Parenting Today's Teens
Episodes
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 ...
Teen Stories: Reckoning with Privilege
27 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
When teens seem demanding or expect the world handed to them, it's easy to chalk it up to “just being a teenager” — but there’s often more...
What Is Worth Fighting For?
26 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
As kids enter the teen years, parents often spend so much time correcting behavior that they unintentionally crowd out connection. Constantly fighting...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Quiet Preteens, First Love and Grandparent Dilemmas
23 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this Q&A episode, Mark tackles another batch of real questions from listeners facing everyday parenting challenges. From helping quiet preteens...
Giving Grace When Teens Make Mistakes
22 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how parents will inevitably feel hurt or disappointed by their teen’s mistakes, but...
Wisdom Over Knowledge
21 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Listen in as Mark Gregston shares a devotional from the book of Proverbs, challenging parents to deepen their relationship with their teens. Mark remi...
Teen Stories: Searching for Trust
20 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
For many families, the journey through the teen years is marked by trust that’s been damaged — and the hope for restoration. Today, Mark sits down...
Grandparents Are a Gift
19 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur discuss the irreplaceable role grandparents play in the lives of their teenage grandchildren...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Discipline, Divorce and the Digital Age
16 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark tackles some more challenging questions parents are facing with their teenagers today. From motivating a checked-out high...
Types of Parenting That Will Push Teens Away
15 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Parents often unintentionally push their teens away by demanding perfection, forcing authority or coming across as judgmental. In this episode, Mark G...
When a Once-Close Relationship Feels Distant
14 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark Gregston shares a personal devotional from Romans 16:17. Listen as he discusses what to do when a once-close relationship with your child ...
Teen Stories: Learning to Cope Without Drugs
13 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What happens when teens turn to drugs to cope with struggles that feel too heavy to bear? Many young people use substances as a way to escape feelings...
Dating and Your Teen
12 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd encourage parents to view teen dating as a training ground, not just something to restrict or fear. Mark empha...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Bullying, Beliefs and Battling Teen Angst
09 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark tackles real questions from parents who are in the trenches with their teens. From navigating the challenges of adoption with children who...
Fostering Respect at Home
08 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how respect is foundational to a peaceful, healthy home, and it must be intentionally taught and model...
Don’t Give Up: Hope Grows Through the Struggle
07 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Listen today as Mark Gregston reflects on a generation that pursued “peace at all costs” and avoided conflict, often weakening relationships inste...
Teen Stories: Searching for Validation
06 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
For many teens, the drive to fit in or feel worthy can shape almost every decision they make. Beneath the surface, those struggles often trace back to...
Making the Most of One-on-One Time with Your Teen
05 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd today as they discuss the powerful opportunity parents have to shape their teens’ hearts and direction through...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Tough Conversations, Growing Up and Coming Home
02 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this Q&A episode, Mark dives into some of the most sensitive questions parents are facing right now. Addressing tough topics like puberty and s...
A Fresh Start for Your Family
01 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
As a new year begins, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur encourage families to pause and have honest, grace-filled conversations with ...
Knowing What’s Normal in the Teen Years
31 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Mark Gregston reminds parents that many frustrating teen behaviors are actually normal parts of adolescence and part of how kids learn to grow into ad...
Teen Stories: Weathering the Storm
30 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Family relationships aren’t always easy, and sometimes the toughest struggles can lead to the strongest connections. On today’s episode, Mark sits...
Help for When Parents Feel Hopeless
29 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
On today's episode, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur remind parents who feel overwhelmed by a child’s struggles — whether ad...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Structure, Screen Time and Stepping into Adulthood
26 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark dives into some more pressing challenges parents face today — from transitioning your parenting style as kids grow, to managing teens’...
Grandparenting During the Holidays
25 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Merry Christmas! The holidays can unite families, and grandparents play a unique role in setting a warm, meaningful tone for those gatherings. Today, ...
Giving Teens Certainty in an Uncertain World
24 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Mark Gregston as he talks about how Luke’s account of Christ’s birth highlights a powerful idea often overlooked. Mark explains that modern a...
Teen Stories: When Parents Really Listen
23 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What happens when teens feel unheard at home? This week, Mark talks with two Heartlight teens, who bravely share their battles with depression, insecu...
Allowing Teens to Control Their Lives
22 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how parents often hold tightly to control out of fear, but doing so can stunt a teen’s ability to de...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Tough Calls on Therapy, Consequences and Connection
19 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark dives into some more pressing questions from parents who are struggling with their teens and young adults. From addressin...
Christmas in the Midst of Conflict
18 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Listen today as Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur discuss the reality that Christmas often brings conflict rather than peace, especia...
Small Conversations Build Lifelong Influence
17 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Mark reflects on the lessons he’s learned as a parent and grandparent, emphasizing how small, consistent conversations build trust and open the door...
Teen Stories: Breaking the Mold
16 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Every teen's journey is shaped by a search for identity — a need to take ownership of their life, make choices and discover who they truly are. ...
When You're at the End of Your Rope
15 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Families in crisis often feel overwhelmed, isolated and “at the end of their rope,” but Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur remind ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Faith, Freedom and Figuring Out Family Rules
12 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark Gregston dives into some of the toughest questions parents face with their teenagers today. From encouraging faith in a 1...