Parenting Today's Teens
Episodes
Teen Stories: Dual Realities
22 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today's often shallow, performance-based culture, many of our teens find themselves navigating complex dual lives. In this episode, we hear fro...
Modesty and My Daughter
21 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they discuss the importance of modesty. They emphasize the need for parents to teach their daughters the valu...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Girlfriends, Gaming and Guardrails
18 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston tackles some of the toughest questions parents face regarding their kids. He shares insights on connecting with a ...
Hope for Families at Easter
17 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd as they share a powerful message of hope for families this Easter season. In this episode, they encourage parent...
Ingredients for Parenting Your Teens
16 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Mark Gregston today as he speaks specifically to parents of children becoming teens. He reminds them that what has worked in the earlier years wo...
Teen Stories: Searching for Acceptance
15 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A tough part of the teen years is figuring out how you fit into the world — and with whom. Everyone wants to feel accepted, but sometimes that desir...
Responding to a Teen's Substance Abuse
14 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how the increased normalization of drugs is affecting teens. Mark emphasizes the import...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Controversial Conversations
11 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Difficult conversations with teens can be uncomfortable, but avoiding them isn’t the answer. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston encourages parents ...
Teen Depression and Its Consequences
10 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd talk about depression among adolescents and how it is rising at an alarming rate, with many teens experiencing major ...
Trusting God Through Life’s Hardships
09 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Mark Gregston shares his story of facing rejection and loss after being fired from a ministry 36 years ago. Despite the pain and confusion, he reflect...
Teen Stories: Rebuilding Broken Connections
08 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In a world where communication often falls short, many teens find themselves craving meaningful connections that feel elusive. In today's episode,...
Does Your Teen Smile Anymore?
07 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the importance of paying attention to a teenager's smile as an indicator of emotional we...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Screentime, Social Media and Setting Limits
04 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
It's normal for teens to want to connect, especially with the rise of social media — but how do we balance connection and boundaries? In today’...
Motivating Your Unmotivated Teen
03 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the challenges of motivating teens who seem to have lost hope. Mark explains that a lack of ...
Making Memories Before You Lose Yours
02 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today's heartfelt episode, Mark draws wisdom from 2 Peter to encourage parents and grandparents to create lasting memories with their families....
Teen Stories: Finding Hope in the Darkness
01 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Trauma — and the sense of loneliness that often follows — can leave teens feeling hopeless about their futures. That hopelessness can lead to some...
Your Teen in a World of Alcohol and Marijuana
31 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss how easy it is for teens to access alcohol and marijuana today, and why they may engage in these behaviors. T...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Addressing Anxiety, Technology and Identity
28 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers listener-submitted questions from parents navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. From technology ...
Reconnecting the Disconnected Relationships at Home
27 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explore the challenges of parent-teen disconnection and the importance of restoring relationships. T...
A Journey to Genuineness
26 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Mark as he shares his journey of founding Heartlight after unexpected job losses left him feeling lost. Through reflection, he recognized persona...
Teen Stories: Finding Clarity Through Struggle
25 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
An unfortunate reality is that many teens today turn to harmful behaviors as coping mechanisms for their deeper struggles. So, it's more important...
Be Intentional This Spring Break
24 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Does your teen get time to truly rest over spring break? Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd emphasize that rest is not laziness, and kids need ti...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Church Changes, Digital Dilemmas and Dating Decisions
21 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston dives into real questions from parents and grandparents just like you. From dating non-believers and navigating ch...
Why You Shouldn't Always Rescue Your Teen
20 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the role of pain as a powerful motivator in a teen's development. They emphasize the imp...
Is Conflict Avoidance Hurting Your Relationships?
19 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Mark Gregston as he reflects on how his generation’s tendency to avoid conflict led to broken relationships and a generation of children who fe...
Teen Stories: Embracing Real Change
18 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Typically, change in a family doesn't happen overnight — it takes humility and a willingness on everyone's part to learn how to do things di...
Your Authoritative Parenting Style Doesn’t Work
17 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explain why authoritarian parenting no longer works, as kids today are more skeptical of authority. ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Vaping, Drinking and Family Tension
14 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston discusses a variety of difficult scenarios that parents like you are navigating with their teens. From adoption-re...
Grandparenting Today's Teens
13 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the valuable role grandparents play in their grandchildren’s lives. They emphasize ...
What You Do Matters More Than What You Say
12 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark offers a heartfelt message inspired by 1 John 3:8, urging parents to prioritize actions over words when raising their children. ...
Teen Stories: At Arm's Length
11 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Navigating trauma or family conflicts can often lead to teens shutting people out due to overwhelming emotions. Being isolated may seem "safer"...
Is Your Teen Rebellious or Lost?
10 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd share insights from Mark's decades of experience working with thousands of teens. Surprisingly, ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Consequences, Communication and Connection
07 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this Q&A episode, Mark Gregston tackles common parenting dilemmas, offering valuable insights and strategies for dealing with teens who don'...
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...