Teen Stories: What Drives Drug Use?

In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore the challenges and opportunities parents face in sharing their faith with teenagers in a rapidly changing world. Drawing from real-life experiences and expert research, they discuss practical ways to establish biblical values at home, emphasizing authenticity, honest conversation and grace-based parenting. A special interview with Josh, a teen attending Heartlight, provides perspective on struggles young people face even in faith-centered families. Find wisdom and encouragement when you listen today!

Sometimes parents can feel blindsided when they discover their teen is struggling. Visit parentingtodaysteens.org/product/when-your-teen-is-struggling for your copy of a guide to practical help and hope.

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. 

On today's Q&A episode, Mark shares some more insights into the struggles families are facing while raising teenagers today. He answers questions from parents about everything from vaping and drinking to tricky relationships, divorce and blending families. With decades of experience helping teens at Heartlight, Mark shares practical tips, some humor and plenty of encouragement for parents dealing with tough situations at home. Whether you're a new parent worried about the future, or deep in the trenches with a rebellious teen, this episode is packed with stories and helpful advice.

Have a question for Mark? We'd love to hear it! Go to markgregston.com to send in your question.

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 insightful episode, Mark and Wayne explore what drives today's teenagers to embrace radical ideas, delving into the underlying motives of identity, independence and acceptance. The conversation offers practical advice for parents on remaining involved without being judgmental, setting healthy boundaries and keeping the lines of communication open even when viewpoints clash. The episode features a candid interview with a teen at Heartlight who shares her journey through peer pressure, family struggles and the search for belonging. Listen in!

Politics is just one of the hot-button issues that can spur arguments with your teen. Mark gives tips on "How To Have Healthy Political Conversations" in his article here: parentingtodaysteens.org/articles/talking-politics-with-your-teen-2

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 heartfelt episode, Mark addresses the complex world of adolescent loss and its impact on behavior and emotional well-being. Drawing from real-life stories and personal experiences, Mark sheds light on both obvious and hidden hurts teens may carry. The episode emphasizes the importance of focusing on the root causes of teens' struggles, rather than just their behaviors, and encourages parents to open lines of communication, show empathy, and help their teens process grief and disappointment. Tune in for tips to support your teen through lifes toughest challenges.

Losing a beloved family pet is one of many potential traumas children may face in life, and Mark wrote a book to bring comfort amid the loss. Find out more at bit.ly/wheres-stitch-book

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. 

Many teens wrestle with the challenge of fitting in sometimes at the cost of losing themselves. On today's show, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who share their stories of wearing masks to please others while chasing popularity. Both young women reveal how their struggles led to broken trust with family, poor choices and a sense of disconnection from who they truly are. Now, through honest conversations and counseling at Heartlight, they're learning how to embrace their authentic selves and feel more confident.

Interested in learning more about the Heartlight residential 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.