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1515 episodes

Searching for Connection: Why Your Teen Turns to Drugs
09/04/2026 | 27 mins.
If you’ve ever wondered why some teens turn to risky behaviors, there’s usually a story beneath the surface. On today’s episode, Mark sits down with Jack, a Heartlight resident who shares his journey through family trauma, isolation and struggles with substance use. Though Jack’s path has been challenging, the common thread is his search for belonging and meaningful relationships. Today, he's working to heal his relationship with his mom and learning the value of opening up in a safe community. Tune in for an inspiring look at how finding connection makes a difference.
If your teen is turning to marijuana in order to get through the day, step in and help immediately. Find out how here: bit.ly/when-your-teen-turns-to-pot
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.
The Power of Influence: Overcoming Negativity
08/04/2026 | 19 mins.
What shapes a teen’s path through life? So often, it’s the quiet influence of people who stand by them, offering wisdom, encouragement and an open ear. In today’s episode, Mark shares personal stories about the adults who made a difference in his life and reflects on how their positive influence helped him discover purpose and overcome negativity. Drawing from years of experience and heartfelt conversations, Mark reveals the impact of investing in small moments and building trust that lasts. If you’ve ever wondered how to be the person your teen looks up to, this episode offers inspiration and insight to help you become the influencer your child needs. Listen in and learn how thoughtful engagement can change a teen’s destiny!
Want more insights on how to encourage your teen versus criticize? Check out Mark’s article, “How to Motivate an Underachiever” at bit.ly/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.
Teen Stories: When You Don't Feel Worthy
07/04/2026 | 25 mins.
Risky behavior is often more than just "acting out." For many teens, it’s a desperate attempt to fill an inner void or prove themselves to their peers. In today’s episode, Mark sits down with two young men from Heartlight who share their journeys through confusion, addiction and broken trust. They reveal how struggles with perfectionism and feeling "not enough" led them toward unhealthy choices, and how their time at Heartlight helped them confront the real roots of their pain. Tune in to discover how these young men are learning to value themselves and rebuild meaningful relationships.
Is the Heartlight program the right choice for your struggling teen? Go to heartlightministries.org to learn more.
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.
Addressing the Fear Factor
06/04/2026 | 27 mins.
Many teens today carry invisible burdens of fear and anxiety — sometimes not even fully understanding where those feelings come from. On this episode, Mark sits down with Abby, a Heartlight resident, who candidly shares how growing up in a community plagued by danger and uncertainty shaped her outlook on life. As she talks about overcoming trauma, anxiety and the expectations placed on her by those she loves most, Abby reveals how addressing these fears with the right support has brought healing and hope. Join us as we discuss what it really takes for parents and teens to break the cycle of worry and build trust.
Most parents overestimate the value of their words and underestimate the effectiveness of their actions. Find advice for the best ways to effectively influence your teen at bit.ly/more-caught-than-taught
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: Setting Rules, Seeking Connection and Staying Calm
03/04/2026 | 23 mins.
Every teen has a deep need to belong — and sometimes that longing drives them to choices and behaviors that leave parents frustrated and confused. In today's Q&A episode, Mark addresses questions about teens who don’t seem to learn from consequences, navigating tough cell phone rules and how to cultivate calmness even when parents' buttons are pushed. With practical wisdom and a compassionate approach, this episode equips parents and grandparents with tools and perspective shifts to better connect with their teens. Whether you’re feeling stuck or just need reassurance, today's episode offers encouragement and direction for building healthier relationships at home.
Have a question for Mark? Go to markgregston.com to submit it. Your question may be featured on a future episode!
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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