Parenting Today's Teens podcast | Listen online for free

1579 episodes

Teen Stories: Vulnerability Isn't Weakness
07/07/2026 | 21 mins.
When teens struggle to connect, their worlds can feel small and lonely, leading to outbursts or unhealthy coping mechanisms just to get by. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight students, including Sam, who opens up about years of feeling left out and the walls she built to protect herself. Both guests reveal how learning to trust, compromise and value themselves has paved the way for new, healthier relationships. Tune in to hear how honesty, vulnerability and a supportive environment are helping these teens move from isolation to genuine connection.
Is your teen struggling? Learn more about Heartlight today at heartlightministries.org
Mentioned in this episode:
FICC Online PreRoll Stephen Curtis Chapman
Parenting With Conviction and Compassion
06/07/2026 | 15 mins.
How do you hold firm to your values without pushing your teen away? In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss the delicate balance between maintaining convictions and extending compassion during the adolescent years. Mark shares practical insight on setting healthy boundaries, enforcing consequences with grace and remaining relationally connected even when teens make poor choices. He also explains why parenting teens requires a shift from teaching to training — and why influence grows when parents lead with understanding rather than fear.
Setting boundaries online for your teen is a major issue for parents these days. See what Mark has to say about it at bit.ly/boundaries-for-your-teens-online-life
Mentioned in this episode:
FICC Online PreRoll Stephen Curtis Chapman
I Mustache Mark a Question: School Stress, Teenage Values and Communication Breakdowns
03/07/2026 | 30 mins.
In this week's Q&A episode, Mark dives into some more tough questions parents are facing with their teens right now. He talks through practical ways to support a daughter struggling in school and experiencing anxiety, and how to help an unmotivated college student who’s stepped back from faith. Mark also unpacks what to do if your teenager refuses to communicate with an overseas parent, and how to sensitively address the discovery of pornography on an eighth grader’s phone. Throughout the episode, Mark keeps the focus on having compassion, healthy boundaries and responding in ways that build lasting connections with your teen.

Courtney's Corner: Questions to Reflect On

Are you easily manipulated by your teen?
What beliefs are you willing to risk your relationship over?
Would your child describe your love as conditional or unconditional?

Have a question for Mark? Ask it here: markgregston.com
Feeling Distant From Your Teen? Start Here
02/07/2026 | 17 mins.
Do you feel like there’s a growing gap between you and your teen? In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss practical ways parents can strengthen connection during the adolescent years. From improving communication and adjusting expectations to establishing healthy boundaries and shifting from teaching to training, Mark shares insights that can help parents stay engaged when relationships begin to feel strained. You’ll also learn why listening matters more than lecturing, how to communicate wisdom instead of information and what role a strong relationship plays in guiding teens through challenging seasons. Tune in today!
The world is full of people who will tell your teen what to think and when they are wrong. But no one is better positioned to really listen to them. Get tips here: bit.ly/listening-to-your-teen-on-a-deeper-level
Mentioned in this episode:
FICC Online PreRoll Stephen Curtis Chapman
The Recipe for a Strong Parent-Teen Relationship
01/07/2026 | 12 mins.
In a world filled with pressure, anxiety and constant demands, does your home feel like a place of rest for your teen? In this episode, Mark shares a devotional on creating a home environment where teens feel safe, supported and understood. Using the analogy of a favorite recipe, Mark unpacks key ingredients for stronger relationships, including shared experiences, encouraging messages, meaningful conversations and a parenting style that adapts to the changing needs of adolescence. Tune in for practical wisdom on building a home your teen wants to come back to.
Showing gratitude is another great habit to instill in your home. Get tips from Mark here: bit.ly/creating-a-thankful-home

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About Parenting Today's Teens

The Parenting Today's Teens Podcast is a daily resource for parents raising teenagers. Hosted by Mark Gregston, a renowned parenting expert with over 45 years of experience, this podcast provides practical, expert advice for navigating the challenges of parenting teens. Whether you're struggling with defiance, emotional issues, or just want to understand your teen better, Mark’s guidance is raw, real, and always hopeful. Some episodes are co-hosted by Courtney LaFleur, LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) and on-staff counselor at Heartlight, adding professional counseling insights to the conversation. Together, Mark and Courtney provide expert tips and real-life solutions to help you build stronger relationships with your teen and navigate the complexities of today’s adolescent culture. If you’re looking for guidance on how to connect with your teen, improve family dynamics, and raise a confident, well-adjusted teen, this podcast is for you. For more parenting tools and expert advice, visit www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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