I Mustache Mark a Question: Tough Conversations, Growing Up and Coming Home

Listen today as Mark Gregston reflects on a generation that pursued peace at all costs and avoided conflict, often weakening relationships instead of deepening them. Drawing on Galatians 6:9, he reminds parents that true, God-given peace doesnt eliminate struggle it carries us through it with hope. Even in the darkest family crises, perseverance, engagement and faithful investment matter more than immediate results. Dont grow weary in doing good; if you dont give up, God promises a harvest on the other side.

Is your family in crisis? Join Mark in Texas at one of his Families in Crisis Conferences. 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.

For many teens, the drive to fit in or feel worthy can shape almost every decision they make. Beneath the surface, those struggles often trace back to deep questions of value, trust and belonging. Today, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who each share their journeys through perfectionism, insecurity and the desire to be loved. For Emily, her struggles with anxiety and perfectionism started as early as 7 years old. She talks about feeling pressured to perform in every aspect of life, often seeking validation from others at the expense of her own well-being. Tune in for honest conversations about the power of validation and the hope of finding true worth.

Want to learn more about the Heartlight program? Go to heartlightministries.org today!

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. 

Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd today as they discuss the powerful opportunity parents have to shape their teens hearts and direction through intentional one-on-one time. Mark reminds parents that the teen years are brief, and busy schedules can cause us to miss moments we may later regret. Regular, judgment-free time spent listening, asking questions, and showing compassion builds trust and makes parents a safe place for their teens. That influence can guide teens toward wisdom, faith and purpose for the rest of their lives.

If you're struggling with your teen, our Families in Crisis Conference may be able to help! 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 this Q&A episode, Mark dives into some of the most sensitive questions parents are facing right now. Addressing tough topics like puberty and sexual development, Mark offers practical insights and relatable anecdotes drawn from his years of experience working with teens and families. Youll also hear thoughtful advice on managing changing family dynamics like what to do when your college student moves back home, how to make family time meaningful across different age groups and when it's time to seek outside help for your teen. Whether youre facing big challenges or just looking for everyday parenting tips, this episode is packed with encouragement and real-life solutions.

Got a question you'd like Mark's insights on? Go to markgregston.com to send it in!

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.

As a new year begins, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur encourage families to pause and have honest, grace-filled conversations with their teens. This is a powerful opportunity to listen to what your teen hopes will be different and to offer a fresh start rooted in relationship, not control. By focusing less on surface issues and more on the heart, parents can strengthen connection while gradually giving teens more responsibility and freedom. A new year doesnt require perfection just intentional steps, patience and grace as growth unfolds over time.

If you are struggling with your teen, please join Mark at his Families In Crisis Conference! Visit familycrisisretreat.com to register and 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.