Parenting Today's Teens
Episodes
I Mustache Mark a Question: Growing with Your Teens
12 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
If you think your parenting journey ends at 18, think again. Join Mark Gregston in today’s episode, where he tackles pressing questions from parents...
How to Ask Good Questions
11 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Hey parents! Are you tired of getting one-word answers from your teen? Whether you're struggling to engage in meaningful conversations with your k...
Empowering Teens with Truth, Love and Intentional Conversations
10 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Do you want to have a deep, lasting relationship with your teen? Intentionality is key! In this episode of Parenting Today's Teens, Mark shares in...
Teen Stories: Internal Battles
09 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The teenage years are full of ups and downs as our kids try to figure out who they are and how they fit into the world. But when self-doubt and feelin...
The Pitfalls of Performance-Based Parenting
08 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Our teens are faced with a world that judges them based on performance — whether it's their grades, their athletics or if they're keeping up...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries, Boundaries, Boundaries
05 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark Gregston addresses some of the most challenging questions parents are facing in their relationships with their teens. Fro...
Raising an Independent Teen
04 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Have you ever met a parent who dreams of their child being forever dependent on them? We bet not! In today’s episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shephe...
What Do Teens Really Want?
03 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
All behavior is goal-oriented, but sometimes, it can be really hard to see what your teen's goal was when they make a bad decision or act out of c...
Teen Stories: Healing the Wound of Rejection
02 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Part of being a teen is trying to figure out where you fit in, and, unfortunately, feeling rejected sometimes comes with the territory. But for many a...
Starting Fresh: Practical Tips for a New Year
01 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Happy New Year, listeners! We're wishing the very best for you and your loved ones in 2024! In today's holiday episode, Mark Gregston and Wayn...
I Mustache Mark a Question: The Search for Identity
29 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers pressing questions from parents dealing with everything from a senior son who's checked out of school,...
The Power of Forgiveness
28 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Holding onto bitterness can be detrimental to any family. Teens will make mistakes and disappoint, but as parents, forgiveness is the release valve th...
Cherishing Everyday Moments
27 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Life with busy teens is hectic, and it can be hard to slow down and enjoy the small moments. But at the end of the day, they can be some of the most i...
Teen Stories: Mismatched Expectations
26 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When parents and teens have different ideas of how the teen's life should look, it can lead to frustration, disappointment and hurt feelings. Lear...
Creating a Safe Harbor at Home
25 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Merry Christmas, Parenting Today's Teens family! In today's special holiday episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the challenges o...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Loving Unconditionally Without Compromise
22 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Mark Gregston tackles pressing questions from parents grappling with issues like the value of integrity and handling unbiblica...
7 Keys for Building a Lasting Relationship
21 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Are you a parent looking to strengthen your relationship with your teen? Today's fast-paced world makes building and maintaining a strong bond wit...
Recognizing Normal Teen Behavior — and Red Flags
20 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Plenty of parents don't feel like they know what "normal" teen behavior is supposed to look like in today's culture. Do they have a me...
Teen Stories: Coping With Change
19 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Whether it's moving across the country or watching family dynamics shift around you, dealing with big life changes is hard at any age. In today...
Parenting Solo: Finding Hope and Support
18 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Single parenting without spousal support can be tough, but you can still have a thriving, deep relationship with your teen as you walk through life to...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Tough Talks
15 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Those heart-to-heart talks that might feel like a challenge, are usually the glue that bonds parents and teens. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston an...
Addressing Teen Sexuality
14 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Talking to our kids about sex can be uncomfortable and challenging, but as parents, it's crucial to understand our teens when it comes to sexualit...
Offering Certainty in a World of Doubt
13 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Teens may like to act like nothing phases them, but for many of our kids, the turmoil and uncertainty of the world today really does weigh on them. In...
Teen Stories: Calming the Storm
12 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
If you have an angry teen in your home, it can sometimes feel like trying to dodge a hurricane. But coming alongside them and helping them develop hea...
Understanding Destructive Parenting Behaviors
11 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Are you noticing destructive patterns in your relationship with your teen? Our own habits have a big impact on our kids — but it's never too lat...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Where Do I Draw the Line?
08 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Have you ever struggled to know where, or how, to put your foot down? In today's episode, Mark Gregston tackles questions from parents who are wre...
The Art of Letting Go
07 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Parenting is tough, especially when it comes to giving teens the space they need to grow! It goes against our parental instincts to “back off,” bu...
Living Out Our Faith
06 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The impact we have on our teens goes far beyond what we say. While it's crucial to have meaningful conversations about faith, it's equally imp...
Teen Stories: Seeking Acceptance
05 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Many parents can probably look back on their own teen years and remember some crazy things they did in the name of fitting in or being liked. As much ...
Rethinking Parenting in a Changing Culture
04 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Are you struggling to navigate the challenges of parenting in today's chaotic world? In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd tack...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Boundaries & Screen Time
01 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
We were created as relational beings with a desire to connect with others — and that's no different for teenagers. But how can you know your tee...
The Anatomy of Anger
30 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Are you struggling to understand your teen's anger? It seems like everywhere we look, we see young people expressing their angst through violence,...
Behind the Filter
29 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Teens long to be validated, but today's social media environment often leaves them seeking that validation by comparing themselves to others. It&#...
Teen Stories: The Odd One Out
28 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Some teens go through their high school years feeling like they never quite fit in or that other kids are able to do things that they can't. Event...
Changing Along With Your Teens
27 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When your kids are elementary school age, it's easy to get settled into a particular parenting style. But when the middle and high school years co...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Balancing Love and Limits
24 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As parents, we have the responsibility to guide our teens toward adulthood with care and intention. In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questi...
Navigating Your Teen's Online Life
23 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As technology becomes an integral part of our daily lives, it's crucial for parents to engage with and understand their teen's digital experie...
Connecting with Your Child's Heart
22 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When your teen acts out, how do you react? Do you punish the behavior and move on? Or do you pause to find out what's going on in their heart? In ...
Teen Stories: Caving Under Pressure
21 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Most parents would probably agree that they wouldn't want to grow up in the culture our teens live in today. The social pressures they face and th...
Five Markers for a Meaningful Relationship with Your Teen
20 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Nurturing a strong relationship with your teen takes intentionality, but sometimes it's tough to know where to begin. In today's episode, Mark...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Abandonment Issues
17 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
All behavior is goal oriented, so what’s motivating your teen? Oftentimes bad behavior is a means of protection. In this week's Q&A episode,...
When to Give Grace
16 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Is your teenager pushing you away, leaving you feeling frustrated and helpless? When you’ve been shut out, grace can open the door! In this insightf...
Creating a Place of Refuge for Teens
15 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Grandparents, what do your grandkids feel when they first walk in your front door? Do they feel welcomed and safe? Or like they can't be themselve...
Teen Stories: Numbing the Pain
14 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Drug use in teens often starts because it seems like a way to relax, but often, they begin to rely on substances just to get through the day. For many...
Teen Drug Use: Signs, Signals and Solutions
13 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It's easier for teens to get their hands on drugs than it ever has been, and the accessibility coupled with teens' natural curiosity often spe...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Conflicting Values
10 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Your teenager is well aware of your beliefs; they don't need a constant reminder. What they do need is a strong, supportive relationship with you ...
Embracing Failure
09 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When you give teens the opportunity to make their own decisions, they WILL eventually fail, and that’s okay! Avoiding giving them control out of fea...
Supporting Your Kids (and THEIR Kids) in Word and Deed
08 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
If you're a grandparent, you might have times when you're tempted to try to step in and parent your grandchildren, but in most cases, you can ...
Teen Stories: Running From Pain
07 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When teens are carrying around a lot of hurt inside, they often look for any way to numb it or escape it — even if that means physically running awa...
Looking for Love in the Wrong Places
06 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Today's culture is more permissive of sexual activity in the teen years than ever before, and for many teens, this behavior may seem like an easy ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Unlocking Real Conversations
03 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
We all share the universal desire for deep, genuine connections with our teenagers. In today's episode, Mark Gregston tackles questions from paren...
Punishment vs. Discipline
02 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As our society moves from a fear-based parenting model to a relationally centered one, our methods need to adapt accordingly. Punishing out of anger, ...
Looking in the Mirror
01 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
If you've ever experienced rejection from your teen, it can feel a lot like you've been "fired" as a parent. None of the baseball game...
Teen Stories: When Trust Is Broken
31 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When a teen has broken your trust, it can be hard for parents to take that leap of faith again ... and our kids know this too. In today's episode,...
Are You Willing to Reconcile?
30 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Many of us fall into the habit of allowing the issues in our family to reach a breaking point before we address them. Sitting down and seeking reconci...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Finding Balance in the Digital Age
27 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The digital age has undeniably transformed our world, revolutionizing the way our children socialize, ushering in new norms, opportunities and possibi...
Recognizing and Responding to Suicidal Thoughts
26 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's culture, self-harm and suicidal ideation are more prevalent among teenagers than ever before. As parents, being informed and prepared i...
The Blessing of Gray Hair...
25 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Proverbs 16:31 tells us, "Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness." So, as you get older and watch your k...
Teen Stories: Ready to Reconcile
24 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
For many of the teens that come to Heartlight, their stay at the boarding school is the longest they've been away from their parents — and that ...
Do You Ask Your Teen Good Questions?
23 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Questions have an amazing way of stirring up things in your child's heart and helping them sort through what they believe about the world. They al...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Turning the Tide
20 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Addressing issues head-on while your child is still living at home is crucial given that unresolved problems during the teenage years can easily spill...
Modifying Behavior vs. Solving Behavior
19 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Parents are often quick to correct their teen’s bad behavior, but hesitant to uncover the motivations fueling it. Let's face it, if you're n...
The Mission Field of Family
18 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When you think of going out to "the mission field," do you picture traveling somewhere far away? Oftentimes, there are important mission field...
Teen Stories: Perils of Peer Pressure
17 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Having close, meaningful friendships during the teen years is so important for kids' mental and emotional health — but unfortunately, finding th...
Do You Know When to Let It Go?
16 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A key part of parenting well — for your child's sake AND yours — is knowing when to pick your battles. Nitpicking at everything your teen does...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Understanding the Why
13 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Effective parenting goes beyond behavior management; it's all about uncovering the underlying motivations that drive your teen's actions. In t...
Navigating the Pervasive Presence of Pornography
12 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
One of the most crucial conversations about modern parenting in the digital age is addressing the pervasive presence of pornography in our children...
The One Thing That Could Change Your Family...
11 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
If there was one thing you could do to foster a sense of value and belonging for every member of your family, you'd almost certainly jump at it! B...
Teen Stories: Facing Your Issues
10 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When teens experience trauma, they oftentimes don't have the coping skills they need to work through it in a productive way. Trying to get rid of ...
Protecting Our Teens From Pitfalls
09 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Today's culture offers so many harmful temptations and pitfalls for our teens. Whether it's drugs, social media addiction or exposure to porno...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Provision vs. Enablement
06 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As parents, we have the tendency to keep our kids from growing up, whether we realize it or not. To help our teens thrive, we must find the strength t...
Raising Kind Kids in a Cruel World
05 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Do you remember your first bully's name? Most of us do. In a world defined by cruelty, centered around appearance and performance, bullying is ine...
Confronting Unresolved Conflict
04 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Holding on to resentment impacts many more people than just you — harboring unresolved conflict and negativity can impact your whole family for year...
Teen Stories: No Regrets?
03 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When teens get caught up in having fun or trying to fit in, there's a good chance they won't think through their decisions very well. But when...
What Are the Values of Your Home?
02 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When your kids come home from school, do they feel like they need to continue to keep up appearances in front of you? Or do they find a listening ear ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: When to Speak and When to Listen
29 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When you find yourself choosing if the hill underneath your feet is worth dying on, make sure to consider whether it’s worth the risk of losing your...
Overcoming Fear-Based Parenting
28 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When does protection become overprotection? If you find yourself struggling against the urge to shield your child from every uncomfortable or potentia...
The Recipe for a Teen-Friendly Home
27 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
If your tastes change, chances are you don't keep ordering the same old thing at a restaurant and hope for the best. The same idea can be applied ...
Teen Stories: What Drives Drug Use?
26 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Substance abuse in teens can be driven by all kinds of sources: Shame, loss, a longing to fit in ... the list goes on! If your teen is getting involve...
Expect the Unexpected
25 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Kids are going to make a lot of mistakes during their teen years — and as parents, one of the best things you can do is find ways to laugh at these ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Grow Up!
22 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who are dealing with older teens refusing to step into adulthood. From issues like ...
Is Your Home a Safe Space for Your Teen?
21 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Is your child finding comfort and solace in your house, or are they eager to escape? In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the imp...
Loving Them Through the Ups and Downs
20 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Whether your teen seems to have it all together or their life is a total mess, they need to know that you love them no matter what. It's about who...
Teen Stories: Starting a New Chapter
19 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When a teen feels like their life is spiraling out of control, it can sometimes be hard for them to see any way things might get better. But no teen i...
What Are Practical Consequences for Teens?
18 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The ways you disciplined your child when they were little simply won't work once they're middle school age and older. Now that they're cap...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Words vs. Actions
15 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston answers questions from parents who aren’t quite sure how to get through to their teen; from the challenges of th...
Two Parents, Two Lives
14 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
While no one enters a marriage aiming for divorce, for many, separation becomes a harsh reality. In today's episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Sheph...
Is Your Bar Set Too High?
13 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In performance-based relationships, people are valued because of their actions and accomplishments — NOT because of who they are. Many parents, even...
Teen Stories: Battling for Independence
12 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
If you have a fiercely independent teen at home, you've probably gotten in a battle or two (or more) over who's in control. Finding the balanc...
Why Are Drugs and Alcohol Appealing to Teens?
11 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
By the 12th grade, about two-thirds of teens have tried alcohol, and around half of high schoolers have tried marijuana. What causes them to engage in...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Self-Reflection
08 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
When your family lands in a tough spot, are you humble enough to ask yourself if you might be part of the problem? In today’s episode, Mark Gregston...
Shifting Your Parenting Mindset with Dr. Tim Clinton - Part 2
07 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In the conclusion of Mark Gregston's discussion with Dr. Tim Clinton, co-host of Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk, they delve into how crucial it ...
Talking With Teens: Dialogues Vs. Monologues
06 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Have you gotten into the habit of always repeating things to your teen? If so, it's probably time to hit the brakes. In today's episode, Mark ...
Teen Stories: Growing Up in a Changing Culture
05 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Whether it's technology, the accessibility of drugs or shifting social pressures, there's no doubt that today's teen culture has changed d...
Shifting Your Parenting Mindset with Dr. Tim Clinton - Part 1
04 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In the first part of this special episode, Mark Gregston sits down with Dr. Tim Clinton, co-host of Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk, to discuss some ...
I Mustache Mark a Question: Well-Rounded Teens
01 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Mark Gregston in today's episode as he addresses pressing questions from parents, offering invaluable advice on supporting their teens' g...
How to Deal With Childish Teens
31 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It's increasingly obvious that today's teenagers seem to be taking longer to mature into adulthood, but is it their fault, or are we, as paren...
Is Your Teen Trying to Fill a Void?
30 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The full impact of loss in a teen's life is only truly experienced when they realize something is missing — whether that something is a parent o...
Teen Stories: Learning From the Journey
29 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A big part of adolescence is developing the skills to think more abstractly and reflect upon the choices you make. Teens often begin to understand why...
When Kids Break Your Trust
28 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Teens WILL violate your trust and push the boundaries you've set for them, but here's the encouraging thing: They will also usually learn from...