Parenting Today's Teens podcast | Listen online for free

1594 episodes

Teen Stories: Healing from the Inside Out
28/07/2026 | 22 mins.
Teens don't always know how to work through big emotions like hurt, rejection or anger. Their inner pain often spills outward, resulting in some poor choices. In today's show, Mark talks with two young ladies at Heartlight, including Amber, who talks about how being adopted and feeling rejected by her birth parents left a deep void, one she tried to fill with unhealthy relationships and rebellion. These young women both discovered that real acceptance can’t be found in taking risks or seeking approval from others — it starts with healing on the inside. Listen in for an honest look at what it really means to belong!
Is Heartlight the right choice for your struggling teen? Go to heartlightministries.org to learn more about the residential program.
Beyond the Smoke: A Warning About Marijuana
27/07/2026 | 15 mins.
As marijuana becomes more accepted in today’s culture, many parents are wondering how to respond when their teen is exposed to it — or begins using it. In this episode, Mark and Wayne discuss the growing prevalence of teen marijuana use and why the issue often runs deeper than the drug itself. Mark explains how anxiety, depression, peer pressure and the desire to escape emotional pain can drive substance use, and why parents should focus on the underlying struggle, not just the behavior. Tune in for practical guidance on approaching this difficult conversation with truth, wisdom and compassion.
Learn signs your teen may be using marijuana and more here: parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/teens-smoking-weed-2
I Mustache Mark a Question: House Rules, Isolation and Independence
24/07/2026 | 22 mins.
In today's Q&A episode, Mark dives into topics like why teen boys are more image-conscious than ever, how to handle a 17-year-old reading inappropriate romance novels and what consequences make sense for a teen who’s skipping class. Mark also addresses concerns about a young adult son who’s become withdrawn after a strict, non-relational upbringing, as well as how to support a 14-year-old with sensory processing challenges. With his signature blend of empathy and practical advice, Mark walks listeners through balancing rules and relationship, digging deeper into what’s driving teen behavior and how to open the door to meaningful connection.
Have a question for a future episode? Go to markgregston.com to send it in!
Raising Humble Teens in a Selfie World
23/07/2026 | 17 mins.
In a world that constantly says, “Look at me,” how can parents help teens develop humility, empathy and healthy relationships? Mark and Wayne discuss how social media, peer pressure, and today's culture can encourage self-centered attitudes and unhealthy comparisons. Mark offers advice for recognizing narcissistic tendencies, addressing hurtful online behavior and creating opportunities for teens to grow through responsibility, vulnerability and real-life experiences. He also explains why parents often have more influence when they listen more and lecture less. Listen in for practical insight on helping your teen develop confidence without self-absorption and relationships that go deeper than appearances.
In his book, Tough Guys and Drama Queens, Mark unpacks the cultural influences that are affecting today’s teens and shares strategies to address them. Find that and related resources at parentingtodaysteens.org/shop
The Power of Speaking Life Into Your Teen
22/07/2026 | 15 mins.
Who helped shape the person you are today? And who are you shaping for tomorrow? In this episode, Mark reflects on the mentors who profoundly influenced his life through simple conversations, thoughtful questions and timeless words of wisdom. Rather than relying on lectures or criticism, Mark encourages parents and grandparents to invest in consistent, encouraging relationships that build trust over time. He shares why listening, telling stories and offering perspective often leave a greater legacy than having all the right answers.
Find more practical parenting tips and resources for most every situation you face with your teen at parentingtodaysteens.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.

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