Mark Gregston, Courtney LaFleur and Wayne Shepherd discuss why teens may use harsh or offensive language, explaining that such words often reflect deeper emotional pain or frustration. Rather than reacting immediately, parents are encouraged to listen for the heart behind the words and provide a safe space for open communication. The three emphasize the value of setting respectful boundaries, having restorative follow-up conversations and practicing self-reflection. By leading with empathy, you can rebuild trust and strengthen your relationship with your teen.In a tough spot with your teen? Join Mark at the Families in Crisis Conference! Learn more at familycrisisretreat.comParenting 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. Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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25:38
I Mustache Mark a Question: Addiction, Attitude and Accountability
In today’s episode, Mark Gregston discusses some of the most pressing questions parents are facing with their teens today. From dealing with chronic disrespect and dishonesty to navigating substance abuse and supporting struggling adopted teens, Mark provides practical advice grounded in both personal experience and biblical wisdom. He discusses strategies for building respectful relationships, encourages parents to look deeper into underlying issues and shares resources for getting professional help. Whether your teen is withdrawing into video games, wrestling with negative thoughts or in need of specialized support, this episode offers hope, guidance and actionable steps for families in all kinds of situations. Listen now!Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.comParenting 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.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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22:27
The Cross and Your Teen
Join Mark Gregston, Courtney Lafleur and Wayne Shepherd as they discuss your teen and their faith. Stressing the importance of modeling integrity and faith through everyday actions rather than just words, and creating a safe, open environment for honest questions and doubts. They encourage parents to shift from teaching to training during the teen years, allowing their children to wrestle with faith and develop their own convictions. Join Mark in July for our Families in Crisis Conference. Visit parentingtodaysteens.org/families-in-crisis-conference 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.Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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25:51
The Importance of Listening
In this episode, Mark Gregston emphasizes the power of truly listening within families. Drawing from decades of experience working with teens and parents, he explains how active, empathetic listening can open the door to connection, healing and lasting relationships. Mark outlines common habits that hinder listening — like interrupting, always teaching or trying to fix things — and urges self-reflection to remove these barriers. He encourages listeners to ask their family members how well they feel heard, reminding us that sometimes, the greatest act of love is simply listening.To see all the resources Mark has designed specifically to help you as you raise your teen, visit parentingtodaysteens.orgParenting 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. Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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11:38
Teen Stories: Learning Healthy Ways to Cope
Learning how to deal with stress and difficult emotions doesn't always come naturally — especially for teens who've already endured a lot in their young lives. Today, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who explain what they've learned in the program so far. Adopted as a young teen after living in multiple homes, 16-year-old Whitney describes the struggle to fit in, the aftermath of trauma and the difficulty of learning a new family’s rules. She speaks candidly about the poor choices she made and how Heartlight has helped her find healthier ways to cope.Is Heartlight the answer for your struggling teen? Learn more today at heartlightministries.orgParenting 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. Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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.
New Zealand