Parenting Today's Teens

In this episode, Mark Gregston shares a personal story about recovering from a kidney transplant and how it gave him insight into the appeal of pain-relieving drugs especially for teens. Wayne Shepherd, Courtney Lefleur and Mark discuss the deeper reasons behind teen drug use, such as a desire to escape emotional pain, fit in socially or simply feel normal. They encourage parents to build a safe, judgment-free environment where teens feel comfortable opening up about difficult topics. They also urge parents to start conversations early, listen with empathy and seek professional help if drug use becomes a pattern.

If your teen is struggling, see if Mark's residential counseling ministry can help. Learn more at heartlightministries.org

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 reflects on psychologist Jonathan Haidts article about how smartphones have rewired childhood. Though initially skeptical, Mark was struck by the evidence linking phone use to rising anxiety, depression and isolation in teens. He encourages parents to rethink screen time, set healthy boundaries and consider how technology is shaping their family relationships.

Is your family struggling right now? We encourage you to come to our next Families In Crisis Conference, July 24-26. Visit familycrisisretreat.com 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. 

When teens act out or pull away, theres often a deeper struggle beneath the surface a longing for connection and a search for identity. In todays episode, Mark sits down with two young women from Heartlight who share how feelings of isolation, whether from a sheltered upbringing or broken relationships, led them down challenging paths. For Megan, being surrounded by other teens working through similar issues created authentic friendships and a support system unlike anything she had at home. She shares how stepping back from outside influences even social media helped her gain confidence.

To find out if the Heartlight residential program would be beneficial for your teen, go to heartlightministries.org for more information. 

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 share their list of 10 characteristics that show a teen may need intervention, addressing the questions many parents ask: "When should we act? How do we confront the issues? And what happens if we dont?" Mark emphasizes that it takes boldness and strength to address these challenges head-on but doing so can lead to healing and restoration in your home. Listen in as they share practical advice on how to help your teen when they need you the most!

Visit parentingtodaysteens.org for practical and effective resources for parents and grandparents as they raise their teens. 

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 heartfelt episode, Mark Gregston tackles some of the most complex and pressing questions submitted by listeners. From grandparents concerned about estranged grandchildren and families navigating grief after the loss of a loved one to teens facing ADHD, gender identity questions and substance abuse Mark offers practical wisdom and compassionate advice. Drawing from decades of experience, Mark emphasizes the importance of affirming relationships, setting healthy boundaries and loving teens through their struggles, even when the path forward isn't clear. If you're seeking honest, faith-based guidance to deepen your relationship with your teen or help them through difficult times, this episode is for you. 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