Parenting Today's Teens

Parenting Teens with Conviction and Compassion

06 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of being intentional in your parenting — as you prepare your child for...

What If My Teen Thinks I Owe Them Everything

05 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Mark Gregston as he answers a listener’s question on entitlement and teens. Mark explains why entitlement is an issue every family with teens w...

Teen Stories: The Power of Imperfections

04 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Many teens feel the pressure to look like they "have it all together" — but secretly, they're struggling with self-doubt and worry about...

Your Teen's Search for Wisdom

03 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they discuss how today’s teens are overwhelmed by information and struggle to distinguish it from true wisd...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Senioritis, Substance Abuse and Security

28 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s Q&A episode, Mark Gregston tackles tough parenting questions, from a senior son disengaging from school and parental disagreements ov...

Understanding the Loss Behind Your Teen’s Behavior

27 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict with your teen, rather than ju...

Creating a Comfortable Haven for Your Teens

26 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Mark Gregston as he reflects on Matthew 11:28 and explores the importance of rest in creating a peaceful home for your teen. He shares how strate...

Teen Stories: Accepting Help

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

It can be difficult to admit when you need help — at any age. As we hear in this episode, lots of teens at Heartlight struggle at first with accepti...

Bridging the Gap with Your Teen

24 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share practical tips for parents looking to strengthen their connection with their teen. They emphasize flexibility, ...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Respect and Responsibility

21 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives deep into some of the most pressing questions sent in by listeners. From dealing with the complexities of co...

Six Ways to Stop Yelling at Your Teen

20 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the impact of yelling at your teen and what it reveals about you as a parent. They highlight...

Do the Right Thing

19 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston uses 1 John 3:18 to encourage parents to do the right thing in their relationships. Sharing a personal story, he discus...

Teen Stories: Dealing with Dark Thoughts

18 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

So many of today's teens experience depression and feelings of hopelessness — the voice of their inner critic can be a hard one to silence. In t...

Encouragement for Adoptive Parents

17 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd offer encouragement to parents of adopted children. Adoption is a beautiful gift to be celebrated! T...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Digital Boundaries and Family Dynamics

14 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses a variety of pressing concerns that parents face, from managing inappropriate group texting in young chi...

The Disengaged Parent

13 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd warn parents not to become disconnected in the midst of life’s pressures and to not drift away fro...

Mark's “Rules of the Road” for Grandparents

12 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston delivers a special message for grandparents, drawing wisdom from Hebrews 10:34. Sharing insights from his own experienc...

Teen Stories: Addiction and the Journey to Recovery

11 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Self-medicating seems increasingly common in today's teenagers — but experimenting with drugs as an "escape" can quickly turn into a dep...

Parents Who Say No to Their Teens All the Time

10 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of balancing parenting by finding opportunities to say "yes" instead ...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Navigating Grief and Responsibility

07 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses concerns ranging from dealing with a son's troubling response to a friend's suicide to managing ...

Transforming Your Home: Steps for Positive Change

06 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how to navigate changes in the family home. They highlight that change is tough but possible, urging parents ...

One Key to a Better Relationship with Your Teen

05 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark examines James 1:9 and unveils what he considers one of the Bible’s most powerful parenting tips. He encourages parents t...

Teen Stories: Rebuilding Respect in Family Relationships

04 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When trust and respect are broken between parents and teens, it can take time to heal the rift. Everyone has to be willing to put in the work! In toda...

Parenting in a World of Sexual Pressures

03 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd respond to a listener's letter, discussing the challenges teens face today regarding sexual acti...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Parenting Through Crisis

31 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this insightful Q&A episode, Mark Gregston addresses some of the most pressing and complex parenting challenges sent in by listeners. From reco...

Healthy Conflict With Your Teen

30 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they unpack characteristics of a healthy argument and offer valuable insights on navigating conflict in relat...

Making a Difference — Right Where You Are

29 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, Mark Gregston offers a heartfelt devotional inspired by John 15:12, sharing personal stories that have deeply impacted his lif...

Teen Stories: Numbing the Pain

28 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

For teens who are having a tough time at home, drugs can seem like a welcome escape from their problems. But that escape often spirals into dependency...

Marijuana and Teens: How to Have an Open Dialogue

27 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever wondered why teens may experiment or self-medicate? In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how parents can add...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Integrity, Identity and Anxiety

24 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s Q&A episode, Mark Gregston tackles some of the most pressing concerns parents have sent in regarding their teens. From dealing with l...

Parenting Teens Through Loss: Navigating Tough Emotions

23 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how loss and anger affect teens, with boys and girls responding differently. They explore ho...

Fostering Healthy Social Media Habits with Your Teen

22 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston offers valuable insights on navigating the complex world of social media and its impact on today's teens. He explor...

Teen Stories: When a Family Splits in Two

21 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Every teen responds to divorce differently, but that kind of family turmoil can leave emotional scars and a desperate search for stability. In today&#...

Behind the Screens: Tackling Bullying in the Digital Era

20 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they explore the crucial topic of bullying in today’s world. They examine the various forms bullying can ta...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Disrespect, Depression and Desires

17 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston shares essential strategies for building positive parent-teen relationships amidst modern challenges. He addresses...

Parenting Teens with Patience: Addressing Selfishness with Grace

16 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the challenge of dealing with selfishness in teens. While it’s natural for teenager...

Proverbs 3:21-24 and the Heart of Parenting

15 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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 ...

Teen Stories: Wrestling with Anger and Finding Peace

14 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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. A...

Strengthen Your Relationship with Your Teen Through Intentional Parenting

13 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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 th...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Parenting Styles, College Transitions and Pop Culture

10 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, Mark Gregston shares thoughtful advice and practical wisdom as he discusses a variety of listener questions. From adjusting pa...

5 Steps to Transform Your Home and Strengthen Your Bond with Your Teen

09 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share heartfelt excerpts from parents navigating the challenges of raising teens. These real-life ac...

The Importance of Perspective

08 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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 shi...

Teen Stories: When You've Lost Your Way

07 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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 t...

The Role of Discipline in Building a Stronger Bond with Your Teen

06 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they share practical advice on effective discipline while fostering a strong parent-child relationship. They ...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Communication and Connection

03 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses listener-submitted questions on how to foster deeper communication with teens who struggle to open up. H...

Standing Strong: Encouragement for Single Parents

02 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd offer heartfelt advice and encouragement for single parents. Acknowledging the strength and resilien...

Reflect, Renew and Transform Your Family

01 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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. ...

Teen Stories: What's Really Behind Anger?

31 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 ro...

When Good Parenting Falls Short

30 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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. ...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Disrespect, Drug Issues and Diverse Parenting Styles

27 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers your most pressing questions, tackling real-life dilemmas faced by parents just like you. From handling a ...

Craving Realness: Why Teens Need Authenticity

26 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Reflect, Renew and Transform Your Family

25 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Merry Christmas! In today’s episode, Mark Gregston shares a personal devotion, using scripture to inspire families as they prepare for the new year....

Teen Stories: Healing Takes Time

24 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Every teen's journey at Heartlight looks different — and everyone learns, heals and grows at their own pace. In today's show, Mark talks wit...

The Reality of Teen Drug Use

23 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 substa...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Are You Hindering Your Teen’s Growth?

20 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives into some of the most pressing questions sent in by listeners. He discusses the pitfalls of performance-base...

Teaching Your Teen the Art of Struggling Well

19 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore why teaching teens to navigate struggles effectively is essential. While it’s natural for ...

The Gift of Perspective: A Christmas Reflection

18 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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. Thr...

Teen Stories: Facing Childhood Trauma

17 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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...

How to Raise Resilient Teens: Essential Parenting Skills

16 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the essential skills every parent needs to raise resilient teens. They discuss setting cle...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries, Bullying and Belonging

13 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston addresses real-life parenting dilemmas, including managing phone restrictions and substance use. He also discusses conf...

When Teens Challenge Your Values: A Parent’s Guide

12 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore how parents can respond thoughtfully when teens push against their values, reframing these m...

The Power of Intentional Time with Your Teen

11 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston shares why consistent, one-on-one time with your teen is crucial. These moments foster trust, improve communication and...

Teen Stories: Cracks in the Armor

10 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 te...

The Danger of Doing Too Much for Your Kids

09 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss why helping kids develop independence is essential — and how doing too much for them can b...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Managing Mental Health

06 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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, includi...

The Harm of Pressuring Teens to Be Perfect

05 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the pitfalls of expecting perfection from teens. They discuss how holding teens to impossibl...

Relationship First: Unlocking the Secret to Effective Parenting

04 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark explores how strong relationships are key to effective parenting. He shares how modeling God’s love provides teens with g...

Teen Stories: Breaking the Cycle of Chaos

03 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When you grow up with trauma or in a home full of conflict, that sense of chaos and turbulence can begin to feel like the norm. Before developing heal...

Nurturing Leadership in Your Teen

02 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into practical ways to cultivate leadership skills in teenagers. Mark outlines five key strateg...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Faith, Relationships and Responsibility

29 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston tackles some of the most pressing questions from parents facing real-life challenges with their teens. From encouraging...

Trusting God and Finding Thanks: Encouragement for Parents of Teens

28 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the real challenges of raising teens while sharing a powerful reminder: Gratitude can make a...

A Path of Gratefulness

27 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston reflects on 1 Thessalonians 5:18, exploring the transformative power of thankfulness in everyday life. He delves into t...

Teen Stories: What Sparks Self-Destructive Behavior?

26 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 d...

How to Help Your Teen Cope Without Self-Medicating

25 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the growing trend of self-medication among teens, often fueled by anxiety and depress...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Preparing Teens for Adulthood

22 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Helping Your Teen Navigate Today’s Online Challenges

21 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepard speak directly to parents about the essential role they play in guiding their children through t...

The Pain of Perfectionism: How Unrealistic Expectations Can Hurt Our Kids

20 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston delves into how parents, even with the best intentions, can unintentionally place unrealistic expectations on their chi...

Teen Stories: The Weight of Depression

19 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 ...

Embracing the Uncomfortable in Parenting Teens

18 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Parenting teens often means pushing past our comfort zones to tackle tough moments with wisdom and resilience. In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayn...

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

15 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston reviews a variety of listener questions, tackling tough issues from teen anger and addictions to grief and the cha...

Grandparenting With Purpose: Building Bonds With Teens

14 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the vital role grandparents play in a teenager's life. As teens face challenges, grandpa...

Parenting With Wisdom, Not Information

13 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark reflects on Joel 1:3 and encourages parents to consider the legacy they leave behind. He asks, "What stories will your child...

Teen Stories: Why Emotional Honesty Is Important

12 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It can be tough at ANY age to confront the "why" behind your behaviors. But as these teens show us in today's episode, being honest with y...

5 Ways to Support Your Teen’s Soul

11 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they share five key ways to nurture your teen's soul. With insights on seeing behavior as a reflection of...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Authority, Identity and Influences

08 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses some of the most complex challenges parents face, from managing frustration and anger with teens to navi...

Grace Under Pressure: Kids of Ministry Leaders

07 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd dive into the unique challenges faced by kids whose parents are in ministry leadership. They discuss...

Guiding Our Kids: Balancing Wants and Needs in a Changing World

06 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In part one of his heartfelt two-part devotional, Mark delves into Matthew 7, offering insight into how we can balance our children's desires with...

Teen Stories: The Ups and Downs of Adoption

05 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Adoption is a beautiful thing. But as adopted kids grow older, it's natural that many of them begin to have big questions about their biological p...

Developing Responsibility in Your Teen

04 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark challenges parents to rethink their approach to raising teens by highlighting the dangers of over-involvement. He outlines four ...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Navigating Sarcasm, Bullying and Mental Health

01 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s Q&A episode, Mark Gregston dives deep into some of the most pressing questions sent in by listeners. From navigating sarcastic and mo...

Navigating the Sexualization of Youth

31 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how social media and today's digital culture are affecting teens' self-worth and vie...

How Grandparents Can Offer a Place of Peace

30 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this heartfelt episode, Mark offers a personal devotion tailored specifically for grandparents, centered around Matthew 11:28-30. He shares his jou...

Teen Stories: Rebuilding After Trauma

29 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In some cases, family support and healthy relationships can truly have life-or-death importance for a struggling teen. When everything seems dark and ...

Rules or Ruler: Finding Balance in Parenting

28 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd delve into the crucial distinction between rule-making and ruling within the home. They emphasize th...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Anxiety, Anger and Double Lives

25 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today's Q&A episode, Mark Gregston tackles some of the most pressing questions you've been asking about your teens. From dealing with a...

Finding Balance: Empowering Teens Without Overcontrol

24 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Are you unintentionally overcontrolling your teen? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the balance between guiding teens and giv...

The Impact of Loss: Helping Children Heal

23 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Mark Gregston explores how loss affects children, asking the key question: "When does loss truly hit?" He explains that it ha...

Teen Stories: Shutting Out the Family

22 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When there's conflict in the family, a lot of teens find it's easier to just shut down and stop engaging entirely — unfortunately, that ofte...

The Power of Presence: How Dads Shape Families

21 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the profound impact of absent fathers — whether physically or emotionally — on fami...

I Mustache Mark a Question: Identity, Defiance and Discipline

18 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Mark Gregston addresses some challenging and heartfelt questions sent in by listeners. He covers tough topics like navigating a ...