What You Do Matters More Than What You Say

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd discuss the role of pain as a powerful motivator in a teen's development. They emphasize the importance of allowing young people to experience natural consequences rather than rescuing them from every hardship. Through personal stories and real-life examples, they highlight how overprotection can hinder growth, while strategic parental guidance can foster responsibility. They also explore the balance between allowing beneficial struggles and stepping in to prevent lasting harm, ultimately helping teens build resilience and purpose.

Want Mark's advice for your own family? Visit https://markgregston.com/ to ask him a 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.

Join Mark Gregston as he reflects on how his generations tendency to avoid conflict led to broken relationships and a generation of children who fear abandonment. He emphasizes that true peace is not the absence of struggle but the presence of hope, encouraging parents to face challenges head-on. Through personal experiences with grieving families and troubled teens, he reassures parents that they can endure difficulties, trusting that God will walk with them. He urges parents to trust in God's plan, even when change seems impossible.

Join Mark and his team for a weekend at Heartlight Ministries designed to help you on your parenting journey. 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. 

Typically, change in a family doesn't happen overnight it takes humility and a willingness on everyone's part to learn how to do things differently. Today, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who have both been on the show before and are nearly ready to graduate. Eli shares why he used to struggle with defiance, and how his time at Heartlight has helped him develop a deeper understanding and improved communication with his parents, especially in the wake of their divorce. Tune in now!

For more information about Heartlight, 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. 

In this episode, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explain why authoritarian parenting no longer works, as kids today are more skeptical of authority. Instead of demanding obedience, parents should build relationships, avoid perfectionism and be less judgmental. To parent effectively, you need to create open lines of communication while addressing issues with love and genuine concern. A supportive environment one that still maintains boundaries will help guide children down a healthy path. 

Join Mark and his team for a weekend at Heartlight Ministries designed to help you on your parenting journey. To learn more and register please 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. 

In todays episode, Mark Gregston discusses a variety of difficult scenarios that parents like you are navigating with their teens. From adoption-related challenges and teenage substance use to complex family dynamics in blended families, Mark offers profound insights and guidance. No matter the challenge, one truth remains: Teens are wired for connection, belonging and a strong sense of identity. Tune in for insights that will equip you to meet your teens deepest needs with understanding and grace!

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