Parenting Today's Teens podcast | Listen online for free

1524 episodes

When Helping Hurts: Teaching Teens to Carry Their Own Load
22/04/2026 | 23 mins.
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 the well-meaning parenting that led her there. Drawing from Galatians 6:5, Mark challenges parents to rethink overprotecting, overproviding and over-involving. Because somewhere along the way, every teen must learn to carry their own load. If you’ve ever struggled to know when to step in and when to step back, this episode offers practical wisdom to help you raise responsible, resilient young adults.
Learn four ways to foster growth and respect in your teen here: fostering-growth-respect-in-teens
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.
Teen Stories: Feeling the Pressure
21/04/2026 | 21 mins.
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 that perfect image is masking deeper struggles? In today's episode, Mark talks with two teens at Heartlight who reveal the hidden pressures they faced beneath their outward appearances. For one young lady, being the youngest of seven in a loving home didn't erase her intense fear of disappointment; instead, it drove her to hide parts of her life from her mom, trying to protect both of them from the pain of failure. Both girls discuss the toll of living in a world where appearances matter more than authenticity — and how breaking through those barriers has changed everything.
Interested in learning about the Heartlight program? Go to heartlightministries.org today for more info!
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.
Breaking Patterns, Building Trust & Beating Boredom
20/04/2026 | 26 mins.
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 — it can open the door to unhealthy habits if teens lack structure and purpose. Mark shares practical ways to create balance through responsibility, work and meaningful family connection. You’ll also hear from Jared, a teen at Heartlight, who explains how addressing addiction, anxiety and broken trust helped him begin rebuilding his life and relationships. His story is an important reminder that behind every behavior is a deeper need. This episode will help you move your teen from drifting to growth. Check it out!
Learn to identify the real reasons behind your teen’s lack of motivation and get practical steps to help them move forward here: bit.ly/how-to-motivate-an-underachiever
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.
I Mustache Mark a Question: Parenting Older Teens, Independence and Consequences
17/04/2026 | 23 mins.
In today’s Q&A episode, Mark tackles some more pressing parenting questions — covering everything from keeping tabs on your teen’s whereabouts and managing screen time, to introducing godly sexuality, fostering independence and knowing when to step in as a parent. Mark also offers practical wisdom on allowing teens to make mistakes and learn through consequences, balancing discipline with affirmation, and finding the right time to step in OR step back as your child matures. This episode is great for any parent looking to deepen their understanding and connection with their teenager as they move toward adulthood.
Facing a parenting puzzle you just can't solve? Ask Mark about it! Submit your questions at markgregston.com
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.
Quit Correcting. Start Connecting.
16/04/2026 | 17 mins.
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 one of the most critical needs in adolescence: relationship. Mark shares why disconnection is often the root of rebellion and how small shifts in your parenting can make a lasting impact. You’ll learn three essential changes every parent must make during the teen years, plus practical ways to build deeper connection through time, intentional listening and pursuing your teen — even when they pull away. Because what your teen needs most right now is something only you can give: your presence, your wisdom and your relationship.
Find out what makes sharing your perspective so powerful and how you can offer it in ways your teen will actually hear: parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/the-power-of-perspective-2
Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

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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.Parenting Today's Teens is part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

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