Parenting Today's Teens

In this week's Q&A episode, Mark sits down to address some real-life struggles parents are facing with their teens today. He tackles tough listener questions on topics like helping teens who feel hopeless about graduation, navigating the challenges of parenting neurodivergent kids who are glued to their screens, and how to respond when you discover your teen is making choices that deeply impact the relationship. Mark also speaks to parents dealing with family trauma and crisis, offering advice for single moms at the breaking point and families grappling with PTSD. Through it all, he underscores the importance of sharing your perspective instead of your opinions and finding ways to let go as kids grow.

Courtney's Corner: Questions to Reflect On
How comfortable are you with your child being uncomfortable as they grow?
What might cause your child (or anyone you lead) to reject your authority?
Are there experiences or relationships where you can create more safety or encourage growth by stepping back?

Have a question for the show? Send it in at markgregston.com

In this thought-provoking episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur explore the common phenomenon of teens presenting different versions of themselves at home, at school and online. They discuss why this “double life” is a normal part of adolescent development, how the pressures of modern culture and social media impact teens’ search for identity, and what warning signs parents should watch for if deeper struggles might be present. The episode features a moving interview with a young woman who shares her journey through trauma, secrecy and restoration within her family. The hosts offer advice on how parents can address discrepancies in behavior without shame, foster open communication and ensure their unconditional love is felt even through turbulent times.
Parents are often blindsided when they discover their teen has been hiding significant aspects of their life. Here's what you need to know: bit.ly/discovering-your-teens-inappropriate-behavior

Today’s teens have access to more information than any generation before them, but information alone doesn’t produce wisdom. In this episode, Mark shares why one of the most valuable gifts parents can offer is perspective. Through a memorable story involving a Taylor Swift concert and a lesson from his granddaughter, Mark explores how seeing the bigger picture can change everything. He also unpacks the challenges teens face in a culture driven by peers, social media, constant information and competing influences — and why parents still play a vital role in helping them navigate it all. Tune in for practical encouragement on becoming a trusted source of wisdom in your teen’s life.
Mark says a parent’s longing to be heard can get in the way of what really needs to be communicated. Learn more at bit.ly/the-difference-between-giving-opinions-and-sharing-experiences

Many teens put on a brave face while chaos brews underneath. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who know what it's like to hide their struggles behind a mask. Santana, for example, bottled up his emotions and masked his true self to avoid disappointing those he loved, especially his parents. These teens felt lost until tough circumstances forced them to confront what they’d rather keep hidden. Listen in as they reveal what it’s like to find family support, shed old habits and finally open up to authentic connection. Their stories are a reminder that no one has to face their struggles alone.
Interested in learning more about the Heartlight program? Go to heartlightministries.org today!

Grandparents have a unique opportunity to offer teens something many are desperately searching for — a safe place to rest, feel loved and be heard. In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur discuss the special mentoring role grandparents can play during the teen years. Rather than becoming “parents on steroids,” grandparents are encouraged to create a home marked by warmth, wisdom, listening and unconditional love. Plus, a Heartlight teen shares how her grandparents became a steady “safe zone” during some of the hardest moments of her life. Tune in for practical encouragement on building a legacy for your grandchildren.
Three million kids have grandparents parenting them. Are you one of those grandparents? Are you in need of some help? Learn to love the teens in your life and relate to them in genuine, honest, life-changing ways through Mark's resource here: bit.ly/grandparenting-teens-leaving-a-legacy-of-hope