Is Your Teen Fighting for Control?

In todays episode, Mark Gregston takes on the real-life questions and struggles sent in by parents just like you. He offers practical wisdom on handling anxiety, depression, substance use, entitlement, the pull of technology and the unique dynamics of split households. Mark stresses the importance of shifting responsibility to teens as they near adulthood, focusing on relationships over authoritarian control, and finding gratitude even in the midst of personal and family struggles. Listeners will find encouragement, perspective and actionable advice along with a reminder that, above all, genuine connection is the key to navigating family crises and guiding teens toward healthy independence. Listen 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

In this episode, Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd, and Courtney Lafleur discuss the growing issue of socially awkward teens and the cultural forces contributing to it especially isolation caused by screens, gaming and social media. They emphasize that kids today are missing out on crucial face-to-face experiences that develop emotional intelligence, social cues and resilience. Parents are encouraged to gently push their teens out of isolation by modeling healthy interactions, creating opportunities for real-world engagement and refusing to rescue them from every uncomfortable situation.

Is your teen struggling? Mark's residential ministry may be able to help! Visit 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.

Today, Mark Gregston shares a devotional from Matthew 7:7, as he emphasizes the power of asking questions as a means of deepening our connection with our teens. Rather than lecturing or interrogating, parents are encouraged to engage their children through thoughtful, nonjudgmental inquiry asking, seeking and knocking to access their hearts and minds. Questions help teens feel valued, spark critical thinking and lead them on a personal journey of discovery. In an age full of noise, curiosity and listening can be powerful tools for relational growth and lasting influence.

Are you struggling with your teen and want to ask Mark for his advice? Your question may be answered on a future Friday episode. Visit markgregston.com to ask him 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. 

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.