen
26 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur discuss how divorce deeply impacts teens, often creating hidden emotional struggles that par...
Understanding the Pain Beneath the Choices
25 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark Gregston shares how, years into his marriage, his wife Jan revealed deep pain from childhood sexual abuse — pain that eventually led the...
Teen Stories: The Ups and Downs of Mental Health
24 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
So many of today’s teens are quietly battling anxiety, depression and the pressures of fitting in — a reality that often goes unseen. In this epis...
How Perspective Can Change Your Approach
23 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Join Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur today as they discuss the power of perspective when parenting teens, and why it matters more t...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Teen Dating, Church Changes and Digital Dangers
20 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark dives into some more pressing questions from parents — from navigating dating relationships when faith values differ, to suppo...
Teen Depression and Its Consequences
19 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Depression among teens is rising rapidly, with major studies showing increasing rates of persistent sadness, anxiety and even suicide. Today, Mark Gre...
God Is Bigger Than We Think
18 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark Gregston shares a personal story about being unexpectedly fired, leading him into a painful season that left him feeling rejected and ques...
Teen Stories: How Honesty Builds Connection
17 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
We all want to be seen, heard and valued — our teens are no different! In today's episode, Mark Gregston sits down with two Heartlight teens who...
Does Your Teen Smile Anymore?
16 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd today as they discuss what it means when your teen no longer smiles — and why parents shouldn’t ignore it. M...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Rules, Rebellion and Recovery
13 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark takes on more of listeners' most pressing questions about parenting adolescents in today’s world — from setting l...
Managing Your Teen's Phone
12 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Managing your teen’s phone use starts with recognizing that phones aren’t just distractions — they’re a primary way teens connect, feel entert...
A Parent’s Most Important Message: 'You Are Enough'
11 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Mark Gregston explains that today’s self-help culture constantly tells kids they’re “not enough,” fueling anxiety, confusion and a relentless ...
Teen Stories: Fleeing Hurt
10 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes what looks like rebellion or risky behavior in teens is really just a signal flare for something deeper going on inside. On today’s episod...
How to Support Your Teen with ADHD
09 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur discuss how parents of teens with ADHD may need to adjust expectations and recognize that th...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Balancing Screen Time, Communication and Affirmation
06 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Every parent worries about their teen’s online world — but what’s really driving all that screen time? In today’s show, Mark answers questions...
Helping Teens Develop Their Purpose
05 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
A teen’s purpose isn’t discovered in a single moment or from sitting at home; it unfolds through exposure, experience and exploration. In today...
Unconditional Love and Grace Over Performance
04 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Parents want the best for their teens, but good intentions can backfire when love feels tied to performance. This conversation reminds parents that ki...
Teen Stories: Battling Low Self-Worth
03 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Many parents might be surprised to learn that the behaviors and struggles their teens exhibit often stem from deep-rooted issues with self-worth. On t...
Strategies for Raising Responsible Teens
02 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur explain that raising responsible teens isn’t about perfection, but about ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Screens, Social Lives and Setting Boundaries
30 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's show, Mark Gregston dives into some more pressing questions parents have about raising teenagers amidst the challenges of technology, s...
Is Your Teen Leading a Double Life?
29 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Listen today as Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how it’s normal for teens to act differently in different settings, but it becomes concerni...
Performance-Based Relationships
28 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark Gregston shares a devotional from Psalm 86:15, exploring how children can grow up believing love must be earned through performance. When ...