Teen Stories: Digital Detox

In this episode, Mark dives into some more pressing questions from parents from navigating dating relationships when faith values differ, to supporting teens through church transitions, and addressing concerns about technology and social media. Youll hear real listener questions about boundaries, discipline and guiding adolescents through complicated issues like sexuality, mental health and independence. Whether youre struggling to connect with your teen or simply searching for practical Christian parenting advice, you'll find some wisdom and actionable tips to help you build deeper relationships.

Hit some bumps along the road of your parenting journey? We want to hear your questions! Send them in to markgregston.com 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. 

Depression among teens is rising rapidly, with major studies showing increasing rates of persistent sadness, anxiety and even suicide. Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explain that depression doesnt always have obvious warning signs, which is why parents must stay closely connected and ask deeper questions beyond How are you? Mark highlights common indicators like withdrawal, changes in sleep/eating habits, loss of interest, anger, risky behavior and talk of death. Always take suicidal statements seriously especially if a teen has a plan. Parents cant fix depression alone, and seeking professional help quickly (and using resources like the 988 crisis line) can save a life.

Is your teen spiraling? Visit heartlightministries.org to learn about Mark's residential counseling program and how it may be able help 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 shares a personal story about being unexpectedly fired, leading him into a painful season that left him feeling rejected and questioning Gods presence. Over time, he realized God was still at work, even when life didnt make sense and that faith often means believing without fully understanding. He reflects on Scripture and experiences that remind him God uses even hardship to shape us and draw families closer to Him. Mark encourages listeners that God hasnt abandoned us in suffering, and one day well understand the purpose behind what felt devastating.

Explore all of the resources Mark has designed to help parents of struggling teens by visiting parentingtodaysteens.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. 

We all want to be seen, heard and valued our teens are no different! In today's episode, Mark Gregston sits down with two Heartlight teens whose stories reveal a powerful, common thread: the desperate search for connection. One young lady shares how her risky choices and need to make a scene stemmed from feeling unheard, especially by her father, and how learning to have honest conversations at Heartlight has helped her change. These stories show how being in a supportive environment enables teens to communicate better, mature emotionally and form meaningful relationships not only with their families but also with peers. 

Is Heartlight the right choice for your struggling teen? Go to 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. 

Join Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd today as they discuss what it means when your teen no longer smiles and why parents shouldnt ignore it. Mark explains that a missing smile is often a sign of deeper sadness, frustration or depression, and an invitation for parents to lean in with compassion. He encourages parents to respond with humility, honest conversation and a willingness to change. Ultimately, the goal is not to make them smile so you can feel like a better parent, but because you are deeply concerned about their heart.

If you're struggling with your teen, we encourage you to join Mark in Texas at one of his Families in Crisis Conferences. To learn more and register, visit 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.