PodcastsChristianityParenting Today's Teens

Parenting Today's Teens

Mark Gregston
Parenting Today's Teens
Latest episode

1582 episodes

  • Parenting Today's Teens

    I Mustache Mark a Question: Disrespect, Depression and Decision-Making

    10/07/2026 | 28 mins.
    In this Q&A episode, Mark tackles another batch of tough questions parents are facing with their teens today. He discusses how to respond if your teen is having suicidal thoughts, including when to take immediate action and how to access help. Other listener questions cover balancing boundaries and trust when your teen starts dating, what to do about disrespectful behavior from grandchildren and how grandparents can build stronger relationships without stepping on parents’ toes. As always, the episode is rich with practical advice for strengthening connection, setting loving boundaries and meeting your teens right where they are.

    Courtney's Corner: Questions to Reflect On

    1. Would my teen say I have their best interests at heart?
    2. Who gets to decide what “disrespect” is?
    3. What from my past do I need to heal to have a better relationship with my teen?

    Have a parenting question for Mark? Go to markgregston.com — it may be featured on a future episode!
    Mentioned in this episode:
    FICC Online PreRoll Stephen Curtis Chapman
  • Parenting Today's Teens

    From Lectures to Life Lessons

    09/07/2026 | 15 mins.
    Today’s teens have unlimited access to information, but they’re still searching for wisdom. In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss how parents and grandparents can move beyond lectures to offer the kind of wisdom that shapes a young person’s life. Mark explains how observation, reflection and experience help parents communicate in ways that teens will actually receive. He also shares why authentic conversations and a life that reflects God’s Word speak louder than endless advice. Tune in for practical encouragement on becoming the trusted source of wisdom your teen is looking for.
    Many teens can’t hear a word their parents are saying because their actions are speaking too loudly. This can be especially true when it comes to sharing your faith. Read what Mark has to say about it at bit.ly/the-christian-life-is-more-caught-than-taught
    Mentioned in this episode:
    FICC Online PreRoll Stephen Curtis Chapman
  • Parenting Today's Teens

    Raising Grateful Teens in an Entitled World

    08/07/2026 | 17 mins.
    Many parents want to give their teens every opportunity possible. But what happens when generosity unintentionally creates entitlement? In this episode, Mark explores how well-meaning parents can sometimes hinder their teen’s growth by meeting every demand, solving every problem and removing every responsibility. Drawing from the biblical story of the prodigal son, Mark unpacks the difference between grace and enabling, why responsibility is essential for maturity and how parents can help teens develop gratitude instead of entitlement. Tune in for practical wisdom on raising responsible young adults who understand hard work, healthy expectations and the true meaning of grace.
    Get 10 quick tips to address entitlement in teens here: bit.ly/Ten-ways-to-deal-with-an-entitled-teen
    Mentioned in this episode:
    FICC Online PreRoll Stephen Curtis Chapman
  • Parenting Today's Teens

    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 Today's Teens

    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
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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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