Teen Stories: Beyond Surface Level

In this episode, Mark Gregston tackles some more of the toughest, most heartfelt questions sent in by listeners. From managing frustration and anger as a parent, to navigating complex family dynamics like custody battles and divorce, Mark shares practical, compassionate advice. He also addresses concerns around screen time, gaming rules and the challenges grandparents face when supporting teens struggling with gender identity. Drawing on decades of experience working with families, Mark offers actionable strategies and a reminder to lead with empathy and relationship first.

Have a parenting question for Mark? Submit it 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. 

Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur discuss how parents can wisely talk about politics with their teens. They emphasize that while politics can be divisive, parents shouldnt avoid the topic teens need guidance to think critically and biblically rather than absorb cultures extremes. Parents should model respectful dialogue, listen more than lecture and allow their teens to process differing views without fear of rejection. The goal isnt to control their beliefs but to keep relationships strong and create space for open, grace-filled conversations.

Heartlight Ministries is Mark's residential counseling ministry designed to help struggling teens and families. Visit heartlightministries.org to learn more and see if it's right for your family.

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 explains that parents must look beyond their teens behavior to understand the deeper heart issues driving it. Drawing from Proverbs 3:2124, and a moving story about a past Heartlight student, he illustrates that a childs anger or rebellion often masks pain, loss, or a longing for love and value. He reminds parents that all behavior good or bad is the visible expression of invisible struggles. True connection happens when parents respond with wisdom, empathy and grace, addressing the heart rather than merely correcting the behavior.

Visit parentingtodaysteens.org to explore all of the resources designed by Mark to help you as you raise your 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. 

Every troubled teen has a story that goes much deeper than their behavior shows. Behind acting out, running away, or self-destruction, there's often a world of private pain and confusion. Today, Mark Gregston sits down with two teens from Heartlight whose journeys reveal how struggles like addiction, grief and low self-worth can drive choices that seem shocking to outsiders. For one young lady, a long battle with eating disorders and drug use hid her feelings of worthlessness. Tune in for honest, hopeful stories about facing pain head-on and starting over one step at a time.

If your teen is struggling right now, Heartlight may be the answer. Learn more at 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. 

Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur discuss how many parents lose their personal identity by becoming overly consumed with their childrens lives. While involvement is vital, Mark emphasizes that parents must maintain balance nurturing their marriage, friendships and personal interests so their sense of purpose isnt tied solely to parenting. They remind us that when a parents entire focus revolves around their kids, it can create pressure for teens and strain the family dynamic as children get older. Mark encourages moms and dads to pursue hobbies, friendships and me time to protect their mental, emotional and relational health.

If your family is struggling, Mark invites you to join him at one of his Families In Crisis Conferences at Heartlight Ministries in Texas. 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.