When Your Teen's Tongue Turns Toxic

So many teens today struggle with feeling isolated. It becomes hard even scary to open up to others and learn to trust. In todays episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who open up about the emptiness and insecurity that fueled their destructive choices, from substance use to pushing family away. Both teens share how feeling unworthy of love or belonging left them feeling alone even as they craved acceptance. At Heartlight, they're beginning to see their own value and experience genuine connection with others. 

Know a young adult who has a heart for working with teens? They may be a great addition to our residential staff at Heartlight! Learn more today at heartlight.jobs 

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.

Today, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur talk about the powerful impact fathers can have on their childrens lives especially during the teen years. The three discuss how dads can connect with their teens by being present, listening well, engaging in their children's interests (even outside their comfort zone) and communicating unconditional love. They emphasize that the sacrifice of time now is far better than the regret of missing meaningful moments later. Ultimately, dads who validate, support and bless their teens give them the foundation they need to thrive and resist seeking affirmation elsewhere.

Is your family in crisis? Join Mark in Texas from October 2-4 for a retreat designed for specifically to help parents. Please visit familycrisisretreat.com to learn more and register.

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.

In todays episode, Mark Gregston addresses some of the most pressing and poignant questions from parents and grandparents of teens today. From navigating teen anxiety, depression and substance use, to setting boundaries with technology and communication, Mark provides practical wisdom rooted in compassion. Listeners will find guidance on fostering connection over control, all while encouraging hope and resilience for families walking challenging paths. Whether youre struggling with lost connection, difficult behavior or feelings of helplessness, this episode offers understanding, encouragement and actionable steps to strengthen your relationship with your teen. Tune in now!

Have a question for Mark? Submit it here: markgregston.com

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

Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney LeFleur discuss the emotional toll that mean-girl behavior and social media pressure can have on teenage girls. From exclusion and cyberbullying to unrealistic beauty and lifestyle standards, social media amplifies insecurities and public shaming, often leading to anxiety, depression or isolation. Parents are encouraged to foster real-life connections, model healthy self-worth and talk openly with their daughters about what they see and feel online.

Is your family in crisis? Join Mark and his staff for a weekend in Texas designed to encourage and equip you as you raise your teen. Learn more and register at familycrisisretreat.com

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.

Mark Gregston reflects on a personal experience of physical pain to illustrate how pain affects behavior, decision-making and empathy especially in teens. He explains that when teens act out or seem disengaged, it may be rooted in deep emotional pain they dont know how to express or escape. Rather than rushing to fix or shield kids from discomfort, parents should allow them to experience appropriate pain so they can grow in resilience, maturity and wisdom. Pain, though unpleasant, can be one of Gods most powerful tools for shaping character and drawing us closer to Him.

Do you have a question for Mark? Ask him at markgregston.com

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.